Following an invite by the Election Fee of Sri Lanka, the European Union has determined to deploy an Election Statement Mission (EOM) to Sri Lanka to watch the Presidential Election scheduled for 21 September 2024. The EU has a protracted historical past of accompanying electoral processes in Sri Lanka and has deployed EOMs on six events, the final in 2019, reflecting the EU’s dedication and partnership with the nation.
The Excessive Consultant of the Union for Overseas Affairs and Safety Coverage and Vice-President of the European Fee, Josep Borrell, has appointed Nacho Sánchez Amor, Member of the European Parliament, as Chief Observer.
The Excessive Consultant said: “The deployment of the Election Statement Mission in Sri Lanka this yr confirms our long-standing dedication to supporting credible, clear, inclusive and peaceable elections within the nation. For the EU, observing the election is a solution to assist the Sri Lankan individuals and their efforts to strengthen democratic establishments, according to our multidimensional and sustainable partnership with the nation”.
The Chief Observer declared: “I’m honoured to guide the EU EOM to Sri Lanka. The forthcoming presidential election will give a brand new impetus to democracy following to the 2022 political and financial disaster. This election is essential for Sri Lanka to proceed making progress on its path of reforms and lasting restoration, in full respect of democratic values”.
Background
The EU EOM is deployed on the categorical invitation of the host nation and is led by a Chief Observer. It’s comprised of various teams of observers. The Core Crew consists of a Deputy Chief Observer and 9 election consultants who will arrive in Colombo on 13 August 2024. Later in August, 26 long-term observers will be a part of the mission and be deployed throughout the nation to observe the election marketing campaign. Thereafter, 32 short-term observers will reinforce the mission on election week, additionally deployed all through the nation. The EU EOM will stay within the nation till the completion of the electoral course of.
In keeping with the EU methodology on election statement, the mission will problem a preliminary assertion and maintain a press convention in Colombo after the election. A remaining report, together with suggestions for future electoral processes, will likely be offered and shared with nationwide authorities and stakeholders after the finalisation of your entire electoral course of.
