A team of international election observers has arrived in Jersey to observe next week’s General Election. The Commonwealth Parliamentary Association British Islands and Mediterranean Region (CPA BIMR) has been invited by the States Assembly to assess Jersey’s electoral process. The core team consists of a range of international observers, including from Kenya, the Cayman Islands and the Isle of Man, and will be in Jersey from 13- 24 June.
International observers were invited for the first time to the 2018 General Election. Since then, significant electoral reform has taken place in Jersey. The observers will assess the election against international standards, commitments and obligations as well as domestic laws. As part of their assessment, observers will attend campaign events and meet key stakeholders, including electoral officials, candidates and voters to gain a better understanding of the electoral process and the political context of the election.
The Head of Mission, Member of Scottish Parliament Martin Whitfield MSP said: “The team is delighted to be invited back to Jersey to observe the upcoming election and we look forward to reviewing recent electoral changes. We believe this independent and impartial observation Mission will promote democracy, rule of law and human rights in Jersey.”
Following recommendations made by CPA BIMR observers in 2018, Jersey States Members voted for a transformation of the electoral system. Under the new system, Senator roles have been removed and replaced with an increased number of Deputies in the Assembly. Additionally, districts have been merged, with the island’s 17 voting districts replaced by nine ‘super constituencies.’ The international observers will review the impact of these changes.
A preliminary report with initial findings will be published two days after Election Day, followed by a detailed final report including recommendations to be published two months later. The final report will be publicly available.
The Mission is interested in hearing from anyone that wishes to share their experience with the electoral system in Jersey. They can be contacted via [email protected].
Vote.Je Press Release.