OSCE Monitors' Prelimenary Report

[Kellanved]

The 2 November elections in the United States mostly met the commitments agreed to by the 55 OSCE participating States in the Copenhagen Document of 1990 – see Annex I. They were conducted in an environment that reflects a long democratic tradition, including institutions governed by rule of law, free and professional media
and civil society involved in all aspects of the election process.

The presidential elections took place in a highly competitive environment. In what was perceived to be a very close race, the leading presidential candidates enjoyed the full benefits of free and vigorous media coverage throughout the campaign. There was
exceptional public interest not only in the two main presidential candidates and respective campaign issues but also in the election process itself. Civil society contributed substantially towards greater awareness of election issues and promoting voter participation. However, a number of significant issues were brought to the attention of the EOM as set out below.
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http://www.osce.org/documents/odihr/2004/11/3779_en.pdf