14  //  ELECTIONS Corien Jonker, head of the OSCE/ODIHR election observation mission listening to a political party observer in a polling station in Borjomi during the second round of elections in Georgia, 12 November 2017. (OSCE/Thomas Rymer) • Persistent concerns about the accuracy of voter lists and voter registration processes, as well as a lack of sustainable mechanisms to ensure effective co-ordination with existing population registers. Stakeholders were not always provided with a meaningful opportunity to check and verify the accuracy of voter lists; to women’s participation and the rights of persons with disabilities; • Increased awareness of the importance of regulating campaign ­finance, including through strengthened oversight mechanisms; • Greater attention to the importance of prompt and effective follow-up to electoral assessments and recommendations, including through strategic reviews and inclusive consultations; and • Deeper understanding of the benefits and challenges of introducing new technologies into election administration processes. At the same time, several aspects continued to pose challenges. Common shortcomings included: • Lack of confidence in the impartiality and independence of election administration bodies, including concerns about undue influence by state institutions and political parties. At times, effectiveness was undermined by a lack of training and regulations, while transparency was restricted for observers and media; • Lack of a free campaign environment and of the necessary conditions to allow parties and candidates to campaign on a level playing field. Inequitable access to the media and insufficient safeguards to protect freedom of expression continued to be a shortcomings in many instances. The abuse of state resources in favour of incumbents, particularly when such abuse amounts to intimidation of voters; • Shrinking space for election observers, both citizen and international, and a lack of legislation regulating access to all aspects of the electoral process; and • Insufficient commitment to ensuring all citizens have the right and opportunity to vote, especially with regard to prisoners, voters with mental disabilities, newly eligible voters and voters who have moved within or outside the country.