Europe's domestic observer groups develop common approach to election monitoring, urge full access to entire electoral process

ZAGREB, 1 July 2003 - Domestic observer groups from across Europe have developed a common approach to monitoring elections and called on states to ensure full access of observers to all stages of the electoral process.

At the first European Domestic Election Observer Forum, held in Zagreb between 25 and 29 June, participants developed a document titled "The Zagreb Commitments" in which they pledge to act impartially; base all reports on credible, verifiable and accurate information; maintain the highest ethical standards; and provide mutual technical and moral support.

In a declaration issued by the forum, participants also called on all countries in the OSCE region to ensure the rights of domestic observer groups, particularly to effective access to all stages of the electoral process and receipt of financial contributions from national and international sources.

The forum was the largest meeting of its kind ever held in Europe. Participants came from more than 30 domestic observer groups in the OSCE region, as well as neighbouring Afghanistan. Representatives from observer groups in Peru, Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe also attended to share experience and begin inter-regional dialogue.

The forum was organized by OSCE's Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) and the Network of Europeans for Electoral and Democracy Support (NEEDS), sponsored by the European Commission, with the participation of the National Democratic Institute for International Affairs (NDI).