The European Union (EU) has committed to observing the general elections which will take place in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) on December 20, 2023. This decision follows an invitation from the Congolese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, to which the EU responded favorably.
In a recent statement, Josep Borrell, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs, announced the upcoming deployment of an observation mission to the DRC. This mission will be led by Malin Björk, a Swedish MEP, member of the left group in the European Parliament.
The deployment of this mission will include thirteen experts who will arrive in November, followed by 42 long-term observers who will follow the electoral campaign. Finally, 12 short-term observers will join the team as the election approaches. According to the EU, local observers could also join the mission on voting day.
The objective of this observation mission is to closely monitor the progress of the elections and to produce impartial conclusions, accompanied by recommendations. The mission will continue even after the election, to ensure a full assessment of the electoral process.
It should be noted that this observation mission will take place while the EU does not have an ambassador stationed in the DRC. The former ambassador, Jean-Marc Chataignier, left last August and his replacement, Berlanga Martinez, has not yet officially taken up his duties.
This EU mission to the DRC is of vital importance as the country prepares for crucial general elections. These include the presidential election as well as the elections for provincial and national deputies. International observation is essential to guarantee the transparency and credibility of the electoral process, and to support the consolidation of democracy in the DRC.