Election Observation: National and International Observers
Observers are a valuable element of the electoral process to help ensure that the elections are conducted in accordance with the laws of Nauru and democratic standards.
Observers are representatives of national and international organizations who are present during the different stages of the electoral process to observe the process and prepare their reports. Observer organizations must register with the Electoral Commission and receive accreditation cards so that their representatives can access electoral sites.
The role of the observers’ presence during the different stages of the electoral process is to observe the way elections are conducted and prepare their reports accordingly. Usually, the observer organization consolidates its findings in a report and publishes it after the elections. Observer organizations and their representatives do not have the right to file complaints or objections regarding the electoral process.
Observers can:
- Be present at polling stations and the counting center and observe the process.
- Speak to the electoral officials and seek information without disrupting the process.
- Have access to all polling stations and the counting center.
- Follow the transportation of materials from the polling centers to the provincial electoral office.
Limitations
Observers must not interfere with the electoral process, voting, and secrecy of the votes. Also, observers cannot interfere with the executive affairs of the elections or assist the voters in marking their ballots. While in polling centers, observers must not campaign for or against any candidates.
In the case of a breach in the code of conduct, the Election Commission has the right to invalidate the accreditation of an observer organization or specific observers.