III. Strengthening and Furthering the ODIHR’s Election-Related Activities A. Recent discussion about the ODIHR’s election-related activities 95. Since its establishment, the ODIHR has become a leading institution in supporting the transition of countries from authoritarian rule towards upholding established political norms for democratic governance. To this end, little lasting progress can be achieved without, first and foremost, conducting democratic elections in line with OSCE commitments. OSCE participating States benefit from the provisions in the 1990 Copenhagen Document (discussed in Chapter I of this report), which represents the most advanced intergovernmental agreement outlining criteria for the conduct of democratic elections. The methodology developed by the ODIHR has positioned the OSCE at the forefront of international observer efforts. 96. The ODIHR has, since 1996, conducted over 100 long-term election observation missions (EOMs).60 Over the past ten years, it has deployed approximately 30,000 long- and short-term observers. Since 1996, election observation missions have followed a comprehensive and standardized methodology, which is a process-oriented and fact-driven exercise encompassing aspects of qualitative analysis of the pre-election period and a quantitative analysis of the media coverage of the election campaign. On Election Day, the ODIHR methodology is designed to follow trends at the polling-station and counting levels, employing both qualitative and quantitative analysis and placing a premium on the collective findings of all observers. By identifying whether any observed shortcomings are isolated or systematic, the methodology creates a solid basis for evaluation and recommendations. 97. The ODIHR reports on election observation arguably form part of the most visible added value of the OSCE, an aspect the Panel of Eminent Persons stressed.61 In addition, both the Summit of Heads of State and Government and the Ministerial Council have, on a number of occasions, 62 recognized the ODIHR’s expertise in assisting States in the implementation of election-related commitments, and have welcomed the continuing efficient co-operation 60  The ODIHR has conducted 112 election observation missions (EOMs and limited EOMs) since 1996. Also see Annex 6 to this report, which lists the EOMs and election assessment missions deployed in the period between 1996 and 2006. 61  See the Panel’s report Common Purpose: Towards a More Effective OSCE (CIO.GAL/100/05), 27 June 2005, p. 12., para. 24(b). 62  Istanbul 1999 (Charter for European Security: III. Our Common Response), para. 25; Porto 2002 (Decision No. 7 on Election Commitments), p. 47. Common Responsibility: Commitments and Implementation 33