This interim report presents the preliminary findings of NDI’s election observation mission comprised of 12 long-term observers (LTOs) and two analysts focusing on election administration and disinformation, respectively, during the period August 29 to September 25, 2017. The team visited 59 of Georgia’s 64 constituencies and conducted more than 350 meetings with government and election officials, political party representatives, civil society organizations, and media representatives, and attended campaign events, sessions of election commissions, and other election-related activities. NDI observers will continue to evaluate election processes through election day and the post-election period. Before election day, the mission will be joined by a high-level delegation of short-term observers (STOs) to examine election-day proceedings. 

The aims of NDI’s election observation efforts are to accurately and impartially assess various aspects of the election process; examine the broader political environment and factors that could affect the integrity of the process; and offer any recommendations to support peaceful, credible elections and public confidence in the process. The Institute undertakes all international observation missions in accordance with the Declaration of Principles for International Election Observation and its accompanying Code of Conduct for International Election Observers, which have been endorsed by 52 of the leading international election observation organizations.