Zimbabwe has applied to re-join the Commonwealth, and has invited Commonwealth observers to its forthcoming elections in July 2018. To re-join, Zimbabwe must demonstrate that it complies with the fundamental values set out in the Commonwealth Charter, including democracy, rule of law, and the protection of human rights such as freedom of expression. The Secretariat is now mobilising a team of observers and their report will form part of the assessment. Read the report of the Zimbabwe Presidential Election, 9-11 March 2002, our last election observation mission in the country.