European Union deploys Election Observation Mission to Tunisia
Following the invitation from the Independent High Authority for the Elections (ISIE), the European Union has deployed an Election Observation Mission (EOM) for the municipal elections taking place in Tunisia on 6 May 2018. The European Union previously deployed EOMs to Tunisia in 2011 and in 2014, demonstrating the EU’s determination to support the country’s democratic transition process in the long term.
Federica Mogherini, High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice‑President of the European Commission, has appointed Mr Fabio Massimo Castaldo, Member of the European Parliament, as Chief Observer.
‘The municipal elections on 6 May will herald an important step in the consolidation of democracy in the country and the implementation of the Constitution of 27 January 2014, which paves the way for an ambitious process of decentralisation. The European Union is steadfast in its support for a democratic, stable and prosperous Tunisia and remains committed to supporting the ongoing reforms in Tunisia in order to consolidate the democratic transition process in the long term. I am confident that the EOM led by Mr Fabio Massimo Castaldo will contribute further to the quality of this very important vote,’ stressed the High Representative.
Mr Fabio Massimo Castaldo added: ‘This EOM is part of the privileged bilateral relations between the EU and Tunisia. It is testament to the strength of our partnership and the importance of our joint efforts to strengthen democracy and good governance. It also forms part of our ongoing electoral cooperation, as illustrated by our contribution as observers during the elections in 2011 and 2014.’
A core team of seven election analysts will be based in Tunis from 6 April 2018. 28 long-term observers will also be deployed from 13 April across the country. In total, the EOM will have at its disposal more than 80 observers from the EU Member States, and will be monitoring all stages of the electoral process. The EU EOM equally looks forward to cooperating with other international observation missions.
Background
Once the voting closes, the EOM will make public its preliminary findings on the electoral process. A full analytical report, featuring recommendations for future elections, will then be submitted to the Tunisian Government a few weeks after the vote. The European Union will continue to work with the Tunisian authorities to consolidate democracy in the country, and to implement the EOM’s recommendations.