4. 1. The legal framework should ensure the neutrality of the civil service by prohibiting civil servants from campaign activities in their official capacity, either by being themselves candidates or when supporting candidates. This applies as well to public and semi-public entities. It is important that a clear separation between the state and political parties is maintained; in particular political parties should not be merged with the State.

4. 2. In order to ensure neutrality of the civil service during electoral processes and consequently to avoid any risk of conflict of interest, the legal framework should provide for a clear separation between the exercise of politically sensitive public positions, in particular senior management positions, and candidacy. In this respect, the legal framework should provide for a range of adequate and proportionate rules. Such rules may include a clear instruction on how and when campaigning in a personal capacity may be conducted, suspension from office or resignation of certain public authorities running for elections.

4. 3. The non-involvement of judges, prosecutors, police, military and auditors of political competitors in their official capacity in electoral campaigning is of essential importance. Concrete measures should ensure such official neutrality throughout the entire electoral processes.

4. 4. The legal framework should ensure the objective, impartial, and balanced coverage of election-related events by publicly-owned media. Law and practice should both ensure that publicly-owned media are not involved in “hidden” campaigning for or against particular political competitors.