Principles

1. The principles of transparency and of freedom of information are sine qua non pre-conditions for preventing the misuse of administrative resources.

2. The principle of equality of opportunity is also a key principle in order to ensure fair electoral processes. This entails two prerequisites:
- Firstly, a neutral and ethical attitude should be adopted by state authorities – including public and semi-public bodies –, in particular with regard to: the pre-electoral period, including through the candidates’ registration process; the coverage by the media, in particular by publicly owned media; and the funding of political parties and electoral campaigns, in particular public funding;
- Secondly, incumbents should ensure non-discrimination towards their challengers by providing equal access to administrative resources.

3. The principle of neutrality should apply to civil servants while performing their professional duties as well as to public and semi-public bodies.