Bakhtiyor Khudoyorzoda, the head of the Central Commission for Elections and Referenda (CCER), yesterday received the Needs Assessment Mission of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR).

According to the CCER press center, the sides exchanged views on issues related to the upcoming parliamentary elections cooperation in Tajikistan and changes and addenda made to the country’s election legislation.  

Mr. Khudoyorzoda reportedly informed OSCE/ODIHR representatives about pre-election preparation measures taken by the Commission for the purpose to organizing this important political event at the high organizational level.  

He, in particular, noted that the Commission in cooperation with a number of relevant ministries and agencies organized training workshops for election experts and training seminars for the population. 

The sides reportedly also exchanged views on participation of international observers, including those from OSCE/ODIHR in monitoring the upcoming parliamentary elections in Tajikistan.  

The OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) provides support, assistance and expertise to participating States and civil society to promote democracy, rule of law, human rights and tolerance and non-discrimination.  ODIHR observes elections, reviews legislation and advises governments on how to develop and sustain democratic institutions.  The Office conducts training programs for government and law-enforcement officials and non-governmental organizations on how to uphold, promote and monitor human rights.