As a general principle, according to the aforementioned document of the Venice Commission «The legitimate aim of maintaining the constitutional order may justify the postponement of elections in exceptional situations, such as a state of war or natural catastrophes. When a severe crisis affects a country, elections might indeed exacerbate political conflicts and it may be necessary to seek a solution to the crisis. In very exceptional conditions, it can be the duty of the authorities to postpone elections with a view to reducing tensions and giving voters the possibility of expressing their will in a safe and well-ordered context».