Most of the issues discussed in Integrity in International Observation, involve the ethics of the mission itself. In addition to this, there is the issue of the ethical conduct of the individual observers. Most organizations which field international observers have adopted an internal code of ethics for the ethical conduct of the observers. In some systems, there is a binding code of conduct that is part of the accreditation process.
The Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IDEA) has developed a generic Code of Conduct: Ethical Observation (IDEA). The fundamental principles are: recognizing and respecting the sovereignty of the host country; non-partisan and neutral observation; comprehensive coverage; and transparent and accurate observation.
Among the IDEA principles:
- Respecting the domestic laws of the host country, rules of the election management body and the observation mission;
- Not interfering in the internal jurisdiction or affairs of the host country;
- Avoiding announcing the election results without the authority of the election management body;
- Nonpartisanship and acting in an unbiased manner. Not expressing a view on any subject that is likely to become an issue in the elections;
- Disclosing relationships that could lead to a conflict of interest with duties as observers or assessment of the elections;
- Not participating in any unauthorized activity that could lead to an actual or perceived conflict of interest with their functions as an observer;
- Not accepting any gift or favours from political parties, organizations or persons involved in the electoral process;
- Not wearing, carrying or displaying any party symbols or colours of a partisan nature;
- Not carrying any weapons;
- Acting in the interests of the organization responsible for the observation;
- Blameless behaviour, sound judgement and the highest levels of personal discretion;
- Working harmoniously with other observers and monitors;
- No unauthorized public statements; and
- Obeying rules concerning photography and restrictions on taking pictures. 326
