Ready for deployment: Short-Term Election Observation (STO) course in Berlin completed

From August 2nd to August 5th, ZIF invited 16 participants to a STO training in Schwanenwerder (Berlin). Future German and international election observers had the opportunity to learn skills and acquire knowledge needed to observe election processes. Experienced trainers briefed on observation challenges, tasks and code of conduct along the standards of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) and EU.

Applying a strict concept to minimize the risk of infections, ZIF was able to host its first course in physical attende since the start of the COVID-pandemic in early 2020. In the meantime, all our trainings were carried out virtually. Due to the quick adjustment towards online formats, we did not have to cancel any STO courses. This was of outmost importance as the preparation training for election observers is one of our most requested training formats and requirement for future deployments.

The aim of this training is to prepare potenial STOs for their deployment in Election Observation Missions. ZIF thereby follows the standards of the OSCE ODHIR and EU. For German participants this course marks their final step towards becoming a member for the ZIF Expert Pool and applying for upcoming missions.

Find further details about the STO course here.