Today, USAID Mission Director Maureen A. Shauket and President of the Central Election Commission (CEC) Valdete Daka signed a Memorandum of Understanding today in Pristina. The Memorandum of Understanding outlines USAID’s assistance to the CEC in conducting training for CEC members and the Secretariat of the Central Election Commission (CECS), as well as providing active procedural support, advice, and technical assistance in the field during elections.  

USAID provided similar support during the 2013 local elections. A credible election process consistent with international standards is a crucial milestone as Kosovo advances along its European path.  Citizens must feel confident that their votes are cast through a smooth, safe, and credible process free of fraud and intimidation.  The United States Government remains focused on the democratic electoral processes in Kosovo, and is committed through USAID to supporting the CEC to achieve standards that ensure a fair, transparent, and democratic election process.