Democracy in Action: Current circumstances do not allow free and fair elections in the north

Despite the several-time delay of election day and deadlines for the certificate of political subjects and their candidates, political subjects, in particular those of the Serb community, have expressed no will to be part of the election race. Even in northern Mitrovica and Zubin Potok, where the Serb community constitutes over 90% of the population, no candidate from the Serb community has been registered. DnV estimates that this situation could affect the legitimacy of the institutions that will emerge from the elections, as it does not guarantee fair representation of the Serb community.

Due to the resignations of Serbian community election officials from election management troops, as well as their lack of interest in applying, the CEC is facing challenges in developing the necessary preparations to organise and manage a fair and literal electoral process. Inequities related to the exploitation of existing polling stations, appointment and training of commissioners, carrying election materials are some of the key problems facing election management troops.

Overall, the security situation in the four northern municipalities continues to be fragile. The resignations of Serbian police officials in those municipalities constitute a major Hangip in ensuring security, especially during the election process. DnV recalls that creating a safe environment is an essential prerequisite for ensuring free and fair elections.

On the other hand, as a result of these factors, a serious lack of the interest of citizens of the Serb community to participate in the elections can be expected. This is expected to manifest even with very low appearances in the election, which will violate the legitimacy of new institutions stemming from the April 23rd elections.

Therefore, given the current situation on the ground, DnV estimates that the current circumstances cannot organise and hold elections in the north, in line with standards for free and fair elections.