Australia, Canada, France, UK urge Palestinian Authority to reconsider election postponement

Foreign ministers say delay until September 2027 further erodes trust in democratic institutions

The foreign ministers of Australia, Canada, France and the UK on Tuesday urged the Palestinian Authority to reconsider its decision to postpone legislative and presidential elections initially scheduled for November until September 2027. In a joint statement, the ministers said they “deeply regret” the decision by Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, warning that the delay would deprive Palestinians of another opportunity to vote and further undermine public confidence in democratic institutions. Nearly two decades have passed since the last elections to the Palestinian Legislative Council, while elections scheduled for 2021 were also postponed, the statement said. The ministers acknowledged significant challenges to holding elections in line with international standards and ensuring the participation of all eligible Palestinians. They also commended the Central Elections Commission for its work to prepare for the polls. They said credible elections were an important part of Abbas’ and the Palestinian Authority’s commitment to reforms, democratic renewal and accountable governance, in line with the New York Declaration of July 2025. “Strengthening Palestinian governance is essential to continue establishing the institutional foundations for a viable two-state solution, the only path to lasting peace and security for Israel and Palestine,” the statement said. The ministers called on the Palestinian Authority to take the necessary steps to hold legislative and presidential elections without further delay. They also urged Israel to refrain from actions that could obstruct the elections, including by ensuring the practical arrangements needed for all Palestinians to participate.