Venice Commission calls for further electoral refinements in Georgia

The Venice Commission of the Council of Europe, in collaboration with the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR), on Tuesday  released a new opinion on the recent amendments to the election code and the rules of procedure of the Parliament of Georgia. 

 

According to the opinion, the current changes, particularly those regarding the composition of the Central Election Commission (CEC) and the election of its non-partisan members and Chairperson, are viewed as a positive step. However, the Venice Commission and ODIHR emphasize the need for further development and the addressing of long-standing recommendations.

 

The opinion, requested by the Speaker of the Parliament of Georgia in the context of the country’s application for EU candidate status, acknowledges the progress made but underscores the necessity for additional refinements. The frequent amendments to Georgia’s electoral legislation in recent years are noted, with the current draft amendments considered a step in the right direction, albeit requiring further elaboration.

 

The Venice Commission and ODIHR express concern about the complexity and lack of clarity in the draft amendments, describing them as “complicated and rather confusing.” The rapid and apparently insufficient consultation process with relevant stakeholders is highlighted as an area of concern.

 

The timing of the current reform, less than a year before the scheduled October 2024 election, is deemed less than ideal. While recognizing the intention to address some shortcomings, the Venice Commission and ODIHR express regret that several outstanding recommendations have not been followed. The risk of confusing voters, parties, and candidates due to frequent amendments is emphasized, urging a more comprehensive reform for a structured and clear process.

 

The adoption process of the reform was suspended after the first reading in Parliament to incorporate the conclusions of the Joint Opinion. The Venice Commission and ODIHR commend this decision and acknowledge that the reform aims to comply with European electoral standards and implement previous recommendations.

 

Among the recommendations made by the Venice Commission and ODIHR are changes to the draft amendments to ensure consensus on the appointment/election of non-partisan members and the Chairperson of the CEC, considerations for the timing of the anti-deadlock mechanism, modifications to the term of office for non-partisan members and the Chairperson of the CEC, and transferring the authority to nominate these members back to the President of Georgia.

 

Additionally, the Venice Commission and ODIHR reiterate previous recommendations related to the composition of election commissions, emphasizing higher credentials for CEC members, transparent and merit-based formation of the Selection Commission, nomination process for CEC non-partisan members, and strengthening the recruitment and selection process for members of lower-level election bodies.