The N
ew Zealand media election observation mission assessed the contribution of the Timor-Leste news media to free and fair elections in the country's first national elections since gaining international recognition of its independence in 2002. The independent mission is part of a wider international and domestic observer presence, but it has a unique role in its specific focus on the news media.
Two visits (six and eight days) were made during the preparation for the Presidential run-off and Parliamentary elections.The observation process included interviews, workshops, newsroom visits, district visits and visits to Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps, media briefings, news conferences, content analysis and document review.
Mission members met about 125 journalists, editors, politicians, political party representatives, overseas aid donors and agencies, election officials and NGOs. They also talked with Timorese people living in Dili and in nearby districts and in a variety of settings, including markets and IDP camps.
McGregor, J.; Lind, C.; Geary, S.; Misa, T.; Robie, D. and Zweifel, W. (2007). New Zealand Media Observation Mission Report: 2007 Timor-Leste Elections. Wellington: NZ Electoral Commission.