“Electoral observation is a duty, not a formality. Observers are not just watching, they are defending human rights and deserve resources to do so. We must follow recommendations which should lead to real reforms. The failure to implement recommendations should have consequences for the government observed.“
Josep Borell, Former High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy
From 10 to 12 December 2025 in Geneva (Switzerland), the Endorsing Organisations of the Declaration of Principles for International Election Observation (DoP) held their 20th Anniversary Implementation Meeting to deliberate on and reaffirm their commitment to the global standards that guide credible election observation.
These same principles are also upheld by domestic election observers:
- Election observation is independent and impartial.
- It is process-oriented, not about who wins or loses.
- It requires timely, accurate, and public reporting.
- It includes recommendations to improve future elections.
- It is conducted with respect for national sovereignty and human rights.
Since its adoption, the number of organisations endorsing the document has grown from 21 to 54, with endorsing organisations in every region of the world.
The meeting convened intergovernmental and international NGOs to reflect on two decades of experience, review shared achievements. Through high-level and thematic discussions, participants examined evolving challenges such as digital threats and disinformation, political polarisation, security risks, and resource constraints, while sharing new tools and approaches to strengthen cooperation and improve the effectiveness of election observation missions.
The Endorsing Organisations also noted the public statement of United Nations Special Rapporteur on the Rights to Freedom of Peaceful Assembly and of Association and the Special Rapporteur on the Situation of Human Rights Defenders recognising that “election observers are human rights defenders.”
