League Sits Down with European Election Observers

On October 21, we hosted a meaningful discussion with representatives from the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR), a department of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE). LWV Chicago President Jane Ruby, LWV Chicago Executive Vice President Betty Magness, and LWV Chicago Vice President Catherine Mardikes met with Eva Christina Bergman and Marko Mannila, who are both serving as Long-term Observers for OSCE/ODIHR’s Limited Election Observation Mission, at the League’s office in the Loop.

The ODIHR provides support, assistance and expertise to participating States to promote democracy, rule of law, human rights and tolerance and non-discrimination. ODIHR representatives serve as election observers, review legislation, and advise governments on how to develop and sustain democratic institutions. The Office also trains government and law-enforcement officials, as well as non-governmental organizations, on how to uphold, promote and monitor human rights.

The meeting focused on key topics including election protection, voting rights, and the efficacy of the Chicago Board of Elections. We shared insights into our advocacy efforts to enhance transparency and fairness in elections and highlighted the ongoing initiatives to protect voter access and encourage informed participation. Bergman and Mannila provided an international perspective, discussing their role in election monitoring. The conversation reinforced the League’s commitment to strengthening democratic processes and emphasized the value of global collaboration in upholding voter rights and election integrity.