On June 9, representatives of Initiative FoReDi, Svetlana Utkina and Nikita Kirillov, took part in observing the European Parliament elections in Sweden.
The Swedish non-profit organization VOS invited around one hundred observers from 20 countries worldwide. The idea of observing elections in prosperous Sweden may seem amusing to some, but it has its advantages. Observers from less democratic countries can see how elections are conducted competently and fairly. At the same time, the Swedes get the chance to hear the opinions of impartial observers and understand what can be improved and what is already working well.
Elections to the European Parliament usually have lower voter turnout than national elections in EU countries, but the campaigning is extensive. The main topics for candidates include citizens' well-being, the climate, the migration crisis, support for Ukraine, and the Arab-Israeli conflict.
The most significant difference between Swedish and Russian elections is the full accessibility for candidacy and campaigning. Campaign materials do not need to be labeled, printed in special print shops, or approved by election commissions. It is enough to create posters and freely place them on poles and fences, and after the election, remove and dispose of them.
Now, having gained experience, we know how to hold proper elections in a free and democratic Russia of the future. ❤️
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