The absence of representatives from the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) in the Russian presidential elections is not expected to diminish the integrity or transparency of international observation, according to a statement from the Russian Foreign Ministry reported by TASS. The ministry asserted that ODIHR had already faced discreditation, implying that its absence would not alter the assessment of the election process planned for Russia.
Earlier, the Federation Council announced invitations to foreign observers for the presidential elections in the Russian Federation. Valentina Matvienko, the Federation Council President, conveyed a clear interest in welcoming foreign parliamentarians and experts to observe the electoral activities, indicating Russia’s openness to international scrutiny from a broad spectrum of observers.
The forthcoming presidential elections in the Russian Federation are scheduled to take place from March 15 to March 17, 2024, with a plan to conduct remote electronic voting at 29 precincts in addition to the traditional voting formats. This approach aims to expand accessibility and participation while maintaining standard balloting procedures in polling stations across the country.
Ella Pamfilova, the Chairwoman of the Central Election Commission (CEC), stated a commitment to running a campaign and election process that minimizes disruption and distractions — a metaphorical pledge to maintain focus and order throughout the electoral period. The CEC leadership has emphasized the importance of a smooth operation, addressing concerns and ensuring that routine electoral activities proceed without unnecessary interruptions.
There has also been public reaction from the Central Election Commission to external assessments and statements from U.S. political scientists regarding Russia’s elections. The CEC reiterated its stance on the electoral framework, transparency measures, and the safeguards in place to uphold the integrity of the voting process, inviting constructive dialogue while maintaining a clear boundary about foreign commentary and its relevance to Russia’s sovereign electoral arrangements.