osce--2020-06-25--OSCE Guidebook on Intelligence-Led Policing now available in French and Spanish

The OSCE Guidebook on Intelligence-Led Policing ( ILP ) , developed by the Strategic Police Matters Unit ( SPMU ) of the OSCE Transnational Threats Department , is now available in French and Spanish .
Since its publication in June 2017 , the Guidebook has been officially translated into ten languages and used for training and educational purposes by various national and international institutions across the OSCE area .
“ A number of the OSCE Partners for Co-operation , as well as states outside the OSCE , have expressed interest in the ILP concept and our Guidebook in recent years @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of SPMU .
“ I am confident that these new editions will significantly contribute to promoting the OSCE-recommended ILP model outside the OSCE region , especially in francophone and Spanish-speaking countries.
” The ILP uses information and data for evidence-based decision-making and planning , leading to more effective and efficient police work .
Central to the ILP is criminal intelligence – analysed data and information – which is a decisive factor in crime prevention and reduction .
The ILP requires the creation of structures and workflows to not only manage and analyse this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of these practices with national and international law , as well as data protection and human rights standards .
“ The ILP represents a modern framework for police management in the 21st century .
Research as well as practice show that proactive policing is indeed more effective in crime prevention and reduction than a traditional reactive approach , ” said Alena Kupchyna , OSCE Co-ordinator of Activities to Address Transnational Threats .
“ Empirically-based decision-making and planning also ensures that police work is more efficient , transparent and accountable , thus contributing to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ justice and the rule of law .
”

The OSCE Guidebook on Intelligence-Led Policing (ILP), developed by the Strategic Police Matters Unit (SPMU) of the OSCE Transnational Threats Department, is now available in French and Spanish.
Since its publication in June 2017, the Guidebook has been officially translated into ten languages and used for training and educational purposes by various national and international institutions across the OSCE area.
“A number of the OSCE Partners for Co-operation, as well as states outside the OSCE, have expressed interest in the ILP concept and our Guidebook in recent years,” said Guy Vinet, Head of SPMU. “I am confident that these new editions will significantly contribute to promoting the OSCE-recommended ILP model outside the OSCE region, especially in francophone and Spanish-speaking countries.”
The ILP uses information and data for evidence-based decision-making and planning, leading to more effective and efficient police work. Central to the ILP is criminal intelligence – analysed data and information – which is a decisive factor in crime prevention and reduction. The ILP requires the creation of structures and workflows to not only manage and analyse this intelligence but also to ensure the compliance of these practices with national and international law, as well as data protection and human rights standards.
“The ILP represents a modern framework for police management in the 21st century. Research as well as practice show that proactive policing is indeed more effective in crime prevention and reduction than a traditional reactive approach,” said Alena Kupchyna, OSCE Co-ordinator of Activities to Address Transnational Threats. “Empirically-based decision-making and planning also ensures that police work is more efficient, transparent and accountable, thus contributing to the public’s trust in criminal justice and the rule of law.”


osce--2020-06-25--OSCE Chair Rama and Secretary General Greminger call for reinvigorated security co-operation and dia

OSCE Chair Rama and Secretary General Greminger call for reinvigorated security co-operation and dialogue in Europe

VIENNA 25 June 2020 – “ Our co-operation is faltering due to a lack of trust .
That trust is lacking due to a breakdown in our dialogue , and due to clear and repeated disregard for our principles and commitments .
We need change , and we need it now , ” said OSCE Chairperson-in-Office , Prime Minister and Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of Albania , Edi Rama , while addressing a three-day Annual Security Review Conference ( ASRC ) , which concluded today in Vienna .
OSCE Chair Rama and Secretary General Thomas Greminger urged fresh @ @ @ @ @ @ @ security threats in the OSCE region .
They recalled the OSCE ’ s commitments – grounded in shared principles – as a success of multilateralism , and a foundation of the international system upon which security still depends .
Held under the 2020 Albanian Chair , the discussion gathered over 400 participants , high-level representatives of the 57 OSCE participating States , Partners for Co-operation and partnering organizations with the focus on the politico-military dimension , aiming to foster a more stable and secure Europe .
“ The last three days were an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more stability though dialogue , and be more forthcoming and focused upon actions that can make a difference to the current security situation , ” said Rama .
Rama said that without respect for what we have collectively undertaken , and without a genuine commitment to conversation , we could not hope – or expect - to foster a more stable and secure Europe .
“ We have to start thinking differently .
We must be bolder and openly propose and discuss how we can strive to improve things .
We need genuine @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on respect , not just presentations and counter-presentations , ” said Rama .
Chairperson-in-Office Rama also echoed the UN Secretary-General ’ s urgent call for a global ceasefire .
“ Now is the time to pull back from hostilities and put aside mistrust and animosity .
We need to act in a spirit of solidarity.If we can adopt a more pro-active mentality , then I am confident we can turn things around and improve security in the OSCE region.
” Greminger , reflecting on the COVID-19 pandemic , said that the security of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but also interdependent .
“ We can best protect ourselves by working together to protect each other .
This is the core concept of co-operative security – the bedrock principle of the OSCE .
The pandemic offers a window of opportunity to increase trust across conflict divides in addressing common threats to health and people ’ s lives .
We still need to see the political will to engage in measures to help conflict-affected populations .
There must be a focus on building resilience to crises and the threat of violent conflict , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the Chair of the OSCE Permanent Council , Ambassador Igli Hasani , noted that the discussions had deepened the conviction of the Albanian Chairmanship to prioritise three objectives : “ Implementing commitments together ; making a difference on the ground and building stability through dialogue.
” More about the 2020 Annual Review Conference here .

VIENNA 25 June 2020 – “Our co-operation is faltering due to a lack of trust. That trust is lacking due to a breakdown in our dialogue, and due to clear and repeated disregard for our principles and commitments. We need change, and we need it now,” said OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, Prime Minister and Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of Albania, Edi Rama, while addressing a three-day Annual Security Review Conference (ASRC), which concluded today in Vienna.
OSCE Chair Rama and Secretary General Thomas Greminger urged fresh thinking and reinvigorated co-operation in addressing common security threats in the OSCE region. They recalled the OSCE’s commitments – grounded in shared principles – as a success of multilateralism, and a foundation of the international system upon which security still depends.
Held under the 2020 Albanian Chair, the discussion gathered over 400 participants, high-level representatives of the 57 OSCE participating States, Partners for Co-operation and partnering organizations with the focus on the politico-military dimension, aiming to foster a more stable and secure Europe.
“The last three days were an open discussion of how we can build more stability though dialogue, and be more forthcoming and focused upon actions that can make a difference to the current security situation,” said Rama.
Rama said that without respect for what we have collectively undertaken, and without a genuine commitment to conversation, we could not hope – or expect - to foster a more stable and secure Europe. “We have to start thinking differently. We must be bolder and openly propose and discuss how we can strive to improve things. We need genuine dialogue – an actual conversation, based on respect, not just presentations and counter-presentations,” said Rama.
Chairperson-in-Office Rama also echoed the UN Secretary-General’s urgent call for a global ceasefire. “Now is the time to pull back from hostilities and put aside mistrust and animosity. We need to act in a spirit of solidarity.If we can adopt a more pro-active mentality, then I am confident we can turn things around and improve security in the OSCE region.”
Greminger, reflecting on the COVID-19 pandemic, said that the security of the region is not only interconnected, but also interdependent. “We can best protect ourselves by working together to protect each other. This is the core concept of co-operative security – the bedrock principle of the OSCE. The pandemic offers a window of opportunity to increase trust across conflict divides in addressing common threats to health and people’s lives. We still need to see the political will to engage in measures to help conflict-affected populations. There must be a focus on building resilience to crises and the threat of violent conflict,” said Greminger.
Closing the Conference, the Chair of the OSCE Permanent Council, Ambassador Igli Hasani, noted that the discussions had deepened the conviction of the Albanian Chairmanship to prioritise three objectives: “Implementing commitments together; making a difference on the ground and building stability through dialogue.”
More about the 2020 Annual Review Conference here.


osce--2020-06-25--OSCE seminar discusses gender- and age-sensitive criminal justice responses to terrorism in Turkmeni

OSCE seminar discusses gender- and age-sensitive criminal justice responses to terrorism in Turkmenistan

Strengthening rule of law compliant criminal justice responses to terrorism was the aim of an online seminar that concluded on 25 June 2020 .
Practitioners from relevant government agencies attended this event in Ashgabat , while international experts joined in online from their respective duty stations .
The event was organized by the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat together with the Action against Terrorism Unit of the OSCE Transnational Threats Department .
It focused on age- as well as gender-sensitive criminal justice responses to terrorism .
The seminar built on a 2019-event which tackled effective terrorism prevention and prosecution measures , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Natalya Drozd , Head the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat , noted that the Centre was one of the first international organizations in Turkmenistan to launch activities in the area of preventing and countering violent extremism and radicalization that lead to terrorism ( VERLT ) .
“ In line with Turkmenistan ’ s National Strategy on Preventing Violent Extremism and Countering Terrorism , introduced recently at the High-level Conference on Foreign Terrorist Fighters convened jointly by the OSCE , UNOCT and Switzerland , the Centre in Ashgabat stands ready to support the host @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and countering terrorism and violent extremism , including through awareness raising campaigns on preventing and countering the threat of VERLT for youth and vulnerable communities , ” said Drozd .
“ The host country is demonstrating a great interest in international instruments and best practices aimed at preventing any kind of violent extremism and terrorism , and the Centre has been supporting the participation of national experts in OSCE-organized events on those issues , ” Drozd added .
Experts and participants discussed gender perspectives within criminal justice responses to terrorism offences , as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the prosecution of minors .
Closely linked to these subjects , the online seminar also addressed efforts by governmental and civil society actors in disengaging and reintegrating former terrorist offenders back into society .

Strengthening rule of law compliant criminal justice responses to terrorism was the aim of an online seminar that concluded on 25 June 2020. Practitioners from relevant government agencies attended this event in Ashgabat, while international experts joined in online from their respective duty stations.
The event was organized by the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat together with the Action against Terrorism Unit of the OSCE Transnational Threats Department. It focused on age- as well as gender-sensitive criminal justice responses to terrorism. The seminar built on a 2019-event which tackled effective terrorism prevention and prosecution measures, while emphasizing respect for applicable international law.
Natalya Drozd, Head the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat, noted that the Centre was one of the first international organizations in Turkmenistan to launch activities in the area of preventing and countering violent extremism and radicalization that lead to terrorism (VERLT).
“In line with Turkmenistan’s National Strategy on Preventing Violent Extremism and Countering Terrorism, introduced recently at the High-level Conference on Foreign Terrorist Fighters convened jointly by the OSCE, UNOCT and Switzerland, the Centre in Ashgabat stands ready to support the host country’s efforts aimed at preventing and countering terrorism and violent extremism, including through awareness raising campaigns on preventing and countering the threat of VERLT for youth and vulnerable communities,” said Drozd.
“The host country is demonstrating a great interest in international instruments and best practices aimed at preventing any kind of violent extremism and terrorism, and the Centre has been supporting the participation of national experts in OSCE-organized events on those issues,” Drozd added.
Experts and participants discussed gender perspectives within criminal justice responses to terrorism offences, as well as Juvenile Justice parameters applicable to the prosecution of minors. Closely linked to these subjects, the online seminar also addressed efforts by governmental and civil society actors in disengaging and reintegrating former terrorist offenders back into society.


osce--2020-06-24--OSCE today launched ground-breaking study analyzing more than 300 anti-trafficking tech tools

Vienna , 24 June 2020 - The Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe ( OSCE ) and Tech Against Trafficking TAT ) , a coalition of international technology companies , today hosted an online event to launch ground-breaking research on how technology is being used to prevent and combat trafficking in human beings .
`` Leveraging innovation to fight trafficking in human beings : a comprehensive analysis of technology tools '' examines the ways in which technology is misused to facilitate trafficking , how more than 300 hundreds tech tools have been used to deal with the problem , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the private sector can use tech strategically to combat trafficking right now .
The intersection of technology and trafficking in human beings is one of the defining topics of the global conversation on efforts to end human trafficking .
It is estimated that globally , there are about 25 million victims of human trafficking .
Increasingly , these victims are exploited online .
Traffickers are widely misusing technology to advance their criminal activities .
Yet technology can also be used to support prevention , prosecution , and protection of victims .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the crucial importance of addressing the double-edged sword that technology represents for human trafficking .
Indeed , the future success of countries in eradicating human trafficking will depend on how they are prepared for and equipped to harness technology to fight this crime '' , said Valiant Richey , the OSCE Special Representative and Co-ordinator for Combating Trafficking in Human Beings ( SR/CTHB ) .
The OSR/CTHB-TAT publication identifies and analyses more than 300 technology initiatives , their developers , audiences and uses , and addresses ethical considerations , data protection issues , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the use of technology .
A strong emphasis is placed on fighting human trafficking through market-based interventions , data aggregation and analysis tools , which can identify significant trends in the trafficking marketplaces .
The research also highlights tools that can be useful in fighting THB for labor exploitation in global supply chains , including using block-chain technology and surveying workers in supply chains .
These tools are designed to scale up responses and could be used to support prevention of trafficking on a worldwide scale .
According to Thi Hoang , Analyst @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Crime ( GI-TOC ) , the landscape analysis yields relevant recommendations for the public and private sectors : `` The tech industry must initiate and develop solutions which take into account the target users ' internet and digital capacities , as well as their regions ' technological infrastructure .
They should also prioritize tools that help with victim case management and support – the tool type currently underrepresented according to our analysis .
Further , to avoid duplication of efforts , it is recommended that these anti-trafficking tools are made open source and/or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the field . ''
The paper also provides a set of general recommendations for all actors involved in the use of technology to combat trafficking and a more specific set of recommendations for governments , including establishing or strengthening partnerships with tech companies to invest in research and development .

Vienna, 24 June 2020 - The Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) and Tech Against Trafficking TAT), a coalition of international technology companies, today hosted an online event to launch ground-breaking research on how technology is being used to prevent and combat trafficking in human beings.
"Leveraging innovation to fight trafficking in human beings: a comprehensive analysis of technology tools" examines the ways in which technology is misused to facilitate trafficking, how more than 300 hundreds tech tools have been used to deal with the problem, and how governments, civil society, and the private sector can use tech strategically to combat trafficking right now.
The intersection of technology and trafficking in human beings is one of the defining topics of the global conversation on efforts to end human trafficking. It is estimated that globally, there are about 25 million victims of human trafficking. Increasingly, these victims are exploited online. Traffickers are widely misusing technology to advance their criminal activities. Yet technology can also be used to support prevention, prosecution, and protection of victims.
"Today, we have heard clearly about the crucial importance of addressing the double-edged sword that technology represents for human trafficking. Indeed, the future success of countries in eradicating human trafficking will depend on how they are prepared for and equipped to harness technology to fight this crime", said Valiant Richey, the OSCE Special Representative and Co-ordinator for Combating Trafficking in Human Beings (SR/CTHB).
The paper
The OSR/CTHB-TAT publication identifies and analyses more than 300 technology initiatives, their developers, audiences and uses, and addresses ethical considerations, data protection issues, and the need to respect rights in the use of technology.
A strong emphasis is placed on fighting human trafficking through market-based interventions, data aggregation and analysis tools, which can identify significant trends in the trafficking marketplaces.
The research also highlights tools that can be useful in fighting THB for labor exploitation in global supply chains, including using block-chain technology and surveying workers in supply chains. These tools are designed to scale up responses and could be used to support prevention of trafficking on a worldwide scale.
According to Thi Hoang, Analyst at the Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime (GI-TOC), the landscape analysis yields relevant recommendations for the public and private sectors: "The tech industry must initiate and develop solutions which take into account the target users' internet and digital capacities, as well as their regions' technological infrastructure. They should also prioritize tools that help with victim case management and support – the tool type currently underrepresented according to our analysis. Further, to avoid duplication of efforts, it is recommended that these anti-trafficking tools are made open source and/or shared and exchanged with other stakeholders in the field."
The paper also provides a set of general recommendations for all actors involved in the use of technology to combat trafficking and a more specific set of recommendations for governments, including establishing or strengthening partnerships with tech companies to invest in research and development.


osce--2020-06-24--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 149/2020 issued on 24 June 2020

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osce--2020-06-23--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 148/2020 issued on 23 June 2020


osce--2020-06-23--OSCE PA leadership meeting with Andorra, Monaco, San Marino and Liechtenstein provides forum to shar

OSCE PA leadership meeting with Andorra, Monaco, San Marino and Liechtenstein provides forum to share common challenges related to COVID-19

COPENHAGEN , 23 June 2020 – In the latest of a series of informal web dialogues between OSCE PA leadership and national delegations , Assembly President George Tsereteli and Secretary General Roberto Montella met today with leaders from Andorra , Monaco , San Marino and Liechtenstein .
Discussions with the so-called ‘ microstates ’ focused on the economic and health impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and related recovery efforts .
Participants welcomed the meeting as an important opportunity to bring the common challenges facing small states to the forefront .
President Tsereteli said that in order to effectively combat COVID-19 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and work closely with other multilateral organizations .
The President noted that the OSCE PA is doing well in terms of carrying out its functions and adding value to the international response to the pandemic .
One of the lessons learned during this period is to improve preparations in order to better handle future crisis situations , he said .
Secretary General Montella gave an overview of the OSCE PA ’ s activities in the context of the COVID crisis and described the purpose of the informal leadership meetings as an opportunity for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the President and the Secretariat .
He noted that providing a forum for small states is important to hear concerns that are specific to these countries and to demonstrate that all delegations matter equally in the OSCE PA. Ferran Costa ( Andorra ) stressed the importance of small states strengthening relationships with international organizations .
He welcomed the opportunity provided by the OSCE PA to network and tackle similar challenges with other microstates .
He also shared detailed information about how Andorra has responded to the crisis and necessary steps forward .
Nathalie @ @ @ @ @ @ @ few cases of COVID have been reported in Monaco .
She stressed the good co-operation that the parliament has enjoyed with the government and shared some information about economic recovery efforts and employment protection measures that Monaco had implemented .
She noted that the citizens have co-operated well , including by taking precautions such as wearing masks .
Oscar Mina said the COVID pandemic has been a difficult situation for San Marino , with much contagion spreading from the affected areas of Italy .
Nevertheless , he said that San Marino responded well @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the economic difficulties , San Marino released two million euros in aid but he stressed that much more will be needed .
He noted the importance of small states having the confidence to ask for whatever help is needed from the international community .
Sandra Gerber-Leuenberger , Secretary of Delegation from Liechtenstein , gave an update noting that the country was not hit very hard by the pandemic and pointing out that it is recovering well .
The delegations discussed the levels of co-operation that parliaments have enjoyed with governments in each @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of a crisis like COVID , it was stressed that executives would inevitably assume more power – the important thing is that it is limited in duration , participants said .
Earlier in the day , President Tsereteli and Secretary General Montella met online with Mongolian Foreign Minister and Head of PA Delegation Tsogtbaatar Damdin .
Discussions focused on Mongolia ’ s parliamentary elections on Wednesday , challenges of international observation and the country ’ s COVID-19 response .
For more on the OSCE PA 's response to the COVID-19 pandemic , please @ @ @

COPENHAGEN, 23 June 2020 – In the latest of a series of informal web dialogues between OSCE PA leadership and national delegations, Assembly President George Tsereteli and Secretary General Roberto Montella met today with leaders from Andorra, Monaco, San Marino and Liechtenstein.
Discussions with the so-called ‘microstates’ focused on the economic and health impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and related recovery efforts. Participants welcomed the meeting as an important opportunity to bring the common challenges facing small states to the forefront.
President Tsereteli said that in order to effectively combat COVID-19, it is important to be vigilant and work closely with other multilateral organizations. The President noted that the OSCE PA is doing well in terms of carrying out its functions and adding value to the international response to the pandemic. One of the lessons learned during this period is to improve preparations in order to better handle future crisis situations, he said.
Secretary General Montella gave an overview of the OSCE PA’s activities in the context of the COVID crisis and described the purpose of the informal leadership meetings as an opportunity for all delegations to engage in dialogue with the President and the Secretariat. He noted that providing a forum for small states is important to hear concerns that are specific to these countries and to demonstrate that all delegations matter equally in the OSCE PA.
Ferran Costa (Andorra) stressed the importance of small states strengthening relationships with international organizations. He welcomed the opportunity provided by the OSCE PA to network and tackle similar challenges with other microstates. He also shared detailed information about how Andorra has responded to the crisis and necessary steps forward.
Nathalie Amoratti-Blanc (Monaco) said that very few cases of COVID have been reported in Monaco. She stressed the good co-operation that the parliament has enjoyed with the government and shared some information about economic recovery efforts and employment protection measures that Monaco had implemented. She noted that the citizens have co-operated well, including by taking precautions such as wearing masks.
Oscar Mina said the COVID pandemic has been a difficult situation for San Marino, with much contagion spreading from the affected areas of Italy. Nevertheless, he said that San Marino responded well with all of society co-operating. Responding to the economic difficulties, San Marino released two million euros in aid but he stressed that much more will be needed. He noted the importance of small states having the confidence to ask for whatever help is needed from the international community.
Sandra Gerber-Leuenberger, Secretary of Delegation from Liechtenstein, gave an update noting that the country was not hit very hard by the pandemic and pointing out that it is recovering well.
The delegations discussed the levels of co-operation that parliaments have enjoyed with governments in each of their countries. In the context of a crisis like COVID, it was stressed that executives would inevitably assume more power – the important thing is that it is limited in duration, participants said.
Earlier in the day, President Tsereteli and Secretary General Montella met online with Mongolian Foreign Minister and Head of PA Delegation Tsogtbaatar Damdin. Discussions focused on Mongolia’s parliamentary elections on Wednesday, challenges of international observation and the country’s COVID-19 response.
For more on the OSCE PA's response to the COVID-19 pandemic, please click here.


osce--2020-06-23--First online workshop on intelligence-led policing held in Turkmenistan

A first ever online training workshop on intelligence-led policing ( ILP ) , a modern proactive model for policing and law enforcement management , was held on 23 June 2020 , for some 20 senior representatives of Turkmen law enforcement agencies .
The Strategic Police Matters Unit of the OSCE ’ s Transnational Threats Department ( SPMU ) organized the workshop in close co-operation with the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat .
ILP uses information and data for evidence-based decision-making and planning , leading to more effective and efficient police work .
Central to ILP is criminal intelligence – analyzed data @ @ @ @ @ @ @ managed in compliance with national and international law , as well as data protection and human rights standards .
“ The OSCE Centre in Ashgabat developed constructive co-operation with the host Government in the area of police personnel capacity building , ” said Natalya Drozd , Head of the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat .
“ It is our belief that today ’ s event will offer an excellent platform for the exchange of practical experiences and will have an added value for the participants ’ everyday work , ” added Drozd .
Guy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : “ ILP ensures that the work of law enforcement reflects reality on the ground , thus making policing more effective , efficient , transparent , and accountable ” .
Participants were familiarized with the OSCE Guidebook on ILP and shared experiences , good practices , and lessons learned from the implementation of ILP at the national level in Serbia and the community level in Sweden .
Participants also discussed potential benefits and challenges of introducing ILP in their own country .
The event follows similar workshops organized in recent months by SPMU @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other OSCE participating States in Central Asia , including Uzbekistan , Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan .

A first ever online training workshop on intelligence-led policing (ILP), a modern proactive model for policing and law enforcement management, was held on 23 June 2020, for some 20 senior representatives of Turkmen law enforcement agencies.
The Strategic Police Matters Unit of the OSCE’s Transnational Threats Department (SPMU) organized the workshop in close co-operation with the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat.
ILP uses information and data for evidence-based decision-making and planning, leading to more effective and efficient police work. Central to ILP is criminal intelligence – analyzed data and information – that is collected and managed in compliance with national and international law, as well as data protection and human rights standards.
“The OSCE Centre in Ashgabat developed constructive co-operation with the host Government in the area of police personnel capacity building,” said Natalya Drozd, Head of the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat.
“It is our belief that today’s event will offer an excellent platform for the exchange of practical experiences and will have an added value for the participants’ everyday work,” added Drozd.
Guy Vinet, Head of SPMU, said: “ILP ensures that the work of law enforcement reflects reality on the ground, thus making policing more effective, efficient, transparent, and accountable”.
Participants were familiarized with the OSCE Guidebook on ILP and shared experiences, good practices, and lessons learned from the implementation of ILP at the national level in Serbia and the community level in Sweden. Participants also discussed potential benefits and challenges of introducing ILP in their own country.
The event follows similar workshops organized in recent months by SPMU under its extra-budgetary project on ILP in other OSCE participating States in Central Asia, including Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan.


osce--2020-06-23--Weekly Update from the OSCE Observer Mission at Russian Checkpoints Gukovo and Donetsk based on info

Weekly Update from the OSCE Observer Mission at Russian Checkpoints Gukovo and Donetsk based on information as of 23 June 2020

Kamensk-Shakhtinskiy , Russian Federation .
The Observer Mission ( OM ) continues to operate 24/7 at both Border Crossing Points ( BCPs ) .
The overall number of border crossings by persons increased at both BCPs compared to the previous week .
The OM is currently operating with 20 permanent international staff members , including the Chief Observer ( CO ) .
The Mission is supported administratively by a staff member and the Chief of Fund Administration based in Vienna .
Activities have been impacted by COVID-19 and measures undertaken by the OM to ensure the safety and duty of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with measures set by the host country authorities .
The Mission is continuing to keep the situation under review , in close contact with the OSCE Secretariat and the Chairmanship .
Following the host country recommendations , the observers are applying a self-isolation regime between the shifts at the border checkpoints and adherence to social distancing .
Due to the preventive measures taken by the central and regional authorities , the OM is faced with certain difficulties , but is still able to continue to fulfill its mandate without any limitations in its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of persons crossing the border can be categorized as follows : • Adults travelling on foot or by car with little or no luggage .
• Families ( often including elderly persons and/or children ) travelling on foot or by car with a significant amount of luggage .
The average number of entries/exits increased from 1,217 to 1,547 per day at both BCPs compared to last week [ 1 ] .
During the reporting period , the majority of border crossings were to the Russian Federation , with an average net flow of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Donetsk BCP continued to experience much more traffic than the Gukovo BCP .
Responding to the COVID-19 situation , the host country has closed its borders for the majority of foreigners starting from 18 March .
Among the exceptions of persons allowed to cross the border ( which entered into force on 19 March ) , are Ukrainian citizens and stateless persons holding passports or identification documents proving permanent residence in certain areas of Luhansk and Donetsk regions of Ukraine .
In addition , reportedly , due to the threat of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ April , the organized passenger transport commuting between the non-government-controlled areas of Luhansk region of Ukraine and the Russian Federation was suspended .
During the reporting period , the number of persons in military style outfits crossing the border was four compared to two last week , all four crossed into Ukraine , three of them at the Donetsk BCP and one at the Gukovo BCP .
These individuals crossed the border on foot .
The OTs continued to report on families , sometimes with elderly persons and/or children , crossing the border @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of luggage , or travelling in heavily loaded cars .
During this reporting week , no families were observed crossing into the Russian Federation while two families were observed crossing into Ukraine , compared to the previous reporting period when one family was observed crossing to the Russian Federation , while four families crossed into Ukraine .
Regular local and long-distance bus connections between Ukraine ( mostly from/to the Luhansk region ) and the Russian Federation were stopped from 10 April .
During the reporting period , no buses were observed at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the OTs observed an increase in the overall number of trucks crossing the border at both BCPs ( 1078 compared to 932 during the previous reporting week ) ; 624 at the Gukovo BCP and 454 at the Donetsk BCP , 641 of these trucks crossed into the Russian Federation and 437crossed into Ukraine .
Most of the trucks observed by the OTs had Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region ; however , on a daily basis , the OTs also noted trucks registered in the Russian Federation , Belarus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ LPR ” plates .
The OTs also continued to observe tanker trucks crossing the border in both directions .
During the reporting week , the number of tanker trucks slightly increased from 43 to 55 .
These trucks were observed crossing the border at both BCPs .
The trucks had the words “ Propane ” and “ Flammable ” written across the tanks in either Russian or Ukrainian .
The majority of tanker trucks had hazard signs , indicating that they were transporting propane or a mix of propane and butane .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Russian Federation officials , which could include an X-ray check .
Due to the unfavourable observation position at the Gukovo BCP , the OTs continued to be unable to observe any X-ray checks .
Compared to the previous week , the total number of X-ray checks at the Donetsk BCP increased from 167 to 201 .
Of the total number of trucks scanned , 188 trucks ( 94 per cent ) were bound for Ukraine : the remaining 13 trucks ( 6 per cent ) crossed into the Russian Federation .
The OM @ @ @ @ @ @ @ [ 2 ] crossing the border in both directions at both BCPs .
The OTs observed minivans predominantly with Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region ; however , the OTs also saw minivans registered in the Russian Federation .
Compared to the previous week , the number of cargo minivans slightly increased from 64 to 73 vehicles ; 42 crossed into the Russian Federation and another 31 into Ukraine .
The OTs continued to pick up the sound of trains on the railway tracks located approximately 150m south-west of the Gukovo @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the OTs heard trains on 27 occasions ; the OTs assessed that 15 trains were travelling to the Russian Federation and the remaining 12 trains were travelling to Ukraine ( more details are provided in the sections “ trends and figures at a glance ” below ) .
Visual observation was not possible because of the line of trees located between the train tracks and the BCP .
The majority of vehicles crossing the border had Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region or Russian Federation licence plates .
A significant number @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were also observed crossing the border in both directions on a daily basis .
On 17 June at 15:25 , the OT at Donetsk BCP observed a group of 16 brand-new vehicles type “ KAMAZ ” entering the BCP from the Russian Federation and queuing in the customs control area .
The group consisted of 11 dump trucks , three excavators and two tractors .
The vehicles had no licence plates and were painted in orange .
All the vehicles underwent customs control procedures and at 20:55 left the border for Ukraine .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ covering the period from 19 May to 23 June 2020 , please see the attachment here .
[ 1 ] Based on data received from the Regional Representation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation .
[ 2 ] Cargo minivans : light commercial vehicles with a maximum authorized mass of more than 3.5 t and not more than 7.5 t ; with or without a trailer with a maximum mass of less than 750 kg ( small cargo vehicles which correspond to driving licence C1 ) .

SUMMARY
Kamensk-Shakhtinskiy, Russian Federation. The Observer Mission (OM) continues to operate 24/7 at both Border Crossing Points (BCPs). The overall number of border crossings by persons increased at both BCPs compared to the previous week.
OPERATIONAL REMARKS
The OM is currently operating with 20 permanent international staff members, including the Chief Observer (CO). The Mission is supported administratively by a staff member and the Chief of Fund Administration based in Vienna.
Update on COVID-19 measures
Activities have been impacted by COVID-19 and measures undertaken by the OM to ensure the safety and duty of care of its Mission members and compliance with measures set by the host country authorities. The Mission is continuing to keep the situation under review, in close contact with the OSCE Secretariat and the Chairmanship. Following the host country recommendations, the observers are applying a self-isolation regime between the shifts at the border checkpoints and adherence to social distancing. Due to the preventive measures taken by the central and regional authorities, the OM is faced with certain difficulties, but is still able to continue to fulfill its mandate without any limitations in its observation and reporting activities.
OBSERVATIONS AT THE BORDER CROSSING POINTS
Persons crossing the border
The profile of persons crossing the border can be categorized as follows:
Adults travelling on foot or by car with little or no luggage. Persons in military-style outfits. Families (often including elderly persons and/or children) travelling on foot or by car with a significant amount of luggage.
The average number of entries/exits increased from 1,217 to 1,547 per day at both BCPs compared to last week[1].
During the reporting period, the majority of border crossings were to the Russian Federation, with an average net flow of 39 per day for both BCPs. The Donetsk BCP continued to experience much more traffic than the Gukovo BCP.
Responding to the COVID-19 situation, the host country has closed its borders for the majority of foreigners starting from 18 March. Among the exceptions of persons allowed to cross the border (which entered into force on 19 March), are Ukrainian citizens and stateless persons holding passports or identification documents proving permanent residence in certain areas of Luhansk and Donetsk regions of Ukraine. In addition, reportedly, due to the threat of the spread of COVID-19, starting from 10 April, the organized passenger transport commuting between the non-government-controlled areas of Luhansk region of Ukraine and the Russian Federation was suspended.
Persons in military-style outfits
During the reporting period, the number of persons in military style outfits crossing the border was four compared to two last week, all four crossed into Ukraine, three of them at the Donetsk BCP and one at the Gukovo BCP. These individuals crossed the border on foot.
Families with a significant amount of luggage
The OTs continued to report on families, sometimes with elderly persons and/or children, crossing the border at both BCPs with a significant amount of luggage, or travelling in heavily loaded cars. During this reporting week, no families were observed crossing into the Russian Federation while two families were observed crossing into Ukraine, compared to the previous reporting period when one family was observed crossing to the Russian Federation, while four families crossed into Ukraine.
Bus connections
Regular local and long-distance bus connections between Ukraine (mostly from/to the Luhansk region) and the Russian Federation were stopped from 10 April. During the reporting period, no buses were observed at the two BCPs.
Trucks
During the reporting period, the OTs observed an increase in the overall number of trucks crossing the border at both BCPs (1078 compared to 932 during the previous reporting week); 624 at the Gukovo BCP and 454 at the Donetsk BCP, 641 of these trucks crossed into the Russian Federation and 437crossed into Ukraine. Most of the trucks observed by the OTs had Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region; however, on a daily basis, the OTs also noted trucks registered in the Russian Federation, Belarus, Ukraine, Armenia and trucks with “LPR” plates.
The OTs also continued to observe tanker trucks crossing the border in both directions. During the reporting week, the number of tanker trucks slightly increased from 43 to 55. These trucks were observed crossing the border at both BCPs. The trucks had the words “Propane” and “Flammable” written across the tanks in either Russian or Ukrainian. The majority of tanker trucks had hazard signs, indicating that they were transporting propane or a mix of propane and butane.
All trucks underwent systematic inspection by the Russian Federation officials, which could include an X-ray check. Due to the unfavourable observation position at the Gukovo BCP, the OTs continued to be unable to observe any X-ray checks.
Compared to the previous week, the total number of X-ray checks at the Donetsk BCP increased from 167 to 201. Of the total number of trucks scanned, 188 trucks (94 per cent) were bound for Ukraine: the remaining 13 trucks (6 per cent) crossed into the Russian Federation.
Minivans
The OM continued to observe passenger and cargo minivans[2] crossing the border in both directions at both BCPs. The OTs observed minivans predominantly with Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region; however, the OTs also saw minivans registered in the Russian Federation. Compared to the previous week, the number of cargo minivans slightly increased from 64 to 73 vehicles; 42 crossed into the Russian Federation and another 31 into Ukraine.
Trains
The OTs continued to pick up the sound of trains on the railway tracks located approximately 150m south-west of the Gukovo BCP. During the reporting week, the OTs heard trains on 27 occasions; the OTs assessed that 15 trains were travelling to the Russian Federation and the remaining 12 trains were travelling to Ukraine (more details are provided in the sections “trends and figures at a glance” below).
Visual observation was not possible because of the line of trees located between the train tracks and the BCP.
Other observations
The majority of vehicles crossing the border had Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region or Russian Federation licence plates. A significant number of vehicles with “LPR” plates were also observed crossing the border in both directions on a daily basis.
On 17 June at 15:25, the OT at Donetsk BCP observed a group of 16 brand-new vehicles type “KAMAZ” entering the BCP from the Russian Federation and queuing in the customs control area. The group consisted of 11 dump trucks, three excavators and two tractors. The vehicles had no licence plates and were painted in orange. All the vehicles underwent customs control procedures and at 20:55 left the border for Ukraine.
For trends and figures at a glance covering the period from 19 May to 23 June 2020, please see the attachment here.
[1]Based on data received from the Regional Representation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation.
[2] Cargo minivans: light commercial vehicles with a maximum authorized mass of more than 3.5 t and not more than 7.5 t; with or without a trailer with a maximum mass of less than 750 kg (small cargo vehicles which correspond to driving licence C1).


osce--2020-06-23--OSCE organizes webinar on anti-money laundering and combating terrorist financing in Kazakhstan

A two-day online training on anti-money laundering and combating terrorist financing ( AML/CFT ) concluded in Nur-Sultan on 23 June 2020 .
Some 50 government officials from law-enforcement agencies and the financial sector participated in the event .
The OSCE Programme Office in Nur-Sultan organized the online training , together with the Financial Monitoring Committee under the Finance Ministry and the Law Enforcement Academy under the Prosecutor General ’ s office/Regional Hub .
Experts from Georgia and Italy delivered presentations on laundering schemes of illegal incomes and recommendations by the Financial Action Task Force ( FATF ) to prevent and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were familiarized with the concept of beneficial ownership , and the assessment of money laundering risks associated with legal persons .
Participants also discussed the 2018 FATF and Egmont Group joint study on the concealment of beneficial ownership .
The FATF is an independent inter-governmental body that develops AML/CFT recommendations that are recognized as standard by the national financial intelligence units .
The Egmont Group provides a forum for financial intelligence units to improve co-operation in the AML/CFT and to foster the implementation of domestic programs in this field .
The online training @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s multi-year efforts to promote good governance and to combat money laundering and terrorist financing in the host country .

A two-day online training on anti-money laundering and combating terrorist financing (AML/CFT) concluded in Nur-Sultan on 23 June 2020. Some 50 government officials from law-enforcement agencies and the financial sector participated in the event.
The OSCE Programme Office in Nur-Sultan organized the online training, together with the Financial Monitoring Committee under the Finance Ministry and the Law Enforcement Academy under the Prosecutor General’s office/Regional Hub.
Experts from Georgia and Italy delivered presentations on laundering schemes of illegal incomes and recommendations by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) to prevent and act on such schemes. The participants were familiarized with the concept of beneficial ownership, and the assessment of money laundering risks associated with legal persons. Participants also discussed the 2018 FATF and Egmont Group joint study on the concealment of beneficial ownership.
The FATF is an independent inter-governmental body that develops AML/CFT recommendations that are recognized as standard by the national financial intelligence units. The Egmont Group provides a forum for financial intelligence units to improve co-operation in the AML/CFT and to foster the implementation of domestic programs in this field.
The online training is part of the Programme Office’s multi-year efforts to promote good governance and to combat money laundering and terrorist financing in the host country.


osce--2020-06-23--OSCE PA webinar explores challenges faced by minorities and vulnerable populations during COVID-19 p

OSCE PA webinar explores challenges faced by minorities and vulnerable populations during COVID-19 pandemic COPENHAGEN , 22 June 2020 – Noting that racism and discrimination against ethnic , linguistic and religious minorities have been on the rise during the COVID-19 crisis , participants at an OSCE Parliamentary Assembly webinar said today that public officials have a duty to speak out against intolerance and to work in favour of social cohesion .
The pandemic and related measures , if not carefully managed , have the potential to fuel discrimination , threaten stability and undermine security , they emphasized .
The webinar @ @ @ @ @ @ @ societies : challenges and opportunities for stability and social cohesion , ” featured remarks from Chair of the OSCE PA Committee on Democracy , Human Rights and Humanitarian Questions Kyriakos Hadjiyianni ( Cyprus ) ; OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities Ambassador Lamberto Zannier ; and Nada Al-Nashif , Deputy UN High Commissioner for Human Rights .
Opening the event , Hadjiyianni noted that some studies indicate that online traffic to hate websites has increased during the COVID-19 pandemic by as much as 200 per cent in some countries and that spikes in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ We should all recognize that at a time of such stress as this pandemic is causing , we must continue to be sensitive about how we express our thoughts and concerns , ” Hadjiyianni said .
“ Such comments can quickly be turned into scapegoating of minorities and feed intolerance and long-existing discrimination.
” He cited the OSCE PA ’ s Luxembourg Declaration , which called for creating a “ coalition of respect by publicly speaking out against hate speech and other manifestations of intolerance.
” Zannier stressed the importance of trying @ @ @ @ @ @ @ because of the pandemic .
He highlighted a set of recommendations by the OSCE HCNM on ensuring that COVID-19 emergency measures promote social cohesion .
Responses to COVID-19 should be inclusive and sensitive to societal diversity , he said , noting that it is important for governments to prioritize protecting the economically vulnerable , maintaining zero tolerance for discrimination and xenophobia , providing public services and communications in minority languages , and upholding human rights .
Areas that must be monitored , Zannier said , include discrimination and hate speech .
Al-Nashif spoke @ @ @ @ @ @ @ COVID-19 , with a disturbing proliferation of fake news and conspiracy theories .
Making verified and credible information available to all and especially in local and minority languages has been an ongoing issue in the context of the pandemic , she said .
Highlighting positive action by governments in addressing hate speech , Al-Nashif stressed that this issue requires constant vigilance .
New divisions have been created and existing ones have been accentuated , she noted , saying that the pandemic has exacerbated inequalities that were already in place .
She highlighted the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the need to tackle racial discrimination , pointing to an urgent session of the UN ’ s Human Rights Council on this topic that took place last week .
OSCE PA President George Tsereteli ( Georgia ) also spoke at the webinar , welcoming the commitment of parliamentarians to address these difficult issues head-on .
“ This is a time when such leadership has an increased potential to have real and lasting change for our societies , ” he said .
In the discussion , parliamentarians explored the challenges and opportunities in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ highlighted ways to help support social cohesion in responses to the pandemic .
Participants stressed the importance of collecting disaggregated data to help ensure fact-based decision-making , and discussed the heightened health risks to minority communities and the possible impact on elections .
OSCE parliamentarians stressed measures that have been taken in their countries to counteract scapegoating of minorities as well as efforts to close the digital divide to ensure that minority communities have access to information .
OSCE PA Vice-President and Rapporteur of the human rights committee Kari Henriksen ( Norway ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ world banding together to demand equality and respect for all in the context of the Black Lives Matter movement .
“ This grassroots movement and wave of protests highlight the terrible consequences of intolerance and discrimination , and how much these issues can impact social cohesion and stability when they are not adequately cared for , ” Henriksen said .
OSCE PA Special Representative on Anti-Semitism , Racism and Intolerance Ben Cardin ( United States ) highlighted the importance of reforming policing to ensure that human rights are upheld .
Monday ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Parliamentary Web Dialogues organized by the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly .
Previous webinars have been held on the economic fallout of the pandemic , maintaining democratic control during states of emergency , COVID ’ s impact on conflicts in the OSCE region , environmental aspects of the crisis , protecting refugees and migrants , and gender aspects of the pandemic .
To watch the full video of Monday ’ s webinar , please click here .
For more on the OSCE PA ’ s response to the COVID-19 crisis , please click here @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of 323 parliamentarians from 57 countries spanning Europe , Central Asia and North America .
The Assembly provides a forum for parliamentary diplomacy , monitors elections , and strengthens international co-operation to uphold commitments on political , security , economic , environmental and human rights issues .

OSCE PA webinar explores challenges faced by minorities and vulnerable populations during COVID-19 pandemic
COPENHAGEN, 22 June 2020 – Noting that racism and discrimination against ethnic, linguistic and religious minorities have been on the rise during the COVID-19 crisis, participants at an OSCE Parliamentary Assembly webinar said today that public officials have a duty to speak out against intolerance and to work in favour of social cohesion. The pandemic and related measures, if not carefully managed, have the potential to fuel discrimination, threaten stability and undermine security, they emphasized.
The webinar, entitled “COVID-19 response in diverse societies: challenges and opportunities for stability and social cohesion,” featured remarks from Chair of the OSCE PA Committee on Democracy, Human Rights and Humanitarian Questions Kyriakos Hadjiyianni (Cyprus); OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities Ambassador Lamberto Zannier; and Nada Al-Nashif, Deputy UN High Commissioner for Human Rights.
Opening the event, Hadjiyianni noted that some studies indicate that online traffic to hate websites has increased during the COVID-19 pandemic by as much as 200 per cent in some countries and that spikes in hate-based incidents have been widely reported.
“We should all recognize that at a time of such stress as this pandemic is causing, we must continue to be sensitive about how we express our thoughts and concerns,” Hadjiyianni said. “Such comments can quickly be turned into scapegoating of minorities and feed intolerance and long-existing discrimination.” He cited the OSCE PA’s Luxembourg Declaration, which called for creating a “coalition of respect by publicly speaking out against hate speech and other manifestations of intolerance.”
Zannier stressed the importance of trying to protect those who are more vulnerable because of the pandemic. He highlighted a set of recommendations by the OSCE HCNM on ensuring that COVID-19 emergency measures promote social cohesion. Responses to COVID-19 should be inclusive and sensitive to societal diversity, he said, noting that it is important for governments to prioritize protecting the economically vulnerable, maintaining zero tolerance for discrimination and xenophobia, providing public services and communications in minority languages, and upholding human rights. Areas that must be monitored, Zannier said, include discrimination and hate speech.
Al-Nashif spoke about an ‘infodemic’ related to COVID-19, with a disturbing proliferation of fake news and conspiracy theories. Making verified and credible information available to all and especially in local and minority languages has been an ongoing issue in the context of the pandemic, she said.
Highlighting positive action by governments in addressing hate speech, Al-Nashif stressed that this issue requires constant vigilance. New divisions have been created and existing ones have been accentuated, she noted, saying that the pandemic has exacerbated inequalities that were already in place. She highlighted the Black Lives Matter protests as a reminder of the need to tackle racial discrimination, pointing to an urgent session of the UN’s Human Rights Council on this topic that took place last week.
OSCE PA President George Tsereteli (Georgia) also spoke at the webinar, welcoming the commitment of parliamentarians to address these difficult issues head-on. “This is a time when such leadership has an increased potential to have real and lasting change for our societies,” he said.
In the discussion, parliamentarians explored the challenges and opportunities in diverse societies presented by COVID-19, and highlighted ways to help support social cohesion in responses to the pandemic. Participants stressed the importance of collecting disaggregated data to help ensure fact-based decision-making, and discussed the heightened health risks to minority communities and the possible impact on elections. OSCE parliamentarians stressed measures that have been taken in their countries to counteract scapegoating of minorities as well as efforts to close the digital divide to ensure that minority communities have access to information.
OSCE PA Vice-President and Rapporteur of the human rights committee Kari Henriksen (Norway) highlighted the efforts of people around the world banding together to demand equality and respect for all in the context of the Black Lives Matter movement. “This grassroots movement and wave of protests highlight the terrible consequences of intolerance and discrimination, and how much these issues can impact social cohesion and stability when they are not adequately cared for,” Henriksen said.
OSCE PA Special Representative on Anti-Semitism, Racism and Intolerance Ben Cardin (United States) highlighted the importance of reforming policing to ensure that human rights are upheld.
Monday’s event was the seventh in a series of Parliamentary Web Dialogues organized by the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly. Previous webinars have been held on the economic fallout of the pandemic, maintaining democratic control during states of emergency, COVID’s impact on conflicts in the OSCE region, environmental aspects of the crisis, protecting refugees and migrants, and gender aspects of the pandemic.
To watch the full video of Monday’s webinar, please click here.
For more on the OSCE PA’s response to the COVID-19 crisis, please click here.
###
The OSCE Parliamentary Assembly is comprised of 323 parliamentarians from 57 countries spanning Europe, Central Asia and North America. The Assembly provides a forum for parliamentary diplomacy, monitors elections, and strengthens international co-operation to uphold commitments on political, security, economic, environmental and human rights issues.


osce--2020-06-22--OSCE Permanent Council Chair Hasani and Secretary General Greminger urge sides to ensure security of

OSCE Permanent Council Chair Hasani and Secretary General Greminger urge sides to ensure security of OSCE SMM to Ukraine personnel and assets

VIENNA , 22 June 2020 – The Chair of the OSCE Permanent Council , Ambassador Igli Hasani , and OSCE Secretary General Thomas Greminger expressed their deep concern about a recent serious incident involving threats to the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine ( SMM ) personnel and assets .
On 22 June , the SMM camera in government-controlled Shyrokyne was damaged .
The SMM is currently following up on the incident to gather further details .
Hasani and Greminger urged the sides to ensure the security of SMM equipment as well as its staff , so the SMM can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ There is no excuse for the deliberate destruction of OSCE equipment .
This provides an essential tool for monitoring the implementation of commitments by the sides , ” said Ambassador Hasani .
“ This is not an isolated incident .
We have seen a range of incidents involving threats to the SMM ’ s staff , as well as the regular obstruction of its work and freedom of movement .
This must stop.
” Secretary General Greminger said that this is another example of the disregard for the security of staff @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We have seen too many cases where SMM patrols were exposed to shots and explosions , often breaching specific security commitments .
More than ever , it is essential to ensure safe and unimpeded access for the Mission throughout Ukraine and respect for the equipment it needs to do its work.
” The incident follows the apparently deliberate targeting , at a relatively close range , of a camera located in non-government-controlled Petrivske on 2 June 2020 .
SMM patrols have been exposed to explosions and shooting in their near vicinity on frequent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ regularly jammed and shot at and , on occasion , lost on both sides of the contact line .

VIENNA, 22 June 2020 – The Chair of the OSCE Permanent Council, Ambassador Igli Hasani, and OSCE Secretary General Thomas Greminger expressed their deep concern about a recent serious incident involving threats to the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) personnel and assets.
On 22 June, the SMM camera in government-controlled Shyrokyne was damaged. The SMM is currently following up on the incident to gather further details. Hasani and Greminger urged the sides to ensure the security of SMM equipment as well as its staff, so the SMM can continue to operate according to its mandate.
“There is no excuse for the deliberate destruction of OSCE equipment. This provides an essential tool for monitoring the implementation of commitments by the sides,” said Ambassador Hasani. “This is not an isolated incident. We have seen a range of incidents involving threats to the SMM’s staff, as well as the regular obstruction of its work and freedom of movement. This must stop.”
Secretary General Greminger said that this is another example of the disregard for the security of staff and equipment of the SMM. “We have seen too many cases where SMM patrols were exposed to shots and explosions, often breaching specific security commitments. More than ever, it is essential to ensure safe and unimpeded access for the Mission throughout Ukraine and respect for the equipment it needs to do its work.”
The incident follows the apparently deliberate targeting, at a relatively close range, of a camera located in non-government-controlled Petrivske on 2 June 2020.
SMM patrols have been exposed to explosions and shooting in their near vicinity on frequent occasions. SMM UAVs have also been regularly jammed and shot at and, on occasion, lost on both sides of the contact line.


osce--2020-06-22--OSCE SMM Spot Report 33/2020: SMM camera near Shyrokyne damaged

At 08:10 on 22 June , the SMM lost the video feed from its daylight camera located 1km south-west of @ @ @ @ @ south of Donetsk ) .
The camera is generally directed northwards along the contact line @ @ @ @ @ Ukrainian Armed Forces officer of the Joint Centre for Control and Co-ordination ( JCCC ) @ @ @ @ @ camera had sustained damage .
Between 10:20 and 11:42 , during multiple flights , an @ @ @ @ @ UAV ) spotted that the camera was lying on the ground within the camera site @ @ @ @ @ corner ) and that the upper part of the camera mast was lying outside the @ @ @ @ @ edge ) with an antenna still attached to it .
The UAV also spotted that @ @ @ @ @ data transmission cable were hanging alongside the portion of the mast which remained standing .
@ @ @ @ @ follow up on this incident .

At 08:10 on 22 June, the SMM lost the video feed from its daylight camera located 1km south-west of Shyrokyne (government-controlled, 100km south of Donetsk). The camera is generally directed northwards along the contact line.
At 08:15, a Ukrainian Armed Forces officer of the Joint Centre for Control and Co-ordination (JCCC) told the Mission that the camera had sustained damage.
Between 10:20 and 11:42, during multiple flights, an SMM unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) spotted that the camera was lying on the ground within the camera site perimeter (near its south-eastern corner) and that the upper part of the camera mast was lying outside the site (along its western edge) with an antenna still attached to it. The UAV also spotted that a power cable and a data transmission cable were hanging alongside the portion of the mast which remained standing.
The SMM will continue to follow up on this incident.


osce--2020-07-06--OSCE Media Freedom Representative Harlem Désir dismayed by court verdict against journalist Svetlana

OSCE Media Freedom Representative Harlem Désir dismayed by court verdict against journalist Svetlana Prokopyeva in Russia

VIENNA , 6 July 2020 – The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media , Harlem Désir , expressed his serious dismay today at the court verdict against journalist Svetlana Prokopyeva in Russia .
The Second Western District Military Court in the city of Pskov found journalist Svetlana Prokopyeva guilty of `` publicly justifying terrorism '' and fined her 500,000 roubles ( about 6,000 euro ) .
Earlier , on 3 July , the prosecutor had requested a sentence of six years in prison .
“ Although I am glad that Svetlana Prokopyeva was not sentenced to prison , her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ journalists to the exercise of their right to freedom of expression , ” Désir said .
“ Prokopeyva had no involvement in any terrorist activity and never condoned terrorism .
I hope that this verdict will be reversed in appeal.
” The charges were brought after Prokopyeva ’ s comments on radio following a terrorist attack in the Russian city of Arkhangelsk in October 2018 .
Prokopyeva , a journalist with Radio Ekho Moskvy in Pskov , is a contributor to various other media , including Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty ’ s Russian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on a number of occasions in the case of Prokopyeva , whom he met last autumn in Moscow during the conference on Freedom of the Media and Safety of Journalists in the Russian Federation and in the OSCE region .

VIENNA, 6 July 2020 – The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, Harlem Désir, expressed his serious dismay today at the court verdict against journalist Svetlana Prokopyeva in Russia.
The Second Western District Military Court in the city of Pskov found journalist Svetlana Prokopyeva guilty of "publicly justifying terrorism" and fined her 500,000 roubles (about 6,000 euro). Earlier, on 3 July, the prosecutor had requested a sentence of six years in prison.
“Although I am glad that Svetlana Prokopyeva was not sentenced to prison, her condemnation sets a dangerous precedent for Russian journalists to the exercise of their right to freedom of expression,” Désir said. “Prokopeyva had no involvement in any terrorist activity and never condoned terrorism. I hope that this verdict will be reversed in appeal.”
The charges were brought after Prokopyeva’s comments on radio following a terrorist attack in the Russian city of Arkhangelsk in October 2018. Prokopyeva, a journalist with Radio Ekho Moskvy in Pskov, is a contributor to various other media, including Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty’s Russian Service.
The OSCE Representative has intervened on a number of occasions in the case of Prokopyeva, whom he met last autumn in Moscow during the conference on Freedom of the Media and Safety of Journalists in the Russian Federation and in the OSCE region.
For previous interventions see: https://twitter.com/OSCE_RFoM/status/1279459200511459331; https://www.osce.org/representative-on-freedom-of-media/448645; https://www.osce.org/representative-on-freedom-of-media/411116; https://www.osce.org/representative-on-freedom-of-media/434678; https://www.osce.org/representative-on-freedom-of-media/411116.


osce--2020-07-05--Statement of OSCE Head of Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina Kavalec on the occasion of 5 July Bratun

Statement of OSCE Head of Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina Kavalec on the occasion of 5 July Bratunac commemoration

“ On behalf of the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina ( BiH ) , I would like to express our sincere condolences to the Serb families who lost their loved ones in the Birač region during the 1992-1995 armed conflict , ” said Head of the OSCE Mission Kathleen Kavalec , on the occasion of the commemoration on 5 July 2020 .
“ Today ’ s commemoration is another reminder of the horror of the war .
Across BiH people mourn the loss of their family , friends and neighbours .
We underline that every innocent civilian victim of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ must be brought to justice .
Furthermore , we attach great importance to mutual empathy , in other words , the people of BiH recognizing , respecting and taking into account the suffering of all victims and their loved ones .
We see this as the foundation for a brighter future for you and your children .
Your community still suffers from past atrocities committed against the civilian population .
At the same time , thanks to joint efforts of the local population and community leaders , you found a way to live @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The OSCE Mission to BiH will continue to play its role in the region to support these processes .
”

“On behalf of the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH), I would like to express our sincere condolences to the Serb families who lost their loved ones in the Birač region during the 1992-1995 armed conflict,” said Head of the OSCE Mission Kathleen Kavalec, on the occasion of the commemoration on 5 July 2020.
“Today’s commemoration is another reminder of the horror of the war. Across BiH people mourn the loss of their family, friends and neighbours. We underline that every innocent civilian victim of war deserves to be acknowledged and perpetrators must be brought to justice.
Furthermore, we attach great importance to mutual empathy, in other words, the people of BiH recognizing, respecting and taking into account the suffering of all victims and their loved ones. We see this as the foundation for a brighter future for you and your children.
Your community still suffers from past atrocities committed against the civilian population. At the same time, thanks to joint efforts of the local population and community leaders, you found a way to live together and have started common developments. The OSCE Mission to BiH will continue to play its role in the region to support these processes.”


osce--2020-07-04--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 158/2020 issued on 4 July 2020


osce--2020-07-03--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 157/2020 issued on 3 July 2020


osce--2020-07-02--Good governance and fight against corruption in digital era focus of OSCE Chairmanship-hosted high-l

Good governance and fight against corruption in digital era focus of OSCE Chairmanship-hosted high-level conference in Vienna

VIENNA , 3 July 2020 – Good governance and the fight against corruption in the digital era is the focus of the OSCE Albanian Chairmanship high-level conference taking place on 6 and 7 July in Vienna .
OSCE Chairperson-in-Office , Albania ’ s Prime Minister and Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs , Edi Rama , OSCE Secretary General Thomas Greminger and the Albanian Minister of Justice Etilda Gjonaj will open the conference .
Ghada Fathi Waly , the Director-General/Executive Director of the UN Office at Vienna/United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime ( UNODC ) , will address at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ against corruption is a top priority of the Albanian 2020 Chairmanship .
The aim of the conference is to stimulate political dialogue among the participating States , focusing on strengthening the principles of transparency , integrity and accountability .
The conference will also identify and work towards implementation of anti-corruption approaches which strengthen democracy , the rule of law , economic development , and stability and security in the OSCE region .
High-level representatives from OSCE participating States , Partners for Co-operation , UNODC , and other international organizations , academia and civil @ @ @ @ @ @ @ share best practices and lessons learned .
Media representatives can follow the opening of the conference on 6 July , Monday , from 10:00 to 12:00 , via Zoom .
Please register online by 5 July , Sunday , via https : //events.osce.org/2020-albanian-osce-chairmanship-conference/registration .
The link to access the opening session will be sent after the registration deadline .
Agenda of the meeting here .

VIENNA, 3 July 2020 – Good governance and the fight against corruption in the digital era is the focus of the OSCE Albanian Chairmanship high-level conference taking place on 6 and 7 July in Vienna.
OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, Albania’s Prime Minister and Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Edi Rama, OSCE Secretary General Thomas Greminger and the Albanian Minister of Justice Etilda Gjonaj will open the conference.
Ghada Fathi Waly, the Director-General/Executive Director of the UN Office at Vienna/United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), will address at the high level panel.
The fight against corruption is a top priority of the Albanian 2020 Chairmanship. The aim of the conference is to stimulate political dialogue among the participating States, focusing on strengthening the principles of transparency, integrity and accountability. The conference will also identify and work towards implementation of anti-corruption approaches which strengthen democracy, the rule of law, economic development, and stability and security in the OSCE region.
High-level representatives from OSCE participating States, Partners for Co-operation, UNODC, and other international organizations, academia and civil society will discuss the main challenges and share best practices and lessons learned.
Media representatives can follow the opening of the conference on 6 July, Monday, from 10:00 to 12:00, via Zoom.
Please register online by 5 July, Sunday, via https://events.osce.org/2020-albanian-osce-chairmanship-conference/registration. The link to access the opening session will be sent after the registration deadline.
Agenda of the meeting here.


osce--2020-07-03--Rise of artificial intelligence and how it will reshape the future of free speech, in spotlight of O

Rise of artificial intelligence and how it will reshape the future of free speech, in spotlight of OSCE online event on 8 July

VIENNA , 3 July 2020 – The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media , Harlem Désir , will be organizing an online event on 8 July on “ The rise of artificial intelligence ( AI ) and how it will reshape the future of free speech ” .
The event will provide a platform to discuss the role of AI in shaping and arbitrating information , and the impact this has on freedom of expression .
The Representative will open the event , which will consist of two sessions .
Session one , on “ The use of AI @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for freedom of expression ” will seek to address the role and responsibilities of internet intermediaries in addressing illegal and potentially harmful content , such as security threats and hate speech .
It will also address the particular role of States in ensuring responsible moderation of content without harming democratic discourse .
Session two , on “ How does the use of AI to rank , monetize and curate content impact free speech ?
” will focus on how AI is deployed for sorting , prioritizing and curating content , and the impact @ @ @ @ @ @ @ diversity online .
The following speakers will address the sessions : Session one : Daniel Holznagel , German Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection ; Andrey Kuleshov , Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology ; Benoît Loutrel , French Social Network Regulation Task Force ; Nathalie Maréchal , Ranking Digital Rights ; and Eliška Pírková , Access Now .
Session two : Barbora Bukovska , ARTICLE 19 ; Joris van Hoboken , Vrije Universiteit Brussels ; Emma Llansó , Center for Democracy and Technology ; and Tuomas Pöysti , Chancellor of Justice of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will bring together a broad audience , including experts from civil society , academia , the tech industry and other international stakeholders in order to enable interactive discussions .
Media representatives can follow the event live on 8 July , Wednesday , from 14:30 to 17:30 , via Zoom .
Please register online via https : //events.osce.org/2020-rfom-the-rise-of-ai/registration/Site/Register .
The link to access the event will be sent after registering .
In addition , the event will be livestreamed on the event webpage .
More details of the event , including an agenda and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : https : //www.osce.org/representative-on-freedom-of-media/455605 .

VIENNA, 3 July 2020 – The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, Harlem Désir, will be organizing an online event on 8 July on “The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and how it will reshape the future of free speech”.
The event will provide a platform to discuss the role of AI in shaping and arbitrating information, and the impact this has on freedom of expression.
The Representative will open the event, which will consist of two sessions.
Session one, on “The use of AI in content moderation: challenges and risks for freedom of expression” will seek to address the role and responsibilities of internet intermediaries in addressing illegal and potentially harmful content, such as security threats and hate speech. It will also address the particular role of States in ensuring responsible moderation of content without harming democratic discourse.
Session two, on “How does the use of AI to rank, monetize and curate content impact free speech?” will focus on how AI is deployed for sorting, prioritizing and curating content, and the impact that such technologies have on plurality and diversity online.
The following speakers will address the sessions:
Session one: Daniel Holznagel, German Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection; Andrey Kuleshov, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology; Benoît Loutrel, French Social Network Regulation Task Force; Nathalie Maréchal, Ranking Digital Rights; and Eliška Pírková, Access Now.
Session two: Barbora Bukovska, ARTICLE 19; Joris van Hoboken,Vrije Universiteit Brussels; Emma Llansó, Center for Democracy and Technology; and Tuomas Pöysti, Chancellor of Justice of the Government of Finland.
The event will bring together a broad audience, including experts from civil society, academia, the tech industry and other international stakeholders in order to enable interactive discussions.
Media representatives can follow the event live on 8 July, Wednesday, from 14:30 to 17:30, via Zoom.
Please register online via https://events.osce.org/2020-rfom-the-rise-of-ai/registration/Site/Register. The link to access the event will be sent after registering.
In addition, the event will be livestreamed, watch here:

More details of the event, including an agenda, can be found here: https://www.osce.org/representative-on-freedom-of-media/455605.


osce--2020-07-03--OSCE Mission to Montenegro supports drafting of the Police Strategy

To support the drafting of the new 2021-2024 Police Development Strategy and the 2021-2022 Action Plan , on 2 and 3 July 2020 in Bečići , the OSCE Mission to Montenegro facilitated a series of four working sessions , with 38 officials of the Interior Ministry and Police Directorate , to develop these strategic documents .
Safet Korać , General Director for Strategic Development Affairs in the Ministry , outlined the importance of the Strategy for the work of the police .
“ The goal of the Strategy is to provide solutions to the problemspolice face on a daily basis @ @ @ @ @ @ @ This workshop will significantly contribute to the drafting process , ” said Korać .
Zoran Brđanin , Chief Police Inspector , said that both the management and the police officers are dedicated to reforming the Montenegrin police .
“ To continue with the process , a strategic framework is needed to determine the direction for the further development of the Police Directorate.
” Brđanin added that with support from the OSCE Mission and the Centre for Integrity in the Defense Sector , and the involvement of the Police and Ministry , this methodological @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , applicable , but also verifiablestrategic document .
Dragica Vučinić , the Mission ’ s National Security and Co-operation Officer , noted that the OSCE supported the Ministry and Police to developand implementthe 2016-2020 Police Strategy 2016-2020 .
“ The Mission will continue to provide technical expertise to developa new set of strategic documents for the next four years , by ensuring local ownership and the sustainability of efforts , ” said Vučinić .
OSCE expert Olivera Injac presented the Situation Analyses report to help identifypolice strategic goals to 2024 .
The OSCE @ @ @ @ @ @ @ national partners to effectively and responsibly secure society within a framework of democratic , civilian control , the rule of law and respect for human rights .
The workshop was held in line with the OSCE and the government ’ s prescribed COVID-19 safety and security measures .

To support the drafting of the new 2021-2024 Police Development Strategy and the 2021-2022 Action Plan, on 2 and 3 July 2020 in Bečići, the OSCE Mission to Montenegro facilitated a series of four working sessions, with 38 officials of the Interior Ministry and Police Directorate, to develop these strategic documents.
Safet Korać, General Director for Strategic Development Affairs in the Ministry, outlined the importance of the Strategy for the work of the police. “The goal of the Strategy is to provide solutions to the problemspolice face on a daily basis and to improve the working conditions. This workshop will significantly contribute to the drafting process,” said Korać.
Zoran Brđanin, Chief Police Inspector, said that both the management and the police officers are dedicated to reforming the Montenegrin police. “To continue with the process, a strategic framework is needed to determine the direction for the further development of the Police Directorate.” Brđanin added that with support from the OSCE Mission and the Centre for Integrity in the Defense Sector, and the involvement of the Police and Ministry, this methodological approach will guarantee a quality, realistic, applicable, but also verifiablestrategic document.
Dragica Vučinić, the Mission’s National Security and Co-operation Officer, noted that the OSCE supported the Ministry and Police to developand implementthe 2016-2020 Police Strategy 2016-2020. “The Mission will continue to provide technical expertise to developa new set of strategic documents for the next four years, by ensuring local ownership and the sustainability of efforts,” said Vučinić.
OSCE expert Olivera Injac presented the Situation Analyses report to help identifypolice strategic goals to 2024.
The OSCE Mission to Montenegro remains committed to supporting national partners to effectively and responsibly secure society within a framework of democratic, civilian control, the rule of law and respect for human rights. The workshop was held in line with the OSCE and the government’s prescribed COVID-19 safety and security measures.


osce--2020-07-03--Spot Report 36/2020: Members of the armed formations continued to deny SMM patrols passage at checkp

Spot Report 36/2020: Members of the armed formations continued to deny SMM patrols passage at checkpoints in Donetsk and Luhansk regions

From 27 June to 3 July , members of the armed formations again denied the SMM attempts to cross into non-government-controlled areas along official crossing routes : seven times in Donetsk region and three times in Luhansk region , while further attempts to cross into government-controlled areas were also denied – twice in Donetsk region and four times in Luhansk region .
On 26 , 27 , 28 , 29 , 30 June and on 1 and 2 July , at a checkpoint south of the Stanytsia Luhanska bridge ( 15km north-east of Luhansk ) , members of the armed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ towards non-government-controlled areas on three occasions , and passage towards government-controlled areas on four other occasions – five times referring to the closure of the checkpoint due to COVID-19 , twice stating “ SMM did not have permission to cross ” and once referring to “ instructions received from those in control ” .
On 26 , 27 June and on 1 July , at a checkpoint near Horlivka ( non-government-controlled , 39km north-east of Donetsk ) , the Mission was again unable to travel towards non-government-controlled areas due to the presence of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the road , and of a mine hazard sign .
In addition , on 27 June , members of the armed formations denied the SMM passage towards government-controlled areas referring to a “ lack of permission from their superiors ” .
On 26 June and on 2 July , at a checkpoint west of Verkhnoshyrokivske ( formerly Oktiabr , non-government-controlled , 85km south of Donetsk ) , members of the armed formations ( some visibly armed ) denied the SMM passage towards non-government-controlled areas , once referring to quarantine restrictions due to COVID-19 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ On 28 June , at a checkpoint near Olenivka ( non-government-controlled , 23km south-west of Donetsk ) , members of the armed formations denied the SMM passage twice – once towards government-controlled areas , and once towards non-government-controlled areas , referring to the closure of the checkpoint on both occasions .
On 29 June , at a checkpoint near Oleksandrivka ( non-government-controlled , 20km south-west of Donetsk ) , members of the armed formations denied the SMM passage towards non-government-controlled areas , referring to the closure of the checkpoint .
The Mission began @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into non-government-controlled areas at checkpoints of the armed formations in Donetsk region on 21 March and Luhansk region on 23 March ( see previous SMM Spot Reports ) .
They restrict the SMM ’ s freedom of movement across the contact line , thus impeding the implementation of its mandate throughout the country .
With regard to COVID-19 , the SMM has introduced a number of stringent mitigation measures into its operational procedures .
These include strict adherence to social distancing rules both internally and with external interlocutors , daily temperature checks , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of personnel in vehicles .

From 27 June to 3 July, members of the armed formations again denied the SMM attempts to cross into non-government-controlled areas along official crossing routes: seven times in Donetsk region and three times in Luhansk region, while further attempts to cross into government-controlled areas were also denied – twice in Donetsk region and four times in Luhansk region.
On 26, 27, 28, 29, 30 June and on 1 and 2 July, at a checkpoint south of the Stanytsia Luhanska bridge (15km north-east of Luhansk), members of the armed formations continued to deny the SMM passage towards non-government-controlled areas on three occasions, and passage towards government-controlled areas on four other occasions – five times referring to the closure of the checkpoint due to COVID-19, twice stating “SMM did not have permission to cross” and once referring to “instructions received from those in control”.
On 26, 27 June and on 1 July, at a checkpoint near Horlivka (non-government-controlled, 39km north-east of Donetsk), the Mission was again unable to travel towards non-government-controlled areas due to the presence of a metal barrier and spikes laid across the road, and of a mine hazard sign. In addition, on 27 June, members of the armed formations denied the SMM passage towards government-controlled areas referring to a “lack of permission from their superiors”.
On 26 June and on 2 July, at a checkpoint west of Verkhnoshyrokivske (formerly Oktiabr, non-government-controlled, 85km south of Donetsk), members of the armed formations (some visibly armed) denied the SMM passage towards non-government-controlled areas, once referring to quarantine restrictions due to COVID-19 and once without providing any reason.
On 28 June, at a checkpoint near Olenivka (non-government-controlled, 23km south-west of Donetsk), members of the armed formations denied the SMM passage twice – once towards government-controlled areas, and once towards non-government-controlled areas, referring to the closure of the checkpoint on both occasions.
On 29 June, at a checkpoint near Oleksandrivka (non-government-controlled, 20km south-west of Donetsk), members of the armed formations denied the SMM passage towards non-government-controlled areas, referring to the closure of the checkpoint.
The Mission began facing repeated denials when attempting to cross into non-government-controlled areas at checkpoints of the armed formations in Donetsk region on 21 March and Luhansk region on 23 March (see previous SMM Spot Reports). They restrict the SMM’s freedom of movement across the contact line, thus impeding the implementation of its mandate throughout the country.
***
With regard to COVID-19, the SMM has introduced a number of stringent mitigation measures into its operational procedures. These include strict adherence to social distancing rules both internally and with external interlocutors, daily temperature checks, use of PPE and minimizing the number of personnel in vehicles.


osce--2020-07-03--OSCE Mission to Montenegro donates forensic equipment to the Police Directorate

The OSCE Mission to Montenegro donated forensic equipment valued at €51,982 to the country 's Forensic Centre and the Cyber @ @ @ @ @ Directorate on 3 July 2020 .
Maryse Daviet , Head of the OSCE Mission and @ @ @ @ @ the Police Directorate , signed a donation agreement electronically , due to the ongoing restrictive @ @ @ @ @ This donation is part of the Mission 's ongoing support to strengthen the Forensic Centre @ @ @ @ @ to conduct investigations into cyber and organized crime .
The signing of the agreement is @ @ @ @ @ co-operation between the OSCE Mission and the Police Directorate .
In 2018 and 2019 , @ @ @ @ @ equipment worth a total of €86,000 .
The OSCE has supported the Forensic Centre since @ @ @ @ @ both in terms of providing equipment and professional training and mentoring to its scientists .

The OSCE Mission to Montenegro donated forensic equipment valued at €51,982 to the country's Forensic Centre and the Cyber Crime Unit within the Police Directorate on 3 July 2020.
Maryse Daviet, Head of the OSCE Mission and Veselin Veljović, Director of the Police Directorate, signed a donation agreement electronically, due to the ongoing restrictive circumstances caused by COVID-19.
This donation is part of the Mission's ongoing support to strengthen the Forensic Centre and the Cyber Crime Unit to conduct investigations into cyber and organized crime.
The signing of the agreement is a confirmation of the continuous co-operation between the OSCE Mission and the Police Directorate. In 2018 and 2019, the Mission donated a forensic equipment worth a total of €86,000.
The OSCE has supported the Forensic Centre since its inception in 2008, both in terms of providing equipment and professional training and mentoring to its scientists.


osce--2020-07-02--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 156/2020 issued on 2 July 2020