A Systematic Review International election observation has become a critical mechanism in ensuring election integrity, promoting democratic values, and enhancing the legitimacy of electoral processes worldwide. This systematic review explores the role of global election observation in promoting free and fair elections and best practices in election management. The review focuses on the history, principles, approaches, impact, and challenges of international election observation. The origins of international election observation can be traced back to the 1857 European commission that observed the elections in Moldavia and Wallachia. Today, international observer missions are structured, systematic, and involve hundreds of individuals over several months, deployed by various international organizations such as the European Union, OSCE, African Union, OAS, IRI, NDI, and Council of Europe. International election observation is based on two fundamental principles: clear commitments by governments for ensuring democratic elections and the role of observers as objective individuals who do not interfere in the process. The review highlights the importance of transparency, hard work, dedication, professionalism, and experience in ensuring the credibility and effectiveness of international observation. The impact of international election observation includes raising voter confidence, evaluating the legitimacy of electoral processes and outcomes, promoting bilateral exchanges of knowledge and information on electoral practices, and sometimes leading to lasting international relations. However, the review also acknowledges the challenges and criticisms of international observation, such as the perception of conferring legitimacy on flawed elections, the need for adequate time, resources, qualified observers, comprehensive coverage, and accreditation.
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