These editions of the handbook provide a conceptual and methodological framework to guide the independent monitoring of assemblies based on ODIHR’s methodology. It also incorporates key information gathered in the course of ODIHR’s training program for assembly monitors, which has been provided for OSCE staff, representatives of civil society organizations, and national human rights institutions in a number of OSCE participating States. This second edition of the handbook, like the first, is intended as a practical tool to help monitors collect reliable information through the direct observation of public gatherings, and to assess the findings in relation to international human rights standards.