Ref.

Ares(2024)7516270 - 22/10/2024
ANNEX I.B
Terms of Reference for Core Team members
of the EU Election Observation Mission to Ecuador 2025

Terms of Reference for the Core Team members

of EU EOM to Ecuador 2025

General elections, 9 February 2025

Possible presidential run-off, 13 April 2025

The present terms of reference offer selection criteria for the Core Team of the European Union
Election Observation Mission to Ecuador 2025. The Core Team is composed of nine experts. The
call for candidatures of Deputy Chief Observer and the relevant Terms of Reference are published
separately.

Preliminary remarks
• European Union Election Observation Missions (EU EOMs) are independent in their findings
and conclusions, and must, at all times, adhere to the EU methodology for election observation
in both, political/electoral and implementation/security matters, as outlined in the “Handbook
for European Union Election Observation.”1 EU EOMs must follow practical guidelines as
specified by the European External Action Service (EEAS) and the European Commission
Service for Foreign Policy Instruments (FPI).

• All EU EOM members must follow the EU Code of Conduct for election observation and its
ethical aspects, as well as adhere to the UN Declaration of Principles for International Election
Observation and Code of Conduct for International Election Observers.2

• The Core Team is an essential component of EU EOMs. The different roles and responsibilities
of all experts are key elements for a successful EU EOM. All members of the Core Team must
be experienced in election observation or related activities, fluent in the EU EOM working and
reporting languages, and be able to work cooperatively in a team. The Core Team work in
conjunction with the Service Provider of the EU EOM.

• The following Terms of Reference offer a general overview of the requested job profiles, which
are potentially subject to changes. The final version including the detailed description of the
final profiles and responsibilities of each analyst/expert will be provided in the Letter of
Assignment.

Specific Health advisory for Quito and other high-altitude destinations

There is risk of altitude sickness for experts and observers arriving in Quito (2800m) and for
those going to other high-altitude destinations (in particular Cotopaxi and Chimborazo).
Altitude Illness can occur to anyone at any time: it depends on personal susceptibility but also
on personal fitness and health conditions. All experts and observers, and in particular the ones
with pre-existing health conditions such as angina, heart failure, and pulmonary diseases should
discuss it with their Doctor when requesting the Fit-to-work certificate.
1
https://www.eeas.europa.eu/eeas/handbook-eu-election-observation-3rd-edition-2016_en
2
https://www.eeas.europa.eu/eeas/declaration-principles-international-election-observation_en
 ANNEX I.B
Terms of Reference for Core Team members
of the EU Election Observation Mission to Ecuador 2025

General tasks for Core Team analysts

• All Core Team members work under the supervision of the Chief Observer (CO) and Deputy
Chief Observer (DCO). They are required to participate in EU EOM briefings and debriefings
organised by the EEAS and the European Commission. These activities are an integral part of
the EU EOM.
• All Core Team analysts should acquire a solid grasp of the legal and regulatory framework for
elections, as well as international and regional commitments and obligations applicable to
democratic elections. They should become familiar with relevant EU publications, particularly
the “EU Election Observation Handbook” and the “Compendium of International Standards for
Elections”. The analysts should support the DCO in developing the analytical framework and
in implementing the EU election observation methodology.
• All Core Team analysts should contribute to the EU EOM assessment of whether the elections
are conducted in accordance with the legal framework as set out in national legislation as well
as relevant international and regional commitments and obligations for elections. In their
specific area of responsibility, they should assess whether election legislation is respected in
practice. They should regularly brief mission members on important issues and legal provisions
regarding their area of responsibility.
• All Core Team analysts should contribute to the preparation of weekly/interim reports, to the
preliminary statement and to the final report in the mission reporting language. This includes
amending/re-writing draft contributions after receiving CO and DCO feedback.
• All Core Team analysts should contribute to the drafting of EOM recommendations from the
start of the mission in close coordination with the DCO. They should ensure that draft EOM
recommendations are discussed as early as possible in the process. In line with EODS guidelines
on drafting recommendations, the analysts should consult the relevant stakeholders, including
the Electoral Management Body/ies (EMB), electoral observer groups and electoral assistance
providers on the general content of the recommendations they are considering.
• All Core Team analysts should contribute to the EOM internal report and preparation of the
follow-up plan to the EU EOM recommendations, including suggestions on any methodological
improvements and information on possible areas of technical assistance and political dialogue.
• All Core Team members should ensure that any personal data received during an EU EOM is
handled in line with Regulation (EU) 2018/1725 of the European Parliament and of the Council
of 23 October 2018 on the protection of natural persons with regard to the processing of
personal data by the Union institutions, bodies, offices and agencies and on the free movement
of such data, as well as with the Privacy Statement on the Implementation of the European
Union Election Observation Missions.

The working language of the EU EOM will be Spanish. The reporting language will be English.
 ANNEX I.B
Terms of Reference for Core Team members
of the EU Election Observation Mission to Ecuador 2025

ELECTION ANALYST
The Election Analyst is responsible for assessing the performance of the National Electoral Council
(Consejo Nacional Electoral – CNE) and, together with the Legal / Human Rights Analyst, of the
Electoral Disputes Tribunal (Tribunal Contencioso Electoral – TCE), their decentralised offices and
other public authorities in the preparation and conduct of the electoral process. S/he will analyse the
effectiveness of the relationship between the CNE and the TCE and other government bodies,
ministries and stakeholders. The Election Analyst should coordinate closely and share information
with the Data / Election Technology, Legal / Human Rights, Political / Campaign Finance, Media,
Social Media and Data analysts, the Observer Coordinator and the Deputy Observer Coordinator.
S/he will work under the supervision of the CO and DCO.
S/he will:
1. Become familiar with Ecuador’s constitutional, legal and regulatory framework for elections,
assess the implementation of the national election legislation by the National Electoral Council
(Consejo Nacional Electoral – CNE) and the Electoral Disputes Tribunal (Tribunal
Contencioso Electoral – TCE), their decentralised offices and other state bodies responsible
for administering elections, concerning, in particular voter registration, political party
registration, candidate registration and the polling, counting and tabulation of results, as well
as results management.
2. Assess the performance of the election administration and governmental bodies concerning
technical preparations for the election. Special attention should be paid to: the system of voter
registration and the reliability of the voter register, candidate nomination and registration,
recruitment and training of temporary election staff and the measures taken to promote women's
and underrepresented voter's participation.
3. If possible, attend and observe sessions of the CNE, the TCE and their decentralised bodies,
follow the issues on their agenda, meet with relevant members of the CNE and the TCE,
including department heads and other officials who are part of the election management and
provide the EU EOM with information about CNE and TCE meetings and complaints brought
to the election administration.
4. Assess the performance of the election administration, the extent of its effectiveness,
independence, impartiality, transparency of its operations, and the degree to which it enjoys
confidence of electoral stakeholders.
5. Assess the election administration capacities, training of election officials, material production
and distribution, and degree to which voters are adequately informed about the election process.
6. Maintain regular relations with election analysts of other international observation missions and
international technical assistance providers.
7. Liaise with domestic observer groups and other national or international non-governmental
organisations engaged in the election process.
8. Support the DCO in developing the analytical framework and in implementing the EU election
observation methodology.
9. Ensure LTOs are kept informed of developments in the electoral process. In consultation with
the DCO, prepare relevant questions for LTO weekly reports and analyse LTO reporting output.
10. Produce regular reporting on the electoral process developments for core team and observers
and provide oral briefings as required.
 ANNEX I.B
Terms of Reference for Core Team members
of the EU Election Observation Mission to Ecuador 2025

11. On the basis of templates provided by the EC (EODS project), and with the support of the Data
Analyst, prepare election observation electronic checklists for polling station opening, polling,
closing and counting, and tabulation of election results.
12. With the Observer Coordinators and Data Analyst analyse data from e-day observation
checklists.
13. Participate in observer briefings, debriefings and team meetings.
14. Contribute to the preparation of interim reports, the preliminary statement and the final report
in the mission reporting language. This includes amending/re-writing draft contributions after
receiving DCO feedback.
15. Contribute to the internal report, including suggestions on any methodological improvements
and information on possible areas that merit technical assistance.
16. Perform any other duty required for the good functioning of the EU EOM.
17. If requested be available for the return visit and roundtable.
 ANNEX I.B
Terms of Reference for Core Team members
of the EU Election Observation Mission to Ecuador 2025

LEGAL / HUMAN RIGHTS ANALYST

The Legal Analyst is responsible for providing an analysis of the legal framework governing the
elections in Ecuador in accordance with international and regional commitments and obligations
applicable to democratic elections, taking into consideration the country’s Constitution and relevant
election-related laws and regulations as well as any legislation/regulation governing other aspects of
public life and fundamental rights and freedoms impacting electoral processes. S/he will analyse
processes related to political party registration and candidate registration. The Legal Analyst will take
into consideration Ecuador’s international and regional commitments in promoting gender equality.
The Legal / Human Rights Analyst should co-ordinate closely and share information with the
Election, Political / Campaign Finance, Human Rights, Data / Election Technology, Media and Social
Media analysts, as well the Observer Coordinator and the Deputy Observer Coordinator. S/he will
work under the supervision of the CO and DCO.
S/he will:
1. Have acquired solid grasp of the legal and regulatory framework for elections, as well as
international and regional commitments and obligations applicable to democratic elections. In
this context, the “Compendium of International Standards for Elections” is an important
background document.
2. Comprehensively analyse national legislation, in particular concerning universal and equal
suffrage, the right to vote and to stand as a candidate, conditions for the exercise of fundamental
freedoms of expression/association/assembly/movement (in coordination with the Human Rights
Analyst), constituency delimitation, election administration, voter registration, political party
registration and finance (in coordination with the Political/Campaign Finance Analyst),
candidate registration, campaign, traditional media and social media (in coordination with the
Media and Social Media Analysts), voting, counting and tabulation, complaints and appeals.
3. In co-ordination with the Election Analyst, assess compliance of Ecuador’s legislation with the
country’s international and regional commitments and obligations for democratic elections.
4. If possible, attend and observe sessions of the CNE, in coordination with the Election Analyst,
and the TCE follow the issues on their agendas, meet with relevant members of the TCE and the
CNE, including department heads and other officials who are part of the institution, and provide
the EU EOM with information about TCE and CNE meetings and complaints brought to the
institution.
5. Assess electoral legislation from a gender perspective, in accordance with applicable
international conventions, focusing in particular on the participation of women, indigenous
people and underrepresented groups. Assess whether election legislation is respected in practice,
allowing all persons to enjoy internationally guaranteed rights.
6. Contribute to the EU EOM assessment of whether the elections are conducted in accordance with
the legal framework as set out in national legislation as well as international and regional
commitments and obligations for elections.
7. Assess and analyse legal aspects of the activity of the judiciary/election administration, in
particular:
a. the capability of the judiciary/election administration in implementing the legal
framework consistently;
b. the role of the judiciary/election administration in dispute resolution and election
process supervision;
c. the conduct and effectiveness of complaints and appeals processes.
 ANNEX I.B
Terms of Reference for Core Team members
of the EU Election Observation Mission to Ecuador 2025

8. Log, categorize and maintain in a database all election-related complaints and appeals, filed by
parties, candidates, voters, or other stakeholders.
9. In coordination with the Political / Campaign Finance Analyst, assess the implementation of the
campaign finance regulations and their enforcement by the election authorities.
10. In coordination with the Political/Campaign Finance Analyst, monitor complaints and appeals
related to campaign finances, in particular the way they are dealt with by the competent
authorities (deadlines, appropriate sanctions, enforcement mechanisms, etc.)
11. Meet regularly with judicial and other relevant bodies, and attend court hearings relating to
petitions, complaints and appeals and electoral offense charges.
12. In coordination with the Election Analyst and the Media and Social Media Analysts monitor
closely any arrests or detentions impacting fundamental rights underlying elections and the
circumstances surrounding such arrest/detentions.
13. Monitor and assess the treatment of electoral offences by the Police and the Courts.
14. Liaise with international organisations and agencies as well as with domestic NGOs specialised
in legal issues.
15. Analyse legal information collected by LTOs and other core team members.
16. Support the DCO in developing the analytical framework and implementing the EU election
observation methodology.
17. Brief mission members on important legal issues.
18. Suggest relevant questions to be included in LTO weekly report templates.
19. Participate in observer briefings, debriefings and team meetings.
20. Contribute to the preparation of interim reports, the preliminary statement and the final report.
This includes amending/re-writing draft contributions after receiving DCO feedback.
21. Contribute to the internal report, including suggestions of methodological improvements and
information on possible areas of technical assistance.
22. Perform any other duty required for the good functioning of the EU EOM.
23. If requested be available for the return visit and roundtable.

As Human Rights Analyst, s/he will:

1. provide analysis and advice on the human rights context and environment in the host country.
2. analyse reports of politically motivated intimidation, arrests, discriminatory practices. or human
rights violations.
3. maintain, with the active support of the Political Analyst, regular relations with local and
international human rights groups and produce regular assessments of formal and informal
violations of fundamental freedoms, including civil and political rights, throughout the country.
4. In coordination with the Legal and Election analysts, meet regularly with judicial and other
relevant bodies, and attend court hearings relating to complaints and appeals.
5. In co-ordination with the Election and Media analysts, monitor closely any arrests or detentions
impacting fundamental rights around the electoral process and the circumstances surrounding
such arrest/detentions.
 ANNEX I.B
Terms of Reference for Core Team members
of the EU Election Observation Mission to Ecuador 2025

6. assess electoral legislation from a gender perspective, in accordance with applicable international
conventions, focusing in particular on the participation of women and socially vulnerable people
and special needs groups.
7. monitor and analyse the participation of women in the elections and any other relevant gender
issues;
8. in coordination with the Election Analyst, establish contact with and conduct interviews with
women candidates, party activists and electoral administrators
9. collect relevant data on the number of women candidates nominated per party, compliance with
existing legal measures, and placement on lists
10. work closely with the Election Analyst, Political / Campaign Finance Analyst, Legal Analyst,
Media Analyst, Social Media Analyst and Observer Co-ordinator to assess the treatment of
women candidates and the participation of women in the electoral process;
11. liaise at both the central and departmental level with domestic women's non-governmental
organizations;

As the EU EOM focal point for underrepresented groups, s/he will:

12. Review and collate existing material on the effective participation of Indigenous and Afro
Ecuadorian peoples, persons with disabilities and the LGBTI community in the elections;
13. Initial review of election legislation from Indigenous and Afro Ecuadorian peoples, persons with
disabilities and the LGBTI community perspective;
14. Assess impact of electoral system and constituency delimitation for Indigenous and Afro
Ecuadorian peoples
15. Monitor and analyse the participation of underrepresented groups the elections;
16. Work closely with Election Analyst, Political Analyst, Legal Analyst, Media Analyst and Long-
term Observer (LTO) Co-ordinator to assess the participation of underrepresented groups as
candidates, voters and election administrators.
17. Collect relevant data for final report on the participation of underrepresented groups in the
electoral process;
18. Establish contact with and interview candidates, party activists and electoral administrators
representing underrepresented groups;
19. Liaise at both the central and regional level with underrepresented groups non-governmental
organizations.
 ANNEX I.B
Terms of Reference for Core Team members
of the EU Election Observation Mission to Ecuador 2025

POLITICAL / CAMPAIGN FINANCE ANALYST

The Political/Campaign Finance Analyst is responsible for conducting a political assessment of the
electoral process and provide information concerning the historical, cultural and political background
on the country as well as on- going developments. S/he will conduct an assessment of the existing
regulatory framework for political and campaigning finance in Ecuador. S/he will analyse political
party and candidate campaigning finance in line with international and regional standards for genuine
democratic elections and national legislation paying special attention to possible misuse of state
resources. S/he will work under the guidance of CO and DCO in close coordination with the Election,
Legal / Human Rights, Media, Social Media and Data / Election Technology analysts, as well as the
Observer Coordinator and the Deputy Observer Coordinator.
As Political Analyst, s/he will:
1. Undertake a comprehensive political analysis of the electoral process and produce benchmarks
to assess the genuine competitiveness of the electoral process between stakeholders before,
during and after elections.
2. Gain a broad understanding of the historical, cultural, social and political context in which the
elections are being held and produce an assessment of historical patterns of political alignment,
overall party system, voting patterns and political affiliations.
3. Maintain regular relations with political parties, candidates and political analysts in co-
ordination with the DCO throughout the deployment of the mission. Gain official and unofficial
insight into the internal workings of the main parties and their consequences to the process,
including, inter alia, acceptance of results.
4. Assess the legal, regulatory and administrative framework managing political activities,
including for political parties and NGO participation and activities.
5. Assess the approach of political parties to and the role and participation of women, and politically
disenfranchised, ethnic minorities and/or socially vulnerable groups.
6. Assess political parties’ compliance with Codes of Conduct and the application of enforcement
mechanisms.
7. Maintain regular relations with local and international political analysts (from other international
observation missions, civil society organisations, political parties, international organisations,
diplomatic missions, media outlets, university departments) and produce a regularly updated
political and electoral conflict/risk analysis overview for Ecuador.
8. Maintain close relations with domestic observer groups and other national or international non-
governmental organisations engaged in the election process.
9. Provide assessment, background knowledge and relevant material on a wide range of
interlocutors including candidates, political parties, state authorities, military, media groups,
journalists, and decision makers in the country.
10. Produce regular reporting on political developments for core team and observers and provide oral
briefings as required.
11. Ensure that LTOs are kept abreast of political developments. In consultation with the DCO and
the Observer Coordinators, prepare relevant questions for the LTO weekly reports and process
and interpret the responses thereto.
12. Develop a cultural awareness briefing for mission staff, taking into particular consideration
Ecuador-specific sensitivities. In conjunction with the Service Provider (SP) operations and
 ANNEX I.B
Terms of Reference for Core Team members
of the EU Election Observation Mission to Ecuador 2025

security experts, brief mission members about culturally sensitive issues and the appropriate
behaviour to be observed by all mission staff, including the SP, in the course of their activities.
13. Participate in observer briefings, debriefings and team meetings.
14. Contribute to the preparation of interim reports, to the preliminary statement and to the final
report including well targeted recommendations. This includes amending/re-writing draft
contributions after receiving DCO feedback.
15. Contribute to the internal report, including suggestions on any improvements and information on
possible areas of technical assistance.
16. Perform any other duty required for the good functioning of the EU EOM.
17. If requested by available for the return visit and roundtable.

As Campaign Finance Analyst, in addition, s/he will:

18. Become familiar with international and regional obligations, commitments, and best practice,
relevant to political parties and campaign finance;
19. Assess the legal arrangements regarding political parties and campaign financing in Ecuador,
their implementation and the sufficiency and transparency of party/election financing;
20. Acquire knowledge of the political party landscape, campaign modus operandi, as well as of the
election administration structure and the role of the judiciary in ensuring sound campaign
finance;
21. Monitor and analyse the use of state resources to determine whether it is a hindrance to the level
playing field, to the extent it is feasible in the context of the EU EOM;
22. Monitor the enforcement and compliance with finance reporting requirements of political parties
and candidates;
23. Monitor complaints and appeals related to campaign finances, in particular the way they are dealt
with by the competent authorities (deadlines, appropriate sanctions, enforcement mechanisms,
etc.);
24. Follow the monitoring of campaigning finance mechanisms put in place by domestic and other
observer groups; establish coordination mechanisms with domestic and other observers working
in relevant fields;
25. Liaise with the Media, Social Media, Legal, Election and Election Technology Analysts,
particularly when meeting political parties and candidates and with the election administration.
 ANNEX I.B
Terms of Reference for Core Team members
of the EU Election Observation Mission to Ecuador 2025

MEDIA ANALYST
The Media Analyst is responsible for conducting an assessment of the media coverage during the
election period, as well as making an assessment of the overall media environment. S/he will work
under the guidance of CO and DCO in close coordination with the Election, Legal / Human Rights,
Political / Campaign Finance, Social Media and Data / Election Technology analysts, as well as the
Observer Coordinator and the Deputy Observer Coordinator.
As Media Analyst, s/he will:
1. Identify Ecuador’s most important traditional media outlets to be monitored in terms of
distribution, audience, ownership and impact.
2. Monitoring the most important traditional media outlets, in close cooperation with all experts in
the CT for input in their own areas of responsibility.
3. Set up a traditional monitoring unit, including both staff recruitment and training, technical set
up and management.
4. Coordinate media monitoring conducted by LTOs in their areas of responsibility.
5. Monitor the impact of the EU EOM public outreach strategy on the traditional and social media,
in cooperation with the social media analyst and press officer.
6. Assess whether the media, both public and private, provide balanced coverage of the election
campaign in accordance with the existing legislation, using both quantitative and qualitative
analysis.
7. Assess the tone of the media coverage of the campaign including recording any statements that
“go beyond any acceptable limits”.
8. Assess the quantity and range of official voter information items distributed in the media.
9. Assess the coverage of women and minorities issues in the media, the access of women and
underrepresented groups to the media, and other human rights issues coverage, as required by
the DCO and in coordination with other Core Team members.
10. Evaluate the freedom of speech in the media and their ability for pluralistic political expression.
11. Assess the media related legal framework and codes of conduct.
12. Assess any complaints directed by political parties against the media.
13. Assess the legal mechanisms to handle media related complaints including the performance of
media regulatory bodies during the elections.
14. Collate and analyse all material available on opinion polls.
15. Maintain contact with civil society groups engaged in media monitoring, especially in regard to
the public broadcasters and other media.
16. Ensure that findings of the media monitoring are communicated regularly to LTOs.
17. Advise the CO and DCO on strategies to achieve maximum visibility for the EU EOM.
18. Prepare in coordination with the Security Expert, daily briefings on election and political
violence.
19. Participate in observer briefings, debriefings and team meetings.
 ANNEX I.B
Terms of Reference for Core Team members
of the EU Election Observation Mission to Ecuador 2025

20. Contribute to the preparation of interim reports, to the preliminary statement and to the final
report including well targeted recommendations. This includes amending/re-writing draft
contributions after receiving DCO feedback.
21. Contribute to the internal report, including suggestions on any improvements and information on
possible areas of technical assistance.
22. Perform any other duty required for the good functioning of the EU EOM.
23. If requested by available for the return visit and roundtable.
 ANNEX I.B
Terms of Reference for Core Team members
of the EU Election Observation Mission to Ecuador 2025

SOCIAL MEDIA ANALYST

The Social Media Analyst will assess the online environment and content related to the electoral
process and the campaign. In particular s/he will provide information concerning the online
environment in the Ecuador and will also conduct analysis regarding the regulation of the Internet
and social network platforms in Ecuador. She/he will also provide an overview of the use of social
networks for electoral campaign, voter mobilisation and education. The analysis should be informed
by the EU EOM Internal Guidelines on the Online Environment. S/he will work under the guidance
of CO and DCO in close coordination with the Election, Legal / Human Rights, Political / Campaign
Finance, Media and Data / Election Technology analysts, as well as the Observer Coordinator and
the Deputy Observer Coordinator.
As Social Media Analyst, s/he will:
1. In coordination with the Legal Analyst, undertake comprehensive legal analyses of internet
regulation in Ecuador and gain broad understanding of the online legal environment in which the
elections are being held. Legal analysis will include subject matters relating to Internet access,
freedom of speech, dangerous speech, data protection and privacy, political finance, advertising,
and disinformation.
2. Hold regular meetings with relevant stakeholders and undertake comprehensive analysis of the
situation in Ecuador in regards to digital/ social media communications. This will include
meetings with relevant government institutions and agencies, Internet activists, academics and
researchers, social media platforms representatives and civil society groups active in the
protection of digital rights and social network monitoring.
3. Assess Ecuador’s fulfilment of commitments related to digital rights, including freedom of
opinion, expression and association, access to the Internet and to the right to privacy online. Be
familiar with international and regional obligations, commitments, and best practices, relevant
for freedom of expression and association, the right to information, dangerous speech, and
privacy in the online environment.
4. Identify the most important social platforms, in terms of penetration and reach, and assess
feasibility and scope of monitoring social network sites. Be responsible for such monitoring,
including with regards to staff recruitment and training, technical set up and management, with
the technical support of the Service Provider.
5. In cooperation with the Media and Political/Campaign Finance Analysts, devise a system for
monitoring/following the Social Network Sites (SNS) of the main candidates and other opinion
makers. This may include referring to findings from credible civil society organisations and other
analysts. To analyse:
a. the strategies used by candidates and parties to campaign on social platforms;
b. the presence of dangerous speech, incitement to violence and defamation;
c. the type, themes and targets of disinformation the EOM could detect during the campaign;
d. possible interference in the integrity of the electoral process via bots, trolls and other forms
of orchestrated campaigns;
e. whether social platforms act in accordance with the existing legislation on elections and the
campaign;
f. the publication of online opinion polls.
g. the reach of the EOM’s public outreach strategy on social networks, in cooperation with the
press officer.
 ANNEX I.B
Terms of Reference for Core Team members
of the EU Election Observation Mission to Ecuador 2025

6. Assess the relevant supervisory bodies’ capacity and role in regulation of the Internet and online
campaign, including any enforcement measures in place (in cooperation with other Core Team
Analysts).
7. Assess the measures put in place by social network companies to protect the integrity of the
electoral process and the campaign, including in regards to providing information on paid adverts
and relations with the Election Management Body and other state bodies.
8. Monitor complaints and appeals related to online campaigning and online content, in particular
the way they are dealt with by the competent authorities (deadlines, appropriate sanctions,
enforcement mechanisms, etc.);
9. Follow and assess the monitoring of social networks by citizen observers’ groups and other civil
society organisations. Establish information exchange mechanisms with such organisations.
10. Assess efforts to promote digital literacy and to specifically target women and other marginalised
groups
11. Assess any barriers to the participation of women and minorities and other disadvantaged groups
in online debate and campaign.
12. Produce regular reporting on online campaign developments on elections for Core Team and
observers and provide briefings, as required. Provide information and points of enquiry to LTO
teams.
13. Participate in observer briefings, debriefings and team meetings.
14. Contribute to the preparation of interim reports, to the preliminary statement and to the final
report including well targeted recommendations. This includes amending/re-writing draft
contributions after receiving DCO feedback.
15. Contribute to the internal report, including suggestions on any improvements and information on
possible areas of technical assistance.
16. Perform any other duty required for the good functioning of the EU EOM.
17. If requested by available for the return visit and roundtable.
 ANNEX I.B
Terms of Reference for Core Team members
of the EU Election Observation Mission to Ecuador 2025

DATA ANALYST
The Data Analyst is responsible, in close co-ordination with the DCO, the Political and Election
Analysts and the Observer Coordinator, for customisation of E-Day application for the collection and
assessment of key election findings based on observation data, particularly pertaining to voting,
counting and result tabulation, received from long term and short- term observers (LTOs and STOs).
He/she will provide a comprehensive statistical report on Election Day observations.
For this particular mission, it is also requested from the Data Analyst to conduct some tasks related
to the profile of an Election Technology Analyst : S/he is responsible for providing an analysis of
electoral technologies and in particular of the technological solution in place for the transmission of
preliminary election results.
S/he will work under the guidance of CO and DCO in close coordination with the Election, Legal /
Human Rights, Political / Campaign Finance, Media and Social Media analysts, as well as the
Observer Coordinator and the Deputy Observer Coordinator.

As Data Analyst, S/he will:

1. In cooperation with the Election and Political Analysts, in case relevant data is available, design
and prepare an appropriate system to facilitate the analysis of the demographic, civil registration
and voter registration data collected by the mission, including registration of women, minorities
and socially vulnerable voters.
2. Contribute to the customisation of E-Day application to facilitate the analysis of the data collected
by observer teams. In co-ordination with the Election Analyst, contribute to the design and
content of EU observer reporting electronic forms, ensuring that the information contained can
be processed effectively by the database.
3. Prepare a briefing on election day electronic forms and the use of tablets for LTOs and STOs and
if deemed necessary be available for a video conference (if not already deployed to EOM) during
LTOs briefing.
4. In co-ordination with the Election and Election Technology Analyst provide input on eventual
electronic results tabulation system, on its credibility and transparency and on any potential
anomalies in data available on the tabulation of results from official sources.
5. Train and supervise data entry clerk(s) responsible for data entry on E-Day, if necessary.
6. Attend briefings and debriefings as requested.
7. Contribute to the internal report, including suggestions on any improvements and information on
possible areas of technical assistance.
8. Perform other duty required for the good functioning of the EU/EOM, as requested by the
CO/DCO.

As Election Technology Analyst, S/he will:

1. Undertake an in-depth assessment of the transmission of results process in the general elections
looking at technology systems used.
2. Assess the impact of election technologies on election preparations and the CNE capacity to
manage the system and considering the views of stakeholders.
 ANNEX I.B
Terms of Reference for Core Team members
of the EU Election Observation Mission to Ecuador 2025

3. Analyse how election technologies are used for the tabulation and the transmission/transcription
or results with special focus on their contribution to the integrity and transparency of Election
Day and following days operations.
4. Consider how effective the electronic transmission systems are in providing for inclusivity of
voters, transparency, timeliness, effectiveness, usability and accuracy of the transmission and
safeguards in the electoral process.
5. Assess the likely effectiveness and risks of use of the electronic transmission systems, covering
also system audits, contingency plans and testing of the system, including its scalability on e-
day, training plans for system operators ahead of the general elections
6. Assess work done by stakeholders to address possible weaknesses, security vulnerabilities and
issues of concern for its improvement.
7. Examine the benefits of electronic results transmission versus manual tabulation, in particular in
terms of cost and reliability, transparency, timeliness and accuracy.
8. Participate in observer briefings, debriefings and team meetings.
9. Contribute to the preparation of interim reports, to the preliminary statement and to the final
report including well targeted recommendations. This includes amending/re-writing draft
contributions after receiving DCO feedback. Provide information on possible areas of technical
assistance.
10. Contribute to the internal report, including suggestions on any improvements and information on
possible areas of technical assistance.
11. Perform any other duty required for the good functioning of the EU EOM.
12. If requested by available for the return visit and roundtable.
 ANNEX I.B
Terms of Reference for Core Team members
of the EU Election Observation Mission to Ecuador 2025

OBSERVER COORDINATOR
The Observer Coordinator is responsible for coordinating the activities of observers (long-term and
short-term) and the information flow between the field and the core team. S/he will work under the
guidance of CO and DCO in close coordination with the Election, Legal / Human Rights, Political /
Campaign Finance, Media, Social Media and Data / Election Technology analysts.

As observer coordinator, S/he will:

1. Acquire knowledge of the election law, political and electoral situation of the host country.
2. Ensure that observers understand and sign the EU EOM Code of Conduct and its Ethical
guidelines.
3. Act as one of the Focal Point for any possible alleged case of any type of harassment or breach
of Code of conduct among the EU EOM members. In case of any allegation, immediately inform
DCO and European Commission.
4. Ensure that all EU EOM members are fully aware of the applicable data protection framework.
5. Collect and analyse information provided by observers:
a. Ensure that qualitative and quantitative information is collected by observers,
delivered and received in a timely manner, by providing instructions, guidance, tools,
report templates, updates and feedback to observers. Ensure smooth and regular
information flow between the core team and observers and maintain regular contacts
with them. Fully support the activity of observers during the course of their work,
respond to their inquiries and follow up on their observations.
b. Keep records of all observers’ reports (weekly reports, incident reports, campaign
events reports, flash reports, election day reports, etc.). Establish and maintain a
database of all cases of irregularities and incidents reported by the observers and
monitor the follow-up of these cases.
c. Prepare regular summary reports on the findings of observers as requested by the DCO.
6. Coordinate the deployment (in cooperation with Logistics and Security Experts) and activities of
observers ensuring adequate observation coverage and taking into account geographical, country
particularities and security considerations.
7. Ensure high quality of observer briefings and debriefings. Ensure that adequate briefing materials
are properly provided (including observer’s handbooks, agendas, speakers).
8. Organise and schedule election-day and election-night reporting by observers to ensure that their
reports are timely available for the Preliminary Statement. Throughout the day prepare regular
update reports to CO/DCO on voting operations, counting and tabulation of results.
8. Co-ordinate with Election and Data / Election Technology analysts the customisation of E-Day
app. Provide corresponding information and training to observers on data collection. Assist the
Data Analyst in the conduct of statistical analyses of collected data.
9. With the DCO and Service Provider, co-ordinate the integration of locally recruited diplomatic
STOs (LSTOs) and EP delegation into the EU EOM.
10. Support the observers in providing guidance on the field, regularly contacting them, ensuring
smooth implementation of the mission as well as team work, possibly act as mediator in case of
difficulties;
 ANNEX I.B
Terms of Reference for Core Team members
of the EU Election Observation Mission to Ecuador 2025

11. Conduct the observer evaluation process in co-ordination with all Core Team members and
Service Provider and in compliance with Commission guidelines; co-sign the evaluations and
certificates for observers together with the DCO. Include the evaluations in the Commission
roster.
12. In conjunction with other Core Team members and the Service Provider, prepare an internal
report including recommendations for further EU EOMs.
13. Perform any other duty required for the good functioning of the EU EOM.
 ANNEX I.B
Terms of Reference for Core Team members
of the EU Election Observation Mission to Ecuador 2025

DEPUTY OBSERVER COORDINATOR

The Deputy Observer Coordinator will assist the Observer Coordinator in his/her activities and
duties.
S/he will:
1. Acquire knowledge of the election law, political and electoral situation of the host country.
Ensure that observers understand and sign the EU EOM Code of Conduct and its Ethical
guidelines.
2. Act possibly as one of the Focal Point for any possible alleged case of any type of
harassment or breach of Code of conduct among the EU EOM members. In case of any
allegation, immediately inform DCO and European Commission.
3. Ensure that all EU EOM members are fully aware of the applicable data protection
framework.
4. Perform any task or duties as requested by the Observer Coordinator, the CO and DCO.
5. Perform any other duties as required for the good functioning of the EU EOM.
 ANNEX I.B
Terms of Reference for Core Team members
of the EU Election Observation Mission to Ecuador 2025

PRESS OFFICER
The Press Officer is responsible for organising the EU EOM communication and public outreach
strategy. S/he is also responsible for maintaining relations with the media as regards the EU EOM
activity, and for organising EU EOM press conferences. S/he will work under supervision of the CO
and DCO

As Press Officer, s/he will:

1. Advise the CO and DCO on strategies to achieve maximum visibility for the EU EOM in the
national and international media at all stages of the Mission's deployment.
2. Develop an overall public outreach strategy making use of traditional and social media, networks
of non-governmental organisations, political parties, universities etc.
3. Establish and maintain contact with the local and international media.
4. Prepare a comprehensive press distribution list for both local and international media.
5. Monitor the impact of the EU EOM public outreach strategy on traditional and social media in
cooperation with the Media and Social Media Analysts.
6. Prepare (or receive from another institution/organisation) a basic daily media digest of political
and election related items for the EU EOM.
7. Ensure that the “EU Visibility Guidelines for External Actions” are followed.
8. Coordinate the development of the mission website and accounts on social networks as well as
of mission related audio-visual material, in terms of design and contents. This task should be
done in cooperation with all other mission members and in close coordination with the European
Union institutions in Brussels and the EODS project, ensuring the widest possible outreach
through the EU's social media channels (press and communication services in Brussels and in the
EU Delegations).
9. Prepare a “Mission Factsheet” to explain the mandate and objectives of the EU EOM to the
general public.
10. Assist the CO and DCO in the preparation of media interviews, press releases and press
conferences, as instructed by CO/DCO.
11. Ensure, where appropriate, the translation of the relevant information and documents issued by
the EU EOM to the public.
12. Ensure that the public outreach strategies are gender and minority (ethnic groups/ marginalised
communities) sensitive.
13. Ensure maximum distribution of the EU EOM press releases, preliminary statement and final
report both locally and internationally.
14. Ensure that EU EOM press releases and statements are communicated regularly to observers.
15. Participate in briefings, debriefings and Core Team meetings.
16. If requested by the CO, DCO or the European External Action Service, prepare drafts of interim
reports, the preliminary statement, and the final report ensuring that the EU guidelines are
carefully and rigorously followed and that the quality of language is of the highest possible
standards. Contribute to the internal report, including suggesting any methodological
improvements and information on possible areas of technical assistance.
 ANNEX I.B
Terms of Reference for Core Team members
of the EU Election Observation Mission to Ecuador 2025

17. Perform other duties as required for the good functioning of the EU EOM.
18. If requested by available for the return visit and roundtable.

***