International Republican Institute (IRI), as part of its ongoing international observation mission, has announced that short-term observers from the organization have arrived in Georgia to observe the October 26 parliamentary election. IRI distributes the information.
According to the “International Republican Institute”, former US Congressman John Shimkus is leading the mission, along with Swedish Parliament Member Margaretta Soderfeld, and IRI President Dan Twining.
28 short-term observers are joining the 20 long-term monitors who have been in the country from July. This will enhance the monitoring and evaluation capabilities for the election process.
Short-term observers will be on hand to observe the election day, which includes the opening of the polling stations and the voting, as well as the counting of votes across the country. Their work will reinforce the efforts of the long-term observers, who have, since their arrival, been actively working with parties involved in the election, electoral institutions and civil society representatives,” the information stated.
John Shimkus said that the arrival of short-term observer will strengthen the ability of the mission to observe key phases of this important election. “By paying close attention to what happens on election day, the mission will be better able to evaluate the process of the election and its importance to the future of Georgia.” He said that the risks to Georgia, its democracy, and the stability of the nation and region could not be higher.
Cederfeld said that the strength of the democratic system in the country is vital for the success of the European integration.
The main issue in this election is the way Georgia will develop democratically. “We are looking forward to the election day in order to ensure that the election process reflects Georgians’ will. According to IRI polls the majority of Georgians want to live within a democratic society, and have closer ties to the West,” Twining stated.
IRI believes that Georgia’s progress toward EU membership is dependent on how well the country can hold transparent, credible, and legitimate elections. According to their own assessment the results of these elections will have a decisive impact on the European integration of the country.
“Soon after Election Day the Mission will release a preliminary report. A comprehensive report including detailed analysis and recommendation will be released within weeks of the election.
“All activities are impartial, non-partisan, and carried out without interference with the electoral process.”
IRI has conducted 250 international observations missions around the globe, which have been recognized for their impartiality. The mission is in accordance with the Declaration on Principles of International Monitoring, adopted by the United Nations back in 2005.
This international observation mission has been made possible by the US Agency for International Development, within the Consortium for Strengthening the Elections and Political Process. The National Democratic Institute (NDI), which is also conducting an international observation mission in Georgia, is also noted in the information.
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