About the course
CMC Course for Short Term Election Observers is open for applicants aiming to apply for short term observer (STO) positions in OSCE/ODIHR and/or EU election observation missions in the near future. For more information on EU and OSCE election observation missions, see CMC’s website. The course is held from 26 to 28 September 2023 in Espoo, Finland.
Applications are accepted until 31 July 2023 (16:15, UTC+3:00).
This three-day course will use presentations, group discussions and experiential learning such as role-plays to develop the knowledge, skills and competencies of participants with regard to international election observation.
Objectives
Upon completion of the course the participants will be able to:
• to explain the key regional and international standards for international election observation used on OSCE/ODIHR and EU missions
• to understand the structures and key activities of international election observation missions
• to be aware of how to work inside a polling station and what are good strategies for observing and reporting
• to discuss the challenges which observers may encounter and strategies for dealing with these
• to explain how Finland participates in international election observation missions, and how CMC Finland manages the recruitment and deployment of observers
Target audience
Individuals with no or limited previous election observation experience are invited to apply. Due to secondment rules of election observation missions this course will be open only for Finnish citizens.
The basic requirements for applicants are based on the OSCE/ODIHR and EU requirements for STO observers:
• a minimum of three years relevant work experience (for example experience in public administration, non-governmental organizations, or international organizations)
• demonstrated interest in democratic institutions and human rights
• excellent command of English language (C1/C2 level)
• ability to work long hours and in difficult situations
• team work skills
Recruitability to OSCE and/or EU election observation related posts will be a factor when choosing the course participants.
Costs
There is no course fee. Tuition, accommodation and full board are covered by CMC Finland. No per diem is provided, and travels to and from Helsinki should be arranged independently. Travel from Helsinki to the course venue is arranged by CMC Finland.
Deadline
Application period was open until 31 July 2023 at 1615 hrs. The course will accept 20 participants, based on applications received by CMC Finland. Application was open only for the members of CMC Finland Election Observation mailing lists. Please find more information how to join to the mailing list on OSCE missions and EU missions.
Contacts
Should you have any questions regarding the course, please contact us via email in training@cmcfinland.fi with the headline ‘CMC STO -course’.
