THE June general election was ‘far more competitive’ than previous elections, according to a team of international observers.
But the election observers said there was room for improvement, including the need for greater diversity and inclusion for both candidates and voters.
Further efforts were also needed to broaden the right to stand for election, they said.
The UK branch of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association British Islands and Mediterranean Region were invited by the States Assembly to assess June’s general election against international standards, commitments and obligations, as well as against Jersey’s domestic laws.
Its final report was published this week with 14 recommendations. The report concluded: ‘Jersey’s elections were a successful democratic exercise and that Jersey’s legal framework complies with international standards for democratic elections.’
Head of the mission Martin Whitfield MSP said: ‘This election was far more competitive than in the past, and election day itself was calm, with commendable efforts from the election administration and volunteers to facilitate a positive voting experience.’
This year’s election was the first to be contested following widespread electoral reform, which removed the role of Senator and saw 37 Deputies elected in nine newly formed districts alongside 12 Constables.
Other areas for improvement identified by the observers included the absence of a complaints procedure for voters.
