A WEB

Observing Peruvian Democracy:

Reflections from the A-WEB Mission to the 2026 General Elections

By Dr. José Claudio Domínguez Ayala, Head of A-WEB Mission

Superior Tribunal of Electoral Justice, Paraguay

Serving as Head of Mission of the Election Observation Mission of the Association of World Election Bodies (A-WEB) to the 2026 General Elections of Peru was an experience of significant professional and institutional value. In response to the invitation extended by the National Jury of Elections (JNE) of Peru, the President of the Superior Tribunal of Electoral Justice designated me as an International Observer to join this international electoral mission of A-WEB, carried out in the framework of the first round of the Peruvian general elections held on 12 April 2026. The Peruvian electoral authorities have also announced that the presidential runoff will take place on 7 June 2026.

The Mission carried out its activities primarily in the city of Lima, bringing together electoral representatives and specialists from Colombia, Paraguay, Panama, Ecuador, Puerto Rico, and Guatemala, in addition to technical experts from the A-WEB Secretariat. This diversity of experiences made it possible to create a highly enriching space for the exchange of knowledge, perspectives, and good electoral practices among bodies from different regions of the continent.

One of the most valuable aspects of this experience was the direct engagement with Peruvian electoral authorities and stakeholders. Through technical meetings, briefing sessions, and coordination activities conducted with a high level of professionalism, we were able to gain first-hand insight into the characteristics and distinctive features of the Peruvian electoral system. These opportunities for dialogue strengthened inter-institutional exchange and allowed for a deeper understanding of the organizational complexity involved in administering a national electoral process of such magnitude.

I would also like to highlight the usefulness of the methodological guide prepared by A-WEB for the conduct of the Mission. This material served as a specialized training tool for all international observers, providing appropriate guidance on observation methodology, the systematization of findings, and the drafting of technical reports. The clarity and precision of these instruments contributed significantly to the coordinated and professional work of the entire international delegation.

On Election Day, the Mission was able to witness the democratic commitment and civic spirit of the Peruvian people, as well as the efforts undertaken by the electoral institutions to ensure the smooth conduct of the process. Beyond the challenges inherent in an election of this scale, an atmosphere of peaceful participation and institutional respect prevailed throughout. The experience also reaffirmed the importance of international cooperation in electoral matters and the value of technical accompaniment among specialized bodies.

Looking ahead to the second round scheduled for 7 June 2026, we maintain a hopeful and constructive outlook regarding the continued strengthening of the Peruvian electoral process. We trust that the recommendations contained in the Mission's final evaluation report will be duly considered and addressed by the competent authorities, thereby contributing to the refinement of operational procedures, institutional coordination, and voter services. We are confident that the democratic commitment demonstrated by Peru's institutions and people will enable continued progress toward electoral processes that are ever more efficient, inclusive, transparent, and fully trustworthy for all citizens.

Finally, I wish to express my appreciation to the representatives of A-WEB for the excellent care provided throughout the Mission, as well as for the human and professional quality demonstrated in every activity undertaken. In the same spirit, I would like to acknowledge the cordiality and openness of the electoral authorities and officials of Peru, with whom we were able to establish relationships of cooperation, trust, and mutual learning. This experience has undoubtedly strengthened the institutional ties among our electoral bodies and reaffirmed our shared commitment to the promotion and consolidation of democracy in the region.

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