Non-Governmental Organizations
Some interest groups are non-profit organizations—referred to here as non-governmental organizations (NGOs)—that work on the public’s behalf to improve the quality of elections and the democratic process. NGOs act as independent observers.
During elections, these groups’ observation and reporting activities help make the process more transparent. NGOs may increase the transparency of campaign financing by closely monitoring and publicly reporting on contributions and spending. They may undertake voter education programs and help distribute election information. They may lobby policy makers and electoral administrators for better policies and electoral legislation protecting individual rights and freedoms, or for stricter legislation on campaign financing.
United Nations: Declaration of Principles for International Election Observation and Code of Coduct for International Election Observers (2005)
Independent Observers
