OSCE VOICES SUPPORT FOR ELECTORAL REFORM IN ARMENIA

Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE)
April 19 2006

YEREVAN, 19 April 2006 – The Head of the OSCE Office in Yerevan,
Ambassador Vladimir Pryakhin, members of the diplomatic corps and
representatives of the Council of Europe and the United Nations Offices
in Armenia were today briefed on the on-going electoral reform in
Armenia by the Chairman of the National Assembly, Arthur Baghdasaryan.

Ambassador Pryakhin welcomed the assurances by the Speaker of the
country’s determination to reform the electoral process, saying:
“While recognising the need for improvements in legislation and
administrative procedures, we stress that political will remains a
core prerequisite for ensuring democratic conduct of elections. We
hope the shortcomings of the past will not be repeated.”

He also underlined the readiness of the international community
to provide assistance as indicated in the 9 March statement by
Ambassadors of the OSCE participating States and the heads of
intergovernmental organizations in Yerevan. “While the international
community is willing to help, only the Armenian authorities can assure
a successful outcome.”

In particular, the international community representatives stated
that they would be ready to contribute to the electoral reform
process by assisting with the training of election commission members,
expertise on amendments to the electoral code, improving voter lists,
and promoting public awareness of the procedures for a free and
fair election.

“I hope the Armenian authorities will engage civil society and
the media in ensuring that the forthcoming elections constitute
a unifying process between the people and those who govern them,”
added Ambassador Pryakhin.