Where Independent or Mixed Models of electoral management are used, the relationship between EMB members and EMB secretariats is critical. Appropriate roles for EMB members can vary widely. EMBs made up of part-time members are more likely to adopt a more hands-off approach of providing broad policy review and oversight, while full-time members may be more directly involved. Members of component independent EMBs under the Mixed Model may be less likely to be involved in detailed administration issues, and more involved in overall integrity and quality control. In elections marking a transition to multiparty democracy, members of EMBs under the Independent Model that use a public service secretariat, and members of component independent EMBs under the Mixed Model, may find it particularly prudent to assume a publicly visible operational management role in order to enhance the public credibility of the electoral process. In some countries, EMB members may assume the responsibility of head of a department of the secretariat. Where EMB members are involved in the day-to-day leadership and management of the EMB’s activities, as was the case in Indonesia in 2004, allocating specific direction and oversight tasks in this manner clarifies responsibilities and provides greater clarity to the secretariat staff. Individual members of the EMB in Thailand take on a similar management-oriented role.
Elements that can promote an effective working relationship between EMB members and the secretariat include a clear delineation of powers and tasks between the members and the secretariat, clear hierarchical authority between the two, and competent appointments that generate mutual respect. Where public servants make up the secretariat of an EMB under the Independent Model, it is important that they report directly and only to the EMB—not also to an outside government department. Where the Mixed or Governmental Model is used, a single departmental reporting responsibility for electoral issues handled by the secretariat staff of a governmental EMB is highly preferable for the same reasons.
Attendance by the head of the secretariat or his/her nominee at all EMB plenary meetings as an invited speaker or guest, a non-voting EMB member or as an EMB member with full rights (as in Australia) reinforces the links between EMB members and the secretariat staff, and ensures that all meetings have the benefit of advice on the practical operations of the EMB.
