Dear Diaspora,

Take Action! Become an Election Observer in May

The 2007 Parliamentary Election scheduled for 12 May is considered critical to the process of democratization in Armenia.

Some even consider that the election is the most important parliamentary vote in Armenia’s recent 15-year history as an independent nation. However, international observers have continually reported that elections in Armenia fail to meet international standards.

When asked to prioritize possible solutions to improve the situation in the country, the Center for Regional Development/Transparency International Armenia’s 2006 Corruption Perceptions Survey identified that most respondents pointed to the necessity of ensuring free and fair elections.
As more and more ethnic Armenians living in the Diaspora connect with the modern-day Republic, what can a citizen of another country do to help make the coming election in May free and fair for the citizens of this country?

Take Action! Become an ELECTION OBSERVER this Spring!

It’s Your Choice, the largest domestic election observation organization in the Republic of Armenia, and the Center for Regional Development / Transparency International Armenia invite Armenians from abroad to take part in this critical and historical event. Communities in the Diaspora are particularly encouraged to send representatives to monitor the conduct of the vote.


Details:
• Training and official certification will be provided by IYC.
• Observers will receive preparation packets on how the process works ahead of Election Day, and checklists to follow at the polling stations they can monitor on 12 May.
• Small stipend for food on Election Day provided by IYC.

Requirements:
• Observers must be able to read and speak Armenian or Russian.
• Observers must be non-partisan.
• Register at least 25 days in advance by email at iyc@arminco.com.
• Arrive in Armenia by 2 May 2007.

For Armenians from the Diaspora living outside of Armenia, we regret that It’s Your Choice and CRD/TI Armenia are unable to contribute to the cost of visas, flights or accommodation. However, information on locating affordable accommodation in Armenia is available on request. Contact IYC for more details at iyc@arminco.com.