The European Union (EU) has announced the deployment of over 100 observers to monitor Malawi’s general elections, scheduled for September 16, 2025. This mission underscores the EU’s commitment to promoting democracy, transparency, and human rights in the country.

During the official launch of the EU Election Observation Mission (EUEOM) on Friday in Lilongwe, Chief Observer Lucia Annunziata, a Member of the European Parliament, highlighted the significance of the upcoming elections.

“These general elections represent a critical milestone for Malawi’s democracy,” Annunziata stated. “The European Union stands firmly with Malawi in supporting free, fair, and credible elections.”

The EU mission was initiated following an invitation from Malawi’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Malawi Electoral Commission. It aims to provide independent oversight of the electoral process, thereby fostering public confidence in the election’s outcome.

The observers are tasked with monitoring all phases of the electoral process, including the pre-electoral environment, campaign activities, administrative preparations, election day proceedings, vote counting, and the tabulation of results. The mission will adhere to the EU’s established methodology and international standards for democratic elections.

“Our mission is to evaluate the election process in line with Malawi’s legal framework and the international commitments the country has undertaken,” Annunziata explained.

She called for calm and inclusivity during the election period, emphasizing the importance of allowing voters to express their choices freely.

Deputy Chief Observer Anne Marlborough also stressed the need for peace and transparency, urging all stakeholders to act responsibly and constructively.

“Peaceful and credible elections are the cornerstone of a functioning democracy,” Marlborough said. “We encourage all parties to maintain respect and cooperation throughout the process.”

The EU delegation is composed of representatives from all EU member states, as well as observers from Canada, Norway, and Switzerland, reflecting the mission’s international scope.

This marks the EU’s fifth election observation mission in Malawi, following similar deployments in 2004, 2009, 2014, 2019, and 2020.

The EU EUEOM will remain in Malawi beyond election day to monitor post-electoral developments and assess the overall credibility of the process. Their final report will provide recommendations to further strengthen Malawi’s electoral framework.