Elections

WFD is responsible for the recruitment and selection of UK election observers for EU and for OSCE/ODIHR Election Observation Missions (EOM). WFD also provides regular training for both long-term and short-term observers.

Deploying EOMs is a critical component of the EU and OSCE/ODIHR’s overall efforts to monitor countries’ electoral processes, in turn a crucial part of the democratic process. The presence of observers can enhance transparency and confidence in the process, as well as prevent conflict by deterring violence and fraud.

WFD uses a fair, transparent and merit-based system of assessment for candidates to ensure that the best possible observers are selected for short-listing to the European Commission and deployment to OSCE/ODIHR. The assessment examines, among other things, a candidate’s level of prior EOM experience, regional expertise, relevant professional experience, language skills (French and Spanish are often beneficial or required) and whether the candidates have undertaken any relevant training. Candidates are selected based on EU and OSCE/ODIHR criteria.

Sign-up to our election observation mailing list

WFD maintains a dedicated mailing list of active UK election observers who are regularly notified upon the announcement of new missions and training opportunities. All opportunities are also advertised on this website and via social media (including from WFD’s official Twitter and LinkedIn accounts). If you wish to be added to the mailing list, please contact us at election.observation@wfd.org.

Tips for aspiring or current Observers

Anyone interested in participating in EU election observation must also register directly with the European Commission. If you have previously registered on the EU website and have an observer ID number, there is no need to re-register. However, we encourage anyone registered with the European Commission to keep their profile and contact information always up to date. Observers are also encouraged to register their interest with the British East West Centre and SOLACE, who also help select UK observers for OSCE/ODIHR missions.