Elections States. Emerging challenges include the monitoring of election campaign financing, as well as the development, implementation, and observation of new voting technologies, such as electronic voting, in a manner that is both transparent and accountable. Observation is the most visible aspect of the ODIHR’s elections mandate, but it is just one part of a much broader range of activities aimed at fostering and strengthening democratic governance. Regarding election-related work, the Office’s integrated work plan also includes the further development of methodology, as well as technical-assistance projects and legislative reviews. These activities concentrated in 2006 on the following areas: k Election observation; k Reform of electoral legislation; k Methodological development; k Follow-up; and k Observer training. I. Election observation Election observation has two principal objectives: (1) to determine whether a particular election meets OSCE commitments and other international standards for democratic elections, and SARAH CROZIER Activities whether it is conducted in compliance with national legislation, which should reflect OSCE commitments; and (2) to offer recommendations, where necessary, to support governments in making improvements for future elections. The purpose of election observation is not simply to commend those countries that conduct their elections well or to criticize those countries that fall short of meeting their commitments. Instead, the ODIHR offers proactive and constructive input, whereby it not only calls An ODIHR observer takes notes at a polling station in Dushanbe during Tajikistan’s presidential election, 6 November. Election Observation Missions Country Type of Election Date Belarus Presidential 19 March Ukraine Parliamentary 26 March Azerbaijan Repeat parliamentary 13 May Montenegro (Serbia and Montenegro) Referendum 21 May Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia Parliamentary 5 July Montenegro Parliamentary 10 September Bosnia and Herzegovina General 1 October Georgia Municipal 5 October Latvia Parliamentary 7 October Tajikistan Presidential 6 November Annual Report  11