EU Election Observation Mission to Peru deploys 50 long-term observers nationwide

EU Election Observation Mission to Peru deploys 50 long-term observers nationwide

The European Union Election Observation Mission (EU EOM) begins deploying its long-terms observers to all regions of Peru today. This first contingent consists of 50 long-term observers, nationals of the European Union member states, as well as Canada and Norway.

"Our observers will work in teams of two, with both genders represented. They will meet with, among others, candidates from the different political parties, electoral officials, journalists, and national observers. They will observe in both urban and rural areas. Their reports will be a key component of our conclusions," explained the Chief Observer and Member of the European Parliament, Annalisa Corrado.

Before election day, the Mission will be reinforced by an additional 50 short-term observers. A delegation of Members of the European Parliament will also join the Mission, as well as observers from the embassies of European Union member states and partner countries. On election day, the EU EOM will deploy more than 150 observers across the country.

The EU EOM arrived in Peru at the end of February with an initial group of ten experts based in Lima and will remain until the end of the electoral process, including a possible presidential runoff. The European Union was invited to observe the elections by the Government of Peru and the electoral authorities. The mission strictly abides by a code of conduct which applies principles of independence, impartiality, and non-interference. The Mission carries out its work in accordance with the Declaration of Principles for International Election Observation.

It seeks to cover all aspects of the electoral process: from the legal framework and candidate registration to the transparency of the electoral administration, including the role of the media and social networks in the campaign.

Chief Observer Annalisa Corrado arrived in Peru yesterday to begin a series of meetings with the Peruvian electoral authorities, candidates, civil society organisations, and other stakeholders. On Thursday, 19 March, at the end of her first visit, Annalisa Corrado will hold a press conference to officially launch the Mission.