A punitive measure does not correct or annul the effect of an electoral irregularity. It punishes either the person who committed the violation or the person responsible for ensuring that the violation does not happen, through either the electoral administrative law, which imposes the sanctions, or the electoral criminal law. Recall A direct democracy instrument that allows a specified number of citizens to demand a vote of the electorate on whether an elected holder of public office should be removed from that office before the end of his/her term of office. Recount A recalculation, in full or in part, of the votes cast in an election or direct democracy instrument. Referendum A direct democracy instrument consisting of a vote of the electorate on an issue of public policy such as a constitutional amendment or a bill. The consequences of the vote may be either binding or consultative. Registered voter An eligible voter inscribed in an official list or register of electors. Registration of political parties and candidates The act of reviewing the validity of applications to participate in an election of political parties and candidates and accepting those that meet defined criteria. Registration of voters The act of entering the names of eligible electors and other relevant information in a register or list of electors. Rule of law Rule of law generally entails equal protection of the human rights of individuals and groups as well as equal punishment under the law. It reigns over government and protects citizens against arbitrary state action, ensuring citizens are subject to the rule of law, not the arbitrary rule of men. It encompasses three institutions: the security or law enforcement institution, the court system and judiciary, and the correction system. The principle that law should ‘rule’ in the sense that it establishes a framework within which all conduct or behaviour takes place. Sanction Measures taken by an institution in response to non-compliant or unacceptable behaviour. Seat allocation The process of distributing the seats of a legislative assembly to the political parties or candidates on the basis of the number of votes they have obtained. 205 Annex A. Glossary Punitive measure