OSCE Electoral Observation Mission - LTO
Armenia Parliamentary Elections
7 June 2026
CANADEM is seeking to deploy one (1) Long-Term Observer (LTO) to the OSCE's Election Observation Mission to the Armenia Parliamentary Elections (2026).
LTO tentative deployment dates:
Arrival: April 29th, 2026
Election: June 7th, 2026
Return: June 13th, 2026
Mission language is English.
Terms of Reference
LONG-TERM OBSERVER
Background:
ODIHR is the leading agency in Europe in the field of election observation. It co-ordinates and organizes the deployment of numerous observation missions with thousands of observers every year to assess the compliance of elections in OSCE participating States in line with OSCE commitments, other international obligations and standards for democratic elections, as well as national legislation. Its unique methodology provides an in-depth insight into all elements of an electoral process, and permits making concrete recommendations to further improve electoral processes.
Objective:
Under the guidance of the Head of Mission (HoM) and in close co-ordination with the Deputy Head of Mission (DHoM), the Long-term Observer (LTO) Co-ordinator and the ODIHR Election Department, the LTO is responsible for observing the entire electoral process and gaining an in-depth understanding of the overall administrative procedures and campaign environment in the area of deployment, as well as making the necessary preparations for the arrival of short-term observers (STOs).
Main Tasks:
Electoral Expertise
- Acquire detailed knowledge of the election law and all other relevant legislation and regulations;
- Acquire detailed knowledge of the electoral and political situation in the country;
- Become familiar with the ODIHR election observation methodology reflected in the relevant ODIHR
publications; and
- Acquire knowledge of OSCE commitments and other international standards for democratic elections.
Regional Issues
- Establish and maintain contact with the main authorities in charge of administering the elections in specific
regions as well as with political parties and candidates, media representatives, and members of civil society;
- Attend and report on meetings of local election authorities, where possible;
- Attend and report on political rallies and campaign events, where possible;
- Attend and participate in any other relevant meetings with other electoral stakeholders to cover issues deemed necessary by the HoM, DHoM, and LTO Co-ordinator;
- Participate in selection of support staff according to the established procedures; and
- Manage local staff, including certifying and evaluating the results of their work;
Reporting
- Prepare weekly and spot reports based on observations, findings and assessment;
Co-ordinating Role
- Co-ordinate the deployment, preparations, and activities of STOs (accommodation, cars, drivers, interpreters, briefing, and de-briefing) in consultation with the DHoM, LTO Co-ordinator, and Operations Expert;
- Prepare regional briefing materials for STOs;
- Organize a regional briefing and debriefing session for STOs;
- Maintain regular contact with STOs and provide them with instructions and guidance;
- Co-ordinate reporting by STOs and ensure that the mission is fully informed of trends and developments
in the respective region;
- Abide by the Code of Conduct for ODIHR Election Observers, the Guide on the OSCE Policy against Harassment, Sexual Harassment and Discrimination, the security instructions and deployment plan of the OSCE/ODIHR EOM, as well as data protection responsibilities when processing the personal data of short-
term observers and local staff.
Requirements:
- Experience in public administration, non-governmental organizations, and/or international organizations involved in observing and/or organizing electoral processes is most desirable;
- Previous experience or some knowledge of the current situation in the country or surrounding region is desirable;
- Command of English language is essential. LTOs must be prepared to read briefing materials, attend 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 to work long hours and ability to deal with complex and demanding situations;
- Ability to work in a team and deal with difficult situations in a positive manner.
Deliverables:
- Regular reporting, including recommendations, on the conduct of the elections in the regions, as well as on any other issues covered during the mission;
- Participation in recruitment of local staff, including preparing and signing the interview report; and
- Certification and evaluation of work performed by local staff under direct supervision.