OSCE experts suggest sending 380 observers to Azerbaijani elections

The mission of the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) of the OSCE (Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe) has recommended sending 380 observers to the upcoming early parliamentary elections in Azerbaijan. Rights defenders believe that such a team of observers could contribute to the transparency of the election process.

Bashir Suleimanly, the head of the Civil Rights Institute, believes that sending so many observers to the country will allow organizing the monitoring "at a solid level." In his opinion, the upcoming elections will be held according to an improved scenario.

"Of course, I have no illusions and I don't believe that the elections will be democratic ... But with proper preparation, independent and oppositional candidates can win in some constituencies," Mr Suleimanly has noted.

Samir Kazymly, the coordinator of the Alliance for the Defence of Political Freedoms, also believes that the presence of 380 observers will help increasing the transparency of the process.

Tofig Tyurkel, an observer at the "Turan" News Agency, has noted that many young activists are participating in the current campaign. "They represent a new generation; and they are well versed in new information and political technologies. With the advent of their supporters to the polls and impressive election monitoring, they can defend their votes," Mr Tyurkel has hoped.