The European Union Election Observation Mission (EU EOM) has begun its activities in preparation for Kosovo’s parliamentary elections scheduled for February 9, 2025. In a press conference, Nathalie Loiseau, head of the EU mission, announced this marks the EU’s seventh election observation mission in Kosovo.
Loiseau emphasized that the mission aims to monitor and assess the electoral process to ensure compliance with Kosovo’s election laws, international standards, and prior EU recommendations.
Comprehensive Monitoring Effort
The EU EOM, the only long-term international observation mission for these elections, will deploy more than 100 observers across Kosovo.
“We were invited by President Osmani to observe the parliamentary elections. This is the seventh time the EU is observing elections in Kosovo,” Loiseau said. She added that this election is significant, as it is the first under Kosovo’s new election law, which incorporates several EU recommendations.
The mission seeks to ensure the electoral process respects legal frameworks and international standards while promoting a credible, inclusive, and transparent process. “Our objective is to enable voters to express their choices freely,” Loiseau stated.
Diverse and Long-Term Observation
The mission highlights the EU’s continued support for strengthening democratic governance in Kosovo. By election day, over 100 observers will be on the ground.
A team of 18 long-term observers from 18 countries, including EU member states, Norway, and Switzerland, arrived on January 19. They will work in pairs, combining national and gender diversity, and will monitor electoral preparations across all municipalities.
“These long-term observers will provide independent and impartial assessments. Their presence is crucial for delivering a comprehensive evaluation of the electoral process,” said Loiseau.
Election Day and Beyond
In addition to the long-term observers, the mission will expand before election day with 36 short-term observers and a delegation of seven members from the European Parliament. Up to 36 diplomats from EU member states, Canada, Norway, and Switzerland will also participate.
Loiseau underlined the mission’s core principles: independence, impartiality, professionalism, and consistency.
“Our mission adheres to long-term observation principles to ensure a thorough assessment. We emphasize non-interference and professionalism in our approach,” she concluded.
