ODIHR: Dialogue on election conditions must continue

“The readiness of Serbia’s political parties to discuss improvements to the election process has been encouraging, but meaningful dialogue and a deeper commitment to resolve existing differences are still needed,” a press release said.

It quoted ODIHR Director Matteo Mecacci as saying after a 2-day visit to Belgrade that “it is important that the commitment expressed across the political spectrum to work on implementing our recommendations is not derailed by outstanding political issues, ensuring that the rules and practices concerning democratic elections receive broad support”. He added that an inclusive and transparent process is necessary to ensure positive outcomes that will benefit the Serbian people now and in the future.

Mecacci met with Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic, Parliament Speaker Ana Brnabic, Foreign Minister Ivica Dacic and PM Designate Milos Vucevic as well as ruling party and opposition officials, civil society and Republic Election Commission members.

He said that impartial international observation is needed to build voter confidence in the election process, serve as a deterrent against potential abuses of power and encourage the opposition. Inviting independent election observers demonstrates the government’s commitment to democratic standards and shows that these are actively enforced, the press release said and added that ODIHR is planning to send observers to the June 2 Belgrade city elections.