On November 12^th, the National Election Commission held the election advisers’ meeting at the NEC in Gwacheon and discussed major issues of the 18^th Presidential election.

The Election Advisers Committee is a consultative body for the chairperson of the NEC regarding elections and comprised of 20 experts from various fields including the press, academia, legal circle and civic groups.

The meeting proceeded as follows: a welcoming address of the Chairperson of the NEC, Mr. Nung-Hwan KIM; a briefing session of the Director-General of Election, Mr.Jang-Yun CHO regarding management measures for each section of the 18^th Presidential election; and in-depth discussion on major issues.

In his speech, Mr. Kim stressed out that the NEC will make its utmost efforts in order to reflect opinions of the citizens who own a sovereign power on election results, as it manages the Presidential election flawlessly with a fair and neutral attitude according to the Constitution and law. He also added that in-depth discussions on countermeasures are needed, because there is a high chance to occur various illegal activities including libel and malicious propaganda in the lead up to the election.

A heated discussion was made by election advisers under major issues: measures for solidification of “Voters-Centered Election Management”; effective countermeasures against spreading false information when the election is close at hand; evaluation and verification measures of pledges in order to prevent reckless election pledges and encourage good pledges; and effective measures for encouraging political parties and candidates to compete with their policies.

The election advisers agreed that voluntary efforts of candidates for observance of the law are needed regarding negative campaigns including spreading false information. They also underlined that prompt actions and strict measures by the NEC are needed, when it comes to libel and malicious propaganda.

In regard to the policy campaign, they emphasized that proactive interest and participation of all election stakeholders is important and asked the NEC to make a continuous effort to create an atmosphere for policy campaigns.

In addition, advisers exchanged various opinions on promoting convenience for those who have difficulties in voting for the Presidential election including the handicapped, the elderly and the infirm.