The near decade since the adoption of the Declaration of Principles has been one focused on consolidation of and reflection on the objectives and methodology of the field. While the growth of international observation has leveled off since its rapid ascent in the 1980s and 1990s, the community of organizations worldwide committed to the high professional standards codified in the Declaration of Principles has swelled to 49 members. The emphasis is no longer on maximizing the number of observed elections, but on deepening the quality of observation and maximizing its long-term impact.
In this light, synergy with citizen observation groups is especially valuable. As the practice of citizen observation has grown more widespread and more professional, with the encouragement of the international observation community, donors have begun allotting more resources directly to local groups. The two types of observer should complement, not compete with, one another, but this requires a sustained discussion of the comparative advantages of each.
The changing dynamics of observation also should inspire contemplation of how international observers can continue to innovate. This could be through honing observer expertise in emerging issues areas, including campaign finance, gender, and technology. Or, it could entail the development of more robust transition monitoring methodologies to adapt to protracted political uncertainty. It also could involve imagining new approaches to mentoring and partnering with citizen observers while respecting the principle of independence. Without relinquishing their role in assessing individual states’ fulfillment of obligations, international observers can use the credibility and stature they have built over the last few decades to advocate for more thorough integration of political and electoral rights into international human rights discourse. This is a logical next step in the re-envisioning of observation as a comprehensive activity stretching far beyond the technical exercise of polling. In doing so, they can raise the stakes for protecting rights and freedoms and continue to advance genuine elections that reflect the will of peoples around the world.
