The International Republican Institute (IRI) has announced the arrival of its short-term observers (STOs) as part of its ongoing international election observation mission (IEOM) for Georgia’s October 26 parliamentary elections.

The full IRI mission is led by former U.S. Representative John Shimkus, Swedish Member of Parliament Margareta Cederfeldt, and IRI President Dr. Daniel Twining.

The 28 STOs will join 20 long-term observers (LTOs), who have been on the ground since July, expanding the mission’s capacity to monitor and assess the integrity of the electoral process.

STOs will be deployed across the country to observe Election Day proceedings, including polling station setup, the voting process, and the counting of ballots. Their presence complements the work already being done by the LTOs, who have been engaging with political stakeholders, electoral institutions, and civil society groups since arriving in Georgia.

“The arrival of short-term observers will further strengthen the mission’s ability to monitor key stages of this critical election,” said Shimkus. “With the heightened focus on Election Day activities in Georgia, our mission will be able to offer a more comprehensive assessment of the electoral process and its significance for Georgia’s future.  The stakes for Georgia, its democracy and stability in the country and the region couldn’t be higher.”

The strength of Georgia’s democratic process is crucial to ensuring the country continues on its path toward European integration,” said Cederfeldt. “Our observation efforts on Election Day will provide crucial insight into the integrity of the process and Georgia’s adherence to democratic norms, which are essential for its future in the EU.”

Georgia’s path to democracy is the central question in these elections,” said Twining. “We look forward to being on the ground to ensure they reflect the will of the Georgian people, whom IRI polls show overwhelmingly want to live in a democratic society and join the West.”

Georgia’s progress towards European Union accession depends on meeting key benchmarks, including conducting transparent, credible, and legitimate elections. The results of this election will play a vital role in determining the country’s path toward integration with Europe,” he said.

According to the IRI statement, a preliminary statement on the election will be provided shortly after Election Day, with a comprehensive report including detailed analysis and recommendations to be released in the weeks following the election.

“All activities by the mission will be conducted in a strictly non-biased and nonpartisan manner, without interference in the election process.

IRI has led 250 international election observation missions worldwide and is recognized for its impartiality and professionalism. The mission will adhere to the Declaration of Principles for International Election Observation and the Code of Conduct, as adopted by the United Nations in 2005.

This mission is made possible with the support of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) through the Consortium for Elections and Political Process Strengthening (CEPPS). The National Democratic Institute (NDI) is also conducting an International Election Observation Mission in Georgia,” the IRI said in its statement.