elected seats, the declaration of the results, certification of the validity of the election and the publication of the election results. Based on this reasoning, the EJD divides the question related to timing into two parts: the time limit for complaints after the occurrence or discovery of irregular conduct (Figure 3.5A); and the time limit for complaints after the announcement of the election results (Figure 3.5B). The research shows that legislation in only 44 countries (25 per cent) provides for a time limit on complaints after the occurrence or discovery of irregular conduct. In 49 countries, legislation does not contain clear provisions in this regard, which by extension may indicate that such a limit does not exist or such a challenge is not permitted. It can be observed from the results that in a great majority of the countries, election results-related complaints and challenges can be submitted only after the announcement of results. It should also be noted that 28 countries have provisions that allow the submission of complaints both before and after the announcement of the results.2 Before the announcement of results, complaints can be submitted within the range of 1–40 days, while after the announcement of results complaints can be submitted mainly within the range of 1–30 days. In 10 countries the handling of challenges can take more than 30 days. However, the most frequently applied ruling is within the range of 1–10 days. Figure 3.5A and Figure 3.5B. Time limits for complaints about election results Figure 3.5A. Time limit for complaints after the occurrence or discovery of irregular conduct Figure 3.5B. Time limit for complaints after the announcement of the election results 80 81 49 38 31 10 14 Not Immediately 2–5 specified or within days 1 day 20 6–40 days 15 Complaints can be submitted only after announcement of results Not specified 1–10 days 11–20 days 10 21–30 days Notes: Columns represent number of countries. Data for 174 countries. Graph represents the data in the EJD as of August 2015. 2 It is possible combine the answers to both question in the online database to see which countries allow complaints in both periods. 21 31 and more