osce--2020-03-06--OSCE promotes active role of Ukraine’s law enforcers in supporting women who have experienced violen

OSCE promotes active role of Ukraine’s law enforcers in supporting women who have experienced violence

On 6 March 2020 , ahead of International Women ’ s Day , the OSCE dispatched two-thousand posters highlighting the need to stop violence against women to police stations all over Ukraine .
The posters stress the important role that the police play in supporting and protecting women who have experienced violence .
The posters were produced as part of the “ End the Silence ” awareness-raising campaign which was implemented by the OSCE Secretariat ’ s Gender Section and supported by the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Ukraine and the country ’ s National Police .
The posters will serve @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the ground of the recently established procedures and regulations aimed at better protecting victims of domestic abuse .
They are designed in a way that officers can fill in data relevant to their local communities with contact numbers of local social service providers , childcare and psychological support services and civil society organizations working in that community .
Officers can refer survivors of violence to these providers for additional assistance .
The posters also contain links to the recently published findings of the OSCE-led Survey on the Well-being and Safety of Women @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , in South-Eastern Europe and Eastern Europe .
More information about the OSCE-led survey and its results for Ukraine can be found at : https : //www.osce.org/VAWsurvey/publications .
The survey was implemented as part of a project funded by the European Union and supported by the United Nations Population Fund , UN Women and the United Nations Children Fund , as well as by the governments of Austria , Finland , Germany , Ireland , Italy , Liechtenstein , the Netherlands , Norway , the United States of America and Sweden .

On 6 March 2020, ahead of International Women’s Day, the OSCE dispatched two-thousand posters highlighting the need to stop violence against women to police stations all over Ukraine. The posters stress the important role that the police play in supporting and protecting women who have experienced violence. The posters were produced as part of the “End the Silence” awareness-raising campaign which was implemented by the OSCE Secretariat’s Gender Section and supported by the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Ukraine and the country’s National Police.
The posters will serve as a useful reminder to law enforcers on the ground of the recently established procedures and regulations aimed at better protecting victims of domestic abuse.
They are designed in a way that officers can fill in data relevant to their local communities with contact numbers of local social service providers, childcare and psychological support services and civil society organizations working in that community. Officers can refer survivors of violence to these providers for additional assistance. The posters also contain links to the recently published findings of the OSCE-led Survey on the Well-being and Safety of Women that covers Ukraine, among other countries, in South-Eastern Europe and Eastern Europe.
More information about the OSCE-led survey and its results for Ukraine can be found at: https://www.osce.org/VAWsurvey/publications. The survey was implemented as part of a project funded by the European Union and supported by the United Nations Population Fund, UN Women and the United Nations Children Fund, as well as by the governments of Austria, Finland, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Liechtenstein, the Netherlands, Norway, the United States of America and Sweden.


osce--2020-03-06--Greater representation of women in local elections in Bosnia and Herzegovina the focus of OSCE co-or

Greater representation of women in local elections in Bosnia and Herzegovina the focus of OSCE co-organized conference

The conference “ More Than Quota : Towards Greater Representation of Women in Local Elections 2020 ” concluded today in Sarajevo .
It was organized by Westminster Foundation for Democracy and the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina ( BiH ) , in partnership with the Gender Equality Commission of the House of Representatives of the Parliamentary Assembly of BiH on the occasion of International Women ’ s Day .
The aim of the conference was to draw attention to the main causes resulting in poor representation of women in politics and decision-making bodies , with particular focus on violence @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of women .
Nermina Voloder , Country Representative of Westminster Foundation , said : “ Women in Bosnia and Herzegovina who participate in political life often do it at their own expense , as the lingering traditional norms raise the bar for women in terms of what the public and political entities expect of them .
Women in politics face different forms of violence , most commonly in the form of intimidation on social media , and disrespectful , demeaning sexist comments.
” She referred to the Survey on Violence against Women in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for Democracy in 2019 , which revealed that 60 % of the women surveyed confirmed having experienced some form of violence during their time in politics .
“ It is for this reason that women decide to ‘ withdraw ’ from political life .
Violence is particularly widespread on social media and the election process causes it to rise significantly .
Political parties and the media have a responsibility to ensure equal conditions for the political participation of women and men , ” Voloder said .
Elmaja Bavčić , Co-ordinator of the Gender @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to BiH noted that there is a real disconnect between women ’ s participation in political processes and their representation in formal political structures .
“ Despite the electoral list requiring a 40 % gender quota , stark inequalities remain in gender representation in decision-making bodies at all levels of government .
Increasing women ’ s participation in politics brings wide and important benefits for the whole society – not only for women .
When women participate in politics and elections – be it as candidates , voters , party supporters or electoral @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their needs and interests are well addressed ” , she said .
The OSCE Mission to BiH and Westminster Foundation will continue to work with political parties to improve gender equality principles in their policies and programmes , as well as increase women ’ s meaningful political participation in Bosnia and Herzegovina .

The conference “More Than Quota: Towards Greater Representation of Women in Local Elections 2020” concluded today in Sarajevo. It was organized by Westminster Foundation for Democracy and the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH), in partnership with the Gender Equality Commission of the House of Representatives of the Parliamentary Assembly of BiH on the occasion of International Women’s Day.
The aim of the conference was to draw attention to the main causes resulting in poor representation of women in politics and decision-making bodies, with particular focus on violence in public spaces that limits political activism of women.
Nermina Voloder, Country Representative of Westminster Foundation, said: “Women in Bosnia and Herzegovina who participate in political life often do it at their own expense, as the lingering traditional norms raise the bar for women in terms of what the public and political entities expect of them. Women in politics face different forms of violence, most commonly in the form of intimidation on social media, and disrespectful, demeaning sexist comments.” She referred to the Survey on Violence against Women in Politics, published by the Westminster Foundation for Democracy in 2019, which revealed that 60% of the women surveyed confirmed having experienced some form of violence during their time in politics.
“It is for this reason that women decide to ‘withdraw’ from political life. Violence is particularly widespread on social media and the election process causes it to rise significantly. Political parties and the media have a responsibility to ensure equal conditions for the political participation of women and men,” Voloder said.
Elmaja Bavčić, Co-ordinator of the Gender and Youth Unit of the OSCE Mission to BiH noted that there is a real disconnect between women’s participation in political processes and their representation in formal political structures. “Despite the electoral list requiring a 40% gender quota, stark inequalities remain in gender representation in decision-making bodies at all levels of government. Increasing women’s participation in politics brings wide and important benefits for the whole society – not only for women. When women participate in politics and elections – be it as candidates, voters, party supporters or electoral administrators – they can make sure that their needs and interests are well addressed”, she said.
The OSCE Mission to BiH and Westminster Foundation will continue to work with political parties to improve gender equality principles in their policies and programmes, as well as increase women’s meaningful political participation in Bosnia and Herzegovina.


osce--2020-03-06--On International Women’s Day, OSCE officials call for strengthening intergenerational dialogue to ad

On International Women’s Day, OSCE officials call for strengthening intergenerational dialogue to advance gender equality

TIRANA/VIENNA/WARSAW , 6 March 2020 - Ahead of the International Women ’ s Day OSCE leaders urged further action in promoting gender equality and called for intergenerational dialogue to ensure engagement of young people .
This year Women ’ s Day is marked against the backdrop of the 20th anniversary of the UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women , Peace and Security and the 25th anniversary of the Beijing Platform for Action for the Advancement of Women , and these occasions provide an opportunity to take stock of progress made , they said .
OSCE Chairperson-in-Office , Albania ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Foreign Affairs , Edi Rama ; OSCE Secretary General Thomas Greminger ; and Director of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights ( ODIHR ) , Ingibjörg Sólrún Gísladóttir stressed that in promoting gender equality it is important to hear different experiences and perspectives and noted in particular the need to involve young men and women .
Young people represent 38 per cent of the population in the OSCE region and they need to be involved in moving gender equality forward , as doing so contributes to sustainable peace and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s Prime Minister and Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs , Edi Rama said : “ Gender equality challenges like combating violence against women , ensuring women´s participation in conflict prevention and mediation , reconciliation and the strong promotion of equal opportunities of women in the social , economic and public and political sphere can only be overcome if men and women of all ages work together.
” The Chairperson-in Office also said that the OSCE is committed to continue its work in advancing gender equality and empowering women and girls .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ participating States to promote advancing laws , policies and implementation tools to a whole new level to support and protect women ’ s rights.
” OSCE Secretary General Thomas Greminger noted challenges in increasing women ’ s inclusion in peace processes in the OSCE area : “ Even if there are fewer gender inequalities in a number of areas today compared to 25 years ago , progress has been slow .
In peace negotiations , women are still significantly underrepresented .
The OSCE is committed to the implementation of the women , peace @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more young men and women in peace processes . ''
Referencing the importance of digital technology for the future of gender equality , ODIHR Director Gísladóttir said : `` We now have a generation of young women who were raised in the digital world , and they are making their voices heard both on- and offline .
In fact , young people often have a well-developed sense of what true equality means , which makes me optimistic.
” She added : “ At the same time , women seeking an active role in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ subjected to harassment and abuse .
Political leaders must do more to ensure that women and girls are able to engage safely .
These are the changemakers of the future , and they need our support.
” The importance of the intergenerational dialogue on gender equality was also the focus of an OSCE event hosted by the Gender Section today in Vienna to mark the International Women ’ s Day .
Participants discussed how different generations of women and men see the opportunities and challenges , and how they can work effectively together @ @ @ @ @

TIRANA/VIENNA/WARSAW, 6 March 2020 - Ahead of the International Women’s Day OSCE leaders urged further action in promoting gender equality and called for intergenerational dialogue to ensure engagement of young people. This year Women’s Day is marked against the backdrop of the 20th anniversary of the UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security and the 25th anniversary of the Beijing Platform for Action for the Advancement of Women, and these occasions provide an opportunity to take stock of progress made, they said.
OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, Albania’s Prime Minister and Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Edi Rama; OSCE Secretary General Thomas Greminger; and Director of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR), Ingibjörg Sólrún Gísladóttir stressed that in promoting gender equality it is important to hear different experiences and perspectives and noted in particular the need to involve young men and women. Young people represent 38 per cent of the population in the OSCE region and they need to be involved in moving gender equality forward, as doing so contributes to sustainable peace and security efforts.
OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, Albania’s Prime Minister and Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Edi Rama said: “Gender equality challenges like combating violence against women, ensuring women´s participation in conflict prevention and mediation, reconciliation and the strong promotion of equal opportunities of women in the social, economic and public and political sphere can only be overcome if men and women of all ages work together.” The Chairperson-in Office also said that the OSCE is committed to continue its work in advancing gender equality and empowering women and girls. “We are working together with all participating States to promote advancing laws, policies and implementation tools to a whole new level to support and protect women’s rights.”
OSCE Secretary General Thomas Greminger noted challenges in increasing women’s inclusion in peace processes in the OSCE area: “Even if there are fewer gender inequalities in a number of areas today compared to 25 years ago, progress has been slow. In peace negotiations, women are still significantly underrepresented. The OSCE is committed to the implementation of the women, peace and security agenda, and to including more young men and women in peace processes."
Referencing the importance of digital technology for the future of gender equality, ODIHR Director Gísladóttir said: "We now have a generation of young women who were raised in the digital world, and they are making their voices heard both on- and offline. In fact, young people often have a well-developed sense of what true equality means, which makes me optimistic.” She added: “At the same time, women seeking an active role in public and political life often find themselves subjected to harassment and abuse. Political leaders must do more to ensure that women and girls are able to engage safely. These are the changemakers of the future, and they need our support.”
The importance of the intergenerational dialogue on gender equality was also the focus of an OSCE event hosted by the Gender Section today in Vienna to mark the International Women’s Day. Participants discussed how different generations of women and men see the opportunities and challenges, and how they can work effectively together to promote gender equality.


osce--2020-03-06--Europe should show solidarity with Greece in coping with migration emergency, says OSCE PA’s Pritcha

Europe should show solidarity with Greece in coping with migration emergency, says OSCE PA’s Pritchard in Athens

ATHENS , 6 March 2020 – International humanitarian law must be respected in the response to the situation on the borders between Turkey and Greece , said OSCE Parliamentary Assembly Special Representative on South East Europe Mark Pritchard ( MP , United Kingdom ) wrapping up a three-day official visit to Athens today .
Having met with senior political leaders across the political spectrum in Greece , Pritchard expressed confidence that the response to the border emergency is being handled with consideration for the best interests of refugees and migrants , Greek society , and Europe as a whole .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ not be used for political gain and urged all stakeholders to use responsible political rhetoric and to pursue broad-based dialogue .
“ We in the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly and the broader international community are following the situation on the Turkish-Greek borders very closely indeed , ” Pritchard said .
“ I commend the Greek people and the Greek government for responding to the situation with restraint and encourage the continuation of cross-party dialogue and convergence.
” He added that Europe needs to accept responsibility in assisting Greece at this critical moment , with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ This is not only a Greek emergency , ” Pritchard said .
“ It ’ s a collective one .
Collective emergencies and challenges demand collective responsibility .
The recent high-level EU visit needs to have tangible and practical outcomes.
” He pointed out that the country has long been dealing with a humanitarian crisis – including on the islands of Lesvos , Chios and Kos – which is now at a critical point .
Addressing the situation is necessary to ensure respect for principles enshrined in international law , including @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also in order to sustain Greece ’ s positive economic reform agenda , he pointed out .
Pritchard suggested that a “ revised ” EU-Turkey Statement should be forthcoming “ as quickly as possible ” and ensure that the Greek perspective was “ full considered and appreciated ” by the European Union .
He also suggested that Greece and Turkey should establish a joint working group on the issue of relocation and resettlement of proven asylum seekers into the EU , but this could only be done once current tensions have eased .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ has met with a range of political actors in the Greek capital , including ministers , parliamentarians and representatives of international organizations .
He also visited the Asylum Schisto Accommodation Site for Refugees on the outskirts of the city , which included a trilateral meeting with the International Organization for Migration and the UN High Commissioner for Refugees .
In meetings with Minister for Agriculture Makis Voridis , Minister for Migration and Asylum Notis Mitarakis , and Minister for Development and Investment Adonis Georgiadis , much of the discussion focused on migration-related fatigue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the islands .
The interlocutors stressed that the situation is placing strain on the Greek coastal and border police as well as on Greece ’ s ability to cope with large-scale migration flows , including from a financial standpoint .
Meetings were also held with Speaker of the Parliament Konstantinos Tasoulas , Ambassador Eleni Sourani , Secretary General for Public Order Konstantinos Tsouvalas , and Members of the Standing Committee on National Defense and Foreign Affairs , the Special Standing Committee on European Affairs , and opposition leader Alexis Tsipras , President @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Georgios Stylios , Head of the Greek delegation to the OSCE PA .
Besides migration issues , talks focused on the conclusion of the Prespa Agreement , with Pritchard expressing hope that North Macedonia will remain committed to the agreement , including after the 12 April parliamentary elections .
The sides discussed general developments in the Western Balkans , regional co-operation , and OSCE ’ s work in the region .
Pritchard was briefed on key domestic issues and economic indicators in Greece , unemployment , youth engagement and education , as well @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as the pension system , tax , and corruption .
Interlocutors also discussed national contingency planning and preparedness for the public health concerns surrounding the coronavirus outbreak .
Finally he added : “ Greece ’ s borders are the EU ’ s borders .
Turkey needs to act as a responsible actor in the region.
” For more on the work of the Special Representative on South East Europe , please click here .

ATHENS, 6 March 2020 – International humanitarian law must be respected in the response to the situation on the borders between Turkey and Greece, said OSCE Parliamentary Assembly Special Representative on South East Europe Mark Pritchard (MP, United Kingdom) wrapping up a three-day official visit to Athens today.
Having met with senior political leaders across the political spectrum in Greece, Pritchard expressed confidence that the response to the border emergency is being handled with consideration for the best interests of refugees and migrants, Greek society, and Europe as a whole. However, he cautioned the situation should not be used for political gain and urged all stakeholders to use responsible political rhetoric and to pursue broad-based dialogue.
“We in the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly and the broader international community are following the situation on the Turkish-Greek borders very closely indeed,” Pritchard said. “I commend the Greek people and the Greek government for responding to the situation with restraint and encourage the continuation of cross-party dialogue and convergence.”
He added that Europe needs to accept responsibility in assisting Greece at this critical moment, with emphasis on tangible burden-sharing beyond financial solidarity. “This is not only a Greek emergency,” Pritchard said. “It’s a collective one. Collective emergencies and challenges demand collective responsibility. The recent high-level EU visit needs to have tangible and practical outcomes.”
He pointed out that the country has long been dealing with a humanitarian crisis – including on the islands of Lesvos, Chios and Kos – which is now at a critical point. Addressing the situation is necessary to ensure respect for principles enshrined in international law, including the Refugee Convention of 1951, and also in order to sustain Greece’s positive economic reform agenda, he pointed out.
Pritchard suggested that a “revised” EU-Turkey Statement should be forthcoming “as quickly as possible” and ensure that the Greek perspective was “full considered and appreciated” by the European Union. He also suggested that Greece and Turkey should establish a joint working group on the issue of relocation and resettlement of proven asylum seekers into the EU, but this could only be done once current tensions have eased.
From 4-6 March, Special Representative Pritchard has met with a range of political actors in the Greek capital, including ministers, parliamentarians and representatives of international organizations. He also visited the Asylum Schisto Accommodation Site for Refugees on the outskirts of the city, which included a trilateral meeting with the International Organization for Migration and the UN High Commissioner for Refugees.
In meetings with Minister for Agriculture Makis Voridis, Minister for Migration and Asylum Notis Mitarakis, and Minister for Development and Investment Adonis Georgiadis, much of the discussion focused on migration-related fatigue among local inhabitants in Greece, particularly on the islands.
The interlocutors stressed that the situation is placing strain on the Greek coastal and border police as well as on Greece’s ability to cope with large-scale migration flows, including from a financial standpoint.
Meetings were also held with Speaker of the Parliament Konstantinos Tasoulas, Ambassador Eleni Sourani, Secretary General for Public Order Konstantinos Tsouvalas, and Members of the Standing Committee on National Defense and Foreign Affairs, the Special Standing Committee on European Affairs, and opposition leader Alexis Tsipras, President of SYRIZA. He also met with Georgios Stylios, Head of the Greek delegation to the OSCE PA.
Besides migration issues, talks focused on the conclusion of the Prespa Agreement, with Pritchard expressing hope that North Macedonia will remain committed to the agreement, including after the 12 April parliamentary elections. The sides discussed general developments in the Western Balkans, regional co-operation, and OSCE’s work in the region.
Pritchard was briefed on key domestic issues and economic indicators in Greece, unemployment, youth engagement and education, as well as the reform agenda on issues such as the pension system, tax, and corruption. Interlocutors also discussed national contingency planning and preparedness for the public health concerns surrounding the coronavirus outbreak.
Finally he added: “Greece’s borders are the EU’s borders. Turkey needs to act as a responsible actor in the region.”
For more on the work of the Special Representative on South East Europe, please click here.


osce--2020-03-06--OSCE Mission to Serbia supports capacity of the police to fight corruption

On the second anniversary of Serbia ’ s Interior Ministry ’ s Anti-Corruption Department , held in Belgrade on 6 March 2020 , ten Serbian police officers received diplomas after successfully completing internationally accredited courses in financial crime forensics .
On the same occasion , the OSCE Mission to Serbia handed over IT equipment to the Department aiming to further enhance police officers ’ professionalism and competence in conducting efficient and effective investigations of economic crime and corruption .
“ The systematic changes that the Ministry introduced in the fight against corruption are the best testimony to the country ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in efficiency in investigating , deterring and curbing economic crime and other forms of corruption , ” said Head of the OSCE Mission to Serbia Andrea Orizio .
“ I particularly commend the Ministry of Interior for its commitment and effort in developing the Anti-Corruption Department ’ s capacity to conduct complex financial investigations , examine fraud , and investigate money laundering and other forms of crime , ” said Orizio .
This initiative is part of an OSCE project that aims to strengthen the investigative capacity of the Ministry of the Interior @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The OSCE Mission to Serbia is implementing this project with the financial support of the Government of Norway , which has funded a series of specialized courses on various aspects of investigating economic crime and corruption .
The Government of Italy funded the IT equipment donated to the Anti-corruption Department .
The OSCE Mission to Serbia has been working in partnership with Serbia ’ s Ministry of Interior on enhancing police capacities to effectively prevent and combat corruption since 2013 .

On the second anniversary of Serbia’s Interior Ministry’s Anti-Corruption Department, held in Belgrade on 6 March 2020, ten Serbian police officers received diplomas after successfully completing internationally accredited courses in financial crime forensics.
On the same occasion, the OSCE Mission to Serbia handed over IT equipment to the Department aiming to further enhance police officers’ professionalism and competence in conducting efficient and effective investigations of economic crime and corruption.
“The systematic changes that the Ministry introduced in the fight against corruption are the best testimony to the country’s ownership of key achievements, resulting in efficiency in investigating, deterring and curbing economic crime and other forms of corruption,” said Head of the OSCE Mission to Serbia Andrea Orizio.
“I particularly commend the Ministry of Interior for its commitment and effort in developing the Anti-Corruption Department’s capacity to conduct complex financial investigations, examine fraud, and investigate money laundering and other forms of crime,” said Orizio.
This initiative is part of an OSCE project that aims to strengthen the investigative capacity of the Ministry of the Interior’s Anti-corruption Department established in 2018.
The OSCE Mission to Serbia is implementing this project with the financial support of the Government of Norway, which has funded a series of specialized courses on various aspects of investigating economic crime and corruption. The Government of Italy funded the IT equipment donated to the Anti-corruption Department.
The OSCE Mission to Serbia has been working in partnership with Serbia’s Ministry of Interior on enhancing police capacities to effectively prevent and combat corruption since 2013.


osce--2020-03-07--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 56/2020 issued on 7 March 2020

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osce--2020-03-09--OSCE concludes project on strengthening the capacities of criminal justice practitioners to combat g

OSCE concludes project on strengthening the capacities of criminal justice practitioners to combat gender-based violence in Eastern Europe

The closing conference of the OSCE project “ Effective Criminal Justice Strategies and Practices to Combat Gender-based Violence in Eastern Europe ” was held in Vienna on 5 and 6 March 2020 .
The project was implemented over the past two years in Bulgaria , Hungary and Romania .
The one-and-a-half day event brought together key stakeholders from the three beneficiary countries such as representatives from law enforcement and judicial agencies , victim support services , civil society and academia , who were actively involved in implementing the project .
During the three thematic sessions led by high-level representatives of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stock of the progress made and the achievements and exchanged good practices and lessons learned .
They also highlighted remaining gaps where further efforts are required .
The project contributed to improving the multi-sectoral co-ordination between key actors involved in the prevention and combating of gender-based violence .
More than 120 police officers , prosecutors , judges and social workers were involved in training activities , which enhanced their investigation and soft skills .
More than five million people from Bulgaria , Hungary and Romania were informed about the forms , causes and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ campaign conducted during the 16 Days of Global Activism against Gender-based Violence .
The main findings and outcomes of the conference will be compiled into a report that will consist of all the project materials and a set of recommendations .
The project addressed all criminal justice system actors - police , prosecutors and judges - who are mandated to prevent and combat gender-based violence .
It also addresses civil society organizations , social workers and academia , which ensured a comprehensive approach to the matter .
The project was funded by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Citizenship Programme ( 2014-2020 ) and the governments of Germany and Austria .

The closing conference of the OSCE project “Effective Criminal Justice Strategies and Practices to Combat Gender-based Violence in Eastern Europe” was held in Vienna on 5 and 6 March 2020. The project was implemented over the past two years in Bulgaria, Hungary and Romania.
The one-and-a-half day event brought together key stakeholders from the three beneficiary countries such as representatives from law enforcement and judicial agencies, victim support services, civil society and academia, who were actively involved in implementing the project.
During the three thematic sessions led by high-level representatives of the three beneficiary countries, participants took stock of the progress made and the achievements and exchanged good practices and lessons learned. They also highlighted remaining gaps where further efforts are required.
The project contributed to improving the multi-sectoral co-ordination between key actors involved in the prevention and combating of gender-based violence.
More than 120 police officers, prosecutors, judges and social workers were involved in training activities, which enhanced their investigation and soft skills. More than five million people from Bulgaria, Hungary and Romania were informed about the forms, causes and consequences of gender-based violence through an awareness campaign conducted during the 16 Days of Global Activism against Gender-based Violence.
The main findings and outcomes of the conference will be compiled into a report that will consist of all the project materials and a set of recommendations.
The project addressed all criminal justice system actors - police, prosecutors and judges - who are mandated to prevent and combat gender-based violence. It also addresses civil society organizations, social workers and academia, which ensured a comprehensive approach to the matter.
The project was funded by the European Union’s Rights, Equality and Citizenship Programme (2014-2020) and the governments of Germany and Austria.


osce--2020-03-08--Women’s inclusion is key to sustainable peace, says Chief Monitor of the OSCE Special Monitoring Mis

Women’s inclusion is key to sustainable peace, says Chief Monitor of the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine

KYIV , 8 March 2020 – International Women ’ s Day serves as an important reminder of women ’ s @ @ @ @ @ invaluable contribution in promoting a sustainable solution to conflict .
“ Achieving peace in eastern @ @ @ @ @ involving full participation of women .
We witness daily the impact that women , as @ @ @ @ @ have both in the Mission and on the ground , ” said Yaşar Halit Çevik @ @ @ @ @ OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine ( SMM ) .
“ We also see how @ @ @ @ @ and women differently , with existing inequalities often exacerbated.
” Çevik highlighted the SMM ’ @ @ @ @ @ noting , in particular , the Gender Equality Action Plan .
While more needs to @ @ @ @ @ the Mission has consistently sought to include a gender perspective across its activities and to @ @ @ @ @ .
This has strengthened both its internal structures and its day-to-day work as well as @ @ @ @ @ in-depth understanding of all aspects of the conflict .

KYIV, 8 March 2020 – International Women’s Day serves as an important reminder of women’s achievements to date and their invaluable contribution in promoting a sustainable solution to conflict.
“Achieving peace in eastern Ukraine requires an inclusive process involving full participation of women. We witness daily the impact that women, as agents of positive change, have both in the Mission and on the ground,” said Yaşar Halit Çevik, Chief Monitor of the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM). “We also see how the conflict often affects men and women differently, with existing inequalities often exacerbated.”
Çevik highlighted the SMM’s gender mainstreaming efforts, noting, in particular, the Gender Equality Action Plan. While more needs to be done, he said the Mission has consistently sought to include a gender perspective across its activities and to achieve gender parity among staff. This has strengthened both its internal structures and its day-to-day work as well as having contributed to a more in-depth understanding of all aspects of the conflict.


osce--2020-03-09--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 57/2020 issued on 9 March 2020


osce--2020-03-09--Journalists should not be detained for reporting on issues of public interest, says OSCE Representat

Journalists should not be detained for reporting on issues of public interest, says OSCE Representative Désir after arrest of 6 journalists in Turkey

VIENNA , 9 March 2020 – The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media , Harlem Désir , expressed his strong concern today over the detention of several journalists in Turkey .
On 4 March , journalist and Odatv news website Director Barış Terkoğlu and reporter Hülya Kılınç were detained over a news report in which they disclosed the identity of an intelligence officer who was killed in Libya .
Editor-in-Chief of the Odatv news website , Barış Pehlivan , was arrested last Friday supposedly for the same reason .
According to media reports , Yeniçağ journalist Murat Ağırel , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Aydın Keser and Editor-in-Chief Ferhat Çelik , were re-arrested yesterday , after a prosecutor overturned their earlier release .
They were also detained on the same charges .
“ I am very concerned by the fact that journalists have been arrested for publishing on an issue of public interest .
I urge the Turkish authorities to release them immediately , ” Désir said .
“ Even in times of conflicts , and on issues related to a conflict situation , journalists must be able to report freely and to pursue their work of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or intimidation.
” The Representative added that arresting journalists for their work seriously threatens media freedom and their ability to report on issues of public interest .
The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media observes media developments in all 57 OSCE participating States .
He provides early warning on violations of freedom of expression and media freedom and promotes full compliance with OSCE media freedom commitments .
Learn more at www.osce.org/fom , Twitter : @ OSCE_RFoM and on www.facebook.com/osce.rfom .

VIENNA, 9 March 2020 – The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, Harlem Désir, expressed his strong concern today over the detention of several journalists in Turkey.
On 4 March, journalist and Odatv news website Director Barış Terkoğlu and reporter Hülya Kılınç were detained over a news report in which they disclosed the identity of an intelligence officer who was killed in Libya. Editor-in-Chief of the Odatv news website, Barış Pehlivan, was arrested last Friday supposedly for the same reason. According to media reports, Yeniçağ journalist Murat Ağırel, as well as Yeni Yaşam Managing Editor Aydın Keser and Editor-in-Chief Ferhat Çelik, were re-arrested yesterday, after a prosecutor overturned their earlier release. They were also detained on the same charges.
“I am very concerned by the fact that journalists have been arrested for publishing on an issue of public interest. I urge the Turkish authorities to release them immediately,” Désir said. “Even in times of conflicts, and on issues related to a conflict situation, journalists must be able to report freely and to pursue their work of informing the public without censorship, pressure or intimidation.”
The Representative added that arresting journalists for their work seriously threatens media freedom and their ability to report on issues of public interest.
The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media observes media developments in all 57 OSCE participating States. He provides early warning on violations of freedom of expression and media freedom and promotes full compliance with OSCE media freedom commitments. Learn more at www.osce.org/fom, Twitter: @OSCE_RFoM and on www.facebook.com/osce.rfom.


osce--2020-03-09--Leaders of 2018 election observation mission welcome Georgia’s electoral reforms

COPENHAGEN , 9 March 2020 – In response to the agreement reached on Sunday between the government and the opposition on a package of electoral reforms in Georgia , OSCE Parliamentary Assembly Vice-Presidents Margareta Cederfelt ( MP , Sweden ) and Kristian Vigenin ( MP , Bulgaria ) issued the following statement : “ As leaders of the OSCE ’ s most recent election observation mission to Georgia we welcome the agreement over the weekend between the government and the opposition to reform Georgia ’ s electoral model .
“ We congratulate the sides in reaching this historic agreement , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ parliament , would provide for a mixed proportional-majoritarian electoral system , a lowered threshold , and a balanced composition of election districts .
If implemented successfully , this agreement could serve to build confidence among all factions in the country ’ s political system .
We urge the political forces in Georgia to continue their efforts to build a democratic system that works for everyone and avoid politicization of the judicial and electoral processes .
“ The OSCE Parliamentary Assembly stands ready to work with Georgia in pursuing good-faith electoral reform.
” Cederfelt @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Head of the OSCE PA ’ s election observation mission and Special Co-ordinator of the OSCE ’ s short-term observer mission to the 28 October 2018 presidential election in Georgia .
For more on the OSCE PA 's election observation activities in Georgia , please click here .

COPENHAGEN, 9 March 2020 – In response to the agreement reached on Sunday between the government and the opposition on a package of electoral reforms in Georgia, OSCE Parliamentary Assembly Vice-Presidents Margareta Cederfelt (MP, Sweden) and Kristian Vigenin (MP, Bulgaria) issued the following statement:
“As leaders of the OSCE’s most recent election observation mission to Georgia we welcome the agreement over the weekend between the government and the opposition to reform Georgia’s electoral model.
“We congratulate the sides in reaching this historic agreement, which, following its formal adoption by parliament, would provide for a mixed proportional-majoritarian electoral system, a lowered threshold, and a balanced composition of election districts. If implemented successfully, this agreement could serve to build confidence among all factions in the country’s political system. We urge the political forces in Georgia to continue their efforts to build a democratic system that works for everyone and avoid politicization of the judicial and electoral processes.
“The OSCE Parliamentary Assembly stands ready to work with Georgia in pursuing good-faith electoral reform.”
Cederfelt and Vigenin served, respectively, as Head of the OSCE PA’s election observation mission and Special Co-ordinator of the OSCE’s short-term observer mission to the 28 October 2018 presidential election in Georgia.
For more on the OSCE PA's election observation activities in Georgia, please click here.


osce--2020-03-12--OSCE supports roundtable discussion on combating corruption in Tajikistan

A roundtable event to discuss the implementation of the recommendations within the 4th round of monitoring of the Istanbul Anti-Corruption Action Plan took place on 12 March 2020 in Dushanbe .
The event was organized by the OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe .
Over 20 representatives from government agencies including the Anti-corruption Agency , the Ministry of Justice , Parliament , the General Prosecutor ’ s Office , the Supreme Court , the Office of the Human Rights Commissioner and civil society attended the roundtable discussion .
The event served as a platform for the exchange of information between government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ society and international organizations on the activities conducted during the 4th round of monitoring the implementation of recommendations .
Participants identified challenges and obstacles in combating corruption and discussed how anti-corruption efforts can be improved .
Filippo Crivellaro , Head of the Economic and Environmental Department at the OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe , noted the importance of joining efforts in fighting corruption in Tajikistan .
He also stressed the need for better co-ordination of activities between all relevant actors in society aimed at reducing corruption .
“ This event is a great @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ensure that the results are achieved and visible to everyone.
” At the meeting , the OSCE presented a roadmap on how to enhance efforts in combating corruption , with a special emphasis on the new National Anti-Corruption Strategy to be adopted by the government by the end of 2020 .
The roundtable sets the stage for the meetings of the Anti-Corruption Network , which will be organized by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development ( OECD ) in Paris later this year and paves the way for the launch of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of recommendations of the Istanbul Anti-Corruption Action Plan .

A roundtable event to discuss the implementation of the recommendations within the 4th round of monitoring of the Istanbul Anti-Corruption Action Plan took place on 12 March 2020 in Dushanbe. The event was organized by the OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe.
Over 20 representatives from government agencies including the Anti-corruption Agency, the Ministry of Justice, Parliament, the General Prosecutor’s Office, the Supreme Court, the Office of the Human Rights Commissioner and civil society attended the roundtable discussion.
The event served as a platform for the exchange of information between government institutions dealing with anti-corruption issues, civil society and international organizations on the activities conducted during the 4th round of monitoring the implementation of recommendations. Participants identified challenges and obstacles in combating corruption and discussed how anti-corruption efforts can be improved.
Filippo Crivellaro, Head of the Economic and Environmental Department at the OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe, noted the importance of joining efforts in fighting corruption in Tajikistan. He also stressed the need for better co-ordination of activities between all relevant actors in society aimed at reducing corruption. “This event is a great starting point for defining further steps to ensure that the results are achieved and visible to everyone.”
At the meeting, the OSCE presented a roadmap on how to enhance efforts in combating corruption, with a special emphasis on the new National Anti-Corruption Strategy to be adopted by the government by the end of 2020.
The roundtable sets the stage for the meetings of the Anti-Corruption Network, which will be organized by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) in Paris later this year and paves the way for the launch of the 5th round of monitoring of the implementation of recommendations of the Istanbul Anti-Corruption Action Plan.


osce--2020-03-12--Press Statement of Special Representative Grau after the regular Meeting of Trilateral Contact Group

Press Statement of Special Representative Grau after the regular Meeting of Trilateral Contact Group in Minsk on 11 March 2020

MINSK , 12 March 2020 – The Special Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office in Ukraine and in the Trilateral Contact Group , Ambassador Heidi Grau , made the following statement to the press after the meeting of the TCG and its working groups in Minsk on 11 March 2020 : “ Along with the search for a peaceful solution to the conflict in the East of Ukraine , safety for civilian population is one of the priority tasks of the TCG .
In that regard , the recent increase of hostilities at the line of contact and a significant spike @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the past two weeks , the number of victims has reached nine persons , which is more than one third of civilian casualties this year .
This is completely unacceptable .
In this respect , I once again call on the sides to comply with the obligations regarding commitment to the full cessation of fire .
Now about our work today .
Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine Andriy Yermak and Deputy Head of the Presidential Administration of the Russian Federation Dmitry Kozak have also taken part in it today @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the sides ’ political readiness to support our efforts .
The Security Working Group focused on the issues related to the definition of additional areas for the disengagement of forces and hardware .
The participants agreed to deliver their positions with regard to possible compromises within a week .
The Humanitarian Working Group paid a major attention to the exchange of detainees .
The participants committed themselves to submit a draft list of persons to the TCG , and finalize it within two weeks .
The sides reached an agreement in principle on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Points .
The Economic Working Group concentrated on the issues of water supplies , as well as mobile communication provided by “ Vodafone-Ukraine ” in certain areas of Donetsk and Luhansk regions ( CADR and CALR ) .
The Political Working Group discussed aspects related to the special status of CADR and CALR , as foreseen by Article 11 of the `` Package of Measures '' .
The decision was taken to establish an Advisory Board at the Working Group .
Its draft mandate and working procedures have been defined .
The task @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recommendations on political issues within the Group ’ s purview .
”

MINSK, 12 March 2020 – The Special Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office in Ukraine and in the Trilateral Contact Group, Ambassador Heidi Grau, made the following statement to the press after the meeting of the TCG and its working groups in Minsk on 11 March 2020:
“Along with the search for a peaceful solution to the conflict in the East of Ukraine, safety for civilian population is one of the priority tasks of the TCG.
In that regard, the recent increase of hostilities at the line of contact and a significant spike of civilian casualties is alarming. In the past two weeks, the number of victims has reached nine persons, which is more than one third of civilian casualties this year.
This is completely unacceptable. In this respect, I once again call on the sides to comply with the obligations regarding commitment to the full cessation of fire.
Now about our work today. Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine Andriy Yermak and Deputy Head of the Presidential Administration of the Russian Federation Dmitry Kozak have also taken part in it today. This was an important expression of the sides’ political readiness to support our efforts.
The Security Working Group focused on the issues related to the definition of additional areas for the disengagement of forces and hardware. The participants agreed to deliver their positions with regard to possible compromises within a week.
The Humanitarian Working Group paid a major attention to the exchange of detainees. The participants committed themselves to submit a draft list of persons to the TCG, and finalize it within two weeks.
The sides reached an agreement in principle on the opening of two new Entry/Exit Control Points.
The Economic Working Group concentrated on the issues of water supplies, as well as mobile communication provided by “Vodafone-Ukraine” in certain areas of Donetsk and Luhansk regions (CADR and CALR).
The Political Working Group discussed aspects related to the special status of CADR and CALR, as foreseen by Article 11 of the "Package of Measures".
The decision was taken to establish an Advisory Board at the Working Group. Its draft mandate and working procedures have been defined.
The task of the Board shall be to develop recommendations on political issues within the Group’s purview.”


osce--2020-03-11--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 59/2020 issued on 11 March 2020


osce--2020-03-11--Urgent need to counter 'fake news' on coronavirus outbreak and make accurate information more access

Urgent need to counter 'fake news' on coronavirus outbreak and make accurate information more accessible for citizens, says OSCE PA’s Mina

COPENHAGEN , 11 March 2020 – As public health officials and national governments work to contain the coronavirus outbreak , due diligence must also be shown in countering the spread of disinformation about it , said the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly ’ s Special Rapporteur on Disinformation and Propaganda Oscar Mina ( San Marino ) today .
The COVID-19 coronavirus outbreak is the first major public health crisis during the modern social media era , Mina noted , and the fast spreading of fake news about the virus has already alerted the World Health Organization ( WHO ) and several governments @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an “ infodemic.
” “ Conspiracy theories , bogus medicines and cures , false regulations and fake claims about vaccines are circulating on the internet and on social media platforms , ” Mina said today .
“ This disinformation is hindering efforts to contain the outbreak itself , spreading panic , confusion and discrimination , in times when solidarity and co-operation among countries are essential to save human lives.
” While ensuring the right for the citizens to access free information , governments , media companies and international organizations should work to guarantee @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and widely disseminated , Mina said .
“ The best antidote to bad information is good information .
Sensational headlines and ‘ click bait ’ that generate traffic and ad revenue can also in times like these generate panic , confusion and chaos .
I urge competent authorities and those with large media platforms to ensure that trustworthy sources of information prevail over fake news and propaganda .
This is essential to protect people from contagion and to make sure they are informed to act appropriately , ” Mina said .
Mina welcomed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ various governments including Italy , France , the United Kingdom that are working closely with social media platforms to remove misinformation about the virus .
However , he highlighted that more efforts are needed to fight the phenomenon and that the public health community should be more involved in order to provide evidence-based information to the public .
On their part , social media users also have a duty to share content conscientiously to avoid spreading false or dubious information , added Mina .
Mina also appealed to the international community to scrupulously @ @ @ @ @ @ @ provided by the scientific community and competent authorities of each country , and encouraged governments to implement all forms of cooperation in this regard to counteract dangerous and uncontrollable alarmism .
For more on the work of the Special Rapporteur on Disinformation and Propaganda , please click here .

COPENHAGEN, 11 March 2020 – As public health officials and national governments work to contain the coronavirus outbreak, due diligence must also be shown in countering the spread of disinformation about it, said the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly’s Special Rapporteur on Disinformation and Propaganda Oscar Mina (San Marino) today.
The COVID-19 coronavirus outbreak is the first major public health crisis during the modern social media era, Mina noted, and the fast spreading of fake news about the virus has already alerted the World Health Organization (WHO) and several governments to the point of calling the phenomenon an “infodemic.”
“Conspiracy theories, bogus medicines and cures, false regulations and fake claims about vaccines are circulating on the internet and on social media platforms,” Mina said today. “This disinformation is hindering efforts to contain the outbreak itself, spreading panic, confusion and discrimination, in times when solidarity and co-operation among countries are essential to save human lives.”
While ensuring the right for the citizens to access free information, governments, media companies and international organizations should work to guarantee that accurate and trustworthy information is accessible and widely disseminated, Mina said.
“The best antidote to bad information is good information. Sensational headlines and ‘click bait’ that generate traffic and ad revenue can also in times like these generate panic, confusion and chaos. I urge competent authorities and those with large media platforms to ensure that trustworthy sources of information prevail over fake news and propaganda. This is essential to protect people from contagion and to make sure they are informed to act appropriately,” Mina said.
Mina welcomed the prompt reaction of the WHO and various governments including Italy, France, the United Kingdom that are working closely with social media platforms to remove misinformation about the virus. However, he highlighted that more efforts are needed to fight the phenomenon and that the public health community should be more involved in order to provide evidence-based information to the public.
On their part, social media users also have a duty to share content conscientiously to avoid spreading false or dubious information, added Mina.
Mina also appealed to the international community to scrupulously and consciously follow the recommendations and instructions provided by the scientific community and competent authorities of each country, and encouraged governments to implement all forms of cooperation in this regard to counteract dangerous and uncontrollable alarmism.
For more on the work of the Special Rapporteur on Disinformation and Propaganda, please click here.


osce--2020-03-11--Leadership and solidarity urgently needed to help trapped migrants at Turkish-EU border, OSCE human

Leadership and solidarity urgently needed to help trapped migrants at Turkish-EU border, OSCE human rights head says

WARSAW , 11 March 2020 – An understanding of our common responsibility towards other human beings in distress is urgently needed as a rising number of migrants and refugees find themselves trapped at Turkey ’ s border with the European Union , said Ingibjörg Sólrún Gísladóttir , Director of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights ( ODIHR ) in a statement today .
Gísladóttir said : “ Countries all over the world are taking precautions to halt the spread of the new coronavirus because of the suffering it could bring to our populations if they become infected @ @ @ @ @ @ @ thousands of human beings in the no-man ’ s land between Turkey and the EU whose suffering is intensifying each day through the failure of political leaders to find a humane solution .
This is a difficult situation , but there are numerous potential solutions on the table that need to be explored .
This is a time where true leadership means the ability to compromise , and I therefore call on all countries across the EU and OSCE to show that leadership .
The right to life and to safety is an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Tens of thousands of migrants and refugees have been moving west towards the border with the EU following a recent change in policy by the Turkish authorities .
The Greek government announced at the beginning of March that it was suspending asylum applications for a month , in violation of international law and potentially setting a dangerous precedent for the future .
Documented incidents of violence at the border with Greece and the failure to organize rescue operations for migrants in distress at sea have greatly increased the risk of violating the right @ @ @ @ @ @ @ expulsion , and the principle of non-refoulement , which stipulates that states must not return anyone to a country in which they are at risk of persecution .
The OSCE ’ s 57 participating States have reaffirmed their commitment to the right to seek asylum on many occasions ( Helsinki 1992 , Istanbul 1999 ) .
Countries have made further commitments to ensure the dignified treatment of anyone wanting to cross borders , in conformity with relevant national legal frameworks , international law , and relevant OSCE commitments , and to deal with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ issues in line with them ( Ljubljana 2005 ) .

WARSAW, 11 March 2020 – An understanding of our common responsibility towards other human beings in distress is urgently needed as a rising number of migrants and refugees find themselves trapped at Turkey’s border with the European Union, said Ingibjörg Sólrún Gísladóttir, Director of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) in a statement today.
Gísladóttir said: “Countries all over the world are taking precautions to halt the spread of the new coronavirus because of the suffering it could bring to our populations if they become infected. And yet there are tens of thousands of human beings in the no-man’s land between Turkey and the EU whose suffering is intensifying each day through the failure of political leaders to find a humane solution.
This is a difficult situation, but there are numerous potential solutions on the table that need to be explored. This is a time where true leadership means the ability to compromise, and I therefore call on all countries across the EU and OSCE to show that leadership. The right to life and to safety is an obligation, and not a favour.”
Tens of thousands of migrants and refugees have been moving west towards the border with the EU following a recent change in policy by the Turkish authorities. The Greek government announced at the beginning of March that it was suspending asylum applications for a month, in violation of international law and potentially setting a dangerous precedent for the future.
Documented incidents of violence at the border with Greece and the failure to organize rescue operations for migrants in distress at sea have greatly increased the risk of violating the right to life, the prohibition of collective expulsion, and the principle of non-refoulement, which stipulates that states must not return anyone to a country in which they are at risk of persecution.
The OSCE’s 57 participating States have reaffirmed their commitment to the right to seek asylum on many occasions (Helsinki 1992, Istanbul 1999). Countries have made further commitments to ensure the dignified treatment of anyone wanting to cross borders, in conformity with relevant national legal frameworks, international law, and relevant OSCE commitments, and to deal with all aspects of border security and management issues in line with them (Ljubljana 2005).


osce--2020-03-10--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 58/2020 issued on 10 March 2020


osce--2020-03-10--OSCE roundtable and expert meeting in Vienna – the impact of artificial intelligence on freedom of e

OSCE roundtable and expert meeting in Vienna – the impact of artificial intelligence on freedom of expression

VIENNA , 10 March 2020 – The roundtable and first expert meeting on the impact of artificial intelligence ( AI ) on freedom expression , organized by the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media , concluded today in Vienna .
The roundtable provided a platform to examine and discuss the challenges and contributions that machine-learning technologies , such as AI , can bring to freedom of expression and media freedom .
Representatives of the participating States , together with experts , discussed the impact that algorithms and AI have in shaping and arbitrating information online , and the concerns @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media , Harlem Désir , stressed the importance of understanding AI ’ s potential and its impact on the future of human rights , particularly freedom of expression and freedom of the media .
“ AI can benefit societies in various positive ways .
However , there is also a genuine risk that such technologies have a detrimental impact on fundamental freedoms , ” said Désir .
“ When driven by commercial , political or state interests , the use of AI could seriously jeopardize human @ @ @ @ @ @ @ expression and media pluralism.
” A meeting with the experts , in order to develop a roadmap on how to move the project forward , followed the roundtable .
During the meeting , experts discussed a draft paper on the topic published by the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media .
The draft paper outlines the main characteristics of AI processes behind content removal and curation ; challenges to media pluralism and diversity ; as well as the impact of surveillance on freedom of expression .
The draft paper will serve as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ strategy paper and future recommendations for participating States and other relevant stakeholders .
“ It is vital to understand the policies and practices employed by tech companies in the development and use of AI .
At the same time , we must assist governments and legislators in developing clear and human-rights-friendly policies , including for transparency and accountability , in the use of these technologies , ” underlined Désir .
The events set the stage for the Representative ’ s future activities on the impact of artificial intelligence and freedom of expression , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this year .
The full draft paper is available here : https : //www.osce.org/representative-on-freedom-of-media/447829 ?
download=true The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media observes media developments in all 57 OSCE participating States .
He provides early warning on violations of freedom of expression and media freedom and promotes full compliance with OSCE media freedom commitments .
Learn more at www.osce.org/fom , Twitter : @ OSCE_RFoM and on www.facebook.com/osce.rfom .

VIENNA, 10 March 2020 – The roundtable and first expert meeting on the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on freedom expression, organized by the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, concluded today in Vienna.
The roundtable provided a platform to examine and discuss the challenges and contributions that machine-learning technologies, such as AI, can bring to freedom of expression and media freedom. Representatives of the participating States, together with experts, discussed the impact that algorithms and AI have in shaping and arbitrating information online, and the concerns regarding possible infringements on free speech.
The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, Harlem Désir, stressed the importance of understanding AI’s potential and its impact on the future of human rights, particularly freedom of expression and freedom of the media. “AI can benefit societies in various positive ways. However, there is also a genuine risk that such technologies have a detrimental impact on fundamental freedoms,” said Désir. “When driven by commercial, political or state interests, the use of AI could seriously jeopardize human rights, in particular the freedom of expression and media pluralism.”
A meeting with the experts, in order to develop a roadmap on how to move the project forward, followed the roundtable. During the meeting, experts discussed a draft paper on the topic published by the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media. The draft paper outlines the main characteristics of AI processes behind content removal and curation; challenges to media pluralism and diversity; as well as the impact of surveillance on freedom of expression. The draft paper will serve as the basis for discussions on developing a strategy paper and future recommendations for participating States and other relevant stakeholders.
“It is vital to understand the policies and practices employed by tech companies in the development and use of AI. At the same time, we must assist governments and legislators in developing clear and human-rights-friendly policies, including for transparency and accountability, in the use of these technologies,” underlined Désir.
The events set the stage for the Representative’s future activities on the impact of artificial intelligence and freedom of expression, including a conference on the topic later this year.
The full draft paper is available here: https://www.osce.org/representative-on-freedom-of-media/447829?download=true
The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media observes media developments in all 57 OSCE participating States. He provides early warning on violations of freedom of expression and media freedom and promotes full compliance with OSCE media freedom commitments. Learn more at www.osce.org/fom, Twitter: @OSCE_RFoM and on www.facebook.com/osce.rfom.


osce--2020-03-10--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 10 March 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 decreased at both BCPs compared to the previous week .
The OM is currently operating with 22 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 .
The profile of persons crossing the border can be categorized as follows : • Adults travelling on foot or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ; • 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 decreased from 10,853 to 9,583 per day at both BCPs compared to last week [ 1 ] .
During the reporting period , the majority of border crossings were to Ukraine , with an average net flow of 208 per day for both BCPs .
The Donetsk BCP continued to experience much more traffic than the Gukovo BCP .
During the reporting period , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crossing the border in both directions at both BCPs was 17 , compared to six last week , 11 of them crossed into the Russian Federation , and six into Ukraine ( 71 per cent of this category ’ s crossings occurred at the Donetsk BCP ) .
They continued to cross the border individually or in groups .
Most individuals crossed on foot , however , some made use of private vehicles , buses or minivans , making it more difficult for the observer teams ( OTs ) to observe their movement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the private vehicles had tinted windows , and buses and minivans had drawn curtains .
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 , four families were observed crossing into the Russian Federation and five families were observed crossing into Ukraine , compared to the previous reporting period when three families were observed crossing to the Russian Federation and four families @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bus connections continued to operate between Ukraine ( mostly from/to the Luhansk region ) and the Russian Federation .
In addition to regular bus connections , the OTs continued to observe bus connections on irregular routes .
Often the buses did not state their route ; instead they had a sign on the windshield stating “ irregular ” .
During the reporting period , the OTs observed a decrease in the overall number of buses crossing the border at both BCPs ( 409 compared to 493 observed during the previous week ) .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Russian Federation and 207 bound for Ukraine .
On some occasions , the OTs noticed the bus drivers removing the itinerary signs from the windshields of their buses , while some buses did not display their route at all .
The majority of long-distance buses commuting between the Luhansk region and cities in the Russian Federation had Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region and “ LPR ” plates .
During the reporting period , the OTs observed a significant decrease in the overall number of trucks crossing the border at both @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the previous reporting week ) ; 330 at the Gukovo BCP and 358 at the Donetsk BCP , 340 of these trucks crossed into the Russian Federation and 348 crossed 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 Belarus , Poland , Armenia , the Russian Federation and trucks with “ LPR ” plates .
The OTs also continued to observe tanker trucks crossing the border @ @ @ @ @ @ @ week , the number of tanker trucks decreased from 45 to 36 .
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 Russian Federation officials , which could include an X-ray check .
Due to the unfavourable observation position at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 decreased from 147 to 130 .
Of the total number of trucks scanned , 114 trucks ( 88 per cent ) were bound for Ukraine : the remaining 16 trucks ( 12 per cent ) crossed into the Russian Federation ) The OM continued to observe passenger and cargo minivans [ 2 ] crossing the border in both directions at both BCPs .
The OTs observed minivans predominantly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Luhansk region ; however , the OTs also frequently saw minivans registered in the Russian Federation .
Compared to the previous week , the number of cargo minivans decreased from 188 to 118 vehicles ; 60 crossed into the Russian Federation and another 58 into Ukraine .
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 23 occasions ; the OTs assessed that 14 trains were travelling to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 of vehicles with “ LPR ” plates were also observed crossing the border in both directions on a daily basis .
The OTs also observed vehicles with “ DPR @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Latvian licence plates .
On 7 March at 18:32 , the OT observed a police minivan that arrived at Donetsk BCP from the Russian Federation .
The police vehicle parked behind the main building and was only partially visible to the OT .
At 19:21 , the police minivan left the BCP towards the Russian Federation .
For trends and figures at a glance covering the period from 4 February to 10 March 2020 , please see the attachment here [ 1 ] Based on data received from the Regional Representation of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 decreased at both BCPs compared to the previous week.
OPERATIONAL REMARKS
The OM is currently operating with 22 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.
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 decreased from 10,853 to 9,583 per day at both BCPs compared to last week[1].
During the reporting period, the majority of border crossings were to Ukraine, with an average net flow of 208 per day for both BCPs.
The Donetsk BCP continued to experience much more traffic than the Gukovo BCP.
Persons in military-style outfits
During the reporting period, the number of persons in military-style outfits crossing the border in both directions at both BCPs was 17, compared to six last week, 11 of them crossed into the Russian Federation, and six into Ukraine (71 per cent of this category’s crossings occurred at the Donetsk BCP). They continued to cross the border individually or in groups. Most individuals crossed on foot, however, some made use of private vehicles, buses or minivans, making it more difficult for the observer teams (OTs) to observe their movement across the border, especially since some of the private vehicles had tinted windows, and buses and minivans had drawn curtains.
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, four families were observed crossing into the Russian Federation and five families were observed crossing into Ukraine, compared to the previous reporting period when three families were observed crossing to the Russian Federation and four families into Ukraine.
Bus connections
Regular local and long-distance bus connections continued to operate between Ukraine (mostly from/to the Luhansk region) and the Russian Federation. In addition to regular bus connections, the OTs continued to observe bus connections on irregular routes. Often the buses did not state their route; instead they had a sign on the windshield stating “irregular”.
During the reporting period, the OTs observed a decrease in the overall number of buses crossing the border at both BCPs (409 compared to 493 observed during the previous week). There were 202 buses bound for the Russian Federation and 207 bound for Ukraine.
On some occasions, the OTs noticed the bus drivers removing the itinerary signs from the windshields of their buses, while some buses did not display their route at all. The majority of long-distance buses commuting between the Luhansk region and cities in the Russian Federation had Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region and “LPR” plates.
Trucks
During the reporting period, the OTs observed a significant decrease in the overall number of trucks crossing the border at both BCPs (688 compared to 884 during the previous reporting week); 330 at the Gukovo BCP and 358 at the Donetsk BCP, 340 of these trucks crossed into the Russian Federation and 348 crossed 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 Belarus, Poland, Armenia, the Russian Federation 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 decreased from 45 to 36. 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 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 decreased from 147 to 130. Of the total number of trucks scanned, 114 trucks (88 per cent) were bound for Ukraine: the remaining 16 trucks (12 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 frequently saw minivans registered in the Russian Federation. Compared to the previous week, the number of cargo minivans decreased from 188 to 118 vehicles; 60 crossed into the Russian Federation and another 58 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 23 occasions; the OTs assessed that 14 trains were travelling to the Russian Federation and nine 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. The OTs also observed vehicles with “DPR” plates and vehicles with Georgian and Latvian licence plates.
On 7 March at 18:32, the OT observed a police minivan that arrived at Donetsk BCP from the Russian Federation. The police vehicle parked behind the main building and was only partially visible to the OT. At 19:21, the police minivan left the BCP towards the Russian Federation.
For trends and figures at a glance covering the period from 4 February to 10 March 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--2020-03-13--Strengthen implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security, urge

Strengthen implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security, urge speakers at OSCE Forum for Security Co-operation

VIENNA , 13 March 2020 - The pivotal role of women in conflict prevention , conflict resolution , and post-conflict rehabilitation was highlighted during Wednesday ’ s meeting of the OSCE Forum for Security Co-operation ( FSC ) under Turkey ’ s FSC Chairmanship , which focused on the implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women , Peace and Security .
The speakers urged the implementation of the Resolution , recognizing that equal participation and full involvement of women in all efforts for maintaining and promoting peace and security is of utmost importance .
“ Turkey has set @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as one of the priorities of its FSC Chairmanship ” said Ambassador Rauf Engin Soysal , Chairperson of the Forum and Permanent Representative of the Republic of Turkey to the OSCE , as he opened the meeting .
“ Turkey continues to attach utmost importance to the gender perspective as an integral part of the OSCE ’ s comprehensive approach to security .
To create sustainable peace and stability , issues relating to gender equality and the empowerment of women should be addressed.
” The first speaker to address representatives of participating States @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Secretary-General and the UN ’ s Representative to the Geneva International Discussions , who said that Resolution 1325 was the first UN Security Council Resolution about women .
While there is no gender equality anywhere in the world , she said , an increasing number of countries are adopting Women , Peace and Security action plans .
A sustainable peace requires the inclusion of everyone in society , and women ’ s participation to peace processes and mediation is critical , she added .
Addressing the meeting via video , Cdr.Ezgi Kaptan İşçi @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Branch of the Turkish Fleet Command , spoke about how the Resolution is implemented in the Turkish Armed Forces ( TAF ) .
“ Within the TAF , women are employed only as officers and non-commissioned officers .
Although our numbers are not as high as some other countries , we serve in all services and ranks ” she said .
Ambassador Neil Bush , Head of the United Kingdom ’ s Delegation to the OSCE , explained how the Resolution is implemented in the OSCE context , especially in the Security Committee @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which he chairs .
“ As Chair of the Security Committee , I will ensure gender-balanced panels throughout our meetings this year , ” he said .
“ As the Chair of the OSCE MenEngage network I am determined to continue to progress work to raise awareness of the influence all of us can have in speaking out against inequality and in ending gender-based violence .
The Network will continue to work towards ensuring gender parity at all job levels in the OSCE ; robust action against gender discrimination ; a zero-tolerance policy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ abuse ; and full and effective women ’ s participation in the areas of conflict prevention , resolution , and mediation.
” Amarsanaa Darisuren , OSCE Senior Adviser on Gender Issues , spoke about a recent study the Section conducted jointly with the London School of Economics Centre for Women , Peace and Security , that examined the development and implementation of National Action Plans on Resolution 1325 in OSCE participating States .
She also informed Forum about Gender Equality Review Conference in 2020 June .
“ The representatives of security sector institutions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the activities outlined in the National Action Plans have benefitted their everyday work , from increased intake of women to increased gender expertise and improved human resources policies ” , she said .
“ On 29-30 June , the Albanian Chair of the OSCE , in cooperation with the Gender Section and ODIHR , will organize the third Gender Equality Review Conference here in Hofburg.
” she said .
Marina Wyss Ross , Deputy Head of the Swiss Delegation to the OSCE and Chair of the Informal Group of Women in the First @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the newly formed W1D Network - an informal OSCE network that aims to highlight , connect and amplify issues related to women active in the politico-military sphere .
She presented a list of female experts on politico-military topics , which was prepared by the Network and which will be accessible to delegations of all participating States and the OSCE Secretariat .
“ The aim of this list is to allow incoming and current Chairs in the first dimension to identify female experts for panel discussions and other speaking opportunities on security-related topics , @ @ @ @

VIENNA, 13 March 2020 - The pivotal role of women in conflict prevention, conflict resolution, and post-conflict rehabilitation was highlighted during Wednesday’s meeting of the OSCE Forum for Security Co-operation (FSC) under Turkey’s FSC Chairmanship, which focused on the implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security. The speakers urged the implementation of the Resolution, recognizing that equal participation and full involvement of women in all efforts for maintaining and promoting peace and security is of utmost importance.
“Turkey has set the Women, Peace and Security agenda as one of the priorities of its FSC Chairmanship” said Ambassador Rauf Engin Soysal, Chairperson of the Forum and Permanent Representative of the Republic of Turkey to the OSCE, as he opened the meeting. “Turkey continues to attach utmost importance to the gender perspective as an integral part of the OSCE’s comprehensive approach to security. To create sustainable peace and stability, issues relating to gender equality and the empowerment of women should be addressed.”
The first speaker to address representatives of participating States was Ayşe Cihan Sultanoğlu, UN Assistant Secretary-General and the UN’s Representative to the Geneva International Discussions, who said that Resolution 1325 was the first UN Security Council Resolution about women.
While there is no gender equality anywhere in the world, she said, an increasing number of countries are adopting Women, Peace and Security action plans. A sustainable peace requires the inclusion of everyone in society, and women’s participation to peace processes and mediation is critical, she added.
Addressing the meeting via video, Cdr.Ezgi Kaptan İşçi, Chief of the Protocol and Communications Branch of the Turkish Fleet Command, spoke about how the Resolution is implemented in the Turkish Armed Forces (TAF).
“Within the TAF, women are employed only as officers and non-commissioned officers. Although our numbers are not as high as some other countries, we serve in all services and ranks” she said.
Ambassador Neil Bush, Head of the United Kingdom’s Delegation to the OSCE, explained how the Resolution is implemented in the OSCE context, especially in the Security Committee and the MenEngage Network, both of which he chairs.
“As Chair of the Security Committee, I will ensure gender-balanced panels throughout our meetings this year,” he said. “As the Chair of the OSCE MenEngage network I am determined to continue to progress work to raise awareness of the influence all of us can have in speaking out against inequality and in ending gender-based violence. The Network will continue to work towards ensuring gender parity at all job levels in the OSCE; robust action against gender discrimination; a zero-tolerance policy on sexual harassment and sexual exploitation and abuse; and full and effective women’s participation in the areas of conflict prevention, resolution, and mediation.”
Amarsanaa Darisuren, OSCE Senior Adviser on Gender Issues, spoke about a recent study the Section conducted jointly with the London School of Economics Centre for Women, Peace and Security, that examined the development and implementation of National Action Plans on Resolution 1325 in OSCE participating States. She also informed Forum about Gender Equality Review Conference in 2020 June.
“The representatives of security sector institutions interviewed for the study recognized that implementing the activities outlined in the National Action Plans have benefitted their everyday work, from increased intake of women to increased gender expertise and improved human resources policies”, she said. “On 29-30 June, the Albanian Chair of the OSCE, in cooperation with the Gender Section and ODIHR, will organize the third Gender Equality Review Conference here in Hofburg.” she said.
Marina Wyss Ross, Deputy Head of the Swiss Delegation to the OSCE and Chair of the Informal Group of Women in the First Dimension (W1D), spoke about the newly formed W1D Network - an informal OSCE network that aims to highlight, connect and amplify issues related to women active in the politico-military sphere. She presented a list of female experts on politico-military topics, which was prepared by the Network and which will be accessible to delegations of all participating States and the OSCE Secretariat.
“The aim of this list is to allow incoming and current Chairs in the first dimension to identify female experts for panel discussions and other speaking opportunities on security-related topics,” she said.


osce--2020-03-12--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 60/2020 issued on 12 March 2020


osce--2020-03-12--OSCE staff recognized for outstanding efforts in promoting gender equality

OSCE Secretary General Thomas Greminger acknowledged exceptional efforts and achievements of OSCE staff members in promoting gender equality in the OSCE and beyond at an award ceremony that took place on 12 March 2020 , in Vienna .
Six staff members and one project received the OSCE Gender Champions Award , which recognizes significant contribution in advancing gender equality in four categories .
John MacGregor , Head of the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan , received the Leadership Award .
He was recognized for launching the “ Men Engage Network ” in Uzbekistan to raise awareness about the important role @ @ @ @ @ @ @ violence against women .
Jasmina Ilić and Marija Sekulović from the OSCE Mission to Serbia received the Staff Member Award for launching an initiative that focuses on empowering women in leadership positions in the notarial profession , administrative judiciary and institutions dealing with the fight against corruption in Serbia .
The Gender Focal Point award was presented to a team and one individual .
Zorana Antonijević from the OSCE Mission to Serbia and Saša Gavrić from the OSCE Mission to Skopje were recognized for their joint efforts in providing training on gender mainstreaming @ @ @ @ @ @ @ plans of OSCE executive structures .
Another award in the same category was presented to Eugenia Reznikowa from the OSCE Secretariat , who designed and implemented a training course with a gender perspective for staff in border agencies from the OSCE Mediterranean Partners for Co-operation .
The OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek received an award in the project category for its project aimed at increasing women ’ s representation in local councils in Kyrgyzstan .
Secretary General Greminger , who is a member of the International Gender Champions Network , stressed how important @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an organization .
“ Each staff member has an important role to play in promoting gender equality on a daily basis and creating a work environment that provides equal opportunities for men and women , ” he said .
“ I am very glad to have the opportunity to recognize some of the outstanding efforts and achievements of OSCE staff members and teams that are an inspiration to other colleagues in OSCE departments and field operations , ” the Secretary General concluded .

OSCE Secretary General Thomas Greminger acknowledged exceptional efforts and achievements of OSCE staff members in promoting gender equality in the OSCE and beyond at an award ceremony that took place on 12 March 2020, in Vienna.
Six staff members and one project received the OSCE Gender Champions Award, which recognizes significant contribution in advancing gender equality in four categories. John MacGregor, Head of the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan, received the Leadership Award. He was recognized for launching the “Men Engage Network” in Uzbekistan to raise awareness about the important role men can play in the elimination of violence against women.
Jasmina Ilić and Marija Sekulović from the OSCE Mission to Serbia received the Staff Member Award for launching an initiative that focuses on empowering women in leadership positions in the notarial profession, administrative judiciary and institutions dealing with the fight against corruption in Serbia.
The Gender Focal Point award was presented to a team and one individual. Zorana Antonijević from the OSCE Mission to Serbia and Saša Gavrić from the OSCE Mission to Skopje were recognized for their joint efforts in providing training on gender mainstreaming and supporting the development of gender action plans of OSCE executive structures. Another award in the same category was presented to Eugenia Reznikowa from the OSCE Secretariat, who designed and implemented a training course with a gender perspective for staff in border agencies from the OSCE Mediterranean Partners for Co-operation.
The OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek received an award in the project category for its project aimed at increasing women’s representation in local councils in Kyrgyzstan.
Secretary General Greminger, who is a member of the International Gender Champions Network, stressed how important gender equality is for the OSCE as an organization. “Each staff member has an important role to play in promoting gender equality on a daily basis and creating a work environment that provides equal opportunities for men and women,” he said.
“I am very glad to have the opportunity to recognize some of the outstanding efforts and achievements of OSCE staff members and teams that are an inspiration to other colleagues in OSCE departments and field operations,” the Secretary General concluded.


osce--2020-03-13--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 61/2020 issued on 13 March 2020


osce--2020-03-14--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 62/2020 issued on 14 March 2020


osce--2020-03-17--ODIHR election observation activities temporarily limited as health risks increase

WARSAW , 17 March 2020 – Election observation activities of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights ( @ @ @ @ @ limited in some places , as countries around the OSCE region restrict cross-border travel in @ @ @ @ @ .
The present suspensions are confined to the election observation missions planned for the early @ @ @ @ @ place in North Macedonia on 12 April as well as the 26 April parliamentary elections @ @ @ @ @ observation activities planned in the coming period are still under consideration , pending further decisions @ @ @ @ @ public health dangers presented by the COVID-19 pandemic .
ODIHR regrets the necessity of restricting @ @ @ @ @ the present time , but as always the safety of the Office ’ s staff @ @ @ @ @ ODIHR remains in close contact with the national authorities of countries in which elections are @ @ @ @ @ election planning evolves .

WARSAW, 17 March 2020 – Election observation activities of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) are being temporarily limited in some places, as countries around the OSCE region restrict cross-border travel in response to increased health risks.
The present suspensions are confined to the election observation missions planned for the early parliamentary elections due to take place in North Macedonia on 12 April as well as the 26 April parliamentary elections in Serbia. Other election observation activities planned in the coming period are still under consideration, pending further decisions by national authorities and the public health dangers presented by the COVID-19 pandemic.
ODIHR regrets the necessity of restricting its election observation activities at the present time, but as always the safety of the Office’s staff is of primary importance. ODIHR remains in close contact with the national authorities of countries in which elections are scheduled this year as their election planning evolves.


osce--2020-03-16--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 63/2020 issued on 16 March 2020