Call for Long Term Election Observers for Ukraine 2012 Parliamentary Elections

Deadline Extended to June 15, 2012

The Ukrainian Canadian Congress (UCC) and the Canada Ukraine Foundation (CUF), which have successfully monitored several elections in Ukraine since 2004, are organizing an Election Observer Mission for the 2012 Parliamentary Elections, scheduled for October 28, 2012.

UCC-CUF is looking for highly-qualified individuals to serve as long-term election observers (LTOs) on the ground in Ukraine. These LTOs will be responsible for: i) monitoring the run-up to the Elections in Ukraine to ensure that the election is being organized in a fair and transparent manner; ii) monitoring such things as Voter’s Lists and the Voters’ Register; iii) monitoring access of parties and candidates to mass media; iv) monitoring the formation of Election Commissions; and v) overseeing the formation of new electoral boundaries for the 225 districts, the registration of single mandate district candidates, and the electoral campaign.

The deadline to submit applications for LTO positions has been extended to June 15, 2012.

Availability and a commitment from July 1 to November 3 is desirable, but shorter time commitments from highly qualified individuals will also be considered. Election experience in Canada and/or Ukraine is an asset. Applicants must be Canadian citizens and have a good working knowledge of Ukrainian and/or Russian. Financial arrangements will be discussed and determined with the successful applicants. All direct expenses for LTOs will be covered.

In order to apply, please fill out an online application, available at the CUF website, http://www.cufoundation.ca/ or at http://observers.cufoundation.ca/

UCC-CUF will also be sending a large mission of short-term election observers (STOs) to monitor the immediate timeframe around Election Day. In order to apply to be an STO, please fill out an online application, at http://www.cufoundation.ca/ or at

http://observers.cufoundation.ca/

Questions may be directed to the UCC Office in Winnipeg, at 204-942-4627 or 1-866-942-4627, or by email to ukrelection2012@gmail.com.

Ukraine is at a historical crossroads and it is essential that this election meet the norms for democratic elections during Ukraine’s continued journey toward democracy. The voice and vote of the people of Ukraine in these elections are as critical, if not more so, as they were during the Orange Revolution.

Support the Ukrainian democratic process by becoming an internationally accredited election observer!