From a Diplomatic Perspective on Elections: European Values, Professional Media and Implementing Recommendations Without Wasting Time
There are clear international standards for assessing and improving the electoral process, and key recommendations need to be implemented as quickly as possible, particularly in the period between elections. The topic of EU integration was not particularly visible during the elections in Serbia, previous ODIHR recommendations were not applied while, at the same time, the media and democratic institutions represent an important part of the European path.
These were some of the conclusions from a diplomatic perspective during a panel featuring Ambassador Kristin Melsom (Embassy of the Kingdom of Norway in Serbia), Ambassador Edward Ferguson (British Embassy in Serbia) and Ambassador Emanuel Giaufret, Head of the EU Delegation to the Republic of Serbia. The speakers agreed on one thing: the role of ambassadors, among other things, is to encourage, advise and assist, working with everyone who wants society to progress by respecting European values – whether in government, parliament or civil society.
“We do not interfere in domestic affairs, nor do we dictate how things should be done. But we work with different parts of society, and that work is intensive because we have to work together”, said Giaufret, emphasizing that the main goal of any engagement by the Delegation is to help Serbia become an EU member.
Ambassador Ferguson specifically touched upon the role of public broadcasters.
“Serbia is a sovereign country that makes its own decisions. But there are decisions that need to be made for Serbia to join the EU”, said Ferguson, reflecting on the important role of ODIHR, which should come to observe the elections here. Comparing elections in the United Kingdom and Serbia to some extent, he highlighted the importance of citizens in the UK being able to see both the government and the opposition in the media, offering different perspectives. And not only on the BBC, but on other channels as well.
Ambassador Melsom was most surprised, as she noted, by the media coverage and the support and airtime given to one party.
“In Norway, we have debates and time allocated for every party, time for discussions, and that is strictly followed. Political issues are much more on the agenda”, said Melsom, adding that her biggest concern is unknown actors and figures who influence the elections, “how to tackle this, how to fight it”.
