MINSK, 18 November (BelTA) – An OSCE/ODIHR long-term observation mission has arrived in Belarus and is set to start its work in all the Belarusian regions on November 19. BelTA learnt from the headquarters of the observation mission. A total of 40 representatives from 18 countries have arrived in Belarus. Among them are representatives of Russia, Poland, Kazakhstan, Georgia, Armenia, Sweden, Switzerland, Great Britain and the United States. The international observers are to assess how the organization and the election process itself correspond to the OSCE principles and international standards as well as the country’s legislation. “The observers will assess and report on the overall framework for, and conduct of, the general elections, the legal framework, the political campaign, the role of media, the work of the election administration and the complaints and appeals process,” the headquarters of the OSCE/ODIHR observation mission stated. The major objective of the OSCE long-term observation mission is to study the social and political situation in the country, its election legislation and the area of its application, monitor media coverage of the election campaign. In line with the Belarusian legislation, international observers have a right to attend the sessions of the election commissions, meet with the potential presidential candidates and their authorized delegates, representatives of parties and civil organizations. About 400 foreign experts are expected to come to Belarus several days ahead of the election day for short-term observation of the presidential elections in the country. БЕЛТА
Written by belta.by
