Annex 1 - Standard Terms of Reference for Commonwealth Observer Groups “The Group is established by the Commonwealth Secretary-General at the written invitation or welcome of the [name of inviting authority]. The Group is to consider the various factors impinging on the credibility of the electoral process as a whole. It will determine in its own judgement whether the elections have been conducted according to the standards for democratic elections to which the member state has committed itself, with reference to national election-related legislation and relevant regional, Commonwealth, including its Charter, and other international commitments. The Group is to act impartially and independently. It has no executive role; its function is not to supervise but to observe the process as a whole and to form a judgement accordingly. It would also be free to propose to the authorities concerned such action on institutional, procedural and other matters as would assist the holding of such elections. The Group is to submit its report to the Commonwealth Secretary-General, who will forward it to the Government, Electoral Commission and political parties taking part in the elections and to all Commonwealth Governments. Thereafter, the Final Report may be used to help inform relevant follow-up activities.” 5