Yerevan /Mediamax/. The Venice Commission of the Council of Europe and OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) endorsed a joint opinion on the draft electoral code of Armenia.

“The Venice Commission and OSCE/ODIHR have closely followed changes to the Electoral Code of Armenia through several opinions. The proposed draft electoral code follows the 2015 adoption of a revised Constitution. In line with previous Venice Commission and OSCE/ODIHR opinions and reports, it is underscored that the key challenge for the conduct of genuinely democratic elections is the exercise of political will by all stakeholders to fully and effectively uphold the letter and the spirit of the law.

The timeframe for reform is regrettably very short, as the Constitution provides that the new code has to enter into force by 1 June 2016. While the stability of the electoral system is a key principle, it is equally important to have sufficient time for a thorough, inclusive, and public discussion in order to build consensus and confidence around major changes in electoral legislation,” reads the joint opinion.

The Venice Commission stated that certain concerns exist in the draft code, in particular insufficient measures to enhance confidence in the accuracy of voter lists, and the restrictions on citizen election observers.

“The draft code also does not address a number of prior recommendations related to the effectiveness of complaints and appeals procedures, the transparency and accountability of campaign finance, safeguards against potential abuse of state resources, and clarity of the role and oversight of media during elections,” notes the joint opinion.

The Venice Commission and OSCE/ODIHR recommended Armenian authorities to improve election-related legislation and bring it more closely in line with OSCE commitments and international standards.