EU deploys Election Observation Mission to Paraguay

Following the invitation by the Paraguayan authorities, the European Union is deploying an Election Observation Mission (EOM) to Paraguay to observe the general elections, due to take place on 22 April 2018. Reflecting the European Union's long-term commitment to support democracy in the country, the EU already deployed an EOM to Paraguay in 2013 and an Election Follow up Mission in 2015.

Federica Mogherini, High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission, has appointed as Chief Observer of the Election Observation Mission the Member of the European Parliament Renate Weber, who was also Chief Observer in the EOM 2013.

Federica Mogherini stated: ". The decision to deploy an Election Observation Mission to the general elections in Paraguay reflects the European Union's long-term commitment to credible and transparent elections in Paraguay. Under the leadership of Chief Observer Weber, I am confident that the EU EOM will provide an important contribution to the further strengthening of democratic institutions."

“I feel honored to head again an EU EOM to Paraguay. These elections will constitute another important step in Paraguay's efforts to consolidate its democratic institutions. We hope to contribute again to an overall credible, transparent and inclusive process with our impartial and objective assessment. We will also keep working with the Paraguayan authorities on the implementation of the observation mission's recommendations”, Renate Weber declared.

The Electoral Observation Mission's core team, consisting of 8 analysts, will arrive in Asunción on 13 March. The team will stay in the country until the completion of the electoral process, as well as prepare a comprehensive final report. The core team will be joined shortly after its arrival by 24 long-term observers to be deployed across the country. A further 34 short-term observers will be deployed on 17 April. The EU EOM also looks forward to cooperate with other international and domestic observation missions.

Background

Shortly after the elections day, the mission will issue a preliminary statement of its findings at a press conference in Asunción. A final report, including recommendations for future electoral processes, will be presented at a later stage to the Paraguayan Government, after the finalization of the electoral process. The EU will continue to work with the Paraguayan authorities and all relevant actors on the implementation of the recommendations of its Observation Missions in Paraguay.