Georgian election officials stress observer impartiality at CoE debate in Paris

Georgia’s election authorities have taken part in a high-level European discussion on electoral integrity, highlighting the importance of impartial observation and evidence-based assessments.

The chairman of the Central Election Commission of Georgia, Giorgi Kalandarishvili, and the commission’s secretary Giorgi Javakhishvili participated in joint debates organised by the Venice Commission, the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities and the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe.

The discussions, held in Paris on 28–29 April, focused on the theme Towards Trusted and Inclusive Electoral Processes: The Role of Observers.

Organisers said the event aimed to assess both longstanding and emerging challenges faced by election observers, examine the effectiveness and limitations of legal safeguards, and explore possible future actions, including the potential development of additional Council of Europe instruments.

Speaking during the debates, Kalandarishvili outlined Georgia’s experience in administering elections, with particular emphasis on building an inclusive electoral environment and strengthening transparency.

He said the forum provided an opportunity to present “objective and verified information” on issues that may influence public perceptions.

Kalandarishvili stressed that observer reports and assessments should be grounded in factual evidence rather than political outcomes, and underlined the importance of neutrality and impartiality in the observation process.

He also highlighted the role of both international and domestic observer organisations, noting that respect for the findings of bodies such as OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights was essential.

“Without recognition of the conclusions, the significance of the observation process is effectively undermined,” he said.

Participants in the debates also examined legal frameworks governing election observation, including existing guarantees, gaps, best practices and ongoing challenges. Discussions further addressed joint strategies to strengthen electoral integrity and public trust, as well as possible next steps.