United Nations to Host 20th Annual Meeting of International Election Observation Community in Geneva

The United Nations will host the twentieth Annual Implementation Meeting of the Declaration of Principles for International Election Observation (Declaration) from 10-12 December 2025, in Rooms X and XI at the Palais des Nations in Geneva, Switzerland.

The meeting will bring together 54 intergovernmental and international non-governmental organizations that have endorsed the Declaration of Principles, representing every region of the world. The gathering marks the 20th anniversary of the Declaration’s launch at UN Headquarters and provides an opportunity for the international observation community to reaffirm its commitment to credible, impartial, and professional election observation.

Over three days, participants will reflect on two decades of collective experience and discuss how to address evolving global challenges. The meeting will also showcase new tools and methodologies designed to enhance cooperation and strengthen the effectiveness of international election observation missions.

The Declaration, widely recognized by the UN General Assembly, affirms that credible elections are grounded in human rights and democratic principles. International election observation, conducted in line with the Declaration, plays a vital role in promoting public confidence, deterring irregularities, and contributing to peaceful electoral processes.

As host of this year’s Implementation Meeting, the United Nations underscores its continued commitment to supporting Member States and international partners in advancing credible and peaceful elections and strengthening the global framework for impartial observation.