This
topic area discussed the basic tenets of election observation, both for
international and domestic or citizen observation, the origins of election
observation, observation methodologies and tools observer groups use when they
observe elections. It also discussed the main challenges facing international
and domestic observers and the key relationships among observers on the one
hand and among observer groups and other stakeholders in elections on the other
hand. The discussions highlight that election observation is an independent,
nonpartisan assessment of the quality of elections. Whether done by
international groups or by domestic citizen organizations, election observation
can improve the quality of elections by providing credible and unbiased
information on the quality elections, including recommendations for reforms
that can address challenges in the election process. This information shapes
the perceptions of key international and domestic stakeholders and
policymakers. The topic area also shown that election observation has evolved
considerably over the years into a professional field with a set of guiding
principles contained in written international instruments. This has helped
election observers to more systematically and comprehensively gather and
analyze information on the various aspects of an election processes and has
helped protect the impartiality of election observers
