The Mission's Fact Sheet

Upon the invitation by the Santomean authorities, the European Union has deployed an Election Observation Mission (EU EOM) to São Tomé e Príncipe to observe the legislative, regional and local elections scheduled for 25 September 2022. This is the first time that the EU sends a full-fledged Election Observation Mission to São Tome e Principe, which reflects the EU's commitment to supporting transparent and inclusive elections in the country, in line with international, regional and domestic legislation for democratic elections.

MORE THAN 40 OBSERVERS

The Mission is led by Chief Observer Maria Manuel Leitão Marques, a Member of the European Parliament. A Core Team of eight election experts arrived in São Tomé e Príncipe on 25 August to analyse political, electoral and legal aspects related to the electoral process. A group of 10 long-term observers arrived in São Tomé on 4 September and has been deployed across São Tomé e Príncipe. Shortly before Election Day, 18 short-term observers and a small group of EU diplomats accredited in Sao Tomé joined the mission.

WHY DID WE COME TO SÃO TOMÉ E PRÍNCIPE?

The EU deploys election observation missions to express support for the development of countries’ democratic institutions and to collaborate with partner countries in their objective to hold elections in line with their international, regional and constitutional commitments and obligations. The key objectives of EU election observation are to:

• Support the democratic process in partner countries;
• Enhance public confidence in the electoral process and deter potential fraud;
• Strengthen respect for human rights and the rule of law.
• Offer comprehensive recommendations for potential improvements of the electoral process.

NEUTRALITY AND IMPARTIALITY

The European Union uses an established methodology for observing elections. Observers do not interfere in any way in the electoral process, including by offering advice and assistance. The EU EOM to does not legitimise the electoral process nor does it validate the election results. All EU election observers are bound by a Code of Conduct that ensures their neutrality and impartiality.

A COMPREHENSIVE ASSESSMENT

Observers meet with election administration, candidates, civil society organisations and the media, among others. They will observe:

• The legal framework and its implementation;
• The political context and the election campaign;
• The work of the electoral administration;
• The respect for fundamental freedoms and civil and political rights;
• The participation of women, minorities and people with disabilities;
• The role of public institutions and civil society;
• The conduct of the media and the online content related to elections;
• The voting, counting and tabulation;
• The complaints and appeals process and the post-electoral environment.

OUR REPORTS

The factual information that the EU EOM collects is the basis for a Preliminary Statement, presented at a press conference within two days of election day. A comprehensive Final Report with recommendations for future elections offered for consideration by the authorities and the public will be issued within two months of the completion of the electoral process.