2. METHODOLOGY The ZHRC received technical support from CSOs and Development Partners through training sessions on civil and political rights and election monitoring in preparation for the 2018 harmonised elections. This empowered the Commission with knowledge and practical tools to use in assessing the fairness and freeness of elections. The ZHRC team learnt about best practices on conflict early warning and was also equipped with knowledge on application of these early warning systems. The trainings enhanced the capacity of the ZHRC Commissioners and Secretariat on elections monitoring and also informed the development of tools used by ZHRC in monitoring the entire electoral process. ZHRC Commissioners and Secretariat at a training on Civil and Political Rights conducted by Raoul Wallenberg Institute (RWI) held in Harare in the run-up to the 2018 elections. The ZHRC developed tools which guided monitors in collecting data for pre-election, during and post-election monitoring. This data was collected through observation, interviews and focus group discussions using tools that included checklists, interview guides and questionnaires. The ZHRC conducted engagement meetings with stakeholders including ZEC, Provincial Administrators (PAs), District Administrators (DAs), Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) Officials, political parties and independent candidates, Traditional Leaders, Page 13 of 55