Election Observation, which was endorsed by the UN Secretary-General, as well as by a large number of international organizations and associations.71 C. Types of activities 107. The ODIHR determines whether to deploy an election observation mission (EOM), and commensurate planning such as the number of required experts and observers for a particular election observation, based on several elements: it is first and foremost founded on the findings of a professional needs assessment mission (NAM) that constitutes the initial step towards an observation activity. As such, its main objective is to inform the ODIHR of specific developments and circumstances relevant to the decision on how to proceed. The NAM ascertains whether the minimum conditions for effective election observation are respected, ensuring sufficient access and transparency to make election observation a meaningful exercise. In addition, it typically makes a preliminary assessment of the following key elements: u The extent to which recommendations emerging from any previous ODIHR election observation missions have been implemented; u The legislative framework and any amendments since the last election. Whenever possible or relevant, the ODIHR prepares a separate detailed analysis of the election legislation; u The structure and composition of the election administration, as well as the status of its preparations for the election; u The pre-election environment, including the extent to which human rights and fundamental freedoms are being observed by the government in relation to the upcoming election; u The situation of the media and their expected role in the elections; u Any other issues of particular relevance, such as the compilation of voter registers, the candidate/party registration process, the participation of women, the inclusion of minorities, or election activities of civil society organizations; u The level of public confidence expressed by parties, candidates, and civil society representatives regarding issues of transparency and accountability in relation to the overall election process; u The degree to which interlocutors believe the establishment of an ODIHR EOM can serve a useful purpose; and u Whether the security situation is conducive to an observation mission. 108. Following the visit, the ODIHR prepares a report based on the findings of the NAM, which is conveyed to the Permanent Council and circulated to all participating States. It is subsequently made available to the public-at-large through the ODIHR website. It reflects the conclusions on the key election-related issues in the respective participating State and also defines the scope and scale of the proposed mission, consistent with ODIHR methodology. This process and the resulting report serve as a professional and analytical basis for the ODIHR to recommend election missions. 71  Commemorated 27 October 2005 at the UN, New York (available in English and Russian on the ODIHR website). While not constituting a formal commitment binding States, this document has been accepted by practically all international organizations and bodies regularly conducting election observation, and it provides the most elaborate global directory of standards and good practice for the credible and professional conduct of such observation. Common Responsibility: Commitments and Implementation 37