The OSCE has reported that the recent snap elections in Azerbaijan did not meet democratic standards, citing a lack of political pluralism and transparency.
Observers from the OSCE and its Parliamentary Assembly noted that the elections were conducted in a restrictive environment with limited competition and political diversity.
Michael Gried, head of the OSCE short-term observer group, highlighted that despite the presence of 279 observers from 34 countries, the elections were marred by various irregularities, including voter intimidation and media restrictions.
Gried also pointed out that for the first time, Azerbaijan held elections across all internationally recognized territories. However, he criticized the overwhelming representation of the ruling party in election commissions, which compromised the transparency and inclusiveness of the process. The OSCE’s Democratic Institutions and Human Rights Office has offered to assist Azerbaijan in addressing these issues.
Lucia Potuckova, head of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly delegation, expressed concerns about the general political apathy among the populace, exacerbated by restrictions on media and NGOs, and arbitrary arrests. Despite these challenges, she acknowledged the significant participation of women in politics as a positive development.
The OSCE mission, led by Ditmir Bushati, emphasized that the observed limitations during the elections, including the biased election administration and the suppression of civil liberties, contradicted Azerbaijan’s commitments as an OSCE member. Bushati urged the Azerbaijani government and political leaders to take the initiative in improving the electoral process to align with international democratic standards.
