International Observers: Abkhazian Presidential Election Met Democratic Standards

SUKHUM / AQW’A — The 2025 presidential election in Abkhazia was conducted in accordance with the country’s electoral laws and international democratic standards, according to independent international observers who monitored the voting process.

Vito Grittani, an international observer from Italy and founder of the International Diplomatic Observatory, presented the findings of the monitoring mission at the International Press Centre of the Abkhazian Central Election Commission (CEC) in Sukhum.

The observers noted that the election, held in two rounds on 15 February and 1 March 2025, was organised transparently, with authorities ensuring openness, public oversight, and security throughout the process. Observers had full access to election proceedings, could ask questions to officials, and effectively monitored the voting and vote-counting process.

While minor irregularities were reported, such as occasional restrictions on observer access at some polling stations, these issues were promptly addressed by the CEC. No cases of voter coercion, multiple voting, or ballot access restrictions were recorded. The principle of secret voting was strictly upheld, and turnout for the second round reached approximately 70%.

One noted challenge was the limited accessibility of voting for citizens residing outside Abkhazia, due to the restricted number of polling stations abroad. However, observers concluded that this did not significantly impact the overall election outcome.

The election was monitored by a large number of international observers from over 40 countries, including Russia, Italy, France, Germany, Spain, Serbia, Greece, Iran, Pakistan, and Venezuela. 

Observers emphasised the importance of independent election monitoring in ensuring transparency and legitimacy. They also called for the expansion of independent international electoral observation efforts to further support democratic institutions worldwide.