You are in the Observing elections and referendums section Home … Voting and elections … Observing elections and referendums … Guidance for observing elections We're showing you content for: England Northern Ireland Scotland Wales Overseas Mandatory guidance for electoral observers Before you apply to become an observer, you must read our guidance for observing elections. This guidance outlines: the application process to become an accredited observer or accredited organisationthe role and the expected standards of behaviour for accredited observers Guidance for electoral observers Learn about observing elections Guidance for observing the May 2026 elections To learn more about the role and expected standards of behaviour at different elections, you should read our election-specific guidance. Guidance for observing the May 2026 Scottish Parliament election Learn about observing elections Guidance for observing the May 2026 local council elections in England Guidance for observing the May 2026 Senedd election Was this article helpful? Yes the article was helpful No the article was not helpful