Seychelles: Code of conduct: Observers

Updated October 2001

All observers are generally required to adhere to a code of conduct, approved by the Electoral Commissioner of the Republic of Seychelles. The observers:

  1. Must familiarise themselves with the rules and regulations governing the elections;
  2. Must carry the prescribed identification issued by the host government or the electoral commission, and will identify themselves immediately, whenever necessary and on request from the authorities;
  3. Must introduce themselves to the election officials;
  4. Should generally maintain a close liaison with the election management body;
  5. Should display a high level of impartiality, independence, neutrality and objectivity in the conduct of their duties;
  6. Must not display or wear any partisan symbols, colours or banners;
  7. Must not impede or interfere in the electoral process, the polling day procedures or counting procedures;
  8. Can bring problems and irregularities to the attention of the election officials, but they must never give instructions or interfere with the decisions of the election officials or address problems themselves. Observers must refrain from giving advice unless requested to do so by the election officials;
  9. Should bring any serious irregularities to the attention of the senior election commission official;
  10. Must document their visits to the polling and counting stations and report in an objective way. Observers must reach their judgments on the basis of the accuracy of information and objective analysis. Information should be first-hand and verifiable if to be relied on;
  11. Must refrain from issuing public statements about their observations and the electoral process;
  12. Are obliged to report back on their observations and to participate in debriefings if requested;
  13. Must comply with all national laws and regulations;
  14. Must show respect for the people and culture of the country;
  15. Must return all identification material issued by the Electoral Commission at the end of their mission and
  16. Must refrain from announcing election results without the authority of the Electoral Commission.