osce--2020-11-13--Efficient monitoring, analysis and use of data crucial for effective good governance processes say p

Efficient monitoring, analysis and use of data crucial for effective good governance processes say participants at OSCE event

The potential of data , its effective monitoring and use in creating a culture of evidence-based decision-making centred on needs of citizens and the community was the focus of a virtual seminar organized by the Office of the Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities ( OCEEA ) on 10 November 2020 .
More than 40 representatives from national authorities , civil society organizations , businesses , chambers of commerce and business associations from the OSCE region discussed best practices in monitoring , analysis and use of data for more effective , transparent and accountable decision-making processes .
Speakers from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ France and Colombia took part in the discussion .
Many emphasized that to maintain high availability of data and to ensure transparency of public processes , all components in data processing and analysis have to be considered and a proper methodology for the use of the available information must be in place .
Participants agreed that efficient data monitoring and analysis is vital in the ecosystem of good governance processes .
Systematically evaluated effects of past and proposed public policies and resource management should be used to assess the efficiency and effectiveness of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ process .
This process needs to be based on a multi-stakeholder approach , including the participation of civil society and the private sector , it was concluded .
The sessions provided an overview of the benefits of open data for good governance and the different approaches in data-driven policy-shaping and decision-making for more transparent and accountable public processes .
Participants looked into different models and lessons learned around data monitoring , analysis , use and re-use from and beyond the OSCE region .
One of the panellists covered practices on the use of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Colombia ranked among the top three countries in progress towards a digital government , according to the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development ( OECD ) 2019 Digital Government Index .
Iris Pilika , OSCE Economic Co-operation and Governance Programme Officer and project manager said : ” Experiences and best practices shared during the webinar will help beneficiaries from OSCE participating States improve the transparency and efficiency of public administrations and help economic growth in their respective countries through more effective use of open data.
” The second in a series of capacity-building @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the event was organized within the framework of the extra-budgetary project “ Promoting Good Governance and Enhancing Anti-Corruption Efforts in the OSCE Area through the Use of Open Data and New Digital Technologies.
” Germany and the U. S. Department of State fund the project .

The potential of data, its effective monitoring and use in creating a culture of evidence-based decision-making centred on needs of citizens and the community was the focus of a virtual seminar organized by the Office of the Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities (OCEEA) on 10 November 2020.
More than 40 representatives from national authorities, civil society organizations, businesses, chambers of commerce and business associations from the OSCE region discussed best practices in monitoring, analysis and use of data for more effective, transparent and accountable decision-making processes.
Speakers from Austria, Ukraine, the Netherlands, France and Colombia took part in the discussion. Many emphasized that to maintain high availability of data and to ensure transparency of public processes, all components in data processing and analysis have to be considered and a proper methodology for the use of the available information must be in place.
Participants agreed that efficient data monitoring and analysis is vital in the ecosystem of good governance processes. Systematically evaluated effects of past and proposed public policies and resource management should be used to assess the efficiency and effectiveness of those programmes for a more accountable decision-making process. This process needs to be based on a multi-stakeholder approach, including the participation of civil society and the private sector, it was concluded.
The sessions provided an overview of the benefits of open data for good governance and the different approaches in data-driven policy-shaping and decision-making for more transparent and accountable public processes. Participants looked into different models and lessons learned around data monitoring, analysis, use and re-use from and beyond the OSCE region.
One of the panellists covered practices on the use of open data in government decision-making processes in Colombia ranked among the top three countries in progress towards a digital government, according to the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) 2019 Digital Government Index.
Iris Pilika, OSCE Economic Co-operation and Governance Programme Officer and project manager said: ”Experiences and best practices shared during the webinar will help beneficiaries from OSCE participating States improve the transparency and efficiency of public administrations and help economic growth in their respective countries through more effective use of open data.”
The second in a series of capacity-building seminars on good governance and open data, the event was organized within the framework of the extra-budgetary project “Promoting Good Governance and Enhancing Anti-Corruption Efforts in the OSCE Area through the Use of Open Data and New Digital Technologies.” Germany and the U. S. Department of State fund the project.


osce--2020-11-13--OSCE supports discussion on ensuring political and public participation of persons with disabilities

OSCE supports discussion on ensuring political and public participation of persons with disabilities in Kazakhstan

An OSCE-supported roundtable discussion on the rights and opportunities of people with disabilities to participate in political and public life took place on 13 November 2020 in Nur-Sultan .
The OSCE Programme Office in Nur-Sultan and the NGO Association of women with disabilities “ Shyrak ” co-organized the roundtable discussion with the support of the Central Election Commission of Kazakhstan .
Some 40 government officials , parliamentarians , Human Rights Ombudsperson , an expert from the UN Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and representatives of international and non-governmental organizations took part in the event directly and via @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the implementation of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in Kazakhstan and the related National Action Plan on improving the quality of their life .
Experts from Finland and Ireland spoke about international and OSCE standards on political participation of persons with disabilities .
A representative from an organization of people with disabilities shared experiences in participating in the electoral campaign for a local representative body in Aktobe city ( West Kazakhstan ) .
The conclusions and recommendations of the OSCE-supported baseline study on accessibility and inclusiveness of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with disabilities were also presented at the event .
The event is part of the Programme Office ’ s efforts to assist the host country in promoting a more inclusive and participatory society .

An OSCE-supported roundtable discussion on the rights and opportunities of people with disabilities to participate in political and public life took place on 13 November 2020 in Nur-Sultan.
The OSCE Programme Office in Nur-Sultan and the NGO Association of women with disabilities “Shyrak” co-organized the roundtable discussion with the support of the Central Election Commission of Kazakhstan.
Some 40 government officials, parliamentarians, Human Rights Ombudsperson, an expert from the UN Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and representatives of international and non-governmental organizations took part in the event directly and via video conference. Participants discussed issues related to the implementation of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in Kazakhstan and the related National Action Plan on improving the quality of their life. Experts from Finland and Ireland spoke about international and OSCE standards on political participation of persons with disabilities. A representative from an organization of people with disabilities shared experiences in participating in the electoral campaign for a local representative body in Aktobe city (West Kazakhstan).
The conclusions and recommendations of the OSCE-supported baseline study on accessibility and inclusiveness of the Parliament in Kazkhstan in relation to persons with disabilities were also presented at the event.
The event is part of the Programme Office’s efforts to assist the host country in promoting a more inclusive and participatory society.


osce--2020-11-12--Food security, election observation, Belarus and Nagorno-Karabakh top agenda of OSCE Parliamentary A

Food security, election observation, Belarus and Nagorno-Karabakh top agenda of OSCE Parliamentary Assembly Standing Committee meeting

COPENHAGEN , 12 November 2020 – Meeting in an online format today , the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly ’ s Standing Committee heard a keynote address by David Beasley , Executive Director of the UN World Food Programme , and discussed OSCE matters .
In his remarks , Beasley discussed his work leading the WFP , which is the recipient of the 2020 Nobel Peace Prize .
He noted that the effects of COVID on food security have been dramatic , and warned that 2021 could be a catastrophic year for food security if appropriate resources are not dedicated to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ famine and mass migration .
“ People don ’ t want to leave home , ” Beasley said .
“ But when you don ’ t have food and you don ’ t have a degree of peace , they do what any of us would do to protect their children.
” OSCE PA President George Tsereteli provided an overview of the Assembly ’ s activities in recent months , noting that the COVID-related suspension of election observation last spring was lifted with the deployment of two election observation missions this autumn – @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to Georgia , as well as a small mission in Montenegro in August .
The President spoke about other issues high on the OSCE PA ’ s agenda , including the situation in Belarus and the conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh .
He noted his hope that the agreement signed by Armenia , Azerbaijan , and the Russian Federation earlier this week will offer an opportunity for long-lasting peace .
Another issue Tsereteli touched on was the institutional crisis in the OSCE , noting that the leadership vacuum is largely caused by a lack of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ level in participating States .
“ This crisis is purely political , ” he said .
“ The ability to rapidly deploy the Special Monitoring Mission in Ukraine proves that the OSCE can be operational when there is political will.
” OSCE PA Secretary General Roberto Montella reported on the recent work of the International Secretariat , noting that operations continue in a COVID mode , with telecommuting the general rule for now .
He reported on recent election observation missions as well as an informal brainstorming session the PA hosted in September @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the future of the Organization .
Montella noted that the recent mission to the United States may have been the most important election observation mission ever undertaken by the OSCE PA , resulting in a strong statement demonstrating that OSCE observer missions do not apply double standards .
He highlighted the extreme care taken to ensure that all election observers are safe in the context of the pandemic .
The Secretary General briefed the Standing Committee on his recent meeting in Copenhagen with exiled Belarusian opposition figure Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya and discussed upcoming activities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2021 .
Ambassador Lamberto Zannier spoke about his work in developing a process to focus on issues affecting the OSCE , including implementation of commitments , the misuse of the consensus rule , and the issue of appointments .
He noted that there are plans being developed to organize events in capitals and that he looks forward to working with parliamentarians in developing a plan to revitalize the OSCE ahead of the 50th anniversary of the Helsinki Final Act in 2025 .
In the discussion , OSCE parliamentarians raised issues such as the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of hostilities between Armenia and Azerbaijan , the crisis in and around Ukraine , and human trafficking .
Lord Peter Bowness , who serves as Chair of the Sub-Committee on Rules of Procedure and Working Practices , reported on ongoing efforts to improve and clarify the Assembly ’ s methods of operation .
Treasurer Peter Juel-Jensen reported on the OSCE PA ’ s financial situation , noting that the Assembly continues to function in an efficient and cost-effective way , and OSCE PA Special Representative in Vienna Ambassador Andreas Nothelle reported on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Standing Committee consists of heads of the national delegations to the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly , plus the Bureau .
The last time it met was on 7 July .

COPENHAGEN, 12 November 2020 – Meeting in an online format today, the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly’s Standing Committee heard a keynote address by David Beasley, Executive Director of the UN World Food Programme, and discussed OSCE matters.
In his remarks, Beasley discussed his work leading the WFP, which is the recipient of the 2020 Nobel Peace Prize. He noted that the effects of COVID on food security have been dramatic, and warned that 2021 could be a catastrophic year for food security if appropriate resources are not dedicated to the effort, highlighting the possibility of increased famine and mass migration. “People don’t want to leave home,” Beasley said. “But when you don’t have food and you don’t have a degree of peace, they do what any of us would do to protect their children.”
OSCE PA President George Tsereteli provided an overview of the Assembly’s activities in recent months, noting that the COVID-related suspension of election observation last spring was lifted with the deployment of two election observation missions this autumn – one to the United States and one to Georgia, as well as a small mission in Montenegro in August.
The President spoke about other issues high on the OSCE PA’s agenda, including the situation in Belarus and the conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh. He noted his hope that the agreement signed by Armenia, Azerbaijan, and the Russian Federation earlier this week will offer an opportunity for long-lasting peace. Another issue Tsereteli touched on was the institutional crisis in the OSCE, noting that the leadership vacuum is largely caused by a lack of interest for the OSCE at a political level in participating States.
“This crisis is purely political,” he said. “The ability to rapidly deploy the Special Monitoring Mission in Ukraine proves that the OSCE can be operational when there is political will.”
OSCE PA Secretary General Roberto Montella reported on the recent work of the International Secretariat, noting that operations continue in a COVID mode, with telecommuting the general rule for now. He reported on recent election observation missions as well as an informal brainstorming session the PA hosted in September to discuss the OSCE leadership crisis and the future of the Organization.
Montella noted that the recent mission to the United States may have been the most important election observation mission ever undertaken by the OSCE PA, resulting in a strong statement demonstrating that OSCE observer missions do not apply double standards. He highlighted the extreme care taken to ensure that all election observers are safe in the context of the pandemic. The Secretary General briefed the Standing Committee on his recent meeting in Copenhagen with exiled Belarusian opposition figure Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya and discussed upcoming activities, such as statutory meetings scheduled for 2021.
Ambassador Lamberto Zannier spoke about his work in developing a process to focus on issues affecting the OSCE, including implementation of commitments, the misuse of the consensus rule, and the issue of appointments. He noted that there are plans being developed to organize events in capitals and that he looks forward to working with parliamentarians in developing a plan to revitalize the OSCE ahead of the 50th anniversary of the Helsinki Final Act in 2025.
In the discussion, OSCE parliamentarians raised issues such as the importance of election observation, the end of hostilities between Armenia and Azerbaijan, the crisis in and around Ukraine, and human trafficking.
Lord Peter Bowness, who serves as Chair of the Sub-Committee on Rules of Procedure and Working Practices, reported on ongoing efforts to improve and clarify the Assembly’s methods of operation. Treasurer Peter Juel-Jensen reported on the OSCE PA’s financial situation, noting that the Assembly continues to function in an efficient and cost-effective way, and OSCE PA Special Representative in Vienna Ambassador Andreas Nothelle reported on the latest developments at the OSCE headquarters.
The Standing Committee consists of heads of the national delegations to the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly, plus the Bureau. The last time it met was on 7 July.


osce--2020-11-12--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 270/2020 issued on 12 November 2020

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osce--2020-11-12--OSCE Project Co-ordinator facilitates introduction of environmental assessment systems in Uzbekistan

The OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan , in co-operation with the State Committee on Ecology and Environmental Protection and the UN Economic Commission for Europe ( UNECE ) , on 12 November 2020 , held the final online workshop on introducing environmental assessment systems in the country .
These systems are designed to be in accordance with the UNECE Convention on Environmental Impact Assessment ( EIA ) in a Transboundary Context and its Protocol on Strategic Environmental Assessment ( SEA ) .
The main outcomes of a review of the national legislative framework in this area vis-a-vis international standards , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ discussed during the workshop .
Recommendations and proposals presented during this final workshop aim at contributing to strengthening Uzbekistan ’ s capacity in implementing an effective EIA and SEA system .
“ Today ’ s seminar is important because it supports the efforts of Uzbekistan to promote environmental security and will help improve its environmental legislation based on the best international practices , ” said John MacGregor , Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan .
“ This event also serves as a platform for an open and honest discussion of crucial topics that may influence @ @ @ @ @ @ @ generations.
” Over 50 participants , including high-level state officials , UNECE representatives and OSCE experts , took part in the online event .

The OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan, in co-operation with the State Committee on Ecology and Environmental Protection and the UN Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE), on 12 November 2020, held the final online workshop on introducing environmental assessment systems in the country. These systems are designed to be in accordance with the UNECE Convention on Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) in a Transboundary Context and its Protocol on Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA).
The main outcomes of a review of the national legislative framework in this area vis-a-vis international standards, including the SEA, were presented and discussed during the workshop.
Recommendations and proposals presented during this final workshop aim at contributing to strengthening Uzbekistan’s capacity in implementing an effective EIA and SEA system.
“Today’s seminar is important because it supports the efforts of Uzbekistan to promote environmental security and will help improve its environmental legislation based on the best international practices,” said John MacGregor, Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan. “This event also serves as a platform for an open and honest discussion of crucial topics that may influence the future of the nation and coming generations.”
Over 50 participants, including high-level state officials, UNECE representatives and OSCE experts, took part in the online event.


osce--2020-11-12--OSCE organizes online seminar on energy diplomacy in Turkmenistan

Best practices in developing strategies in the area of energy diplomacy were shared during an OSCE-organized online seminar that took place on 11 and 12 November 2020 in Ashgabat .
The two-day event presented an overview of international priorities in the energy sector , analyzed world trends , policies and strategies in the area , and facilitated discussions on further possible steps in developing Turkmenistan ’ s energy diplomacy programme .
Participants included representatives of the Ministries of Foreign Affairs , Energy , Finance and Economy , institutions of higher education and other relevant bodies .
“ As the world @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the OSCE is well-positioned to promote political dialogue and international co-operation on energy issues , including its economic and environmental aspects , ” said Natalya Drozd , Head of the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat .
Experts from the Russian Federation and Serbia elaborated on energy in the international context focusing on energy markets , geopolitics and climate change diplomacy .
Participants discussed the energy diplomacy of the Middle East , its strategies and approaches , and relations with the Central Asian Region .
“ It is commendable that neutral Turkmenistan is promoting energy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ priorities and is attaching special importance to developing energy diplomacy , ” stressed Drozd .
“ We strongly believe that this event will make a practical contribution to the country ’ s efforts to elaborate the Programme for the Development of Energy Diplomacy in Turkmenistan 2020-2025 ” .
Participants shared their views on the priorities and practical aspects of Turkmenistan ’ s energy diplomacy after learning about the priorities of other energy-exporting OSCE participating States and experiences of countries without direct access to world oceans and international energy markets .
The seminar will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ diplomacy , which will be held on 13 November for students and teachers from the Institute of International Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan , the State Energy Institute in Mary , and the Institute of Oil and Gas of Turkmenistan .

Best practices in developing strategies in the area of energy diplomacy were shared during an OSCE-organized online seminar that took place on 11 and 12 November 2020 in Ashgabat.
The two-day event presented an overview of international priorities in the energy sector, analyzed world trends, policies and strategies in the area, and facilitated discussions on further possible steps in developing Turkmenistan’s energy diplomacy programme.
Participants included representatives of the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Energy, Finance and Economy, institutions of higher education and other relevant bodies.
“As the world’s largest regional security forum, the OSCE is well-positioned to promote political dialogue and international co-operation on energy issues, including its economic and environmental aspects,” said Natalya Drozd, Head of the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat.
Experts from the Russian Federation and Serbia elaborated on energy in the international context focusing on energy markets, geopolitics and climate change diplomacy. Participants discussed the energy diplomacy of the Middle East, its strategies and approaches, and relations with the Central Asian Region.
“It is commendable that neutral Turkmenistan is promoting energy security as one of its foreign policy priorities and is attaching special importance to developing energy diplomacy,” stressed Drozd. “We strongly believe that this event will make a practical contribution to the country’s efforts to elaborate the Programme for the Development of Energy Diplomacy in Turkmenistan 2020-2025”.
Participants shared their views on the priorities and practical aspects of Turkmenistan’s energy diplomacy after learning about the priorities of other energy-exporting OSCE participating States and experiences of countries without direct access to world oceans and international energy markets.
The seminar will be followed by a lecture on energy diplomacy, which will be held on 13 November for students and teachers from the Institute of International Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, the State Energy Institute in Mary, and the Institute of Oil and Gas of Turkmenistan.


osce--2020-11-12--OSCE Programme Office in Nur-Sultan trains law enforcement on cybercrime investigation in Kazakhstan

A four-day online training seminar on investigation practices of cybercrimes concluded on 12 November 2020 in Nur-Sultan .
The OSCE @ @ @ @ @ in co-operation with the Law Enforcement Academy under the Prosecutor General ’ s office/Hub to @ @ @ @ @ the event .
Some 30 law enforcement officials from across Kazakhstan took part in the @ @ @ @ @ Belarus familiarized participants with best practices in detecting and investigating cybercrimes .
Instruction took place @ @ @ @ @ evidence using digital forensics instruments , as well as a review of real criminal cases @ @ @ @ @ .
Participants also learned how to identify and detain suspects , seize electronic evidence , @ @ @ @ @ determine the amount of damage .
This training event is part of the Programme Office @ @ @ @ @ build competent law enforcement officers ’ capacity to counter cybercrimes in Kazakhstan .

A four-day online training seminar on investigation practices of cybercrimes concluded on 12 November 2020 in Nur-Sultan. The OSCE Programme Office in Nur-Sultan, in co-operation with the Law Enforcement Academy under the Prosecutor General’s office/Hub to Counter Global Threats, organized the event.
Some 30 law enforcement officials from across Kazakhstan took part in the seminar. International experts from Belarus familiarized participants with best practices in detecting and investigating cybercrimes. Instruction took place regarding analytical work with relevant evidence using digital forensics instruments, as well as a review of real criminal cases on cyberattacks to banking accounts. Participants also learned how to identify and detain suspects, seize electronic evidence, and work with victims to determine the amount of damage.
This training event is part of the Programme Office’s multi-year efforts to build competent law enforcement officers’ capacity to counter cybercrimes in Kazakhstan.


osce--2020-11-11--Press Statement of Special Representative Grau after the regular Meeting of Trilateral Contact Group

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

KYIV , 11 November 2020 – The Special Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office in Ukraine and in the Trilateral Contact Group ( TCG ) , Ambassador Heidi Grau , made the following statement to the press after the regular meetings of the TCG and its Working Groups held through video conferencing : “ According to the assessments of the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission , the ceasefire continues to be generally respected .
On the other hand , its repeated violations are alarming , especially in the area around the Donetsk Filtering Station ( DFS ) being the hot spot with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the conflict zone .
It accounts for about 44 % of all ceasefire violations recorded by the SMM OSCE since 27 July .
This poses a serious danger to the civilian population and calls into question the operation of the station that provides water supplies to about 380,000 people on both sides of the contact line .
These issues were raised by the Security Working Group .
Different aspects of the coordination mechanism for responding to ceasefire violations were also discussed .
The Working Group on Political Issues started developing a draft action @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Agreements .
Participants in the Working Group presented their proposals , but certain work still remains to be done to bring the positions closer .
The discussions of the Humanitarian Working Group focused on the simultaneous opening of the new entry-exit checkpoints ( EECPs ) in Zolote and Shchastya of the Luhansk region that was scheduled for 10 November 2020 .
On both sides of the contact line , the infrastructure necessary to open the EECPs was prepared in time .
However , it was not possible to agree on the order of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ date .
The participants of the TCG meeting showed readiness to urgently resolve the remaining issues with a view to opening both checkpoints as soon as possible .
This is very important for freedom of movement .
Thefocused on water supplies across the contact line in Donetsk and Luhansk regions .
The discussion also touched upon environmental issues and questions of the payment of overdue salaries to former employees of “ Ukrainian Railways ” residing in certain areas of Donetsk and Luhansk regions of Ukraine ” .

KYIV, 11 November 2020 – The Special Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office in Ukraine and in the Trilateral Contact Group (TCG), Ambassador Heidi Grau, made the following statement to the press after the regular meetings of the TCG and its Working Groups held through video conferencing:
“According to the assessments of the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission, the ceasefire continues to be generally respected.
On the other hand, its repeated violations are alarming, especially in the area around the Donetsk Filtering Station (DFS) being the hot spot with the highest level of kinetic activity in the conflict zone. It accounts for about 44% of all ceasefire violations recorded by the SMM OSCE since 27 July.
This poses a serious danger to the civilian population and calls into question the operation of the station that provides water supplies to about 380,000 people on both sides of the contact line.
These issues were raised by the Security Working Group. Different aspects of the coordination mechanism for responding to ceasefire violations were also discussed.
The Working Group on Political Issues started developing a draft action plan in full compliance with the Minsk Agreements. Participants in the Working Group presented their proposals, but certain work still remains to be done to bring the positions closer.
The discussions of the Humanitarian Working Group focused on the simultaneous opening of the new entry-exit checkpoints (EECPs) in Zolote and Shchastya of the Luhansk region that was scheduled for 10 November 2020.
On both sides of the contact line, the infrastructure necessary to open the EECPs was prepared in time. However, it was not possible to agree on the order of EECPs’ operation before the scheduled opening date.
The participants of the TCG meeting showed readiness to urgently resolve the remaining issues with a view to opening both checkpoints as soon as possible. This is very important for freedom of movement.
Thefocused on water supplies across the contact line in Donetsk and Luhansk regions. The discussion also touched upon environmental issues and questions of the payment of overdue salaries to former employees of “Ukrainian Railways” residing in certain areas of Donetsk and Luhansk regions of Ukraine”.


osce--2020-11-11--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 269/2020 issued on 11 November 2020


osce--2020-11-11--OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina calls for calm and safe Election Day

SARAJEVO , 11 November 2020- As citizens prepare to exercise their right to vote in the 2020 local elections in Bosnia and Herzegovina ( BiH ) this Sunday , 15 November 2020 , the OSCE Mission to BiH wishes to share a few important messages in the interests of free , fair and safe elections in BiH .
We welcome and support the efforts of the Central Election Commission ( CEC ) to ensure full transparency in its work and to identify and respond to possible attempts of election fraud .
We encourage voters to view the informational videos on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ head to the polls .
To help protect the integrity of the elections , citizens should report any cases of suspected fraud to the CEC and relevant law enforcement authorities .
We also welcome the measures taken by the CEC to ensure that the COVID-19 positive or isolated cases have been granted an opportunity to vote via a special mobile team .
We call on all political parties and candidates to uphold the principles of free and fair elections , show respect both for their competitors and for voters before , during and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ results .
We hope there will be no inflammatory rhetoric or provocative incidents on election day and we call for peaceful celebrations after the announcement of results .
Election observers , both independent and from political parties , should be allowed to perform their duties without hindrance .
This year , 'Pod Lupom ' a coalition of NGOs , will deploy independent observers to monitor elections across the country .
This is a fundamental safeguard for the integrity of elections .
We urge authorities to provide the necessary personal protective equipment to all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ measures are respected in the polling stations .
In cases where schools are used as polling stations , authorities should ensure that disinfection takes place immediately after voting is completed .
It is important that children and school staff in the country are able to resume their activities without undue health risks .
Elections are an important cornerstone of a democracy .
We hope that all eligible voters will use this opportunity to strengthen democracy in BiH by exercising their right to vote for the candidates they believe can best serve the interests @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time of the COVID-19 pandemic , we encourage all voters to protect both themselves and polling station workers by wearing masks and respecting all required epidemiological measures while voting .
The OSCE Mission to BiH wishes all citizens a safe and peaceful election day , which contributes to a stronger and more prosperous future .

SARAJEVO, 11 November 2020- As citizens prepare to exercise their right to vote in the 2020 local elections in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) this Sunday, 15 November 2020, the OSCE Mission to BiH wishes to share a few important messages in the interests of free, fair and safe elections in BiH.
We welcome and support the efforts of the Central Election Commission (CEC) to ensure full transparency in its work and to identify and respond to possible attempts of election fraud. We encourage voters to view the informational videos on voting provided by the CEC before they head to the polls. To help protect the integrity of the elections, citizens should report any cases of suspected fraud to the CEC and relevant law enforcement authorities. We also welcome the measures taken by the CEC to ensure that the COVID-19 positive or isolated cases have been granted an opportunity to vote via a special mobile team.
We call on all political parties and candidates to uphold the principles of free and fair elections, show respect both for their competitors and for voters before, during and after the elections and accept officially-confirmed electoral results. We hope there will be no inflammatory rhetoric or provocative incidents on election day and we call for peaceful celebrations after the announcement of results.
Election observers, both independent and from political parties, should be allowed to perform their duties without hindrance. This year, 'Pod Lupom' a coalition of NGOs, will deploy independent observers to monitor elections across the country. This is a fundamental safeguard for the integrity of elections.
We urge authorities to provide the necessary personal protective equipment to all election personnel and to ensure all epidemiological measures are respected in the polling stations. In cases where schools are used as polling stations, authorities should ensure that disinfection takes place immediately after voting is completed. It is important that children and school staff in the country are able to resume their activities without undue health risks.
Elections are an important cornerstone of a democracy. We hope that all eligible voters will use this opportunity to strengthen democracy in BiH by exercising their right to vote for the candidates they believe can best serve the interests of their communities. In this difficult time of the COVID-19 pandemic, we encourage all voters to protect both themselves and polling station workers by wearing masks and respecting all required epidemiological measures while voting.
The OSCE Mission to BiH wishes all citizens a safe and peaceful election day, which contributes to a stronger and more prosperous future.


osce--2020-11-11--OSCE 2020 Aarhus Centres Annual Meeting focuses on environmental democracy, gender mainstreaming and

OSCE 2020 Aarhus Centres Annual Meeting focuses on environmental democracy, gender mainstreaming and sustainable development

The 2020 Aarhus Centres Annual Meeting , held online on 10 and 11 November 2020 , brought together Aarhus Centres representatives , National Focal Points to the Aarhus Convention , representatives of non-governmental organizations , international organizations and the OSCE field operations .
This year ’ s focus was on the role of Aarhus Centres in ensuring environmental democracy in times of disaster and post-disaster recovery ; gender mainstreaming into Aarhus Centres activities , and contributing to promoting and achieving sustainable development .
“ The Aarhus Convention , at the basis of the Aarhus Centres work , is more than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ governments ’ accountability , transparency , and environmental human rights ” , said Vuk Žugić , Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities .
“ The linkages between environment , security and sustainable development are at the forefront of the Aarhus Centres ’ activities .
An example is our project on Stakeholder Engagement in the Uranium Legacy Remediation in Central Asia - one of the OSCE key activities in the field.
” Ivis Noçka , Head of the Economic and Environmental Dimension Unit of 2020 Albania ’ s Chair , explained how the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ approach to security .
“ The Centers are a unique instrument for promoting community-based efforts to reduce disaster risks and security-related impacts , ” said Nocka .
Dr. Marco Keiner , Director of the Environment Division of the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe ( UNECE ) , said that UNECE is particularly pleased that Aarhus Centres continue serving as a platform to promote multi-stakeholder dialogue on how to apply the Aarhus Convention and other multilateral environmental agreements for advancing Sustainable Development Goals .
“ Aarhus Centres are unique neutral entities that can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ times of crisis like the COVID-19 pandemic and during the post-pandemic recovery.
” Ambassador Tobias Lorentzson , Deputy Permanent Representative of the Swedish Delegation to the OSCE noted the importance of a relevant contribution of the Aarhus Centers in organizing workshops , public hearings , roundtable discussions on disaster risk reduction .
“ Where local communities do not have adequate knowledge on how to intervene in times of emergency , Aarhus Centres come into play and make it happen , ” he said .
.
Organized every year by the Office of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the Aarhus Centres Annual Meeting strengthens discussions on the involvement of Aarhus Centres in fostering good environmental governance , sharing experiences and best practices , and identifying new opportunities .

The 2020 Aarhus Centres Annual Meeting, held online on 10 and 11 November 2020, brought together Aarhus Centres representatives, National Focal Points to the Aarhus Convention, representatives of non-governmental organizations, international organizations and the OSCE field operations.
This year’s focus was on the role of Aarhus Centres in ensuring environmental democracy in times of disaster and post-disaster recovery; gender mainstreaming into Aarhus Centres activities, and contributing to promoting and achieving sustainable development.
“The Aarhus Convention, at the basis of the Aarhus Centres work, is more than an environmental agreement. It is about governments’ accountability, transparency, and environmental human rights”, said Vuk Žugić, Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities. “The linkages between environment, security and sustainable development are at the forefront of the Aarhus Centres’ activities. An example is our project on Stakeholder Engagement in the Uranium Legacy Remediation in Central Asia - one of the OSCE key activities in the field.”
Ivis Noçka, Head of the Economic and Environmental Dimension Unit of 2020 Albania’s Chair, explained how the Aarhus Centres contribute to the OSCE comprehensive approach to security. “The Centers are a unique instrument for promoting community-based efforts to reduce disaster risks and security-related impacts,” said Nocka.
Dr. Marco Keiner, Director of the Environment Division of the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE), said that UNECE is particularly pleased that Aarhus Centres continue serving as a platform to promote multi-stakeholder dialogue on how to apply the Aarhus Convention and other multilateral environmental agreements for advancing Sustainable Development Goals. “Aarhus Centres are unique neutral entities that can assist authorities to promote public participation in times of crisis like the COVID-19 pandemic and during the post-pandemic recovery.”
Ambassador Tobias Lorentzson, Deputy Permanent Representative of the Swedish Delegation to the OSCE noted the importance of a relevant contribution of the Aarhus Centers in organizing workshops, public hearings, roundtable discussions on disaster risk reduction. “Where local communities do not have adequate knowledge on how to intervene in times of emergency, Aarhus Centres come into play and make it happen,” he said. .
Organized every year by the Office of the Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities, the Aarhus Centres Annual Meeting strengthens discussions on the involvement of Aarhus Centres in fostering good environmental governance, sharing experiences and best practices, and identifying new opportunities.


osce--2020-11-11--OSCE enhances capacities of Moldovan institutions in promoting rights of national minorities

In order to build effective national institutions for the protection of national minorities , the OSCE Mission to Moldova organized a series of four online webinars from 2 to 6 November 2020 on conflict resolution for a coalition of public agencies , which promote and protect the rights of national minorities in the country .
The webinars were led by professor Frederick John Packer , Director of the Human Rights Research and Education Centre at the University of Ottawa .
During the four webinars , participants discussed the roles of human rights institutions in conflict resolution , conflict management and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , as well as advocacy , reporting and communication issues and learned the difference between strategy , tactics and strategic planning .
The discussion helped participants understand alternative approaches to their work , such as public interest advocacy , public service reporting , and public information and education .
Participants discussed the possibilities of their institutions in addressing the existing or potential tensions and the ways to become more effective .
In the end , participants discussed public information and communications of their respective institutions and were challenged to think about priority goals @ @ @ @ @ @ @ representatives of the Agency for Interethnic Relations , the Ombudsperson ’ s office , the Equality Council and the Ministry of Education , Culture and Research participated in the webinars .
Over the past two years , the Mission has been working with these institutions to improve their co-operation and capacity in protecting the rights of national minorities in the Republic of Moldova – key to promoting tolerance and inclusivity , which are important enabling factors for the Transdniestrian settlement process .

In order to build effective national institutions for the protection of national minorities, the OSCE Mission to Moldova organized a series of four online webinars from 2 to 6 November 2020 on conflict resolution for a coalition of public agencies, which promote and protect the rights of national minorities in the country.
The webinars were led by professor Frederick John Packer, Director of the Human Rights Research and Education Centre at the University of Ottawa.
During the four webinars, participants discussed the roles of human rights institutions in conflict resolution, conflict management and conflict prevention. They tackled strategic planning, as well as advocacy, reporting and communication issues and learned the difference between strategy, tactics and strategic planning. The discussion helped participants understand alternative approaches to their work, such as public interest advocacy, public service reporting, and public information and education.
Participants discussed the possibilities of their institutions in addressing the existing or potential tensions and the ways to become more effective. In the end, participants discussed public information and communications of their respective institutions and were challenged to think about priority goals for their institutions.
More than 30 representatives of the Agency for Interethnic Relations, the Ombudsperson’s office, the Equality Council and the Ministry of Education, Culture and Research participated in the webinars. Over the past two years, the Mission has been working with these institutions to improve their co-operation and capacity in protecting the rights of national minorities in the Republic of Moldova – key to promoting tolerance and inclusivity, which are important enabling factors for the Transdniestrian settlement process.


osce--2020-11-11--OSCE Presence in Albania organizes management training for senior staff of country’s public broadcas

OSCE Presence in Albania organizes management training for senior staff of country’s public broadcasting service

The OSCE Presence in Albania organized an online training course from 4 to 10 November 2020 for ten managers of the country ’ s public broadcasting service , RTSH , with the aim of enhancing skills in running newsrooms .
The training was delivered by Remy Siegrist , an expert on human resources and management from the European Broadcasting Union , who highlighted the importance of performance evaluation , competency management , delegation , putting human capital at the centre of organizational performance , and job satisfaction .
Discussions focused on how to improve interactions between managers and staff , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the current pandemic .
Melsi Qirici , Editor-in-Chief of RTSH 1 TV Channel , said : “ From a human perspective , I found the training very compelling .
I would love to follow up the trainings with practical ideas and examples , including tricks about finding solutions in crisis situations , as how to implement innovative , efficient management and human resources ideas and techniques in countries with low-budget public broadcasters.
” This course is part of the training programme within the EU-funded Media in Focus project , which has been implemented @ @ @ @ @ @ @ January 2019 .
Through this project , the Presence aims at strengthening the Albanian public broadcaster through capacity-building for journalists and the production of new flagship programmes .
It also aims at improving and modernizing the curricula of the Albanian Public School of Journalism .
Future training courses envisaged in the project will focus on editorial judgement and principles of public service media , as well as using social media and social networks for news-gathering purposes .

The OSCE Presence in Albania organized an online training course from 4 to 10 November 2020 for ten managers of the country’s public broadcasting service, RTSH, with the aim of enhancing skills in running newsrooms.
The training was delivered by Remy Siegrist, an expert on human resources and management from the European Broadcasting Union, who highlighted the importance of performance evaluation, competency management, delegation, putting human capital at the centre of organizational performance, and job satisfaction.
Discussions focused on how to improve interactions between managers and staff, especially in challenging times, such as the current pandemic.
Melsi Qirici, Editor-in-Chief of RTSH 1 TV Channel, said: “From a human perspective, I found the training very compelling. I would love to follow up the trainings with practical ideas and examples, including tricks about finding solutions in crisis situations, as how to implement innovative, efficient management and human resources ideas and techniques in countries with low-budget public broadcasters.”
This course is part of the training programme within the EU-funded Media in Focus project, which has been implemented by the OSCE Presence in Albania since January 2019. Through this project, the Presence aims at strengthening the Albanian public broadcaster through capacity-building for journalists and the production of new flagship programmes. It also aims at improving and modernizing the curricula of the Albanian Public School of Journalism. Future training courses envisaged in the project will focus on editorial judgement and principles of public service media, as well as using social media and social networks for news-gathering purposes.


osce--2020-11-10--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 268/2020 issued on 10 November 2020


osce--2020-11-10--With new agreement over Nagorno-Karabakh war, PA President hopes for long-lasting peace, condemns vi

With new agreement over Nagorno-Karabakh war, PA President hopes for long-lasting peace, condemns violence against parliamentarians

COPENHAGEN , 10 November 2020 – Following the signature of a trilateral statement between Armenia , Azerbaijan , and the Russian Federation to end fighting in the Nagorno-Karabakh region , OSCE PA President George Tsereteli ( MP , Georgia ) issued the following statement : “ I hope the signature of the agreement that puts a stop to the war in the Nagorno-Karabakh region will finally protect the lives of civilians trapped in the conflict zone .
I deeply regret the many lives lost in recent weeks , and , as guns fall silent , I encourage the sides to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of war , detainees , and the bodies of fallen combatants .
“ The road to lasting peace is often harder than war .
I therefore urge all sides to recommit themselves to peaceful negotiations , in good faith , to allow the safe return of internally displaced persons and refugees , reach a long-term and comprehensive settlement of this conflict , and at long last build a future together.
” News of the agreement was followed by demonstrations in Yerevan , with protesters forcing their way into the main government building and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ President of the National Assembly of Armenia .
In response , Tsereteli said : “ I am outraged at the violence deployed by some protesters during the events of last night and firmly condemn the attack against President Mirzoyan .
No doubt , this is a painful and emotional day for the Armenian people , but I urge them to maintain confidence in their democratically-elected institutions to steer Armenia in these challenging times .
”

COPENHAGEN, 10 November 2020 – Following the signature of a trilateral statement between Armenia, Azerbaijan, and the Russian Federation to end fighting in the Nagorno-Karabakh region, OSCE PA President George Tsereteli (MP, Georgia) issued the following statement:
“I hope the signature of the agreement that puts a stop to the war in the Nagorno-Karabakh region will finally protect the lives of civilians trapped in the conflict zone. I deeply regret the many lives lost in recent weeks, and, as guns fall silent, I encourage the sides to proceed without delay with exchanges of prisoners of war, detainees, and the bodies of fallen combatants.
“The road to lasting peace is often harder than war. I therefore urge all sides to recommit themselves to peaceful negotiations, in good faith, to allow the safe return of internally displaced persons and refugees, reach a long-term and comprehensive settlement of this conflict, and at long last build a future together.”
News of the agreement was followed by demonstrations in Yerevan, with protesters forcing their way into the main government building and parliament, as well as assaulting the President of the National Assembly of Armenia. In response, Tsereteli said:
“I am outraged at the violence deployed by some protesters during the events of last night and firmly condemn the attack against President Mirzoyan. No doubt, this is a painful and emotional day for the Armenian people, but I urge them to maintain confidence in their democratically-elected institutions to steer Armenia in these challenging times.”


osce--2020-11-23--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 279/2020 issued on 23 November 2020


osce--2020-11-23--OSCE-supported event focuses on Lund Recommendations on the Effective Participation of National Mino

OSCE-supported event focuses on Lund Recommendations on the Effective Participation of National Minorities in Public Life in Uzbekistan

On 23 and 24 November 2020 , the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan is organizing a roundtable conference to discuss the main points of the Lund Recommendations and good practices from the OSCE area and Uzbekistan .
The National Human Rights Centre of Uzbekistan and the office of the OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities jointly organized the event .
Experts from the office of the OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities , international experts and representatives from national authorities are attending the conference .
They will share their experiences on OSCE-wide good practices on the effective participation in political @ @ @ @ @ @ @ participation in cultural and religious life , an inclusive approach to the socio-economic participation , and on opportunities for and barriers to the participation of minority women .
John MacGregor , OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan , stressed the importance of OSCE commitments related to human rights and freedoms of persons belonging to national minorities .
“ We should all remember that to belong to a national minority is a matter of a person ’ s individual choice and no disadvantage may arise from the exercise of such choice .
OSCE participating States @ @ @ @ @ @ @ persons belonging to national minorities to effective participation in public affairs , including participation in affairs relating to the protection and promotion of the identity of such minorities , ” MacGregor said .
Christophe Kamp , Director of the office of the OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities , said : “ One of the most important messages behind the Lund Recommendations is that a meaningful level of representation and participation of minorities in all fields of a country ’ s public life is vital to foster loyalty to , and trust in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ This also requires a willingness on the part of minorities to engage : integration is a two-way process ” .

On 23 and 24 November 2020, the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan is organizing a roundtable conference to discuss the main points of the Lund Recommendations and good practices from the OSCE area and Uzbekistan. The National Human Rights Centre of Uzbekistan and the office of the OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities jointly organized the event.
Experts from the office of the OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities, international experts and representatives from national authorities are attending the conference. They will share their experiences on OSCE-wide good practices on the effective participation in political life, accommodating diversity through the effective participation in cultural and religious life, an inclusive approach to the socio-economic participation, and on opportunities for and barriers to the participation of minority women.
John MacGregor, OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan, stressed the importance of OSCE commitments related to human rights and freedoms of persons belonging to national minorities. “We should all remember that to belong to a national minority is a matter of a person’s individual choice and no disadvantage may arise from the exercise of such choice. OSCE participating States have agreed to respect the right of persons belonging to national minorities to effective participation in public affairs, including participation in affairs relating to the protection and promotion of the identity of such minorities,” MacGregor said.
Christophe Kamp, Director of the office of the OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities, said: “One of the most important messages behind the Lund Recommendations is that a meaningful level of representation and participation of minorities in all fields of a country’s public life is vital to foster loyalty to, and trust in, the institutions of the State. This also requires a willingness on the part of minorities to engage: integration is a two-way process”.


osce--2020-11-23--OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan organizes training seminar for Chamber of Advocates

The OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan organized a capacity-building training seminar for representatives from the Chamber of Advocates on best practices and exchange of experiences in the field of the institutional development of the institution of the bar .
The event , held from 18 to 20 November 2020 , was opened by Alim Ernazarov , Chairperson of the Chamber of Lawyers of Uzbekistan and Ambassador John MacGregor , OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan .
More than 50 participants , lawyers from the Chamber of Advocates , national partners and representatives from international organizations and non-governmental organizations attended the seminar @ @ @ @ @ @ @ improve co-operation with the Chamber of Advocates and to provide necessary support to its further development .
This event is part of our efforts to further enhance the independence of the justice system .
The importance of defence lawyers was underlined in the 2005 Ministerial Council Decision on upholding human rights and the rule of law in criminal justice system , ” said John MacGregor , OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan .
He also referred to ODIHR ’ s urgent comments on the Draft Decree of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the Advocacy and Radically Increase the Status of Advocates provided in April this year , noting their relevance and saying that they deserve necessary attention .
International experts from Germany , Canada and the Russian Federation shared their experiences and expertise , from the national perspective , with the Chamber of Advocates to help further enhance the institution ’ s independence , internal structuring , financial sustainability and ICT tools in delivering justice .
The event was organized under the OSCE Project Co-ordinator ’ s project “ Enhancing the capacities of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Uzbekistan ” .

The OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan organized a capacity-building training seminar for representatives from the Chamber of Advocates on best practices and exchange of experiences in the field of the institutional development of the institution of the bar. The event, held from 18 to 20 November 2020, was opened by Alim Ernazarov, Chairperson of the Chamber of Lawyers of Uzbekistan and Ambassador John MacGregor, OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan.
More than 50 participants, lawyers from the Chamber of Advocates, national partners and representatives from international organizations and non-governmental organizations attended the seminar.
“Our office stands ready to improve co-operation with the Chamber of Advocates and to provide necessary support to its further development. This event is part of our efforts to further enhance the independence of the justice system. The importance of defence lawyers was underlined in the 2005 Ministerial Council Decision on upholding human rights and the rule of law in criminal justice system,” said John MacGregor, OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan.
He also referred to ODIHR’s urgent comments on the Draft Decree of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan on Measures to Further Improve the Institution of the Advocacy and Radically Increase the Status of Advocates provided in April this year, noting their relevance and saying that they deserve necessary attention.
International experts from Germany, Canada and the Russian Federation shared their experiences and expertise, from the national perspective, with the Chamber of Advocates to help further enhance the institution’s independence, internal structuring, financial sustainability and ICT tools in delivering justice.
The event was organized under the OSCE Project Co-ordinator’s project “Enhancing the capacities of the Chamber of Advocates of the Republic of Uzbekistan”.


osce--2020-11-23--OSCE Presence in Albania organizes online meeting to discuss situation assessment report on Albanian

OSCE Presence in Albania organizes online meeting to discuss situation assessment report on Albanian municipalities’ response to COVID-19 emergency

The COVID-19 pandemic reminds us all that the local government level is the closest to its citizens , and thus better positioned to respond to their specific challenges and needs , stated participants of an online discussion hosted on 19 November 2020 by the OSCE Presence in Albania , with support of the Ministry of Interior .
The meeting was held to discuss the key findings of a situation assessment report prepared by the Presence on the response of 13 targeted municipalities to the COVID-19 pandemic .
The aim of the report – which focused on the first six months @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on how the 13 local government units reacted , what changes they took , and how these changes affected their citizens ’ life during the COVID-19 pandemic .
It also aims at creating local governance knowledge sharing on disaster governance and recovery for the future .
Attending the meeting were the representatives of the 13 municipalities , the Ministry of Interior , the Ministry of Finance , the Agency for the Support of Local Self-Government , Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative Albania - AlbEITI , and the Association for Local Autonomy and the Albanian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the negative impact of the pandemic on local incomes and revenues in the targeted municipalities , and stressed the need for a revision of the shared taxes distribution such as the mining royalties .
The report was prepared based on findings from a targeted survey , direct meetings and desk research that the Presence , in close co-operation with the Ministry of Interior and the Agency for Support of Local Self Governance , conducted during the period August–October 2020 .
The municipalities covered in the report were Vlora , Berat , Skrapar , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Bulqiza , Roskovec , Patos , Selenica , Fushë-Arrëz and Ura Vajgurore .

The COVID-19 pandemic reminds us all that the local government level is the closest to its citizens, and thus better positioned to respond to their specific challenges and needs, stated participants of an online discussion hosted on 19 November 2020 by the OSCE Presence in Albania, with support of the Ministry of Interior. The meeting was held to discuss the key findings of a situation assessment report prepared by the Presence on the response of 13 targeted municipalities to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The aim of the report – which focused on the first six months of 2020 – is to shed light on how the 13 local government units reacted, what changes they took, and how these changes affected their citizens’ life during the COVID-19 pandemic. It also aims at creating local governance knowledge sharing on disaster governance and recovery for the future.
Attending the meeting were the representatives of the 13 municipalities, the Ministry of Interior, the Ministry of Finance, the Agency for the Support of Local Self-Government, Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative Albania - AlbEITI, and the Association for Local Autonomy and the Albanian Association of Municipalities.
Discussions focused on the negative impact of the pandemic on local incomes and revenues in the targeted municipalities, and stressed the need for a revision of the shared taxes distribution such as the mining royalties.
The report was prepared based on findings from a targeted survey, direct meetings and desk research that the Presence, in close co-operation with the Ministry of Interior and the Agency for Support of Local Self Governance, conducted during the period August–October 2020.
The municipalities covered in the report were Vlora, Berat, Skrapar, Kukës, Mat, Klos, Mirdita, Bulqiza, Roskovec, Patos, Selenica, Fushë-Arrëz and Ura Vajgurore.


osce--2020-11-23--OSCE presents the third report on judicial response to corruption in Bosnia and Herzegovina

SARAJEVO , 23 November 2020 – The OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina ( BiH ) digitally presented today its third report on the monitoring of corruption cases before courts in BiH .
The report , titled “ Third Annual Report on Judicial Response to Corruption : The Impunity Syndrome ” draws on and continues the work presented in the two previous reports issued in February 2018 and April 2019 .
The report assesses the effectiveness of judicial response to corruption in 2019 , based on the trial monitoring of 302 corruption cases , tried in 45 courts across Bosnia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the 24 recommendations from the previous reports with the aim to improve the processing of corruption cases in BiH .
“ The title of the report , “ the Impunity Syndrome ” , is stark but , unfortunately , paints a realistic picture of the current situation , ” said Kathleen Kavalec , Head of the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina .
“ A crisis of ethics in the BiH judiciary and the failure to ensure accountability for corruption can not be ignored .
Re-establishing integrity , impartiality and accountability within @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a more effective judicial response to corruption.
” The report ’ s findings reveal a failure of the criminal justice system , resulting in de facto impunity for the perpetrators of many serious offenses .
The United States Ambassador to BiH , Eric Nelson , said : “ In BiH , an effective judicial system that combats corruption is the key part of this country ’ s Euro-Atlantic integration .
Unfortunately , various levels of the judicial system are failing in this regard .
The international community , including the United States , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ very active in advocating for a transparent and effective judiciary .
Unfortunately , we are not seeing results .
The recommendations of this report make it clear there needs to be increased transparency in the judicial process .
Outside actors , such as the international community , can not be the only guarantee of reform .
The government needs to take action .
Their citizens deserve it.
” Ambassador Johann Sattler , Head of the EU Delegation and EU Special Representative in BiH , noted that widespread corruption in the public sphere , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , is one of the most arduous problems BiH is facing today and citizens are rightfully alarmed by it .
“ It is high time for the authorities to show they are willing to make the changes that the country desperately needs by swiftly passing the necessary legislation ensuring integrity , transparency and accountability of public office holders , which is also key to rebuilding public trust.
” The report was developed within the framework of the project “ Assessing Needs of Judicial Response to Corruption through Monitoring of Criminal Cases ” supported @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs .

SARAJEVO, 23 November 2020 – The OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) digitally presented today its third report on the monitoring of corruption cases before courts in BiH.
The report, titled “Third Annual Report on Judicial Response to Corruption: The Impunity Syndrome” draws on and continues the work presented in the two previous reports issued in February 2018 and April 2019.
The report assesses the effectiveness of judicial response to corruption in 2019, based on the trial monitoring of 302 corruption cases, tried in 45 courts across Bosnia and Herzegovina. It also follows up on the 24 recommendations from the previous reports with the aim to improve the processing of corruption cases in BiH.
“The title of the report, “the Impunity Syndrome”, is stark but, unfortunately, paints a realistic picture of the current situation,” said Kathleen Kavalec, Head of the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina. “A crisis of ethics in the BiH judiciary and the failure to ensure accountability for corruption cannot be ignored. Re-establishing integrity, impartiality and accountability within the judiciary is a necessary precondition for a more effective judicial response to corruption.”
The report’s findings reveal a failure of the criminal justice system, resulting in de facto impunity for the perpetrators of many serious offenses.
The United States Ambassador to BiH, Eric Nelson, said: “In BiH, an effective judicial system that combats corruption is the key part of this country’s Euro-Atlantic integration. Unfortunately, various levels of the judicial system are failing in this regard. The international community, including the United States, OSCE, and European Union, is very active in advocating for a transparent and effective judiciary. Unfortunately, we are not seeing results. The recommendations of this report make it clear there needs to be increased transparency in the judicial process. Outside actors, such as the international community, cannot be the only guarantee of reform. The government needs to take action. Their citizens deserve it.”
Ambassador Johann Sattler, Head of the EU Delegation and EU Special Representative in BiH, noted that widespread corruption in the public sphere, and its strong link to organized crime, is one of the most arduous problems BiH is facing today and citizens are rightfully alarmed by it. “It is high time for the authorities to show they are willing to make the changes that the country desperately needs by swiftly passing the necessary legislation ensuring integrity, transparency and accountability of public office holders, which is also key to rebuilding public trust.”
The report was developed within the framework of the project “Assessing Needs of Judicial Response to Corruption through Monitoring of Criminal Cases” supported by the United States Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs.


osce--2020-11-21--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 278/2020 issued on 21 November 2020


osce--2020-11-20--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 277/2020 issued on 20 November 2020


osce--2020-11-20--OSCE/ODIHR concerned about decision undermining judicial independence in Poland

WARSAW , 20 November 2020 – The ruling by the Disciplinary Chamber of the Supreme Court of Poland on 18 @ @ @ @ @ Igor Tuleya of his immunity , raises concerns about judicial independence in the country .
@ @ @ @ @ judges is a crucial component of the right to a fair trial .
In both @ @ @ @ @ OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights ( ODIHR ) made recommendations to improve @ @ @ @ @ influence over disciplinary proceedings against judges in Poland .
ODIHR reports have found that shortcomings @ @ @ @ @ seriously undermine judicial independence and the separation of powers in Poland .
Poland , like @ @ @ @ @ has committed to “ support and advance the independence of judges and the impartial operation @ @ @ @ @ ” as well as to “ respect the internationally recognized standards that relate to the @ @ @ @ @ ODIHR will continue to follow the developments in this case and stands ready to support @ @ @ @ @ concerns .

WARSAW, 20 November 2020 – The ruling by the Disciplinary Chamber of the Supreme Court of Poland on 18 November 2020, stripping Judge Igor Tuleya of his immunity, raises concerns about judicial independence in the country.
The independence and impartiality of judges is a crucial component of the right to a fair trial. In both 2017 and 2020, the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) made recommendations to improve legislation regarding the executive branch influence over disciplinary proceedings against judges in Poland. ODIHR reports have found that shortcomings in the current legal framework seriously undermine judicial independence and the separation of powers in Poland.
Poland, like all OSCE participating States, has committed to “support and advance the independence of judges and the impartial operation of the public judicial service” as well as to “respect the internationally recognized standards that relate to the independence of judges”. ODIHR will continue to follow the developments in this case and stands ready to support the Polish authorities to address concerns.


osce--2020-11-20--OSCE supports Permanent Conference of Organized Crime Prosecutors in assessing impact of COVID-19 on

OSCE supports Permanent Conference of Organized Crime Prosecutors in assessing impact of COVID-19 on prosecutors’ work

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the work of prosecutors ’ offices was the focus of the fifth meeting of the Executive Board of the Permanent Conference of Organized Crime Prosecutors ( PCOCP ) on 12 November 2020 .
The meeting was held online with the support of the OSCE Mission to Serbia .
“ The COVID-19 pandemic has created new opportunities for organized criminal groups to engage in international criminal activities , mainly involving corruption in procurement processes , smuggling and counterfeiting of medical supplies , pharmaceutical products and protective gear , ” said Miljko Radisavljević , Head @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s Deputy Republic Public Prosecutor .
“ This state of affairs requires that members of the PCOCP and signatories of the Belgrade Declaration of Intent , to enhance co-operation and expand their network.
” The PCOCP stems from an initiative of the OSCE Mission to Serbia , and includes thirteen prosecution offices from EU Member States and South-Eastern European countries .
The network stresses the importance of financial investigations as a tool to fight organized crime .
Umberto Severini , Head of Security Co-operation Department at the OSCE Mission to Serbia , said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ platform in fighting transnational organized crime by providing a forum for co-operation and information exchange in Europe and the region between member prosecution offices .
The OSCE Mission initialized the platform thanks to its partnership with the Serbian authorities and continues to support PCOCP and to provide incentives for new members to join the network.
” The OSCE Secretariat supports the PCOCP through an extra-budgetary project on the recovery of assets from organized criminals , implemented jointly by the Transnational Threats Department ( TNTD ) and the Office of the Co-ordinator of OSCE @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the financial support of the United States Department of State , Italy , Germany and the United Kingdom .
Iris Pilika , co-manager of the project and OCEEA Programme Officer , updated the meeting ’ s participants on the project ’ s ongoing and future activities .

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the work of prosecutors’ offices was the focus of the fifth meeting of the Executive Board of the Permanent Conference of Organized Crime Prosecutors (PCOCP) on 12 November 2020. The meeting was held online with the support of the OSCE Mission to Serbia.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has created new opportunities for organized criminal groups to engage in international criminal activities, mainly involving corruption in procurement processes, smuggling and counterfeiting of medical supplies, pharmaceutical products and protective gear,” said Miljko Radisavljević, Head of the PCOCP Secretariat and Serbia’s Deputy Republic Public Prosecutor. “This state of affairs requires that members of the PCOCP and signatories of the Belgrade Declaration of Intent, to enhance co-operation and expand their network.”
The PCOCP stems from an initiative of the OSCE Mission to Serbia, and includes thirteen prosecution offices from EU Member States and South-Eastern European countries. The network stresses the importance of financial investigations as a tool to fight organized crime.
Umberto Severini, Head of Security Co-operation Department at the OSCE Mission to Serbia, said: “The PCOCP is an essential platform in fighting transnational organized crime by providing a forum for co-operation and information exchange in Europe and the region between member prosecution offices. The OSCE Mission initialized the platform thanks to its partnership with the Serbian authorities and continues to support PCOCP and to provide incentives for new members to join the network.”
The OSCE Secretariat supports the PCOCP through an extra-budgetary project on the recovery of assets from organized criminals, implemented jointly by the Transnational Threats Department (TNTD) and the Office of the Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities (OCEEA) with the financial support of the United States Department of State, Italy, Germany and the United Kingdom.
Iris Pilika, co-manager of the project and OCEEA Programme Officer, updated the meeting’s participants on the project’s ongoing and future activities.


osce--2020-11-20--OSCE Presence in Albania holds 6th annual Media Development Forum

The sixth Media Development Forum – a platform for professional dialogue on media issues among state institutions , media and civil society – concluded on 20 November in Tirana .
The OSCE Presence in Albania organized the two-day annual event .
The Forum focused on a variety of issues .
Among these were the working environment for journalists in Albania ; effects of the COVID-19 pandemic ; media freedom and freedom of speech in Albania ; the government-proposed legislation to regulate online media ; the media personnel ’ s professional growth ; and best practices aimed at improving communication between @ @ @ @ @ @ @ flow of information and against fake news .
“ We are here to make available our technical support through the implementation of a number of projects .
To improve the level of professionalism in reporting , to make more transparent the ownership of media , to support media to self-regulate and to improve the performance and professionalism of the public TV broadcaster ” , said Vincenzo Del Monaco , Head of the OSCE Presence , at the opening of the forum .
Luigi Soreca , Head of the European Union Delegation to Albania @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Council of Europe Office in Tirana ; and Jürgen Heissel , Director of the Office of the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media also delivered welcoming remarks .
A special ceremony was held on the margins of the Forum to mark the completion of a three-month internship programme at the Albanian Public Broadcaster ( RTSH ) by six journalism students from the Tirana University .
The internship was part of the Media in Focus project , implemented by the OSCE Presence with EU funds , which aims at strengthening the public broadcaster @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Thoma Gëllçi , RTSH General Director said : “ The OSCE Presence in Albania has played a crucial role in transforming and empowering the Albanian public broadcaster .
I highly appreciate the partnership among the OSCE , the European Union and the European Broadcasting Union in providing assistance and training for RTSH .
I believe the public broadcaster will be a strong and reliable media alternative for audiovisual broadcasting in the country ” .

The sixth Media Development Forum – a platform for professional dialogue on media issues among state institutions, media and civil society – concluded on 20 November in Tirana. The OSCE Presence in Albania organized the two-day annual event.
The Forum focused on a variety of issues. Among these were the working environment for journalists in Albania; effects of the COVID-19 pandemic; media freedom and freedom of speech in Albania; the government-proposed legislation to regulate online media; the media personnel’s professional growth; and best practices aimed at improving communication between state authorities and journalists for a better flow of information and against fake news.
“We are here to make available our technical support through the implementation of a number of projects. To improve the level of professionalism in reporting, to make more transparent the ownership of media, to support media to self-regulate and to improve the performance and professionalism of the public TV broadcaster”, said Vincenzo Del Monaco, Head of the OSCE Presence, at the opening of the forum.
Luigi Soreca, Head of the European Union Delegation to Albania; Jutta Gützkow, Head of the Council of Europe Office in Tirana; and Jürgen Heissel, Director of the Office of the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media also delivered welcoming remarks.
A special ceremony was held on the margins of the Forum to mark the completion of a three-month internship programme at the Albanian Public Broadcaster (RTSH) by six journalism students from the Tirana University. The internship was part of the Media in Focus project, implemented by the OSCE Presence with EU funds, which aims at strengthening the public broadcaster and the journalism school in Albania.
Thoma Gëllçi, RTSH General Director said: “The OSCE Presence in Albania has played a crucial role in transforming and empowering the Albanian public broadcaster. I highly appreciate the partnership among the OSCE, the European Union and the European Broadcasting Union in providing assistance and training for RTSH. I believe the public broadcaster will be a strong and reliable media alternative for audiovisual broadcasting in the country”.


osce--2020-11-20--OSCE Programme Office in Nur-Sultan supports online webinar on anti-corruption expertise of legal ac

OSCE Programme Office in Nur-Sultan supports online webinar on anti-corruption expertise of legal acts

An OSCE-supported training webinar on anti-corruption expertise took place on 19 November 2020 .
The OSCE Programme Office in Nur-Sultan @ @ @ @ @ with the NGO Legal Media Center .
Some 50 representatives of the special anti-corruption monitoring @ @ @ @ @ the commission for the selection of anti-corruption experts , attended the event .
Participants focused @ @ @ @ @ of anti-corruption expertise in draft legal acts to identify corruption-generating factors and eliminate these factors @ @ @ @ @ proposals to eliminate identified corruption-generating norms , including recommendations to prevent the onset of corruption @ @ @ @ @ from Lithuania focused on eliminating ambiguities , shortcomings , gaps and contradictions from the regulations @ @ @ @ @ his country in this matter .
The webinar is part of the Programme Office ’ @ @ @ @ @ good governance by focusing on anti-corruption activities in Kazakhstan .

An OSCE-supported training webinar on anti-corruption expertise took place on 19 November 2020. The OSCE Programme Office in Nur-Sultan organized the event in partnership with the NGO Legal Media Center.
Some 50 representatives of the special anti-corruption monitoring group, and members of the commission for the selection of anti-corruption experts, attended the event. Participants focused on legal and organizational foundations of anti-corruption expertise in draft legal acts to identify corruption-generating factors and eliminate these factors.
Participants also discussed preparing proposals to eliminate identified corruption-generating norms, including recommendations to prevent the onset of corruption offenses.
The international expert from Lithuania focused on eliminating ambiguities, shortcomings, gaps and contradictions from the regulations and shared best practices of his country in this matter.
The webinar is part of the Programme Office’s multi-year efforts to promote good governance by focusing on anti-corruption activities in Kazakhstan.


osce--2020-11-20--OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina marks World Children’s Day

The OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina ( BiH ) organized a webinar on “ Exploitation of Children through Child Marriage ” on 20 November , World Children 's Day .
The event brought together representatives of key local institutions in combatting trafficking in human beings and protecting victims .
Members of the judiciary , representatives of executive and legislative bodies , civil rights organizations and human rights defenders from BiH and neighbouring countries also participated .
Participants discussed the effectiveness of domestic and international frameworks , which should ensure protection from human trafficking and early/forced marriages as well as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ international bodies .
Child marriage often meets the definition of trafficking in human beings and represents a violation of human rights and the destruction of human dignity .
“ It is not surprising that many girls of underprivileged backgrounds have become prey of organized criminal groups , which exploit child brides into forced criminality , forced begging or prostitution , ” said Jasna Dobricik , Head of the Human Dimension Department of the OSCE Mission to BiH .
“ The crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic is likely to lead to an increase @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vulnerable communities might see the possibility of marrying off their daughters as an available means of survival in the absence of an adequate support from society.
” The event is part of the wider efforts of the OSCE Mission to BiH to combat human trafficking and promote human rights .

The OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) organized a webinar on “Exploitation of Children through Child Marriage” on 20 November, World Children's Day. The event brought together representatives of key local institutions in combatting trafficking in human beings and protecting victims. Members of the judiciary, representatives of executive and legislative bodies, civil rights organizations and human rights defenders from BiH and neighbouring countries also participated.
Participants discussed the effectiveness of domestic and international frameworks, which should ensure protection from human trafficking and early/forced marriages as well as protect victims before the relevant domestic and international bodies. Child marriage often meets the definition of trafficking in human beings and represents a violation of human rights and the destruction of human dignity.
“It is not surprising that many girls of underprivileged backgrounds have become prey of organized criminal groups, which exploit child brides into forced criminality, forced begging or prostitution,” said Jasna Dobricik, Head of the Human Dimension Department of the OSCE Mission to BiH. “The crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic is likely to lead to an increase in early marriages, as families from vulnerable communities might see the possibility of marrying off their daughters as an available means of survival in the absence of an adequate support from society.”
The event is part of the wider efforts of the OSCE Mission to BiH to combat human trafficking and promote human rights.


osce--2020-11-20--OSCE supports modernization of higher education in Turkmenistan

Enhancing digital learning at university was the topic of an OSCE-organized online course that took place on 19 and 20 November 2020 .
The OSCE Centre in Ashgabat organized the two-day event to support Turkmenistan ’ s efforts in introducing new methods of online teaching using internet resources and platforms .
The course brought together teaching staff and students of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs ’ Institute of International Relations and the International University of Humanities and Development of Turkmenistan .
Professors from the Faculty of International Relations at the Belarus State University highlighted their good practices in distance learning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ platforms and communication .
“ The OSCE attaches special importance to youth and enhancing their engagement in the Organization ’ s activities aimed at promoting peace and security , ” said Natalya Drozd , Head of the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat .
“ As quality education is key to the development of youth , we organized this course to contribute to the efforts of the host country to reform and modernize its educational system in line with best international standards and the development of new technologies.
” During the course , international experts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ made possible through the Moodle educational system .
Participants also learnt about electronic libraries and discussed the use of modern technologies in research work .

Enhancing digital learning at university was the topic of an OSCE-organized online course that took place on 19 and 20 November 2020.
The OSCE Centre in Ashgabat organized the two-day event to support Turkmenistan’s efforts in introducing new methods of online teaching using internet resources and platforms.
The course brought together teaching staff and students of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Institute of International Relations and the International University of Humanities and Development of Turkmenistan.
Professors from the Faculty of International Relations at the Belarus State University highlighted their good practices in distance learning and teaching through the use of internet platforms and communication.
“The OSCE attaches special importance to youth and enhancing their engagement in the Organization’s activities aimed at promoting peace and security,” said Natalya Drozd, Head of the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat. “As quality education is key to the development of youth, we organized this course to contribute to the efforts of the host country to reform and modernize its educational system in line with best international standards and the development of new technologies.”
During the course, international experts elaborated on distance learning and self-study opportunities made possible through the Moodle educational system. Participants also learnt about electronic libraries and discussed the use of modern technologies in research work.


osce--2020-11-20--OSCE Programme Office in Nur-Sultan launches series of online seminars on gender equality and human

OSCE Programme Office in Nur-Sultan launches series of online seminars on gender equality and human rights in Kazakhstan

An OSCE-supported seminar on introduction to gender perspectives and women ’ s human rights , organized by the OSCE Programme @ @ @ @ @ on 20 November 2020 .
The seminar was designed to broaden the participants ’ understanding @ @ @ @ @ gender , the tools and strategies of promoting gender equality , as well as women @ @ @ @ @ at decision-making levels .
Participants enhanced their knowledge on national and international legal instruments for @ @ @ @ @ were familiarized with the concept of gender mainstreaming as a tool of social policy and @ @ @ @ @ this concept at regional and local levels .
Some 24 women attended the training .
@ @ @ @ @ up by five similar seminars , from December 2020 through February 2021 , covering topics @ @ @ @ @ sector , violence against women and girls , gendered language , and the media .
@ @ @ @ @ the Programme Office ’ s continuous efforts to support gender mainstreaming and economic empowerment initiatives @ @ @ @ @

An OSCE-supported seminar on introduction to gender perspectives and women’s human rights, organized by the OSCE Programme Office in Nur-Sultan, concluded on 20 November 2020.
The seminar was designed to broaden the participants’ understanding of the key notions of gender, the tools and strategies of promoting gender equality, as well as women's political and economic participation at decision-making levels. Participants enhanced their knowledge on national and international legal instruments for enhancing gender equality. They were familiarized with the concept of gender mainstreaming as a tool of social policy and learned different methods to implement this concept at regional and local levels.
Some 24 women attended the training. The event will be followed up by five similar seminars, from December 2020 through February 2021, covering topics of gender and the security sector, violence against women and girls, gendered language, and the media.
The event is part of the Programme Office’s continuous efforts to support gender mainstreaming and economic empowerment initiatives in the host country.


osce--2020-11-20--OSCE supports contest on promoting green organizations in Kazakhstan

The OSCE Programme Office in Nur-Sultan supported a contest on promoting “ green ” organizations that took place on 20 @ @ @ @ @ Some 40 representatives from the Parliament , the Ministry of Ecology , Geology and Natural @ @ @ @ @ , and international and non-governmental organizations participated in the event on site and via video @ @ @ @ @ on promoting organizations with leading green practices and encouraging companies and their office employees countrywide @ @ @ @ @ in their daily work .
The contest ran from 1 June to 30 October with @ @ @ @ @ 2020 .
Winners included government institutions , private companies , civil society and international organizations @ @ @ @ @ event was organized by the OSCE Programme Office in Nur-Sultan in partnership with the Coalition @ @ @ @ @ Development .
The event is part of the Programme Office ’ s long-term effort to @ @ @ @ @ the host country and sustainable development principles in strengthening environmental security .

The OSCE Programme Office in Nur-Sultan supported a contest on promoting “green” organizations that took place on 20 November 2020 in Nur-Sultan.
Some 40 representatives from the Parliament, the Ministry of Ecology, Geology and Natural Resources, the business sector, and international and non-governmental organizations participated in the event on site and via video conference. The event focused on promoting organizations with leading green practices and encouraging companies and their office employees countrywide to adopt sustainable environmental practices in their daily work.
The contest ran from 1 June to 30 October with results announced on 20 November 2020. Winners included government institutions, private companies, civil society and international organizations from across Kazakhstan. The event was organized by the OSCE Programme Office in Nur-Sultan in partnership with the Coalition for Green Economy and G-Global Development.
The event is part of the Programme Office’s long-term effort to promote the green economy in the host country and sustainable development principles in strengthening environmental security.


osce--2020-11-19--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 276/2020 issued on 19 November 2020

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