The European Union intended to send an exploratory mission to assess the usefulness, advisability and feasibility of an EU Electoral Observation Mission for the upcoming tripartite (presidential, legislative and municipal elections) in Malawi. The elections were due to take place on 21 May 2019. The purpose of the Exploratory Mission was to collect factual information concerning the election process, in line with the criteria contained in the Commission Communication on Electoral Assistance and Observation [COM(2000)191]. Moreover, it aimed to produce strategic analysis and reporting on the ongoing electoral processes and to provide input for electoral reform as well as confidence-enhancing measures during and after the elections.