Four observers visited the Dniestr Moldovan Republic (PMR) on behalf of the British Helsinki Human Rights Group for the elections to the Supreme Soviet of the Republic, held on 10 December 2000. They observed the voting in some 20 polling stations in Tiraspol, Bendery, Grigoriopol, Dubossary, Rybnitsa and other places and watched the count at a polling station in central Tiraspol, Okrug 35, station no. 16.

Overall, the observers formed a highly favourable opinion of the conduct of the poll. Electoral Commission members were generally well organised, efficient and helpful. No irregularities were detected and no allegations of irregularity were made to BHHRG observers, either by the voting public or locally based domestic observers. The secrecy of the vote was guaranteed by proper voting booths or screens. BHHRG observers were impressed by the professionalism and competence of the Electoral Commission chairmen, who were able to provide instant and accurate information about such matters as voter turnout as polling progressed through the day. Voters seemed to be well informed about electoral procedures and there were very few questions raised in the presence of BHHRG observers. The count was conducted speedily and efficiently, thanks to a sensible procedure and to the transparency of the process for resolving the few disputed or unclear ballots. Candidates^? observers were able to express their opinion and to view ballots that were questionable.

There are, however, some minor areas of concern. In two places - Bendery and Dubossary - the Edinstvo Movement had its offices in the same buildings as local polling stations. In one of these, Bendery No. 34, the Edinstvo office was open on polling day itself and its staff were in the building. Coincidentally, the woman chairman in this polling station was obstructive when BHHRG observers presented their credentials, contesting their right to be present.