osce--2020-12-03--PA presents Call for Action at Ministerial Council side event, urging a reaffirmation of OSCE’s purp

PA presents Call for Action at Ministerial Council side event, urging a reaffirmation of OSCE’s purpose and raising its visibility

COPENHAGEN , 3 December 2020 – In an event featuring participation by more than 100 parliamentarians and diplomats , the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly today presented its initiative entitled “ OSCE Call for Action : Reaffirming a Common Purpose ” on the sidelines of the 27th Ministerial Council .
( Watch a video of the event here . )
The PA ’ s Call for Action , which has been endorsed by 51 former OSCE Chairpersons-in-Office , Presidents of the OSCE PA , Secretaries General and other Heads of Institutions of the OSCE , aims to stimulate the work of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it .
Additionally , the document reaffirms the importance of governments implementing their key commitments and proposes a set of considerations aimed at strengthening the role of the organization in addressing the contemporary challenges , including through the promotion of genuine political dialogue .
OSCE PA High-Level Expert Ambassador Lamberto Zannier presented the initiative , underlining its timeliness and political significance .
“ It is a very strong message from the leaders of the OSCE over the last 30 years , calling for more effective multilateralism and for a stronger investment in dialogue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ President George Tsereteli ( Georgia ) noted that parliamentarians can help the OSCE overcome the difficult period it is going through .
“ Some of the challenges we witness are caused by a wider crisis of multilateralism – and these challenges are common to all international organizations , ” Tsereteli said .
“ But some other aspects of this crisis are peculiar to the OSCE , and must be addressed .
In particular , we regret that many capitals do not take into due consideration , or even seem to forget , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ concrete benefits it brings to our citizens.
” The event also featured contributions from US Senator Ben Cardin , the OSCE PA ’ s Special Representative on Anti-Semitism , Racism and Intolerance ; Swedish Ambassador Kent Härstedt , a former Vice-President of the OSCE PA ; and Kanat Saudabayev , former OSCE Chairperson-in-Office and State Secretary of Kazakhstan .
Senator Cardin , who has been involved with the OSCE PA since 1992 , expressed support for the PA ’ s Call for Action .
There is strong bipartisan support in the US for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the organization promotes security , defends human rights and encourages democratic development in all OSCE countries .
“ It remains the responsibility of the participating States to hold each other to account , ” Cardin said .
“ In the face of repression at home or aggression abroad , the OSCE will succeed as a multilateral forum as long as those who are true believers stand united in defending the ten Helsinki principles and forthrightly raise violations in this forum.
” Harstedt said that the incoming Swedish Chairmanship will focus on upholding @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the European security order and ensuring the inviolability of frontiers , and resolving conflicts .
The Chairmanship will work closely with the OSCE field operations , he said , emphasizing their central role in advancing OSCE values and commitments .
He also noted the role of parliamentary diplomacy in reinvigorating the organization .
Saudabayev stressed the importance of all three dimensions of security and recalled the renewal of commitments at the 2010 OSCE Astana Summit .
He emphasized the necessity for political will to pursue concrete measures that would increase the effectiveness @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of an OSCE Summit in the near future .
In the discussion , participants touched upon the importance of the OSCE focusing on core competencies such as conflict resolution , as well as avoiding double standards and overcoming obstacles to dialogue .
One of the challenges in developing a more effective organization , it was pointed out , is to establish a closer relationship between OSCE parliamentarians and ambassadors in Vienna .
OSCE PA Secretary General Roberto Montella emphasized the importance of better promoting the OSCE to the Foreign Ministers and increasing the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ good work that it does .
In this regard , the OSCE PA ’ s Call for Action intends to raise the awareness in capitals and will be a starting point for a number of events that the OSCE PA intends to promote to revitalize the role of the OSCE in the interest of the improving the result for the end users of the OSCE product , Montella said .
The “ OSCE Call for Action : Reaffirming a Common Purpose ” is available in six languages here .

COPENHAGEN, 3 December 2020 – In an event featuring participation by more than 100 parliamentarians and diplomats, the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly today presented its initiative entitled “OSCE Call for Action: Reaffirming a Common Purpose” on the sidelines of the 27th Ministerial Council. (Watch a video of the event here.)
The PA’s Call for Action, which has been endorsed by 51 former OSCE Chairpersons-in-Office, Presidents of the OSCE PA, Secretaries General and other Heads of Institutions of the OSCE, aims to stimulate the work of the OSCE and increase the political attention to it. Additionally, the document reaffirms the importance of governments implementing their key commitments and proposes a set of considerations aimed at strengthening the role of the organization in addressing the contemporary challenges, including through the promotion of genuine political dialogue.
OSCE PA High-Level Expert Ambassador Lamberto Zannier presented the initiative, underlining its timeliness and political significance. “It is a very strong message from the leaders of the OSCE over the last 30 years, calling for more effective multilateralism and for a stronger investment in dialogue,” Zannier said.
OSCE PA President George Tsereteli (Georgia) noted that parliamentarians can help the OSCE overcome the difficult period it is going through.
“Some of the challenges we witness are caused by a wider crisis of multilateralism – and these challenges are common to all international organizations,” Tsereteli said. “But some other aspects of this crisis are peculiar to the OSCE, and must be addressed. In particular, we regret that many capitals do not take into due consideration, or even seem to forget, the added value of the OSCE and the concrete benefits it brings to our citizens.”
The event also featured contributions from US Senator Ben Cardin, the OSCE PA’s Special Representative on Anti-Semitism, Racism and Intolerance; Swedish Ambassador Kent Härstedt, a former Vice-President of the OSCE PA; and Kanat Saudabayev, former OSCE Chairperson-in-Office and State Secretary of Kazakhstan.
Senator Cardin, who has been involved with the OSCE PA since 1992, expressed support for the PA’s Call for Action. There is strong bipartisan support in the US for the OSCE, he said, stressing that the organization promotes security, defends human rights and encourages democratic development in all OSCE countries. “It remains the responsibility of the participating States to hold each other to account,” Cardin said. “In the face of repression at home or aggression abroad, the OSCE will succeed as a multilateral forum as long as those who are true believers stand united in defending the ten Helsinki principles and forthrightly raise violations in this forum.”
Harstedt said that the incoming Swedish Chairmanship will focus on upholding the comprehensive concept of security, defending on the European security order and ensuring the inviolability of frontiers, and resolving conflicts. The Chairmanship will work closely with the OSCE field operations, he said, emphasizing their central role in advancing OSCE values and commitments. He also noted the role of parliamentary diplomacy in reinvigorating the organization.
Saudabayev stressed the importance of all three dimensions of security and recalled the renewal of commitments at the 2010 OSCE Astana Summit. He emphasized the necessity for political will to pursue concrete measures that would increase the effectiveness of the organization, urging the holding of an OSCE Summit in the near future.
In the discussion, participants touched upon the importance of the OSCE focusing on core competencies such as conflict resolution, as well as avoiding double standards and overcoming obstacles to dialogue. One of the challenges in developing a more effective organization, it was pointed out, is to establish a closer relationship between OSCE parliamentarians and ambassadors in Vienna.
OSCE PA Secretary General Roberto Montella emphasized the importance of better promoting the OSCE to the Foreign Ministers and increasing the organization’s visibility to highlight the good work that it does. In this regard, the OSCE PA’s Call for Action intends to raise the awareness in capitals and will be a starting point for a number of events that the OSCE PA intends to promote to revitalize the role of the OSCE in the interest of the improving the result for the end users of the OSCE product, Montella said.
The “OSCE Call for Action: Reaffirming a Common Purpose” is available in six languages here.
Download a Flipping Book version here.


osce--2020-12-03--Quality history education is crucial to fostering social cohesion, conclude participants at OSCE Min

Quality history education is crucial to fostering social cohesion, conclude participants at OSCE Ministerial Council side event

TIRANA 3 December 2020 – The role of history education in fostering social cohesion in diverse societies was the focus of a side event held via video teleconferencing today on the margins of the 27th OSCE Ministerial Council in Tirana .
The event was organized by the Albanian OSCE Chairmanship , the Permanent Mission of Spain to the OSCE , the OSCE Secretariat , the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights ( ODIHR ) and the office of the High Commissioner on National Minorities ( HCNM ) .
Opening the event , Special Representative on Youth and Security Keisi @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with other participating States , Albania , as OSCE Chairmanship-in-Office has provided a dedicated space to the voices of young people .
Petrika Jorgji , Deputy Head of the Albanian Task Force for the OSCE Chairmanship in his remarks underlined that prioritizing youth in OSCE work during 2020 is a reflection of “ our recognition that historically , young people have played a decisive role in the transition to democracy in the OSCE region , including in Albania , and they remain a critically important agent of change in our societies ” .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , can help young women and men develop into citizens who are open-minded , aware of diversity , receptive to and critical of a full range of perspectives and interpretations , ” said Tuula Yrjölä , Officer in Charge/Secretary General and Director of OSCE Conflict Prevention Centre , opening the event .
The joint event aimed at promoting dialogue on how history education can be designed to include multiple perspectives , including those of minority groups , and strengthen social cohesion .
Christophe Kamp , Director and Officer-in-Charge , office of the OSCE @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ Schools and universities can be the places where students develop critical thinking skills and learn how to engage in constructive dialogue .
Schools and universities are also places where the diverse nature of each society can be analysed , understood and acknowledged , also through the prism of history.
” “ The situation of Roma in the OSCE region shows clearly that prejudices from the past can lead to discrimination and exclusion in the present , ” said Dan Doghi , Head of the Contact Point for Roma and Sinti Issues at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that puts reconciliation and dialogue at its core , to create societies based on trust and respect in all their diversity.
” Joke van der Leeuw-Roord , Founder and Special Advisor of the European Association of History Educators , Dr. Robert Williams , Chair of Committee on Antisemitism and Holocaust Denial , International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance and Deputy Director for International Affairs of the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum , and Heather Mann , member of the OSCE Perspectives 2030 Core Group of Experts ( CGE ) also addressed participants .
“ It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ groups in dialogues and debates about history , particularly across historic conflicts , ” said Mann .
“ Youth groups have indicated that they would like to contribute to educational initiatives , rather than only be perceived as the recipients of education ” .
Educational programmes are an integral part of the OSCE 's comprehensive approach to security .
The OSCE recognizes the need to raise awareness among young people about the importance of strengthening friendly relations developing tolerance and peaceful coexistence through its documents such as the 2003 OSCE Strategy to Address @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Twenty-First Century .
More information can be found at https : //www.osce.org/youth .

TIRANA 3 December 2020 – The role of history education in fostering social cohesion in diverse societies was the focus of a side event held via video teleconferencing today on the margins of the 27th OSCE Ministerial Council in Tirana. The event was organized by the Albanian OSCE Chairmanship, the Permanent Mission of Spain to the OSCE, the OSCE Secretariat, the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) and the office of the High Commissioner on National Minorities (HCNM).
Opening the event, Special Representative on Youth and Security Keisi Seferi highlighted that throughout 2020 in co-operation with other participating States, Albania, as OSCE Chairmanship-in-Office has provided a dedicated space to the voices of young people.
Petrika Jorgji, Deputy Head of the Albanian Task Force for the OSCE Chairmanship in his remarks underlined that prioritizing youth in OSCE work during 2020 is a reflection of “our recognition that historically, young people have played a decisive role in the transition to democracy in the OSCE region, including in Albania, and they remain a critically important agent of change in our societies”.
“Quality education, including history education, can help young women and men develop into citizens who are open-minded, aware of diversity, receptive to and critical of a full range of perspectives and interpretations,” said Tuula Yrjölä, Officer in Charge/Secretary General and Director of OSCE Conflict Prevention Centre, opening the event.
The joint event aimed at promoting dialogue on how history education can be designed to include multiple perspectives, including those of minority groups, and strengthen social cohesion.
Christophe Kamp, Director and Officer-in-Charge, office of the OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities said: “Schools and universities can be the places where students develop critical thinking skills and learn how to engage in constructive dialogue. Schools and universities are also places where the diverse nature of each society can be analysed, understood and acknowledged, also through the prism of history.”
“The situation of Roma in the OSCE region shows clearly that prejudices from the past can lead to discrimination and exclusion in the present,” said Dan Doghi, Head of the Contact Point for Roma and Sinti Issues at ODIHR. “We need history teaching that puts reconciliation and dialogue at its core, to create societies based on trust and respect in all their diversity.”
Joke van der Leeuw-Roord, Founder and Special Advisor of the European Association of History Educators, Dr. Robert Williams, Chair of Committee on Antisemitism and Holocaust Denial, International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance and Deputy Director for International Affairs of the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, and Heather Mann, member of the OSCE Perspectives 2030 Core Group of Experts (CGE) also addressed participants.
“It is vital to involve youth and youth groups in dialogues and debates about history, particularly across historic conflicts,” said Mann. “Youth groups have indicated that they would like to contribute to educational initiatives, rather than only be perceived as the recipients of education”.
Educational programmes are an integral part of the OSCE's comprehensive approach to security. The OSCE recognizes the need to raise awareness among young people about the importance of strengthening friendly relations developing tolerance and peaceful coexistence through its documents such as the 2003 OSCE Strategy to Address Threats to Security and Stability in the Twenty-First Century.
More information can be found at https://www.osce.org/youth.


osce--2020-12-03--Kyrgyzstan parliamentary elections 2020: ODIHR observation mission final report

The 2020 parliamentary elections in Kyrgyzstan were conducted under improved legislation , and fundamental rights and freedoms were respected overall .
While the campaign was competitive and generally well-managed despite the COVID-19 pandemic , credible allegations of vote buying and questions about the impartiality of relevant institutions raised serious concern .
These are some of the main conclusions from the final report on Kyrgyzstan ’ s parliamentary elections of 4 October 2020 , as published by the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights ( ODIHR ) .
The final report offers 25 recommendations to closer align elections in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and other international obligations and standards for democratic elections .
• Making robust efforts to address the persistent issue of vote-buying and pressure on voters • Ensuring media freedom , unimpeded access to information and a safe environment for journalists , without interference in their activities • Enabling transparency of campaign funding by submitting annual financial reports • Ensuring that candidate deregistration is an exceptional measure applied only in case of gross violations of the law • Considering banning the broadcasting of campaign material within news and current affairs programmes • Ensuring that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of vote-buying and abuse of administrative resource • Upholding the secrecy of the voting according to legal provisions ODIHR deployed a Limited Election Observation Mission on 7 September 2020 to observe the parliamentary elections .
All 57 countries across the OSCE region have formally committed to following up promptly on ODIHR ’ s election assessments and recommendations .

The 2020 parliamentary elections in Kyrgyzstan were conducted under improved legislation, and fundamental rights and freedoms were respected overall. While the campaign was competitive and generally well-managed despite the COVID-19 pandemic, credible allegations of vote buying and questions about the impartiality of relevant institutions raised serious concern.
These are some of the main conclusions from the final report on Kyrgyzstan’s parliamentary elections of 4 October 2020, as published by the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR).
The final report offers 25 recommendations to closer align elections in the Kyrgyz Republic with OSCE commitments, and other international obligations and standards for democratic elections.
Recommendations
Key recommendations include:
Making robust efforts to address the persistent issue of vote-buying and pressure on voters
Ensuring media freedom, unimpeded access to information and a safe environment for journalists, without interference in their activities
Enabling transparency of campaign funding by submitting annual financial reports
Ensuring that candidate deregistration is an exceptional measure applied only in case of gross violations of the law
Considering banning the broadcasting of campaign material within news and current affairs programmes
Ensuring that law-enforcement bodies duly and efficiently investigate cases of vote-buying and abuse of administrative resource
Upholding the secrecy of the voting according to legal provisions
ODIHR deployed a Limited Election Observation Mission on 7 September 2020 to observe the parliamentary elections. All 57 countries across the OSCE region have formally committed to following up promptly on ODIHR’s election assessments and recommendations.


osce--2020-12-03--Joint Statement by the Heads of Delegation of the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chair Countries

TIRANA , December 3 , 2020 - The Heads of Delegation of the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chair countries – Foreign Minister of the Russian Federation Sergey Lavrov , Deputy Secretary of State of the United States Stephen E. Biegun , and Minister for European and Foreign Affairs of France Jean-Yves Le Drian - welcome the cessation of military activities in the area of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict in accordance with the statement by the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan , Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia , and President of the Russian Federation from November 9 , 2020 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Group call upon Armenia and Azerbaijan to continue implementing fully their obligations under the November 9 statement , in Nagorno-Karabakh and the surrounding districts , as well as their previous ceasefire commitments .
The Co-Chair countries highlight the significance of measures taken by the Russian Federation , in agreement with Azerbaijan and Armenia , to guarantee the non-renewal of hostilities .
They also call for the full and prompt departure from the region of all foreign mercenaries , and call upon all parties to facilitate this departure .
The Co-Chair countries remind Armenia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the requirements of international humanitarian law , in particular with regard to the exchange of prisoners of war and the repatriation of remains .
They underline the importance of guaranteeing conditions for the voluntary , safe , dignified , and sustainable return of people displaced by the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict , including during the recent hostilities .
They underscore the importance of protecting historical and religious heritage in and around Nagorno-Karabakh .
The Co-Chair countries call on Azerbaijan and Armenia to cooperate fully with the relevant international organizations to implement their obligations in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Co-Chair countries appeal to the international community including ICRC , UN institutions , and other appropriate structures as well as OSCE Minsk Group individual countries to take concrete steps to improve the humanitarian situation in Nagorno-Karabakh and adjacent areas in a coordinated way .
The Co-Chairs also reiterate their strong support for the continuing work of the Personal Representative of the OSCE Chair-in-Office ( PRCiO ) and his team .
The Co-Chair countries urge Armenia and Azerbaijan to take advantage of the current ceasefire to negotiate a lasting and sustainable peace agreement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In that context , the Co-Chair countries urge the parties to receive the Co-Chairs in the region at the earliest opportunity and to commit to substantive negotiations to resolve all outstanding issues in accordance with an agreed timetable .
The Co-Chair countries of the OSCE Minsk Group recall their firm commitment to the non-use or threat of force to settle disputes .
They reiterate their consistent and united position in favor of a negotiated , comprehensive , and sustainable settlement of all remaining core substantive issues of the conflict in line with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Armenia and Azerbaijan .
The Co-Chair countries remain fully committed to pursuing this objective in line with their long-standing efforts to promote peace , stability , and prosperity in the region .

TIRANA, December 3, 2020 - The Heads of Delegation of the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chair countries – Foreign Minister of the Russian Federation Sergey Lavrov, Deputy Secretary of State of the United States Stephen E. Biegun, and Minister for European and Foreign Affairs of France Jean-Yves Le Drian - welcome the cessation of military activities in the area of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict in accordance with the statement by the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia, and President of the Russian Federation from November 9, 2020.
The Co-Chair countries of the OSCE Minsk Group call upon Armenia and Azerbaijan to continue implementing fully their obligations under the November 9 statement, in Nagorno-Karabakh and the surrounding districts, as well as their previous ceasefire commitments. The Co-Chair countries highlight the significance of measures taken by the Russian Federation, in agreement with Azerbaijan and Armenia, to guarantee the non-renewal of hostilities. They also call for the full and prompt departure from the region of all foreign mercenaries, and call upon all parties to facilitate this departure.
The Co-Chair countries remind Armenia and Azerbaijan of their obligation to comply with the requirements of international humanitarian law, in particular with regard to the exchange of prisoners of war and the repatriation of remains. They underline the importance of guaranteeing conditions for the voluntary, safe, dignified, and sustainable return of people displaced by the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, including during the recent hostilities. They underscore the importance of protecting historical and religious heritage in and around Nagorno-Karabakh. The Co-Chair countries call on Azerbaijan and Armenia to cooperate fully with the relevant international organizations to implement their obligations in these areas and ensure humanitarian access.
The Co-Chair countries appeal to the international community including ICRC, UN institutions, and other appropriate structures as well as OSCE Minsk Group individual countries to take concrete steps to improve the humanitarian situation in Nagorno-Karabakh and adjacent areas in a coordinated way. The Co-Chairs also reiterate their strong support for the continuing work of the Personal Representative of the OSCE Chair-in-Office (PRCiO) and his team.
The Co-Chair countries urge Armenia and Azerbaijan to take advantage of the current ceasefire to negotiate a lasting and sustainable peace agreement under the auspices of the Co-Chairs. In that context, the Co-Chair countries urge the parties to receive the Co-Chairs in the region at the earliest opportunity and to commit to substantive negotiations to resolve all outstanding issues in accordance with an agreed timetable.
The Co-Chair countries of the OSCE Minsk Group recall their firm commitment to the non-use or threat of force to settle disputes. They reiterate their consistent and united position in favor of a negotiated, comprehensive, and sustainable settlement of all remaining core substantive issues of the conflict in line with the basic principles and elements well-known to both Armenia and Azerbaijan. The Co-Chair countries remain fully committed to pursuing this objective in line with their long-standing efforts to promote peace, stability, and prosperity in the region.


osce--2020-12-03--Greater political support needed to strengthen OSCE and meet current challenges, PA President says a

Greater political support needed to strengthen OSCE and meet current challenges, PA President says at Ministerial Council opening

COPENHAGEN , 3 December 2020 – Thirty years after the signing of the Charter of Paris for a New Europe , despite the OSCE ’ s notable contributions to strengthening security and promoting stability , the level of distrust is probably higher than it has ever been since the fall of the Iron Curtain , OSCE Parliamentary Assembly President George Tsereteli said at the opening of the 27th Ministerial Council today .
To counter this trend , the PA President urged the Foreign Ministers to increase the level of political interest in the organization and focus on implementation of OSCE @ @ @ @ @ @ @ initiative launched this week , a “ Call for Action : Reaffirming our Common Purpose , ” which has been endorsed by more than 50 former and present OSCE leaders , President Tsereteli stressed that the Assembly wants to make full use of the OSCE ’ s potential to help build a safer and more stable future .
“ Increasing our attention to this organization is even more urgent , given that the organization ’ s daily operations in Vienna and in the field presences are impacted by the pandemic , and while @ @ @ @ @ @ @ much attention , ” he said in his final address to an OSCE Ministerial Council .
Pointing to the numerous challenges facing all OSCE countries , including climate change , scarcity of natural resources , geopolitical conflicts , migration , terrorism , and international organized crime , President Tsereteli implored the governments of the OSCE to invest into common efforts regarding these issues .
“ Are we all investing enough into common efforts regarding these issues instead of wasting resources on a renewed arms race , hybrid warfare , violations of international borders @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the oppression of the opposition ?
” Tsereteli asked the ministers .
“ How much attention is paid to the implementation of OSCE principles and commitments by governments and inside your countries ?
” The President noted that as an organization in which every participant is accountable to the others , the OSCE needs to address the issues where there is failure to comply with international commitments .
“ We , as the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly , have been very outspoken on this , ” said President Tsereteli .
“ Whether it is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in countries like Ukraine and Georgia , minority rights , democratic backsliding , or human rights atrocities.
” He noted the importance of Foreign Ministers engaging on a regular basis with ambassadors at the OSCE in Vienna , in order to develop diplomatic groundwork and advance solutions to common challenges .
“ Recent events , for instance in Nagorno-Karabakh , demonstrated again that a failure to devote sufficient interest in the solution of long-standing conflicts inevitably leads to less security and turmoil , ” Tsereteli said .
“ Elsewhere , the same is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ regarding the development of democratic structures and the protection of human rights.
” The President highlighted the work of the Parliamentary Assembly , noting that as direct representatives of the people , parliamentarians have consistently advocated for making the OSCE stronger and promoted the implementation of commitments .
He noted that the pandemic has prevented the PA from convening physical meetings since last February , but responded to the current situation by holding numerous “ Parliamentary Web Dialogues , ” which brought together experts , representatives of intergovernmental structures with hundreds of parliamentarians @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ The OSCE ’ s intergovernmental structures have benefitted from the synergies of our joint work , and this could be exploited much further , ” Tsereteli said .
The OSCE PA is holding a side event this afternoon on the margins of the OSCE Ministerial Council where it will put forward its “ OSCE Call for Action : Reaffirming a Common Purpose ” initiative , endorsed by dozens of former OSCE Chairpersons-in-Office , Presidents of the OSCE PA , Secretaries General and other Heads of Institutions of the OSCE .
On @ @ @ @ @ @ @ virtual format for discussions on OSCE-related work .
Moderated by OSCE PA Secretary General Roberto Montella , the meeting featured an address by the Chairperson-in-Office of the OSCE , Albanian Prime Minister and Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Edi Rama .
For the President 's full remarks at today 's Ministerial Council meeting , please click here .

COPENHAGEN, 3 December 2020 – Thirty years after the signing of the Charter of Paris for a New Europe, despite the OSCE’s notable contributions to strengthening security and promoting stability, the level of distrust is probably higher than it has ever been since the fall of the Iron Curtain, OSCE Parliamentary Assembly President George Tsereteli said at the opening of the 27th Ministerial Council today. To counter this trend, the PA President urged the Foreign Ministers to increase the level of political interest in the organization and focus on implementation of OSCE commitments.
Highlighting the PA’s initiative launched this week, a “Call for Action: Reaffirming our Common Purpose,” which has been endorsed by more than 50 former and present OSCE leaders, President Tsereteli stressed that the Assembly wants to make full use of the OSCE’s potential to help build a safer and more stable future.
“Increasing our attention to this organization is even more urgent, given that the organization’s daily operations in Vienna and in the field presences are impacted by the pandemic, and while COVID-19 is in the focus of so much attention,” he said in his final address to an OSCE Ministerial Council.
Pointing to the numerous challenges facing all OSCE countries, including climate change, scarcity of natural resources, geopolitical conflicts, migration, terrorism, and international organized crime, President Tsereteli implored the governments of the OSCE to invest into common efforts regarding these issues.
“Are we all investing enough into common efforts regarding these issues instead of wasting resources on a renewed arms race, hybrid warfare, violations of international borders and occupation, manipulated elections, and the oppression of the opposition?” Tsereteli asked the ministers. “How much attention is paid to the implementation of OSCE principles and commitments by governments and inside your countries?”
The President noted that as an organization in which every participant is accountable to the others, the OSCE needs to address the issues where there is failure to comply with international commitments. “We, as the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly, have been very outspoken on this,” said President Tsereteli. “Whether it is the violation of sovereignty and territorial integrity in countries like Ukraine and Georgia, minority rights, democratic backsliding, or human rights atrocities.”
He noted the importance of Foreign Ministers engaging on a regular basis with ambassadors at the OSCE in Vienna, in order to develop diplomatic groundwork and advance solutions to common challenges.
“Recent events, for instance in Nagorno-Karabakh, demonstrated again that a failure to devote sufficient interest in the solution of long-standing conflicts inevitably leads to less security and turmoil,” Tsereteli said. “Elsewhere, the same is true about the neglect of basic requirements regarding the development of democratic structures and the protection of human rights.”
The President highlighted the work of the Parliamentary Assembly, noting that as direct representatives of the people, parliamentarians have consistently advocated for making the OSCE stronger and promoted the implementation of commitments. He noted that the pandemic has prevented the PA from convening physical meetings since last February, but responded to the current situation by holding numerous “Parliamentary Web Dialogues,” which brought together experts, representatives of intergovernmental structures with hundreds of parliamentarians discussing the pandemic and core OSCE issues.
“The OSCE’s intergovernmental structures have benefitted from the synergies of our joint work, and this could be exploited much further,” Tsereteli said.
The OSCE PA is holding a side event this afternoon on the margins of the OSCE Ministerial Council where it will put forward its “OSCE Call for Action: Reaffirming a Common Purpose” initiative, endorsed by dozens of former OSCE Chairpersons-in-Office, Presidents of the OSCE PA, Secretaries General and other Heads of Institutions of the OSCE.
On Wednesday, the Assembly leadership met in virtual format for discussions on OSCE-related work. Moderated by OSCE PA Secretary General Roberto Montella, the meeting featured an address by the Chairperson-in-Office of the OSCE, Albanian Prime Minister and Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Edi Rama.
For the President's full remarks at today's Ministerial Council meeting, please click here.


osce--2020-12-03--Time “to turn the corner” and emerge from the crisis in co-operation, says OSCE Chairperson-in-Offic

Time “to turn the corner” and emerge from the crisis in co-operation, says OSCE Chairperson-in-Office Rama at opening of Tirana Ministerial Council

TIRANA/VIENNA , 3 December 2020 – It ’ s time to “ turn the corner ” and overcome the current crisis in co-operation , said OSCE Chairperson-in-Office , Prime Minister and Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of Albania , Edi Rama , in his opening statement to over 50 foreign ministers and senior diplomats gathered in Tirana and online for the 27th OSCE Ministerial Council .
In his address to Ministers of the OSCE participating States and Partners for Co-operation , Rama warned that ongoing and deepening tensions and mistrust in the region , meant that “ we are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” “ We supposedly have a shared vision — created in Helsinki and continued in Paris , Istanbul and Astana — for a democratic , peaceful and united Europe , ” he said .
“ That vision is moving further away from us .
Because our principles are not respected .
Because our commitments are not implemented .
Because the divergence in our views is growing .
Because unilateral is too often chosen over international .
Because confrontation is chosen over conversation .
And because disruption is chosen over co-operation.
” He added @ @ @ @ @ @ @ strong as its commitments , and our regional security is only as strong as your will to implement those commitments .
If that will is lacking , as it is seems to be today , then we will struggle to ever emerge from this crisis.
” Looking back over the year , Rama acknowledged the extraordinary and unprecedented consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic .
“ My sympathy goes to those who have lost loved ones as a result of the virus , ” he said .
“ And my sincere thanks goes to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , every day , in keeping us safe and maintaining our essential services .
While we predominantly focus on the health and economic consequences of COVID-19 , we must also tackle its adverse impact on our comprehensive security .
There is a brighter future ahead , and we can — and will – take bold and concerted measures to build back better.
” Turning to the crisis in and around Ukraine , he welcomed the “ unprecedented , low levels of ceasefire violations on the ground ” but lamented the humanitarian situation and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mission ’ s work .
He also appealed for a more practical approach in the discussions in the Trilateral Contact Group , under the mediation of the OSCE .
Referencing the recent fighting in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict context , he said he was thankful that the fighting has ceased .
Expressing his full support for initiatives under the auspices of the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs , he called for “ substantive negotiations , in good faith , in order to reach agreement on the steps for a comprehensive , peaceful and lasting resolution @ @ @ @ @ @ @ expressed his hope for a resumption of the Geneva International Discussions and a result-oriented Transdniestrian Settlement Process in the new year .
On Belarus , the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office conveyed his disappointment that his offer , made together with his Swedish counterpart and incoming OSCE Chair , Ann Linde , to visit the country and facilitate dialogue was not accepted by Minsk .
“ I maintain my view that the OSCE , as an inclusive organization , remains well-placed and ready to volunteer its good offices to support Belarus .
I hope Belarus reconsiders @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Acknowledging that Albania “ had to steer the OSCE ship in particularly turbulent times ” , he said he was hopeful that the Organization , with its new senior leadership and incoming Chairs of Sweden ( 2021 ) and Poland ( 2022 ) , would “ get the OSCE back to full power and chart a way forward… Let ’ s use Tirana as an opportunity to turn a corner.
” The President of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly ( PA ) George Tsereteli appealed to the 57 participating States to make full use @ @ @ @ @ @ @ help build a safer and more stable future for us all .
“ The OSCE PA ’ s initiative , a ‘ Call for Action : Reaffirming our Common Purpose , ’ has been endorsed and signed by more than 50 former and present OSCE leaders , including Chairs-in-Office , Presidents of the Parliamentary Assembly , Secretaries General of the OSCE and the OSCE PA , and Heads of Institutions , ” he said .
“ Despite all the difficulties that we are facing , we must , make an attempt to relaunch @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spirit that motivated the signatories of the Helsinki Final Act and the Charter of Paris.
” In her report to the Ministerial Council , Tuula Yrjölä , Officer in Charge/Secretary General and Director of OSCE Conflict Prevention Centre ( CPC ) , noted how the Organization quickly and successfully responded to the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic .
“ The Secretariat enabled the OSCE to be one of the first international organizations to move its decision-making bodies online .
Maintaining dialogue remains critical to building trust , preventing and resolving conflicts , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” she said .
“ As this Ministerial Council demonstrates , COVID-19 has not prevented our unique regional platform from fostering an inclusive security dialogue where all participating States have an equal voice .
The pandemic reminds us that we need to be prepared for unexpected challenges , and that it is more important than ever to co-operate in finding solutions .
”

TIRANA/VIENNA, 3 December 2020 – It’s time to “turn the corner” and overcome the current crisis in co-operation, said OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, Prime Minister and Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of Albania, Edi Rama, in his opening statement to over 50 foreign ministers and senior diplomats gathered in Tirana and online for the 27th OSCE Ministerial Council.
In his address to Ministers of the OSCE participating States and Partners for Co-operation, Rama warned that ongoing and deepening tensions and mistrust in the region, meant that “we are in a crisis, a worsening crisis.”
“We supposedly have a shared vision — created in Helsinki and continued in Paris, Istanbul and Astana — for a democratic, peaceful and united Europe,” he said. “That vision is moving further away from us. Because our principles are not respected. Because our commitments are not implemented. Because the divergence in our views is growing. Because unilateral is too often chosen over international. Because confrontation is chosen over conversation. And because disruption is chosen over co-operation.”
He added: “Our Organization is only as strong as its commitments, and our regional security is only as strong as your will to implement those commitments. If that will is lacking, as it is seems to be today, then we will struggle to ever emerge from this crisis.”
Looking back over the year, Rama acknowledged the extraordinary and unprecedented consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“My sympathy goes to those who have lost loved ones as a result of the virus,” he said. “And my sincere thanks goes to those health and frontline workers who persevere, every day, in keeping us safe and maintaining our essential services. While we predominantly focus on the health and economic consequences of COVID-19, we must also tackle its adverse impact on our comprehensive security. There is a brighter future ahead, and we can — and will – take bold and concerted measures to build back better.”
Turning to the crisis in and around Ukraine, he welcomed the “unprecedented, low levels of ceasefire violations on the ground” but lamented the humanitarian situation and ongoing obstructions to the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission’s work. He also appealed for a more practical approach in the discussions in the Trilateral Contact Group, under the mediation of the OSCE.
Referencing the recent fighting in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict context, he said he was thankful that the fighting has ceased. Expressing his full support for initiatives under the auspices of the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs, he called for “substantive negotiations, in good faith, in order to reach agreement on the steps for a comprehensive, peaceful and lasting resolution to the conflict.”
Separately, Rama expressed his hope for a resumption of the Geneva International Discussions and a result-oriented Transdniestrian Settlement Process in the new year.
On Belarus, the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office conveyed his disappointment that his offer, made together with his Swedish counterpart and incoming OSCE Chair, Ann Linde, to visit the country and facilitate dialogue was not accepted by Minsk.
“I maintain my view that the OSCE, as an inclusive organization, remains well-placed and ready to volunteer its good offices to support Belarus. I hope Belarus reconsiders our offer,” he said.
Acknowledging that Albania “had to steer the OSCE ship in particularly turbulent times”, he said he was hopeful that the Organization, with its new senior leadership and incoming Chairs of Sweden (2021) and Poland (2022), would “get the OSCE back to full power and chart a way forward… Let’s use Tirana as an opportunity to turn a corner.”
The President of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly (PA) George Tsereteli appealed to the 57 participating States to make full use of the Organization’s potential to help build a safer and more stable future for us all.
“The OSCE PA’s initiative, a ‘Call for Action: Reaffirming our Common Purpose,’ has been endorsed and signed by more than 50 former and present OSCE leaders, including Chairs-in-Office, Presidents of the Parliamentary Assembly, Secretaries General of the OSCE and the OSCE PA, and Heads of Institutions,” he said. “Despite all the difficulties that we are facing, we must, make an attempt to relaunch all our efforts to bring back the spirit that motivated the signatories of the Helsinki Final Act and the Charter of Paris.”
In her report to the Ministerial Council, Tuula Yrjölä, Officer in Charge/Secretary General and Director of OSCE Conflict Prevention Centre (CPC), noted how the Organization quickly and successfully responded to the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The Secretariat enabled the OSCE to be one of the first international organizations to move its decision-making bodies online. Maintaining dialogue remains critical to building trust, preventing and resolving conflicts, and promoting co-operation to tackle shared security challenges,” she said. “As this Ministerial Council demonstrates, COVID-19 has not prevented our unique regional platform from fostering an inclusive security dialogue where all participating States have an equal voice. The pandemic reminds us that we need to be prepared for unexpected challenges, and that it is more important than ever to co-operate in finding solutions.”


osce--2020-12-03--OSCE Presence in Albania organizes training course on prosecutorial leadership in the investigation

OSCE Presence in Albania organizes training course on prosecutorial leadership in the investigation of criminal offences

The OSCE Presence in Albania , in co-operation with the Albanian School of Magistrates , organized a two-day virtual training @ @ @ @ @ December 2020 on the role of prosecutors in investigating criminal offences and their leadership skills @ @ @ @ @ and Judicial Police officers .
The event was held ahead of the Presence ’ s @ @ @ @ @ Prosecutorial Leadership that will address the findings of the gap analysis on the co-ordination and @ @ @ @ @ Police in the country , conducted last year by the Presence .
A report based @ @ @ @ @ widely disseminated and warmly welcomed by criminal justice practitioners .
The training was held with @ @ @ @ @ School of Magistrates , which is the leading institution responsible for the training and continuous @ @ @ @ @ in Albania .
The training course and the Handbook show the Presence ’ s continuous @ @ @ @ @ and professional growth of Albania ’ s Prosecution towards a consolidated criminal justice system .

The OSCE Presence in Albania, in co-operation with the Albanian School of Magistrates, organized a two-day virtual training course on 2 and 3 December 2020 on the role of prosecutors in investigating criminal offences and their leadership skills for Albania’s Prosecutors and Judicial Police officers.
The event was held ahead of the Presence’s publication of the Handbook on Prosecutorial Leadership that will address the findings of the gap analysis on the co-ordination and co-operation between Prosecutors and Judicial Police in the country, conducted last year by the Presence. A report based on the gap analysis was widely disseminated and warmly welcomed by criminal justice practitioners.
The training was held with the support of the Albanian School of Magistrates, which is the leading institution responsible for the training and continuous learning of judges and prosecutors in Albania.
The training course and the Handbook show the Presence’s continuous commitment to support the strengthening and professional growth of Albania’s Prosecution towards a consolidated criminal justice system.


osce--2020-12-03--OSCE promotes interfaith co-operation

OSCE promotes interfaith co-operation

The State Commission on Religious Affairs of the Kyrgyz Republic held the 4th International Conference titled `` Islam in a Modern Secular State : Experience of Interfaith Co-operation '' , on 26 November 2020 , in partnership with the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek .
The event served as a valuable high-level platform for representatives of various religious organizations , civil society , expert community , international organizations , and the media to discuss topical issues of fostering interfaith dialogue and tolerance in Kyrgyzstan .
Participants discussed pertinent issues with regard to inter-faith dialogue in the world , particularly in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a modern secular state .
The conference provided a platform for exchanging approaches to harmonizing relations in the Muslim community and developing recommendations to increase the effectiveness of democratic governance in the religious sphere , as well as for preventing discrimination on the basis of religion or belief .
Speaking at the conference , Pierre von Arx , Head of the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek , stressed the importance of tolerance and respect when building peace and development .
`` The OSCE 's human rights commitments , in particular freedom of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ foundation for building a vibrant and inclusive society .
These ideas have been the invisible force of progress throughout Kyrgyzstan 's history . ''
He noted the commitment of the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek in providing further support for the efforts of the country in further developing interfaith dialogue and principles of tolerance .

The State Commission on Religious Affairs of the Kyrgyz Republic held the 4th International Conference titled "Islam in a Modern Secular State: Experience of Interfaith Co-operation", on 26 November 2020, in partnership with the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek.
The event served as a valuable high-level platform for representatives of various religious organizations, civil society, expert community, international organizations, and the media to discuss topical issues of fostering interfaith dialogue and tolerance in Kyrgyzstan.
Participants discussed pertinent issues with regard to inter-faith dialogue in the world, particularly in the context of the role of Islam in a modern secular state. The conference provided a platform for exchanging approaches to harmonizing relations in the Muslim community and developing recommendations to increase the effectiveness of democratic governance in the religious sphere, as well as for preventing discrimination on the basis of religion or belief.
Speaking at the conference, Pierre von Arx, Head of the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek, stressed the importance of tolerance and respect when building peace and development. "The OSCE's human rights commitments, in particular freedom of religion and belief, are a solid foundation for building a vibrant and inclusive society. These ideas have been the invisible force of progress throughout Kyrgyzstan's history." He noted the commitment of the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek in providing further support for the efforts of the country in further developing interfaith dialogue and principles of tolerance.


osce--2020-12-03--OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan launches training course on strengthening women leadership s

OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan launches training course on strengthening women leadership skills

The OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan is conducting a second training course for 18 women representatives of local authorities from Samarkand , Djizzakh , Kashkadarya and Surkhandarya regions from 30 November to 4 December 2020 .
The current course is the second in a series of training events , which will be conducted in all regions of Uzbekistan .
Courses cover topics such as improving advocacy and leadership skills and increasing the knowledge on women ’ s human rights at local , regional and national levels , drawing on the conceptual framework of the Convention on the Elimination of All @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) for framing rights and State obligations .
The event was opened by Feruza Eshmatova , Chairperson of the Committee on Women and Gender Equality of the Senate of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan .
In her opening speech , she stressed that “ the OSCE commitments are fully in line with the priorities of the country including strengthening women ’ s managerial roles in increasing the role of women in society ” .
John MacGregor , Head of the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan , said : “ The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and men are essential to foster peace , security , and sustainable development.
” He also added that the OSCE values the recent statements from the President of Uzbekistan on advancing women ’ s issues .
The training is part of the OSCE extra-budgetary project “ Support to Women ’ s Committee of the Republic of Uzbekistan ” with the financial support from the Governments of Finland and Norway .
Throughout the project implementation period ( 2019-2021 ) , a series of trainings will be organized for women representatives of local authorities on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leadership skills ; increasing the knowledge on women ’ s human rights at local , regional and national levels , drawing on the conceptual framework of CEDAW for framing rights and State obligations .

The OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan is conducting a second training course for 18 women representatives of local authorities from Samarkand, Djizzakh, Kashkadarya and Surkhandarya regions from 30 November to 4 December 2020.
The current course is the second in a series of training events, which will be conducted in all regions of Uzbekistan. Courses cover topics such as improving advocacy and leadership skills and increasing the knowledge on women’s human rights at local, regional and national levels, drawing on the conceptual framework of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) for framing rights and State obligations.
The event was opened by Feruza Eshmatova, Chairperson of the Committee on Women and Gender Equality of the Senate of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan. In her opening speech, she stressed that “the OSCE commitments are fully in line with the priorities of the country including strengthening women’s managerial roles in increasing the role of women in society”.
John MacGregor, Head of the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan, said: “The OSCE recognizes that equal rights of women and men are essential to foster peace, security, and sustainable development.” He also added that the OSCE values the recent statements from the President of Uzbekistan on advancing women’s issues.
The training is part of the OSCE extra-budgetary project “Support to Women’s Committee of the Republic of Uzbekistan” with the financial support from the Governments of Finland and Norway.
Throughout the project implementation period (2019-2021), a series of trainings will be organized for women representatives of local authorities on the following topics: improving advocacy and leadership skills; increasing the knowledge on women’s human rights at local, regional and national levels, drawing on the conceptual framework of CEDAW for framing rights and State obligations.


osce--2020-12-16--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 299/2020 issued on 16 December 2020

Sign up to receive OSCE Press Releases and Media Advisories by email as soon as they have been published .

Subscribe to OSCE
Sign up to receive OSCE Press Releases and Media Advisories by email as soon as they have been published.


osce--2020-12-16--Better understanding of the needs and potential of young people in public life focus of OSCE expert

Better understanding of the needs and potential of young people in public life focus of OSCE expert event The importance of promoting youth political participation was the focus of a joint online event ‘ Advancing Political Participation of Young People across the OSCE region ’ , hosted by the 2020 Albanian OSCE Chairmanship and the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights ( ODIHR ) .
Participants discussed the necessity to better understand the needs and contributions of young people to political and public life across the OSCE region .
The Chairperson in Office Special Representative on Youth and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , highlighted the fact that “ Building strong democratic institutions , for as long as it´s a process , really needs the boost of young person ’ s participation ” .
Seferi also recognized that the belief in the power of voting as a driving force for democratic societies should be harnessed .
″For a democratic society to be genuinely inclusive , all segments of society must be engaged .
″ said the Chairperson of the Permanent Council , Permanent Representative of Albania to the OSCE Ambassador Igli Hasani .
In acknowledging inclusivity @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rights , Ambassador Hasani recognized that stable and peaceful societies should support the needs and interests of young people .
This prepares them for leadership and representation responsibilities .
“ In periods of crisis , the traditional reflex is to resort to old solutions instead of having the courage the try new ideas .
But there is growing frustration with this approach , and recent research shows that globally , youth satisfaction with democracy is declining , ” said ODIHR ’ s First Deputy Director Katarzyna Gardapkhadze .
“ In their response to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a unique opportunity to build more inclusive and responsive democracies – and we must seize this opportunity.
” Augusta Featherston , ODIHR ’ s Youth Focal Point and Associate Democratic Governance Officer , said : “ Too often , the conversation around youth political participation fails to address the responsibility democratic institutions have to be more genuinely inclusive for young people .
Today ’ s event began to identify those institutional gaps among OSCE participating States , with the aim of supporting a more meaningful political engagement of youth across the OSCE region.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ OSCE Executive Structures and OSCE institutions , youth representatives , academics and representatives of international and civil society organizations attended the event .

Better understanding of the needs and potential of young people in public life focus of OSCE expert event
The importance of promoting youth political participation was the focus of a joint online event ‘Advancing Political Participation of Young People across the OSCE region’, hosted by the 2020 Albanian OSCE Chairmanship and the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR). Participants discussed the necessity to better understand the needs and contributions of young people to political and public life across the OSCE region.
The Chairperson in Office Special Representative on Youth and Security Keisi Seferi in her welcoming remarks, highlighted the fact that “Building strong democratic institutions, for as long as it´s a process, really needs the boost of young person’s participation”. Seferi also recognized that the belief in the power of voting as a driving force for democratic societies should be harnessed.
″For a democratic society to be genuinely inclusive, all segments of society must be engaged. ″ said the Chairperson of the Permanent Council, Permanent Representative of Albania to the OSCE Ambassador Igli Hasani. In acknowledging inclusivity and participation at the core of democratic rights, Ambassador Hasani recognized that stable and peaceful societies should support the needs and interests of young people. This prepares them for leadership and representation responsibilities.
“In periods of crisis, the traditional reflex is to resort to old solutions instead of having the courage the try new ideas. But there is growing frustration with this approach, and recent research shows that globally, youth satisfaction with democracy is declining,” said ODIHR’s First Deputy Director Katarzyna Gardapkhadze. “In their response to today’s crisis, institutions have a unique opportunity to build more inclusive and responsive democracies – and we must seize this opportunity.”
Augusta Featherston, ODIHR’s Youth Focal Point and Associate Democratic Governance Officer, said: “Too often, the conversation around youth political participation fails to address the responsibility democratic institutions have to be more genuinely inclusive for young people. Today’s event began to identify those institutional gaps among OSCE participating States, with the aim of supporting a more meaningful political engagement of youth across the OSCE region.”
Representatives from the participating States, OSCE Executive Structures and OSCE institutions, youth representatives, academics and representatives of international and civil society organizations attended the event.


osce--2020-12-16--Joint OSCE-UNODC regional workshop in South-Eastern Europe promoted fight against organized crime an

Joint OSCE-UNODC regional workshop in South-Eastern Europe promoted fight against organized crime and social re-use of confiscated assets

A two-day workshop on organized crime , asset confiscation and social re-use , organized jointly by the OSCE and UNODC , took place on 15 and 16 December 2020 for beneficiaries in South-Eastern Europe .
More than 100 participants from civil society organizations , academia , youth organizations , law enforcement and asset management agencies from the region and beyond gathered for the event .
“ Transnational organized crime represents one of the greatest threats to security , stability and economic growth across the OSCE region , because it systematically exploits institutional , social and economic vulnerabilities , thus creating @ @ @ @ @ @ @ undermining socio-economic development and prosperity , ” said Alena Kupchyna , OSCE Co-ordinator of Activities to Address Transnational Threats .
The discussion aimed at raising participants ’ awareness of the security threats posed to societies by organized crime , the benefits of social re-use of assets confiscated in organized crime and corruption cases , and the role that academia and , in particular , youth can play in this context .
The Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities Vuk Žugić stressed in his opening remarks the importance of the social re-use of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the best way to ensure that what has been stolen from societies is given back .
This component is a powerful reflection of the effectiveness of national institutions in building prosperous societies based on the rule of law and improving the business climate.
” During the event , participants gained knowledge on organized crime ; assets confiscation and social re-use , on how they can contribute to the fight against organized crime and corruption , and learned how to integrate these topics into their work .
The event provided an opportunity to promote @ @ @ @ @ @ @ best practices on the social re-use of confiscated assets .
The workshop was organized in the framework of the OSCE project on “ Strengthening the fight against transnational organized crime in South-Eastern Europe through improved regional co-operation in assets seizure , confiscation , management and re-use ” and the UNODC “ Education for Justice Initiative ” .
The project is funded by the United States Department of State , Italy , Germany and the United Kingdom .

A two-day workshop on organized crime, asset confiscation and social re-use, organized jointly by the OSCE and UNODC, took place on 15 and 16 December 2020 for beneficiaries in South-Eastern Europe.
More than 100 participants from civil society organizations, academia, youth organizations, law enforcement and asset management agencies from the region and beyond gathered for the event.
“Transnational organized crime represents one of the greatest threats to security, stability and economic growth across the OSCE region, because it systematically exploits institutional, social and economic vulnerabilities, thus creating instability, weakening our state institutions and undermining socio-economic development and prosperity,” said Alena Kupchyna, OSCE Co-ordinator of Activities to Address Transnational Threats.
The discussion aimed at raising participants’ awareness of the security threats posed to societies by organized crime, the benefits of social re-use of assets confiscated in organized crime and corruption cases, and the role that academia and, in particular, youth can play in this context.
The Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities Vuk Žugić stressed in his opening remarks the importance of the social re-use of confiscated assets. “Such practice is the best way to ensure that what has been stolen from societies is given back. This component is a powerful reflection of the effectiveness of national institutions in building prosperous societies based on the rule of law and improving the business climate.”
During the event, participants gained knowledge on organized crime; assets confiscation and social re-use, on how they can contribute to the fight against organized crime and corruption, and learned how to integrate these topics into their work. The event provided an opportunity to promote a common understanding and share experiences and best practices on the social re-use of confiscated assets.
The workshop was organized in the framework of the OSCE project on “Strengthening the fight against transnational organized crime in South-Eastern Europe through improved regional co-operation in assets seizure, confiscation, management and re-use” and the UNODC “Education for Justice Initiative”. The project is funded by the United States Department of State, Italy, Germany and the United Kingdom.


osce--2020-12-16--Youth and elections in Mostar focus of OSCE-supported online roundtable discussion

The OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina ( BiH ) organized an online roundtable discussion titled , ‘ Mostar : Youth and Elections ’ , on 16 December 2020 involving representatives of the Youth Council of the City of Mostar , the Coalition for Free and Fair Elections Pod Lupom , and the OSCE Mission ’ s Youth Advisory Group , as well as other youth organizations .
The aim of the roundtable discussion was to raise awareness of youth participation in elections as an important cornerstone of democracy .
The focus was primarily on eligible voters in the city @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an elected , accountable administration for more than 12 years .
“ Your vote matters .
By exercising your right to vote for the candidates you believe in can best serve the interests of your communities ; it will strengthen democracy in this country , ” said Ambassador Kathleen Kavalec , Head of the OSCE Mission to BiH , highlighting the need for young people to work together and to exercise their right to vote .
“ The fact is that , at the local level , joint work with youth can make @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Mission ’ s local election pledge initiative , which entails several key commitments aimed at contributing to a peaceful and fair electoral process in the local communities .
They also considered the challenging mandate ahead of newly elected officials in Mostar who will face several outstanding issues requiring urgent solutions .
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic was also discussed .
The roundtable participants highlighted the need to encourage all voters to protect both themselves and polling station workers by wearing masks and respecting all epidemiological measures while voting .
“ The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ high voter turnout , ” said Kavalec .
“ So please treasure this right , and exercise it at liberty.
” Kavalec concluded that the OSCE Mission to BiH will continue to work closely with the local administration to support the citizens of Mostar .

The OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) organized an online roundtable discussion titled, ‘Mostar: Youth and Elections’, on 16 December 2020 involving representatives of the Youth Council of the City of Mostar, the Coalition for Free and Fair Elections Pod Lupom, and the OSCE Mission’s Youth Advisory Group, as well as other youth organizations.
The aim of the roundtable discussion was to raise awareness of youth participation in elections as an important cornerstone of democracy. The focus was primarily on eligible voters in the city of Mostar, which has been without an elected, accountable administration for more than 12 years.
“Your vote matters. By exercising your right to vote for the candidates you believe in can best serve the interests of your communities; it will strengthen democracy in this country,” said Ambassador Kathleen Kavalec, Head of the OSCE Mission to BiH, highlighting the need for young people to work together and to exercise their right to vote. “The fact is that, at the local level, joint work with youth can make a difference.”
The roundtable discussions included the Mission’s local election pledge initiative, which entails several key commitments aimed at contributing to a peaceful and fair electoral process in the local communities. They also considered the challenging mandate ahead of newly elected officials in Mostar who will face several outstanding issues requiring urgent solutions.
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic was also discussed. The roundtable participants highlighted the need to encourage all voters to protect both themselves and polling station workers by wearing masks and respecting all epidemiological measures while voting.
“The possibilities of misusing an election decreases with high voter turnout,” said Kavalec. “So please treasure this right, and exercise it at liberty.”
Kavalec concluded that the OSCE Mission to BiH will continue to work closely with the local administration to support the citizens of Mostar.


osce--2020-12-16--Regional Forensic Days in Danilovgrad conference held online with the support of the OSCE Mission to

Regional Forensic Days in Danilovgrad conference held online with the support of the OSCE Mission to Montenegro

Co-operation among forensic centres is vital in the fight against transnational and organized crime , particularly in the time of the COVID-19 pandemic , was the conclusion of ‘ Regional Forensic Days in Danilovgrad ’ , an online conference organized by the OSCE Mission to Montenegro and the national Forensic Centre of the Police Directorate on 16 December 2020 .
More than 20 participants from accredited forensic laboratories from Bosnia and Hercegovina , Croatia , Montenegro , North Macedonia and Serbia took part in the conference and exchanged their experiences and research results on specific aspects of forensic science .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ was delayed and took place virtually due to restrictions related to the COVID-19 pandemic .
To support the Forensic Centre in hosting virtual conferences , the Mission donated 10 laptops for each department together with a WebEx licence and digital forensic licences valued at almost 20,000 EUR .
Stephen Harmon , acting Programme Manager at the Mission said that today ’ s event served as a forum for discussing and exchanging best practices for organizing forensic examinations during this challenging period caused by the COVID-19 pandemic .
“ Without your thorough scientific expertise @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would be impossible , ” said Harmon .
He announced that the Mission will donate additional software and equipment to the Police Directorate to further support cyber-crime investigations and fight serious and organized crime .
“ Some of the donated equipment has already been used to organize this conference .
The final package of equipment will be delivered to the Police Directorate in the forthcoming days , ” said Harmon .
Aleksandar Ivanović , Head of the Forensic Centre , said that regional forensic co-operation should play a key role in identifying perpetrators @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is a ‘ conditio sine qua non ’ , or an essential action , for shedding light on cases of cross-border crime , corruption and terrorism .
In addition to our good co-operation and good will , for more efficient work in conducting criminal-forensic investigations , it would be necessary to make this regional exchange official through a protocol or agreement on co-operation between our forensic institutions , ” said Ivanović .
The OSCE Mission to Montenegro reinforces its commitment to supporting the Montenegrin authorities in fighting organized and serious crime .

Co-operation among forensic centres is vital in the fight against transnational and organized crime, particularly in the time of the COVID-19 pandemic, was the conclusion of ‘Regional Forensic Days in Danilovgrad’, an online conference organized by the OSCE Mission to Montenegro and the national Forensic Centre of the Police Directorate on 16 December 2020.
More than 20 participants from accredited forensic laboratories from Bosnia and Hercegovina, Croatia, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Serbia took part in the conference and exchanged their experiences and research results on specific aspects of forensic science.
Originally planned for April, the conference was delayed and took place virtually due to restrictions related to the COVID-19 pandemic. To support the Forensic Centre in hosting virtual conferences, the Mission donated 10 laptops for each department together with a WebEx licence and digital forensic licences valued at almost 20,000 EUR.
Stephen Harmon, acting Programme Manager at the Mission said that today’s event served as a forum for discussing and exchanging best practices for organizing forensic examinations during this challenging period caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. “Without your thorough scientific expertise, prosecution of serious and organized crime would be impossible,” said Harmon. He announced that the Mission will donate additional software and equipment to the Police Directorate to further support cyber-crime investigations and fight serious and organized crime. “Some of the donated equipment has already been used to organize this conference. The final package of equipment will be delivered to the Police Directorate in the forthcoming days,” said Harmon.
Aleksandar Ivanović, Head of the Forensic Centre, said that regional forensic co-operation should play a key role in identifying perpetrators. “Regional exchange of forensic data is a ‘conditio sine qua non’, or an essential action, for shedding light on cases of cross-border crime, corruption and terrorism. In addition to our good co-operation and good will, for more efficient work in conducting criminal-forensic investigations, it would be necessary to make this regional exchange official through a protocol or agreement on co-operation between our forensic institutions,” said Ivanović.
The OSCE Mission to Montenegro reinforces its commitment to supporting the Montenegrin authorities in fighting organized and serious crime.


osce--2020-12-16--OSCE Parliamentary Assembly human rights leaders call on Belarusian authorities to respect media fre

OSCE Parliamentary Assembly human rights leaders call on Belarusian authorities to respect media freedom

COPENHAGEN , 16 December 2020 – Taking note of increasing violations of media freedoms in Belarus , the leadership of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly ’ s human rights committee today called on authorities in Minsk to end prosecutions and harassment of media professionals for their journalistic activities .
According to Reporters Without Borders , around 370 media professionals have been arrested since 9 August and eight are still being held .
Kyriakos Hadjiyianni , Michael Link and Kari Henriksen stressed the responsibility of the government to provide an enabling space for freedom of expression so that reporters are free to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ public .
“ With hundreds of press freedom violations in recent months , the environment for media professionals in Belarus has gone from bad to worse since the 9 August election , ” said Hadjiyianni , Link and Henriksen in a joint statement today .
“ The authorities ’ crackdown on reporters covering demonstrations has included prosecutions , violence and searches , as well as throttling the internet and disrupting distribution of newspapers .
This media crackdown is unacceptable and must end .
We urge authorities to provide journalists with a safe working @ @ @ @ @ @ @ detention.
” The committee leaders recalled the recommendations of the OSCE Rapporteur ’ s Report under the Moscow Mechanism on Alleged Human Rights Violations related to the Presidential Elections of 9 August 2020 , and reiterated the need for Belarus to review criminal and administrative decisions taken against journalists and to prosecute those accused of press freedom violations in accordance with international standards .
Hadjiyianni , Link and Henriksen are the Chair , Vice-Chair and Rapporteur , respectively , of the OSCE PA ’ s General Committee on Democracy , Human Rights and @ @ @

COPENHAGEN, 16 December 2020 – Taking note of increasing violations of media freedoms in Belarus, the leadership of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly’s human rights committee today called on authorities in Minsk to end prosecutions and harassment of media professionals for their journalistic activities.
According to Reporters Without Borders, around 370 media professionals have been arrested since 9 August and eight are still being held. Kyriakos Hadjiyianni, Michael Link and Kari Henriksen stressed the responsibility of the government to provide an enabling space for freedom of expression so that reporters are free to conduct their work and help inform the public.
“With hundreds of press freedom violations in recent months, the environment for media professionals in Belarus has gone from bad to worse since the 9 August election,” said Hadjiyianni, Link and Henriksen in a joint statement today. “The authorities’ crackdown on reporters covering demonstrations has included prosecutions, violence and searches, as well as throttling the internet and disrupting distribution of newspapers. This media crackdown is unacceptable and must end. We urge authorities to provide journalists with a safe working environment and release those who are in detention.”
The committee leaders recalled the recommendations of the OSCE Rapporteur’s Report under the Moscow Mechanism on Alleged Human Rights Violations related to the Presidential Elections of 9 August 2020, and reiterated the need for Belarus to review criminal and administrative decisions taken against journalists and to prosecute those accused of press freedom violations in accordance with international standards.
Hadjiyianni, Link and Henriksen are the Chair, Vice-Chair and Rapporteur, respectively, of the OSCE PA’s General Committee on Democracy, Human Rights and Humanitarian Questions.


osce--2020-12-15--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 298/2020 issued on 15 December 2020


osce--2020-12-15--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 15 December 2020

KAMENSK-SHAKHTINSKIY , Russian Federation .
The Observer Mission ( OM ) continues to operate 24/7 at both Border Crossing Points ( BCPs ) .
The overall number of border crossings by persons increased at both BCPs compared to the previous week .
The OM is currently operating with 22 permanent international Mission members , including the Chief Observer ( CO ) and one first responder [ 1 ] .
The Mission is supported administratively by a staff member and the Chief of Fund Administration based in Vienna .
Activities have been impacted by COVID-19 and measures undertaken by the OM @ @ @ @ @ @ @ care of its Mission members and compliance with measures set by the host country authorities .
The Mission is continuing to keep the situation under review , in close contact with the OSCE Secretariat and the Chairmanship .
Following the host country recommendations , the observers are adhering to social distancing .
Due to the preventive measures taken by the central and regional authorities , the OM is faced with certain difficulties , but is still able to continue to fulfil its mandate without any limitations in its observation and reporting activities .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ persons crossing the border can be categorized as follows : • Adults travelling on foot or by car with little or no luggage .
• Families ( often including elderly persons and/or children ) travelling on foot or by car with a significant amount of luggage .
The average number of entries/exits increased from 6,828 to 7,117 per day at both BCPs compared to last week [ 2 ] .
During the reporting period , the majority of border crossings were to Ukraine , with an average net flow of 52 per day @ @ @ @ @ @ @ continued to experience much more traffic than the Gukovo BCP .
Responding to the COVID-19 situation , the host country has closed its borders for the majority of foreigners starting from 18 March .
Among the exceptions of persons allowed to cross the border ( which entered into force on 19 March ) , are Ukrainian citizens and stateless persons holding passports or identification documents proving permanent residence in certain areas of Luhansk and Donetsk regions of Ukraine .
In addition , reportedly , due to the threat of the spread of COVID-19 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ organized passenger transport commuting between the non-government-controlled areas of Luhansk region of Ukraine and the Russian Federation was temporarily suspended and restored from 25 June .
During the reporting period , the number of persons in military-style outfits crossing the border was 13 , compared to 11 last week .
Five persons crossed into the Russian Federation while another eight persons crossed into Ukraine .
These individuals crossed the border on foot .
The OTs continued to report on families , sometimes with elderly persons and/or children , crossing the border at both @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , or travelling in heavily loaded cars .
During this reporting week , three families were observed crossing into the Russian Federation and eight families were observed crossing into Ukraine , compared to the previous reporting period when two families were observed crossing into the Russian Federation and three families crossing into Ukraine .
Regular local and long-distance bus connections continued to operate between Ukraine ( mostly from/to the Luhansk region ) and the Russian Federation .
During the reporting period , the OTs observed an increase in the overall number of buses @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 315 compared to 233 observed during the previous week ) .
There were 168 buses bound for the Russian Federation and 147 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 .
During the reporting period , the OTs observed a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trucks crossing the border at both BCPs ( 874 compared to 757 during the previous reporting week ) ; 508 at the Gukovo BCP and 366 at the Donetsk BCP , 464 of these trucks crossed into the Russian Federation and 410 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 the Russian Federation , Belarus , Georgia , Lithuania and trucks with “ LPR ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ observe tanker trucks crossing the border in both directions .
During the reporting period , the OTs observed that the overall number of tanker trucks crossing the border at both BCPs remained the same ( 52 compared to 52 during the previous reporting week ) .
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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ butane .
All trucks underwent systematic inspection by the Russian Federation officials , which could include an X-ray check .
Due to the unfavourable observation position at the Gukovo BCP , the OTs continued to be unable to observe any X-ray checks .
Compared to the previous week , the total number of X-ray checks at the Donetsk BCP significantly increased from 61 to 132 .
Of the total number of trucks scanned , 126 trucks ( 95 per cent ) were bound for Ukraine , the remaining six trucks ( 5 per @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The OM continued to observe passenger and cargo minivans [ 3 ] crossing the border in both directions at both BCPs .
The OTs observed minivans predominantly with Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region ; however , the OTs also saw minivans registered in the Russian Federation .
During the reporting period , the OTs observed an increase in the overall number of minivans crossing the border at both BCPs ( 161 compared to 122 observed during the previous week ) ; 80 crossed into the Russian Federation and another @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 21 occasions ; the OTs assessed that nine trains were travelling to the Russian Federation and the remaining 12 trains were travelling to Ukraine ( more details are provided in the sections “ trends and figures at a glance ” below ) .
Visual observation was not possible because of the line of trees located between the train tracks and the BCP .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 Georgian and Lithuanian licence plates .
For trends and figures at a glance covering the period from 10 November to 15 December 2020 , please see the attachment here .
[ 1 ] First responders are OSCE staff or Mission members deployed for a short period of time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ received from the Regional Representation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation .
[ 3 ] Cargo minivans : light commercial vehicles with a maximum authorized mass of more than 3.5 t and not more than 7.5 t ; with or without a trailer with a maximum mass of less than 750 kg ( small cargo vehicles which correspond to driving licence C1 ) .

SUMMARY
KAMENSK-SHAKHTINSKIY, Russian Federation. The Observer Mission (OM) continues to operate 24/7 at both Border Crossing Points (BCPs). The overall number of border crossings by persons increased at both BCPs compared to the previous week.
OPERATIONAL REMARKS
The OM is currently operating with 22 permanent international Mission members, including the Chief Observer (CO) and one first responder[1]. The Mission is supported administratively by a staff member and the Chief of Fund Administration based in Vienna.
Update on COVID-19 measures
Activities have been impacted by COVID-19 and measures undertaken by the OM to ensure the safety and duty of care of its Mission members and compliance with measures set by the host country authorities. The Mission is continuing to keep the situation under review, in close contact with the OSCE Secretariat and the Chairmanship. Following the host country recommendations, the observers are adhering to social distancing. Due to the preventive measures taken by the central and regional authorities, the OM is faced with certain difficulties, but is still able to continue to fulfil its mandate without any limitations in its observation and reporting activities.
OBSERVATIONS AT THE BORDER CROSSING POINTS
Persons crossing the border
The profile of persons crossing the border can be categorized as follows:
Adults travelling on foot or by car with little or no luggage. Persons in military-style outfits. Families (often including elderly persons and/or children) travelling on foot or by car with a significant amount of luggage.
The average number of entries/exits increased from 6,828 to 7,117 per day at both BCPs compared to last week[2].
During the reporting period, the majority of border crossings were to Ukraine, with an average net flow of 52 per day for both BCPs. The Donetsk BCP continued to experience much more traffic than the Gukovo BCP.
Responding to the COVID-19 situation, the host country has closed its borders for the majority of foreigners starting from 18 March. Among the exceptions of persons allowed to cross the border (which entered into force on 19 March), are Ukrainian citizens and stateless persons holding passports or identification documents proving permanent residence in certain areas of Luhansk and Donetsk regions of Ukraine. In addition, reportedly, due to the threat of the spread of COVID-19, starting from 10 April, the organized passenger transport commuting between the non-government-controlled areas of Luhansk region of Ukraine and the Russian Federation was temporarily suspended and restored from 25 June.
Persons in military-style outfits
During the reporting period, the number of persons in military-style outfits crossing the border was 13, compared to 11 last week. Five persons crossed into the Russian Federation while another eight persons crossed into Ukraine. These individuals crossed the border on foot.
Families with a significant amount of luggage
The OTs continued to report on families, sometimes with elderly persons and/or children, crossing the border at both BCPs with a significant amount of luggage, or travelling in heavily loaded cars. During this reporting week, three families were observed crossing into the Russian Federation and eight families were observed crossing into Ukraine, compared to the previous reporting period when two families were observed crossing into the Russian Federation and three families crossing 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. During the reporting period, the OTs observed an increase in the overall number of buses crossing the border at both BCPs (315 compared to 233 observed during the previous week). There were 168 buses bound for the Russian Federation and 147 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.
Trucks
During the reporting period, the OTs observed a significant increase in the overall number of trucks crossing the border at both BCPs (874 compared to 757 during the previous reporting week); 508 at the Gukovo BCP and 366 at the Donetsk BCP, 464 of these trucks crossed into the Russian Federation and 410 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 the Russian Federation, Belarus, Georgia, Lithuania and trucks with “LPR” plates.
The OTs also continued to observe tanker trucks crossing the border in both directions. During the reporting period, the OTs observed that the overall number of tanker trucks crossing the border at both BCPs remained the same (52 compared to 52 during the previous reporting week). These trucks were observed crossing the border at both BCPs. The trucks had the words “Propane” and “Flammable” written across the tanks in either Russian or Ukrainian. The majority of tanker trucks had hazard signs, indicating that they were transporting propane or a mix of propane and butane. All trucks underwent systematic inspection by the Russian Federation officials, which could include an X-ray check. Due to the unfavourable observation position at the Gukovo BCP, the OTs continued to be unable to observe any X-ray checks.
Compared to the previous week, the total number of X-ray checks at the Donetsk BCP significantly increased from 61 to 132. Of the total number of trucks scanned, 126 trucks (95 per cent) were bound for Ukraine, the remaining six trucks (5 per cent) crossed into the Russian Federation.
Minivans
The OM continued to observe passenger and cargo minivans[3] crossing the border in both directions at both BCPs. The OTs observed minivans predominantly with Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region; however, the OTs also saw minivans registered in the Russian Federation. During the reporting period, the OTs observed an increase in the overall number of minivans crossing the border at both BCPs (161 compared to 122 observed during the previous week); 80 crossed into the Russian Federation and another 81 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 21 occasions; the OTs assessed that nine trains were travelling to the Russian Federation and the remaining 12 trains were travelling to Ukraine (more details are provided in the sections “trends and figures at a glance” below).
Visual observation was not possible because of the line of trees located between the train tracks and the BCP.
Other observations
The majority of vehicles crossing the border had Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region or Russian Federation licence plates. A significant number of vehicles with “LPR” plates were also observed crossing the border in both directions on a daily basis. The OTs also observed vehicles with Georgian and Lithuanian licence plates.
For trends and figures at a glance covering the period from 10 November to 15 December 2020, please see the attachment here.
[1] First responders are OSCE staff or Mission members deployed for a short period of time.
[2] Based on data received from the Regional Representation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation.
[3] 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--2020-12-15--Access to justice for persons with disabilities discussed in Uzbekistan

The OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan , together with the Association of People with Disabilities of Uzbekistan co-hosted an online event to discuss the Access to Justice for Persons with Disabilities : Foreign Experience and National Practice on 14 December 2020 .
The event consisted of two sessions , which covered international standards and experience as well as national practice in Uzbekistan with regard to access to justice for people with disabilities .
International experts from Latvia , Estonia and Kazakhstan shared their knowledge and experiences about the new standards in the area of access to justice , as well @ @ @ @ @ @ @ disabilities .
John MacGregor , OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan , opening the event , said : “ It is up to all of us to promote and protect the rights of persons with disabilities .
Many of the priorities of Uzbekistan ’ s 2017-2021 Action Strategy , as well as a number of OSCE commitments , are closely related to this topic .
The organization of today ’ s event is a clear evidence of the firm approach of Uzbekistan to safeguarding the human rights of Persons with Disabilities.
” Over 44 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of organizations representing people with disabilities from all over the country , representatives of the Secretariat of the Ombudsperson Institution of Uzbekistan , the Ombudsperson Institution for Children ’ s Rights , and the Supreme Court of Uzbekistan .

The OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan, together with the Association of People with Disabilities of Uzbekistan co-hosted an online event to discuss the Access to Justice for Persons with Disabilities: Foreign Experience and National Practice on 14 December 2020.
The event consisted of two sessions, which covered international standards and experience as well as national practice in Uzbekistan with regard to access to justice for people with disabilities. International experts from Latvia, Estonia and Kazakhstan shared their knowledge and experiences about the new standards in the area of access to justice, as well as rights of women and children with disabilities.
John MacGregor, OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan, opening the event, said: “It is up to all of us to promote and protect the rights of persons with disabilities. Many of the priorities of Uzbekistan’s 2017-2021 Action Strategy, as well as a number of OSCE commitments, are closely related to this topic. The organization of today’s event is a clear evidence of the firm approach of Uzbekistan to safeguarding the human rights of Persons with Disabilities.”
Over 44 participants attended the event, including members of organizations representing people with disabilities from all over the country, representatives of the Secretariat of the Ombudsperson Institution of Uzbekistan, the Ombudsperson Institution for Children’s Rights, and the Supreme Court of Uzbekistan.