ELECTIONS A man scans the voter list for his name outside a polling station in Elbasan during the Albanian presidential elections, 23 June 2013. (OSCE/Thomas Rymer) MAIN ISSUES long-term and needs-based methodology, continues to provide a solid basis for assessing the conformity of electoral processes with OSCE commitments and relevant international standards. Democratic Standards As a community of states committed to the respect for human rights, democracy and the rule of law, the OSCE has emphasized democratic elections as a key pillar of long-term security and stability. All 57 participating States have committed to upholding several important principles of democratic elections: universality, equality, transparency, the secrecy of the vote, accountability, fairness and freedom. These principles are enshrined in the Copenhagen Document, which was agreed to by all participating States in 1990. In this and other OSCE documents, the participating States recognize that election observation is a useful and important undertaking that can promote transparency and accountability and enhance public confidence in the electoral process. Deploying observers supports democratic processes and can assist States in conducting genuinely democratic elections. Election observation, conducted independently and professionally on the basis of a comprehensive Implementing Recommendations As has been repeatedly underscored, election observation should not be regarded as an end in itself; improvements in election legislation and practice introduced by states on the basis of recommendations ensuing from election observation are the goals of these efforts. In the framework of its observation activities, ODIHR continues to observe a mixed picture regarding participating States’ implementation of commitments for democratic elections. Positive practices observed include: ƻƻ Improved legal frameworks that aspire to respect commitments in the letter of the law; ƻƻ Efforts of greater engagement and inclusive dialogue with political contestants and civil society in developing and introducing reform; 10  /   ODIHR Annual Report 2013