EPDE welcomes and appreciates the decision by the Venice Commission recognizing election observers as human rights defenders. This follows the declaration of UN Human Rights Rapporteurs’ recognition of election observers as human rights defenders in 2022.

Election observers play a crucial role in safeguarding a wide array of fundamental rights, including the core political rights to vote and to stand for election, as well as broader civic freedoms such as freedom of expression, assembly, and access to information. In this role, election observers are standing at the forefront of the battle against threats to free and fair elections, and fundamental human rights.

The conclusion of the Venice Commission comes at a crucial time. Despite their essential contributions to the integrity of democratic processes, election observers face unprecedented threats of discrimination, defamation, repression, or even physical violence.

Such challenges underscore the urgent need for stronger protections at both the national and international levels.