“In an era of increasing polarization, where political actors may pre-emptively challenge election outcomes as unfair when victory eludes them. The importance of election observation has never been greater,” said Pia Kauma, President of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly, at the 31st meeting of the OSCE Ministerial Council in Malta.

“Over 500 observers were deployed across North America, Europe and Central Asia, in Azerbaijan, north Macedonia, Moldova, Georgia, Uzbekistan, and the United States demonstrating our steadfast commitment to upholding democratic standards throughout the OSCE region.

In an era of increasing polarization, where political actors may pre-emptively challenge election outcomes as unfair when victory eludes them. The importance of election observation has never been greater.

The neutral, scientific and well-tested methods employed in our missions are essential in countering such narratives and fostering public trust in electoral processes. At the same time, we recognize the need to adapt and to refine these methods, to address emerging challenges, such as artificial intelligence-driven in this information and deepfakes. In doing so, we must also consider the broader context beyond the electoral period, ensuring that the media practices, the protection of fundamental rights and other essential democratic principles are upheld continuously, not just during election campaigns and the actual election day.

As election observers, we are committed to ensuring that the will of the people, not external influences from the east, west, or anywhere else determines electoral outcomes. These efforts, carried out in close cooperation with the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights, and our partners assemblies have been instrumental in fostering public trust in democratic institutions. They safeguard the principles that unite our countries and our people, ensuring the most stable and secure future,” Pia Kauma stated.