will deploy more than 150 observers in Peru to examine the 2026 General Elections and will apply a robust long-term observation methodology,
said at the conclusion of her initial visit to the South American country.
"Our mandate is to observe the process, but not to certify the results. These elections belong solely to the Peruvian people. The European Union Election Observation Mission will have more than 150 observers from European Union countries, as well as from Norway and Canada," Corrado indicated.
The group—she said—includes a core team of 10 analysts based in Lima, which has been in Peru since February 26.
It comprises 50 long-term observers already deployed nationwide and 50 short-term observers who will be deployed shortly before the elections, along with teams from EU embassies in this country.
At a press conference, the chief observer said the deployment of this mission reaffirms the importance the EU attaches to its relationship with Peru, based on mutual respect and a shared commitment to democratic principles.
Corrado noted the EOM's mandate is to carry out a comprehensive observation, which includes the legal framework, electoral administration impartiality, electoral roll, candidate registration, the campaign, use of financial resources, equitable access to the media, and the voting process, among other aspects.
"Our technical assessment of these elections is based on three fundamental principles: independence, impartiality, and non-interference," she stated.
Visit concludes
The EU official reported that during this first visit, she met with President Jose Maria Balcazar, Foreign Affairs Minister Hugo de Zela, the heads of electoral bodies, media representatives, national observers, and civil society organizations.
The chief observer also traveled to the city of Cajamarca to learn about electoral preparations outside Lima.
Corrado said she will be in Peru during election week, for the possible runoff, and in August to present her mission's findings.
During her stay in the country, the mission has met with candidates Herbert Caller, Keiko Fujimori, Jose Williams, and Marisol Perez Tello.
She added that it aims to meet with all presidential candidates.
Moreover, the foreign official indicated that the EU EOM will monitor the presidential debates set to begin next week.
Finally, she noted that Peru's electoral authorities extended voting hours from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (local time) and shortened the electoral roll closure period to six months, adopting recommendations made by the EU EOM for the 2021 General Elections.