This is the EU's latest move on local elections

Deputy Mission Chief Marian Gabriel was greeted with 20 long-term observers (LTO), who left the Mission for Election Observation Centre this morning to their designated areas throughout all Kosovo municipalities.

Our “Role is to implement a comprehensive survey of the entire election process in all parts of Kosovo. In addition to the basic team of eight experts who are stationed in Pristina, 20 long-term observers will be sent to teams with two people across Kosovo to monitor the election process in all 38 municipalities,” said Marian Gabriel, deputy mission chief, in case of the observers' launch.

“In accordance with the standard EU monitoring methodology, it is important to have long-term access, throughout Kosovo, which allows us to have full and comprehensive analysis”, he said.

Observers will meet with local and election officials, representatives from political parties, judiciary, civil society, organisations, and the media.

Their survey will focus on the campaign activities of candidates and political parties, media coverage and election preparation.

As election day approaches, the base team and 20 long-term observers will join 42 short-term observers and short-term observers recruited locally by EU member states along with Norway and Switzerland, raising the total number to about 100.

The EU Election Monitoring Mission in Kosovo began 12 September, 2017 for monitoring local elections scheduled on October 22nd, 2017, and is led by Mission Chief Alinez Peterle, a member of the European Parliament from Slovenia.

All observers must adhere to the code of conduct, which requires strict neutrality and impartiality. Soon after election day, the Mission will issue a preliminary statement with their findings at a media conference in Pristina.

The final report, including recommendations for future election processes, will be presented later, following the overall finalisation of the election process.