The election observation mission to Kosovo, at the request of its authorities, will demonstrate the EU’s resolute support for Kosovo in its efforts to further strengthen its democratic governance. The mission’s presence on the ground is aimed at contributing to an inclusive, credible and transparent election process.

The 18 long-term observers cover all municipalities in Kosovo. They work in nine teams of two, based in each region of Kosovo. The long-term observers come from 18 countries, including European Union Member States, Norway and Switzerland. They are independent and impartial observers, and they will meet local election officials, candidates and representatives of political parties, as well as civil society and local media representatives.

The EU’s 36 short-term observers will arrive some days before election day, and they will focus on observing specifically on election day. In addition, the EU will have up to 36 locally recruited short-term observers who are diplomats accredited to Kosovo. Finally, there will also be an observer delegation of Members of the European Parliament. All EU observers come from EU Member States, Canada, Norway or Switzerland.

The EU Election Observation Mission is bound by a code of conduct which requires strict neutrality and non-interference. The mission operates under a separate and distinct mandate from that of the European Commission and other EU institutions in Kosovo. It carries out its work in accordance with the Declaration of Principles for International Election Observation.