OSCE Electoral Observation Mission - STO
Bulgaria Early Parliamentary Elections
19 April 2026

CANADEM is seeking to deploy two (2) Short-Term Observers (STOs) to the OSCE's Election Observation Mission to the Bulgaria Early Parliamentary Elections (2026).

STO tentative deployment dates:

Arrival: April 15th, 2026
Election: April 19th, 2026
Return: April 22nd, 2026

Please note that there is a small possibility that the election date may change. If that happens, the deployment dates would be postponed.

We will accept applications ONLY from candidates who complete the form (see below). It is a similar form to the previous registration application. Any information included in this application will overwrite the information provided previously.

Some of the most important criteria based on which we will shortlist STO candidates are:

Previous STO and/or LTO experience
Professional experience
Experience in public administration, non-governmental organizations, and/or international organizations involved in observing and/or organizing electoral processes
Experience in the region (Bulgaria and surrounding countries)
Knowledge of local language

*A note on selection criteria: It is not necessary for selected observers to fulfil every criteria. In fact, we endeavour to deploy observers with no previous experience with electoral observation.

Applicants must be Canadian citizens and fluent in English.

How to apply: Click the "Apply Now" button and complete the form

Remuneration
Successful STO candidates will receive:

Transportation costs covered,
Standard per diem based on location; and
Accommodation covered.

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Terms of Reference

SHORT-TERM OBSERVER

Main Tasks

Electoral Expertise
- Acquire detailed knowledge of the election law and procedures concerning election day;
- Acquire detailed knowledge of the electoral and political situation in the country; and
- Become familiar with the election observation methodology for observing election day, as reflected in the relevant publications; and
- Acquire knowledge of commitments and other international standards for democratic elections.
- Attend and report on meetings of local election authorities, where requested;
- Attend and report on political rallies and campaign events, where requested;
- Attend and participate in any other relevant meetings with other election stakeholders necessary to cover issues deemed necessary by the mission management and LTOs;
- Supervise the local support staff;
- Abide by the Code of Conduct, the Guide on the Policy against Harassment, Sexual Harassment and Discrimination, and security instructions and deployment plan of the EOM, as well as data protection responsibilities when processing the personal data of local staff.

Reporting
- Prepare and submit regular reports to assess the close of the campaign, voting, counting and the tabulation of results.

Requirements
- Experience in public administration, non-governmental organizations, and/or international organizations, preferably involved in observing and/or organizing election processes, is desirable.
- Knowledge of the country and surrounding region is desirable but not essential.
- Command of the English language is essential. STOs must be prepared to read briefing materials, attend the briefing and de-briefing sessions, understand procedural instructions and complete forms accurately, all in English. Knowledge of local languages is desirable but not essential.
- Willingness and ability to work long hours in conditions which are sometimes difficult.
- Ability to work in a team and deal with difficult situations in a positive manner.

Deliverables
- Regular reporting on the conduct of the elections in the area of deployment, as well as on any other issues covered during the mission.