Local observer organizations brief over OSCE/ODIHR report

Local election observer organizations briefed on the OSCE/ODIHR final report of the 2024 parliamentary elections.

The International Society for Fair Elections And Democracy (ISFED), Georgian Young Lawyers Association (GYLA) and My Voice stated that the report is very critical reflecting various irregularities and violations observed during pre-election and post-election periods and Election Day.

The NGOs mentioned that the report stressed several legislative amendments that were adopted in an expedited manner that suspect their use for political purposes. Based on the report, the ruling team utilized administrative resources and applied methods of intimidation on public officials and socially vulnerable groups.

The report remarks that reviewing complaints in the election commissions or courts undermined the appeal process and failed to respond to concerns over the confidence of outcomes.

Also, the Georgian Dream’s November 28 decision led to public protests that were responded to by detentions and dispersals questioning the fufilment of the OSCE commitment to freedom of assembly.

To prevent the Georgian Dream’s propaganda methods, the OSCE/ODIHR stressed that its mandate is not to recognize the legitimacy of elections. It assesses the fulfilment of obligations by the OSCE member states. This allows the Georgian people to evaluate the quality of elections,” reads the joint statement of local observer organizations.