Local EU Statement on the 2013 presidential election and support for democracy in Azerbaijan

The European Union Delegation issues the following statement in agreement with the EU Heads of Mission in Azerbaijan and in association with the diplomatic missions of the United States of America and the Kingdom of Norway: 

"In the light of approaching elections, the Delegation of the European Union to Azerbaijan expresses its sincere desire and hope for an inclusive, transparent and credible electoral process. As Azerbaijan is currently a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council and as it will hold the Presidency of the Council of Europe next year, the following aspects take on an even greater importance and more public character:

We encourage the government to ensure the necessary conditions for the functioning of a free and open space for democratic political expression and freedom of assembly.

We encourage the government to engage the full spectrum of society in a constructive dialogue, including independent, non-governmental civil society organizations.

We recommend that the government work closely with international partners, especially the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights, to support the conduct of inclusive, transparent and credible elections.

We are ready as ever to support the government's efforts and the efforts of civil society representatives who are willing to enter a constructive dialogue with the government about the steps each can take to prepare and provide for a fully inclusive, transparent and credible election process". -0-