Scoop has an Ethical Paywall
Cancellation Of ODIHR Election Observation Mission
Press Statement
Sean McCormack,
Spokesman
Washington, DC
November 16,
2007
Russia: Cancellation of ODIHR Russian Election Observation Mission
The United States Government supports the decision by the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe's (OSCE) Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) to cancel plans to observe the December 2 Duma elections in Russia.
We understand this decision was made as a result of what ODIHR termed "unprecedented" restrictions on its mission, which included limits on the number of observers and duration of their stay in Russia, as well as other constraints.
The United States regrets that conditions imposed by the Russian Government led ODIHR to take this difficult decision. Invitations with such conditions undermine the integrity of ODIHR and its ability to adequately perform its responsibilities, which we and other countries have vigorously supported as the international "gold standard" in election observation. We call on the Russian government to live up to its commitments and allow unrestricted ODIHR observation of the 2008 Russian presidential election.
2007/1018
ENDS
More: Latest World News | Top World News | World Digest | Archives
UN News: ‘The Smell Of Death Is Everywhere’ In Northern Gaza, UNRWA Chief Says
Save The Children: LEBANON - Over 400,000 Forcibly Displaced Children At Growing Risk Of Scabies, Cholera And Waterborne Diseases
UN News: World Court Faces ‘Unprecedented Number’ Of Cases
Climate Action Network: The Money Is There To Meet Global Biodiversity Targets - CAN COP16 Expectations
Convention On Biological Diversity: COP 16 Opens In Cali, Colombia - World Takes Crucial Step To Make Peace With Nature
Government Of Niue: Niue Celebrates 50 Years Of Self-Governing