The European Union returns to Bolivia to observe the historic runoff on October 19

The European Union Election Observation Mission (EU EOM) is returning to Bolivia to observe the presidential runoff election, which will take place on October 19.

According to the Chief Observer, Croatian MEP Davor Stier, "this runoff represents a decisive moment in Bolivia's democratic history. It is the first time that citizens have been called to a second round of presidential elections, which reflects the country's institutional maturity and the consolidation of its democracy." He added, "Our presence aims to accompany this historic process with an independent and impartial assessment, reinforcing public confidence and contributing to an electoral day conducted in a climate of normalcy, transparency, and respect for fundamental rights."

Long-term observers will join the Core team of analysts, already present in La Paz, next week. After a training session, they will be deployed across Bolivia's nine departments. One week before Election day, a new group of Short-term observers will arrive in Bolivia to reinforce observation efforts during the vote itself. In addition, a delegation from the European Parliament and members of the diplomatic corps of EU countries present in Bolivia - as well as representatives from Canada and Switzerland - will join the EU EOM on Election day. The European Parliament delegation will once again be led by MEP Annalisa Corrado and will include five representatives from different political groups in the European Parliament.

Following the standardized methodology of EU election observation missions, the EU EOM will monitor all stages of the runoff: from the electoral campaign, Election day, and the announcement of preliminary results, to the proclamation of final results and the resolution of any potential disputes.

To gain a broad and comprehensive view of this electoral process, European observers will hold follow-up meetings with electoral authorities at national and departmental levels, political actors, the media, civil society organizations, and both national and international observer missions.

The EU operates in accordance with the Declaration of Principles for International Election Observation, adopted at the United Nations in 2005, and its election observation missions follow a rigorous methodology, having deployed more than 200 missions in 75 countries since 2000. The EU EOM carries out its work neutrally and independently. All European observers are bound by a strict code of conduct and ethical guidelines that ensure their neutrality and impartiality, remaining free from any interference in the electoral process.