Election Observation Missions in Latin America: an analysis from the perspective of electoral bodies

Abstract

The study analyzes how Electoral Observation Missions (EOM’s) are being developed in different Latin American countries, from the perspective of Electoral Management Bodies (EMB’s). The research considers the lack of consolidated data on structural, formal and quantitative aspects but, above all, the importance of disseminating the role of EOM’s to the general population. A questionnaire was sent to Latin American countries, including Brazil. The data was gathered to form an overview of Latin American election observation missions. The majority had a tendency to receive missions to promote transparency and reliability in their elections. On the other hand, the need to improve publicity and access to the reports produced by the EOM’s
by the agencies interviewed was verified. The survey can contribute to the expansion of data sources and indications of improvements in this type of monitoring by electoral bodies.