In response to an invitation from Sri Lanka’s Election Commission, the European Union has decided to deploy an Election Observation Mission (EOM) to monitor the Presidential Election scheduled for September 21, 2024. The EU has a long history of observing electoral processes in Sri Lanka, having deployed EOMs on six previous occasions, most recently in 2019, underscoring its commitment and partnership with the country.
Josep Borrell, the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission, has appointed Nacho Sánchez Amor, a Member of the European Parliament, as Chief Observer for the mission.
“The deployment of the Election Observation Mission in Sri Lanka this year confirms our long-standing commitment to supporting credible, transparent, inclusive, and peaceful elections in the country. For the EU, observing the election is a way to support the Sri Lankan people and their efforts to strengthen democratic institutions, in line with our multidimensional and sustainable partnership with the country,” stated Borrell.
Chief Observer Nacho Sánchez Amor expressed his honor in leading the mission, noting, “The forthcoming presidential election will give new impetus to democracy following the 2022 political and economic crisis. This election is crucial for Sri Lanka to continue making progress on its path of reforms and lasting recovery, in full respect of democratic values.”
Background
The EU EOM is deployed at the express invitation of the host country and is led by a Chief Observer. The mission comprises different groups of observers, starting with a Core Team of a Deputy Chief Observer and nine election experts arriving in Colombo on August 13, 2024. Later in August, 26 long-term observers will join the mission, followed by 32 short-term observers who will be deployed across the country during election week.
In accordance with the EU’s methodology on election observation, the mission will issue a preliminary statement and hold a press conference in Colombo after the election. A final report, including recommendations for future electoral processes, will be presented and shared with national authorities and stakeholders upon the conclusion of the entire electoral process.
