Ethiopia’s Sixth National and Regional Elections, conducted in 2021, were important milestones in furthering the democratic opening that started in 2018. A new legal and regulatory framework resulted in a more inclusive and transparent election process, enabling more vibrant political competition, a more assertive judiciary, and greater space for civic engagement. The 2021 general elections were also the first, since 2005, that guaranteed civil society independence to observe and make meaningful comments on the electoral process. In line with this, key electoral stakeholders including political parties, civil society, and most importantly, Ethiopian citizens set their expectations for more inclusive, accountable, and transparent elections than those held in the past. While there were notable shortcomings during the preelection, election day, and post-election processes, meaningful improvements provided a foundation for future elections marked by greater inclusion, transparency, and accountability.
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| Final-Observation-Report-Six-National-and-Regional-Elections-of-Ethiopia-2nd-edition-2023.pdf | Download |
