OSCE ODIHR released preliminary report on parliamentary elections to be held in Armenia

The report says the organization has been observing elections in Armenia since 1996 and none of them have fully met OSCE standards so far. 2003 elections were more satisfactory in comparison with the previous ones.

The report notes that most of Armenian political parties are being individualized for 2008 presidential elections. But their platforms include social affairs partially or not at all. 74 political parties may be conditionally divided into pro-government and opposition parties.

Election Code was amended (May 2005 and December 2006) after the last elections. Venice Commission and ODIHR followed the process carefully. The elections will be controlled by Central Election Commission and 41 regional commissions. CEC states that it is ready for elections, and voters’ lists are being worked out. The final variants of lists will be ready two days before elections.

The report also notes that the situation on media is still tense in the country; all channels may be assessed as pro-governmental, print media is more pluralistic. The report reflects some recommendations to Armenian officials and other participants in the campaign on changing the current situation.

As international observers, ODIHR representatives held meetings with state officials and political parties. ODIHR and PACE representatives are going to observe the elections. Some local organizations like "This is your choice" will also be among observers. APA