On 13 and 14 September 1997, municipal elections took place in Bosnia and Herzegovina. This book covers the findings of 363 international observers on both polling days. It provides a regional profile and outlines specific problems in various types of polling stations. It discusses the observation methodology and design of the observation reports.

On 13 and 14 September 1997, municipal elections took place in Bosnia and Herzegovina. This book extensively covers the findings of the 363 international observers on both polling days. Were the elections 'free and fair'? What did the observers record about the circumstances, procedures and security measurements at the polling stations? Which parties observed the elections, and why? How did the election process and the vote count compare to the 1996 elections? This book provides a regional profile and outlines specific problems in the various types of polling stations. The observation methodology and design of the observation reports are discussed. Finally, recommendations are made for the upcoming 1998 election observations, and future missions.The book should be of interest to students, scholars and others working in the fields of observation and analysis of elections, ethnic conflicts in the Balkans, and the role of international organisations in democratisation and peace processes.

Backgrounds of the elections
observation methodology
the observation of the vote
observers' comments
relationships
the regional profile
the observation of counting of the votes
conclusion and recommendations. Annexes: the Dayton Agreement (Annex 3)
the OSCE/ODIHR statements
parties, coalitions and independent candidates in 1996
outcomes of the 1996 elections
parties and coalitions in 1997
outcomes of the 1997 municipal elections (distribution of seats)
report on observation of voting
report on the observation of counting
report on the opening and closing of polling stations
observers' comments by region
observations by municipalities in 1997.