It considers that these elections – the final stage of the electoral cycle which began with the constitutional referendum of 25 June 2006 – were open, credible and transparent. The smooth running of the elections reflects the determination of the Mauritanian people to see democracy strengthened in their country. The successful electoral process confirms the success of Mauritania’s political transition and the prospect of its returning to a state of constitutional order by the deadline set by the Military Council for Justice and Democracy.


The European Commissioner responsible for external relations, Ms Benita Ferrero-Waldner, stated: “High turnout for the various elections highlights citizens’ commitment to the transition to democracy. I should like to thank and congratulate the Mauritanian authorities for fulfilling their commitments as regards the electoral processes. The EU Election Observation Mission found that the electoral authorities – including the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) – have carried out their duties in a professional way.”

The European Commissioner responsible for development and humanitarian aid, Mr Louis Michel, expressed his appreciation for “the neutrality of the transition authorities – an example for Africa. I should like, in particular, to congratulate President Vall and the Military Council for Justice and Democracy, who have honoured their commitments to the European Union to respect the principles of democracy; this will pave the way a new era of cooperation and dialogue between Mauritania and Europe.”

The EU Election Observation Mission, led by Ms Marie-Anne Isler-Béguin MEP, was operative for around five months. Some eighty European observers were deployed throughout the country for the legislative, municipal and presidential elections.

Following the military coup of 3 August 2005, the Commission took precautionary measures as regards cooperation. In view of the infringement of essential parts of the Cotonou Agreement, the European Union launched consultations with Mauritania under Article 96 of the Agreement. These consultations saw the Mauritanian transition authorities adopt a list of 24 commitments as regards compliance with democratic principles, fundamental rights and freedoms, the rule of law, and sound governance. In view of the progress made on these commitments, the European Union has decided to restart cooperation, with the funds available under the 9th European Development Fund (EDF) being set at €142 million following the review currently under way.

The European Commission will continue to support the process of democratisation in Mauritania with a view to re-establishing constitutional order once the new democratically elected bodies have been set up from April onwards.


For further information, please see http://www.eueommauritania.org/

For more information on EU-Mauritania relations, please see http://ec.europa.eu/development/Geographical/RegionsCountries/Countries/Mauritania.htm

For further information on the EU’s human rights and democratisation policy and EU election assistance and observation, please see the EU’s human rights and democratisation policy and EU Election Assistance & Observation page
at the following site:
http://ec.europa.eu/europeaid/projects/eidhr/index_en.htm