The European Union (EU) is preparing to deploy an observation mission for the general elections in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Scheduled for December 20, 2023, these elections are of crucial importance for the political future of the country. Thus, the EU responded favorably to the invitation from the Congolese Ministry of Foreign Affairs and will send a team of observers there.
Led by Malin Björk, a Swedish MEP, this observation mission will include thirteen experts who will arrive in November. They will then be joined by 42 long-term observers who will follow the electoral campaign and finally, by 12 short-term observers as the election approaches. This team will also be reinforced by local observers on voting day.
The objective of this observation mission is to guarantee free, fair and transparent elections in the DRC. The European observers will have the task of monitoring the progress of the electoral process, reporting possible irregularities and making recommendations to improve the country’s electoral system.
It should be noted that this observation mission is taking place in a particular context, since the EU does not currently have an ambassador in the DRC. However, this in no way diminishes the importance of this mission, which undertakes to remain present until the conclusion of the electoral process and to publish a final report with recommendations.
Sending an EU observer mission demonstrates the European Union’s commitment to democracy and respect for human rights. By supporting the electoral process in the DRC, the EU hopes to contribute to a peaceful and stable transition in the country.
It should be noted that this EU observation mission comes after the historic 2018 presidential elections in the DRC, where Félix Tshisekedi became the country’s new president. These 2023 general elections will be a crucial test for the democratic consolidation of the DRC and the EU will play a vital role in monitoring the electoral process.