Publications

The Handbook, prepared by the State Election Commission (SEC) of the Republic of North Macedonia and the OSCE Mission to Skopje, aims to increase voters’ knowledge on local self-government, bodies that are elected at local elections and specifics about the local elections. The handbook provides brief and simple information on the role and competencies of mayors and municipal councils in North Macedonia, the right to be elected, the electoral models used for election of a mayor and municipal council, election campaign, and financing local elections. Additionally, it gives an overview of the basic principles of democratic governance and opportunities for citizens’ participation in a decision-making process at local level after the elections. Not available in English.

The Informative Brochure for Young Voters presents the content of Manual for Young Voters, prepared by the State Election Commission (SEC) of the Republic of North Macedonia and the OSCE Mission to Skopje, in an easy-to-read format. It aims to present the information related to the political and electoral participation of youth in the country, why elections and voting are important for young women and men, the significance of inclusive elections and instructions for the voting process in format accessible to the people with learning disabilities. Not available in English.

The Manual, prepared by the State Election Commission (SEC) and the OSCE Mission to Skopje, aims to encourage political and electoral participation of youth in the country. It explains the models and bodies for youth political participation; why elections and voting are important for young women and men and the significance of inclusive elections. The publication also provides step-by-step instructions for the voting process. The Manual was initially published in 2020. This is second edition amended in accordance with the most recent changes of the Electoral Code. Not available in English.

An essential part of election processes are election campaigns, in which candidates compete for voter support. During election campaigns political actors energize society, invigorate and mobilize the electorate, but at the same time these are periods when fundamental freedoms are put to the test. Election campaigns provide an opportunity for all election stakeholders, including the authorities, political parties and voters, to demonstrate respect for fundamental freedoms and human rights.

Online social networking sites have moved election campaigns into a new era of communication, in which voters have wider channels to express their opinions. While social networking sites provide space for voters to enhance their direct participation in campaigns and enable electoral contestants to better mobilize support, the use of social networks, especially during election campaigns, carries a wide array of challenges.

The Manual, prepared by the State Election Commission (SEC) of the Republic of North Macedonia and the OSCE Mission to Skopje, aims to encourage political and electoral participation of youth in the country. It explains the models and bodies for youth political participation; why elections and voting are important for young women and men and the significance of inclusive elections. The publication also provides step-by-step instructions for the voting process. The Manual is also designed to assist SEC and youth organizations countrywide in their training programmes. Not available in English.

Published by the OSCE Presence in Albania

Available in Ukrainian.

This paper considers possible benefits and risk factors of conducting elections using methods and arrangements alternative to the predominant practice of voting in polling stations over the course of a single election day. Different voting methods and arrangements are analysed in light of the existing OSCE commitments, other international obligations, standards and good practice in the field of democratic elections. While the choice of voting methods rests with the OSCE participating States, this paper intends to provide information to benefit public discussion about alternative voting methods and arrangements, including in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.