The purpose of the Experts Mission was to collect factual information concerning the electoral process, in line with the criteria contained in the Commission Communication on Electoral Assistance and Observation [COM(2000)191]. Moreover, the experts produced strategic analysis and reporting on the ongoing electoral processes and provided inputs for electoral reform as well as confidence-enhancing measures, during and after the elections.
The objectives of the missions were to:
- Assess all aspects of the electoral process in light of international and regional commitments and relevant national legislation of Guinea Bissau; evaluate openness, comprehensiveness and adherence to the rules of the different phases of the process, including voting, counting and possibly treatment of complaints and appeals; and make recommendations in the area of electoral reform.
- Assess the implementation and continuous relevance of previous EU (and non-EU) election related missions’ recommendations and propose targeted recommendations to relevant authorities and stakeholders in Guinea Bissau in order to improve the election framework.
- Provide analysis to help identify needs and the potential for additional bilateral or EU electoral support and analyse how ongoing projects are addressing recommendations of past EU EOMs.
- Prepare a draft Final Mission Report, in consultation with representatives of EC/EEAS services presenting an overview of the pre-election situation.
- Following the final de-briefing with EC/EEAS services in Brussels incorporate additional comments into the draft report and provide Commission and EEAS services with a concise Final Report.