OSCE/ODIHR Observation of Elections in Long-Standing Democracies

Abstract

According to “self-enforcing democracy” theory consolidated democracy – one that have a multi-party system, functional executive and judicial branch, independent media, and a pluralistic civil society and respect fundamental freedoms – generally able to identify and address election-related issues on its own. Against this theory OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights regularly observe elections in long-standing democracies in the OSCE area west of Vienna since mid-2000s. Hence, the purpose of this thesis is to determine and assess the rationale and objectives behind OSCE/ODIHR electoral observation missions to the long-standing democracies. A mixed-methods approach combining qualitative, quantitative, and case study methods were used in order to analyze findings and provide a more comprehensive understanding of the studied topic. The study concludes that ODIHR aims to achieve two goals through its election observation activities in consolidated democracies: to help promoting democratic principles and practices in the countries it monitors, and to enhance its own reputation and standing within the international community.