Republic of Cyprus: parliamentary elections 22 May 2011 ; OSCE/ODIHR Election Assessment Mission Final Report

Abstract

The elections were held to elect 56 members of parliament representing the Greek Cypriot community. In order to represent constitutionally recognized religious groups, three non-voting parliamentary representatives were also elected. The 1960 Constitution created cross-communal institutions, from which the Turkish Cypriot community withdrew in 1964. The 24 parliamentary seats allocated to them have been vacant since then. (...) The elections took place in an environment characterized by respect for fundamental human rights and freedoms and a high degree of trust in the professionalism and impartiality of the election administration. The legal framework provides a sound basis for the conduct of democratic elections in accordance with OSCE commitments and international standards. Nevertheless, the process could benefit if some existing inconsistencies within and between various laws were eliminated. (...) There are no specific legal instruments to promote the participation of women in political life. Women remain under-represented in public and political life. (ODIHR/Pll)