The state of pre-feasibility study mapping obstacles and legal, technical and economic conditions for the informational automation of the electoral processes in Gagauzia was discussed on 26 March 2020 by representatives of the Central Election Commission of the Republic of Moldova (CEC), of the Central Election Commission of the Autonomous Territorial Unit of Gagauzia (ATU Gagauzia), a representative of the Council of Europe and two local consultants. So far, electoral processes in the ATU Gagauzia are part of the State Automation Informational System “Elections” (SAIS “Elections”), run by the CEC as a unique electronic tool of managing all electoral processes, including collection, centralisation and electronic processing of electoral data during all electoral cycles throughout the country. The issue is that the SAIS “Elections” does not serve for elections and referendums organised by the Gagauz authorities only in ATU Gagauzia.
The aim of the tele-conference was to analyse the road map and methodology presented by the Council of Europe experts to come to at least two scenarios: how to set up the informational automation electoral system in Gagauzia. There are two options widely discussed, so far: as part of the national SAIS “Elections” or as the independent one from the national system. Among topics to be examined are electoral-related IT systems at national and regional levels, role of the CECs in managing different types of elections, requirements before any new informational automation system, associated costs, and legal aspects.
While formulating recommendations, the Council of Europe consultants are supposed to take into account the applicable legislation of the Republic of Moldova, strategic plans of the both election institutions and the Council of Europe electoral standards. The consultants will have presented publicly their conclusions and recommendations by 15 June and final report by 30 June 2020.
The activity is funded by the Council of Europe within the on-going project “Improving electoral practice in the Republic of Moldova”.
