osce--2020-05-25--OSCE launches online course on preventing and countering violent extremism and terrorism on the Inte

OSCE launches online course on preventing and countering violent extremism and terrorism on the Internet

The Action against Terrorism Unit of the OSCE Transnational Threats Department launched an E-learning Course on Preventing and Countering the Use of the Internet for Terrorist Purposes on 25 May 2020 .
The course is designed for a broad range of beneficiaries , including policymakers , law enforcement and government officials involved in security issues , as well as academics and practitioners from the non-state sector interested in learning more about the topic .
The E-learning course is available in the English and Russian languages and divided into two modules .
The first module explores and provides real-world examples of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Internet .
Drawing on the wealth of work and guidance that has been developed on this topic , including the Global Counter-Terrorism Forum ’ s ( GCTF ) Zurich-London Recommendations for Preventing Violent Extremism Online , the second module looks at how to effectively respond to these challenges in a human rights-compliant and gender mainstreamed manner and presents practical guidance through the lens of concrete examples including regulation , oversight , communication responses , and public-private partnerships .
The course is available for free on the OSCE E-learning platform .
The course was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ possible by the contributions of Austria , Luxembourg and Spain .

The Action against Terrorism Unit of the OSCE Transnational Threats Department launched an E-learning Course on Preventing and Countering the Use of the Internet for Terrorist Purposes on 25 May 2020.
The course is designed for a broad range of beneficiaries, including policymakers, law enforcement and government officials involved in security issues, as well as academics and practitioners from the non-state sector interested in learning more about the topic.
The E-learning course is available in the English and Russian languages and divided into two modules. The first module explores and provides real-world examples of how violent extremists and terrorists misuse the Internet. Drawing on the wealth of work and guidance that has been developed on this topic, including the Global Counter-Terrorism Forum’s (GCTF) Zurich-London Recommendations for Preventing Violent Extremism Online, the second module looks at how to effectively respond to these challenges in a human rights-compliant and gender mainstreamed manner and presents practical guidance through the lens of concrete examples including regulation, oversight, communication responses, and public-private partnerships.
The course is available for free on the OSCE E-learning platform.
The course was developed under an extra-budgetary programme and made possible by the contributions of Austria, Luxembourg and Spain.


osce--2020-05-26--Online forum promotes regional dialogue in southeastern Europe with leaders of PA Delegations and he

Online forum promotes regional dialogue in southeastern Europe with leaders of PA Delegations and heads of OSCE field operations

COPENHAGEN , 25 May 2020 – Launching a series of informal meetings for the OSCE PA leadership to discuss regional issues with OSCE PA delegations , parliamentarians from southeastern European countries met online Monday with Assembly President George Tsereteli ( Georgia ) and Secretary General Roberto Montella. With a focus on how countries of the Western Balkans are coping with the COVID-19 pandemic , the OSCE parliamentarians were joined by the heads of several OSCE field operations , as well as regional experts from the OSCE Conflict Prevention Center , the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ OSCE Secretariat , and the OSCE PA International Secretariat .
The purpose of the event was to hear from parliamentarians in the region about what is happening on the ground and to share ideas for focused engagement from the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly .
Topics of discussion included the public health situations in individual countries , how executive authorities are responding to the crisis , upcoming elections in the region , and the possibilities for deploying future election observation missions .
President Tsereteli noted that during pandemic , focus must continue to be placed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and on human rights .
“ We have held dialogues on these topics through our webinars , ” Tsereteli said , “ but this is the first of the regional dialogues that we hope to hold.
” The President stressed that there are different types of recovery that must receive adequate attention , including health recovery , economic recovery , and democratic recovery .
He pointed out that restrictions on fundamental freedoms must be proportionate and legitimate .
Ivan Brajovic , President of the Parliament of Montenegro , reported that his country @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the health system responded efficiently and that the government introduced timely and effective measures .
Stefana Miladinovic , Head of the Serbian Delegation , provided an update on the coronavirus situation in Serbia , noting that the number of cases is dropping and that thankfully no COVID-19 deaths have been reported in recent days .
She underlined that life is largely returning to normal and discussed the decision to postpone the parliamentary elections , initially organized for 26 April .
She said that as soon as the crisis seemed to be coming to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 21 June was announced .
Vladimir Gjorchev , Head of North Macedonia ’ s Delegation , discussed the usefulness of OSCE PA forums to provide ideas and good practices , including within the context of COVID-19 .
He worried that North Macedonia is seeing a spike in coronavirus cases , with between 20-40 new cases every day , emphasizing that this is the highest rate in the Western Balkans .
He underlined the importance of ensuring that humanitarian aid is not politicized , and appealed to the OSCE Mission to Skopje to pay @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also urged an observation mission for upcoming elections in North Macedonia , to the extent possible .
Head of Albanian Delegation Ditmir Bushati said that although it has been a tragic public health emergency , the pandemic has also served to ease tensions in the Balkans , noting that there has been a spirit of solidarity in the region .
The OSCE , he said , must pay close attention to democracy and rule of law , pointing out that there has been a broad derogation of standards , including on the right @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He urged focus on social and economic development , noting that during the lockdown , a disparity has been observed in the right to education depending on citizens ’ online access .
He also urged a timetable to be set for EU accession negotiations .
Dejan Vanjek , Secretary of Delegation from Bosnia and Herzegovina , noted that the situation related to coronavirus in his country is improving .
He said that there were problems with the hospitals in the beginning , but they coped well and when they received proper supplies , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
He also noted that a coronavirus law is being debated and that elections are scheduled for October .
British parliamentarian Mark Pritchard , the OSCE PA ’ s Special Representative on South East Europe , reported on the situation in the United Kingdom and discussed developments in the Western Balkans .
He regretted that the UK has suffered 37,000 deaths , with the peak at one time at 1,000 deaths every day .
With deaths now at 150 a day , he said that while the UK seems to be getting it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about a possible second wave .
Regarding regional developments , Pritchard discussed the effects of COVID on EU accession negotiations and the importance of continuing dialogue in southeastern Europe .
He said that all those who have postponed elections should proceed with scheduling new ones as soon as practicable in order to provide enough time for campaigning and for the international community to prepare possible election observation missions .
Secretary General Montella discussed the challenges associated with deploying normal election observation missions , pointing out that , in addition to the usual considerations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the PA would only do so if ODIHR has the necessary conditions to deploy long-term observers .
Due to the travel restrictions associated with COVID-19 , it is difficult to predict when this might be possible , Montella said .
Peter Mossop of ODIHR added that in deciding on establishing election observation missions , they are considering all factors , including whether they receive invitations from host governments and the possibilities for travelling .
Elona Gjebrea Hoxha , Rapporteur of the OSCE PA ’ s economic and environmental committee and member of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ webinar the PA held on environmental aspects of COVID-19 .
The international community and OSCE countries must use the opportunity provided by the crisis to promote a shift in environmental policies , she said .
For more on the OSCE PA ’ s response to the COVID-19 crisis , please click here .

COPENHAGEN, 25 May 2020 – Launching a series of informal meetings for the OSCE PA leadership to discuss regional issues with OSCE PA delegations, parliamentarians from southeastern European countries met online Monday with Assembly President George Tsereteli (Georgia) and Secretary General Roberto Montella.
With a focus on how countries of the Western Balkans are coping with the COVID-19 pandemic, the OSCE parliamentarians were joined by the heads of several OSCE field operations, as well as regional experts from the OSCE Conflict Prevention Center, the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights, the High Commissioner on National Minorities, the OSCE Secretariat, and the OSCE PA International Secretariat.
The purpose of the event was to hear from parliamentarians in the region about what is happening on the ground and to share ideas for focused engagement from the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly. Topics of discussion included the public health situations in individual countries, how executive authorities are responding to the crisis, upcoming elections in the region, and the possibilities for deploying future election observation missions.
President Tsereteli noted that during pandemic, focus must continue to be placed on conflict mediation, the economic situation, and on human rights. “We have held dialogues on these topics through our webinars,” Tsereteli said, “but this is the first of the regional dialogues that we hope to hold.” The President stressed that there are different types of recovery that must receive adequate attention, including health recovery, economic recovery, and democratic recovery. He pointed out that restrictions on fundamental freedoms must be proportionate and legitimate.
Ivan Brajovic, President of the Parliament of Montenegro, reported that his country is virtually coronavirus-free, expressing satisfaction that the health system responded efficiently and that the government introduced timely and effective measures.
Stefana Miladinovic, Head of the Serbian Delegation, provided an update on the coronavirus situation in Serbia, noting that the number of cases is dropping and that thankfully no COVID-19 deaths have been reported in recent days. She underlined that life is largely returning to normal and discussed the decision to postpone the parliamentary elections, initially organized for 26 April. She said that as soon as the crisis seemed to be coming to an end, a new date of 21 June was announced.
Vladimir Gjorchev, Head of North Macedonia’s Delegation, discussed the usefulness of OSCE PA forums to provide ideas and good practices, including within the context of COVID-19. He worried that North Macedonia is seeing a spike in coronavirus cases, with between 20-40 new cases every day, emphasizing that this is the highest rate in the Western Balkans. He underlined the importance of ensuring that humanitarian aid is not politicized, and appealed to the OSCE Mission to Skopje to pay close attention to this issue. He also urged an observation mission for upcoming elections in North Macedonia, to the extent possible.
Head of Albanian Delegation Ditmir Bushati said that although it has been a tragic public health emergency, the pandemic has also served to ease tensions in the Balkans, noting that there has been a spirit of solidarity in the region. The OSCE, he said, must pay close attention to democracy and rule of law, pointing out that there has been a broad derogation of standards, including on the right to work and freedom of assembly. He urged focus on social and economic development, noting that during the lockdown, a disparity has been observed in the right to education depending on citizens’ online access. He also urged a timetable to be set for EU accession negotiations.
Dejan Vanjek, Secretary of Delegation from Bosnia and Herzegovina, noted that the situation related to coronavirus in his country is improving. He said that there were problems with the hospitals in the beginning, but they coped well and when they received proper supplies, they managed to deal with the situation. He also noted that a coronavirus law is being debated and that elections are scheduled for October.
British parliamentarian Mark Pritchard, the OSCE PA’s Special Representative on South East Europe, reported on the situation in the United Kingdom and discussed developments in the Western Balkans. He regretted that the UK has suffered 37,000 deaths, with the peak at one time at 1,000 deaths every day. With deaths now at 150 a day, he said that while the UK seems to be getting it under control, but there is concern about a possible second wave.
Regarding regional developments, Pritchard discussed the effects of COVID on EU accession negotiations and the importance of continuing dialogue in southeastern Europe. He said that all those who have postponed elections should proceed with scheduling new ones as soon as practicable in order to provide enough time for campaigning and for the international community to prepare possible election observation missions.
Secretary General Montella discussed the challenges associated with deploying normal election observation missions, pointing out that, in addition to the usual considerations that go into deciding to deploy missions, the PA would only do so if ODIHR has the necessary conditions to deploy long-term observers. Due to the travel restrictions associated with COVID-19, it is difficult to predict when this might be possible, Montella said.
Peter Mossop of ODIHR added that in deciding on establishing election observation missions, they are considering all factors, including whether they receive invitations from host governments and the possibilities for travelling.
Elona Gjebrea Hoxha, Rapporteur of the OSCE PA’s economic and environmental committee and member of the Albanian delegation, discussed the recent webinar the PA held on environmental aspects of COVID-19. The international community and OSCE countries must use the opportunity provided by the crisis to promote a shift in environmental policies, she said.
For more on the OSCE PA’s response to the COVID-19 crisis, please click here.


osce--2020-05-25--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 123/2020 issued on 25 May 2020

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osce--2020-05-26--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 124/2020 issued on 26 May 2020


osce--2020-05-26--Scapegoating of minorities during pandemic increases need for targeted action to combat intolerance

Scapegoating of minorities during pandemic increases need for targeted action to combat intolerance and discrimination, OSCE conference concludes

VIENNA , 26 May 2020 –The COVID-19 pandemic has brought new challenges that demand greater efforts from governments in order to build inclusive societies in the coming months and years , concluded OSCE participants at a meeting today on addressing the many dimensions of intolerance and discrimination .
“ Concerns related to tolerance and non-discrimination are of legitimate concern to us all , ” said Ambassador Igli Hasani , Chairperson of the OSCE Permanent Council .
“ Intolerance and discrimination are never blind .
The pandemic has made it crystal clear that we can not be indifferent to how women @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and others are targeted and affected differently if we are to ensure that they all enjoy the same rights.
” Held online for the first time , more than 230 representatives of participating States , intergovernmental organizations , marginalized communities and civil society from across the OSCE region registered to discuss challenges and opportunities to strengthen tolerance during the pandemic and in the future .
Participants discussed the importance of inclusive policies and coalition building in strengthening diverse and multi-ethnic societies , as well as the need for early action to prevent intolerance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Governments are having to make difficult decisions at the moment in order to safeguard our health while ensuring that our rights and freedoms are respected , ” said ODIHR Director Ingibjörg Sólrún Gísladóttir .
“ As many parts of our lives have moved online , so too has intolerance and discrimination .
Political leaders need to think creatively about how to counter cyberhate and other forms of intolerance so that our societies come out of the health emergency stronger and more united.
” Minorities have found themselves scapegoated in the wake of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ backgrounds and other marginalized groups , including Roma and Sinti , refugees , and migrants , facing a surge in discrimination and hate-motivated attacks .
“ With challenges come opportunities , and those in power must lead the way by forging new and positive narratives of an inclusive society , ” said Dr. Regina Polak , Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office on Combating Racism , Xenophobia and Discrimination , also focusing on Intolerance and Discrimination against Christians and Members of Other Religions .
“ Through dialogue , education , and civil society @ @ @ @ @ @ @ opportunity to promote understanding of and respect for different cultures , ethnicities , religions or beliefs.
” Diverse and inclusive societies have a greater ability to learn from different ideas and traditions , and at the same time are more resilient during periods of crisis .
Tools and resources to help countries strengthen democracy and build more inclusive societies can be found here .
Supplementary Human Dimension Meetings are a platform for the OSCE ’ s participating States and OSCE institutions , as well as international organizations and civil society , to exchange @ @ @ @ @ @ @ find common solutions for the challenges facing societies across the OSCE region .

VIENNA, 26 May 2020 –The COVID-19 pandemic has brought new challenges that demand greater efforts from governments in order to build inclusive societies in the coming months and years, concluded OSCE participants at a meeting today on addressing the many dimensions of intolerance and discrimination.
“Concerns related to tolerance and non-discrimination are of legitimate concern to us all,” said Ambassador Igli Hasani, Chairperson of the OSCE Permanent Council. “Intolerance and discrimination are never blind. The pandemic has made it crystal clear that we cannot be indifferent to how women and men, youth, vulnerable groups and others are targeted and affected differently if we are to ensure that they all enjoy the same rights.”
Held online for the first time, more than 230 representatives of participating States, intergovernmental organizations, marginalized communities and civil society from across the OSCE region registered to discuss challenges and opportunities to strengthen tolerance during the pandemic and in the future. Participants discussed the importance of inclusive policies and coalition building in strengthening diverse and multi-ethnic societies, as well as the need for early action to prevent intolerance from escalating into open conflict.
“Governments are having to make difficult decisions at the moment in order to safeguard our health while ensuring that our rights and freedoms are respected,” said ODIHR Director Ingibjörg Sólrún Gísladóttir. “As many parts of our lives have moved online, so too has intolerance and discrimination. Political leaders need to think creatively about how to counter cyberhate and other forms of intolerance so that our societies come out of the health emergency stronger and more united.”
Minorities have found themselves scapegoated in the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak, with people of Asian backgrounds and other marginalized groups, including Roma and Sinti, refugees, and migrants, facing a surge in discrimination and hate-motivated attacks.
“With challenges come opportunities, and those in power must lead the way by forging new and positive narratives of an inclusive society,” said Dr. Regina Polak, Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office on Combating Racism, Xenophobia and Discrimination, also focusing on Intolerance and Discrimination against Christians and Members of Other Religions. “Through dialogue, education, and civil society co-operation, State authorities have an unparalleled opportunity to promote understanding of and respect for different cultures, ethnicities, religions or beliefs.”
Diverse and inclusive societies have a greater ability to learn from different ideas and traditions, and at the same time are more resilient during periods of crisis. Tools and resources to help countries strengthen democracy and build more inclusive societies can be found here.
Supplementary Human Dimension Meetings are a platform for the OSCE’s participating States and OSCE institutions, as well as international organizations and civil society, to exchange views and good practices in order to find common solutions for the challenges facing societies across the OSCE region.


osce--2020-05-26--Weekly Update from the OSCE Observer Mission at Russian Checkpoints Gukovo and Donetsk based on info

Weekly Update from the OSCE Observer Mission at Russian Checkpoints Gukovo and Donetsk based on information as of 26 May 2020

KAMENSK-SHAKHTINSKIY , Russian Federation .
The Observer Mission ( OM ) continues to operate 24/7 at both Border Crossing Points ( BCPs ) .
The overall number of border crossings by persons increased at both BCPs compared to the previous week .
The OM is currently operating with 20 permanent international staff members , including the Chief Observer ( CO ) .
The Mission is supported administratively by a staff member and the Chief of Fund Administration based in Vienna .
Activities have been impacted by COVID-19 and measures undertaken by the OM to ensure the safety and duty of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with measures set by the host country authorities .
The Mission is continuing to keep the situation under review , in close contact with the OSCE Secretariat and the Chairmanship .
Following the host country recommendations , the observers are applying a self-isolation regime between the shifts at the border checkpoints and adherence to social distancing .
Due to the preventive measures taken by the central and regional authorities , the OM is faced with certain difficulties , but is still able to continue to fulfill its mandate without any limitations in its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the border The profile of persons crossing the border can be categorized as follows : • Adults travelling on foot or by car with little or no luggage .
• Families ( often including elderly persons and/or children ) travelling on foot or by car with a significant amount of luggage .
The average number of entries/exits slightly increased from 649 to 686 per day at both BCPs compared to last week [ 1 ] .
During the reporting period , the majority of border crossings were to the Russian Federation , with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ day for both BCPs .
The Donetsk BCP continued to experience much more traffic than the Gukovo BCP .
Responding to the COVID-19 situation , the host country has closed its borders for the majority of foreigners starting from 18 March .
Among the exceptions of persons allowed to cross the border ( which entered into force on 19 March ) , are Ukrainian citizens and stateless persons holding passports or identification documents proving permanent residence in certain areas of Luhansk and Donetsk regions of Ukraine .
In addition , reportedly , due @ @ @ @ @ @ @ COVID-19 , starting from 10 April , the organized passenger transport commuting between the non-government-controlled areas of Luhansk region of Ukraine and the Russian Federation was suspended .
During the reporting period , the number of persons in military-style outfits crossing the border was eight compared to one last week , five of them crossed into the Russian Federation and three into Ukraine at the Donetsk BCP .
These individuals crossed the border on foot .
The OTs continued to report on families , sometimes with elderly persons and/or children , crossing the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ amount of luggage , or travelling in heavily loaded cars .
During this reporting week , two families were observed crossing into the Russian Federation and four families were observed crossing into Ukraine , compared to the previous reporting period when one family was observed crossing to the Russian Federation while seven families crossed into Ukraine .
Regular local and long-distance bus connections between Ukraine ( mostly from/to the Luhansk region ) and the Russian Federation were stopped from 10 April .
During the reporting period , no buses were observed at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the OTs observed an increase in the overall number of trucks crossing the border at both BCPs ( 1001 compared to 826 during the previous reporting week ) ; 513 at the Gukovo BCP and 488 at the Donetsk BCP , 595 of these trucks crossed into the Russian Federation and 406 crossed into Ukraine .
Most of the trucks observed by the OTs had Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region ; however , on a daily basis , the OTs also noted trucks registered in the Russian Federation , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ LPR ” plates .
The OTs also continued to observe tanker trucks crossing the border in both directions .
During the reporting week , the number of tanker trucks decreased from 60 to 49 .
These trucks were observed crossing the border at both BCPs .
The trucks had the words “ Propane ” and “ Flammable ” written across the tanks in either Russian or Ukrainian .
The majority of tanker trucks had hazard signs , indicating that they were transporting propane or a mix of propane and butane .
All trucks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ officials , which could include an X-ray check .
Due to the unfavourable observation position at the Gukovo BCP , the OTs continued to be unable to observe any X-ray checks .
Compared to the previous week , the total number of X-ray checks at the Donetsk BCP increased from 98 to 162 .
Of the total number of trucks scanned , 128 trucks ( 79 per cent ) were bound for Ukraine : the remaining 34 trucks ( 21 per cent ) crossed into the Russian Federation .
The OM continued to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ] crossing the border in both directions at both BCPs .
The OTs observed minivans predominantly with Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region ; however , the OTs also saw minivans registered in the Russian Federation .
Compared to the previous week , the number of cargo minivans increased from 35 to 76 vehicles ; 29 crossed into the Russian Federation and another 47 into Ukraine .
The OTs continued to pick up the sound of trains on the railway tracks located approximately 150m south-west of the Gukovo BCP .
During @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trains on 17 occasions ; the OTs assessed that ten trains were travelling to the Russian Federation and the remaining seven trains were travelling to Ukraine ( more details are provided in the sections “ trends and figures at a glance ” below ) .
Visual observation was not possible because of the line of trees located between the train tracks and the BCP .
The majority of vehicles crossing the border had Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region or Russian Federation licence plates .
A significant number of vehicles with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crossing the border in both directions on a daily basis .
On 19 May at 19:44 , the OT at the Donetsk BCP observed a minivan with “ LPR ” plates entering the BCP from the Russian Federation with the sign “ LPR Post ” ( in Russian ) on the side .
After undergoing border control procedures , the vehicle crossed into Ukraine .
On 20 May at 15:03 , the OT at the Donetsk BCP observed a white van with “ LPR ” plates arriving at the BCP from Ukraine .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ cortege ” ( in Russian ) on the side and in front .
In addition to the driver , two passengers were also observed on board .
After undergoing X-ray check and border control procedures , at 13:12 the vehicle crossed to the Russian Federation .
On 20 May at 17:48 , a police minivan entered Donetsk BCP from the Russian Federation and parked behind the main building .
At 18:22 , the vehicle left the BCP to the Russian Federation .
At 18:37 , the same police minivan returned and parked behind @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the vehicle left the BCP towards the Russian Federation with flashing lights on .
During the reporting week , the OTs at both BCPs noticed helicopters flying along the border on two separate occasions : • On 22 May at 12:25 , the OT at the Donetsk BCP observed a helicopter flying from the north which then turned in an easterly direction .
The helicopter remained inside the airspace of the Russian Federation the entire time it was visible to the OT .
• The same day at 12:50 , the OT at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from the north in a north-easterly direction at approximately 150-200 metres distance from the BCP .
The helicopter remained inside the airspace of the Russian Federation the entire time it was visible to the OT .
On 26 May at 07:10 , the OT at the Donetsk BCP observed two white minivans with `` LPR '' plates arriving at Donetsk BCP from Ukraine .
The minivans had the sign “ LPR Post '' on the side .
After undergoing border control procedures , both vehicles left towards the Russian Federation at 07:33 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ covering the period from 21 April to 26 May 2020 , please see the attachment here .
[ 1 ] Based on data received from the Regional Representation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation .
[ 2 ] Cargo minivans : light commercial vehicles with a maximum authorized mass of more than 3.5 t and not more than 7.5 t ; with or without a trailer with a maximum mass of less than 750 kg ( small cargo vehicles which correspond to driving licence C1 ) .

SUMMARY
KAMENSK-SHAKHTINSKIY, Russian Federation. The Observer Mission (OM) continues to operate 24/7 at both Border Crossing Points (BCPs). The overall number of border crossings by persons increased at both BCPs compared to the previous week.
OPERATIONAL REMARKS
The OM is currently operating with 20 permanent international staff members, including the Chief Observer (CO). The Mission is supported administratively by a staff member and the Chief of Fund Administration based in Vienna.
Update on COVID-19 measures
Activities have been impacted by COVID-19 and measures undertaken by the OM to ensure the safety and duty of care of its Mission members and compliance with measures set by the host country authorities. The Mission is continuing to keep the situation under review, in close contact with the OSCE Secretariat and the Chairmanship. Following the host country recommendations, the observers are applying a self-isolation regime between the shifts at the border checkpoints and adherence to social distancing. Due to the preventive measures taken by the central and regional authorities, the OM is faced with certain difficulties, but is still able to continue to fulfill its mandate without any limitations in its observation and reporting activities.
OBSERVATIONS AT THE BORDER CROSSING POINTS
Persons crossing the border
The profile of persons crossing the border can be categorized as follows:
Adults travelling on foot or by car with little or no luggage. Persons in military-style outfits. Families (often including elderly persons and/or children) travelling on foot or by car with a significant amount of luggage.
The average number of entries/exits slightly increased from 649 to 686 per day at both BCPs compared to last week[1].
During the reporting period, the majority of border crossings were to the Russian Federation, with an average net flow of 11 per day for both BCPs. The Donetsk BCP continued to experience much more traffic than the Gukovo BCP.
Responding to the COVID-19 situation, the host country has closed its borders for the majority of foreigners starting from 18 March. Among the exceptions of persons allowed to cross the border (which entered into force on 19 March), are Ukrainian citizens and stateless persons holding passports or identification documents proving permanent residence in certain areas of Luhansk and Donetsk regions of Ukraine. In addition, reportedly, due to the threat of the spread of COVID-19, starting from 10 April, the organized passenger transport commuting between the non-government-controlled areas of Luhansk region of Ukraine and the Russian Federation was suspended.
Persons in military-style outfits
During the reporting period, the number of persons in military-style outfits crossing the border was eight compared to one last week, five of them crossed into the Russian Federation and three into Ukraine at the Donetsk BCP. These individuals crossed the border on foot.
Families with a significant amount of luggage
The OTs continued to report on families, sometimes with elderly persons and/or children, crossing the border at both BCPs with a significant amount of luggage, or travelling in heavily loaded cars. During this reporting week, two families were observed crossing into the Russian Federation and four families were observed crossing into Ukraine, compared to the previous reporting period when one family was observed crossing to the Russian Federation while seven families crossed into Ukraine.
Bus connections
Regular local and long-distance bus connections between Ukraine (mostly from/to the Luhansk region) and the Russian Federation were stopped from 10 April. During the reporting period, no buses were observed at the two BCPs.
Trucks
During the reporting period, the OTs observed an increase in the overall number of trucks crossing the border at both BCPs (1001 compared to 826 during the previous reporting week); 513 at the Gukovo BCP and 488 at the Donetsk BCP, 595 of these trucks crossed into the Russian Federation and 406 crossed into Ukraine. Most of the trucks observed by the OTs had Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region; however, on a daily basis, the OTs also noted trucks registered in the Russian Federation, Belarus, Lithuania and trucks with “LPR” plates.
The OTs also continued to observe tanker trucks crossing the border in both directions. During the reporting week, the number of tanker trucks decreased from 60 to 49. These trucks were observed crossing the border at both BCPs. The trucks had the words “Propane” and “Flammable” written across the tanks in either Russian or Ukrainian. The majority of tanker trucks had hazard signs, indicating that they were transporting propane or a mix of propane and butane.
All trucks underwent systematic inspection by the Russian Federation officials, which could include an X-ray check. Due to the unfavourable observation position at the Gukovo BCP, the OTs continued to be unable to observe any X-ray checks.
Compared to the previous week, the total number of X-ray checks at the Donetsk BCP increased from 98 to 162. Of the total number of trucks scanned, 128 trucks (79 per cent) were bound for Ukraine: the remaining 34 trucks (21 per cent) crossed into the Russian Federation.
Minivans
The OM continued to observe passenger and cargo minivans[2] crossing the border in both directions at both BCPs. The OTs observed minivans predominantly with Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region; however, the OTs also saw minivans registered in the Russian Federation. Compared to the previous week, the number of cargo minivans increased from 35 to 76 vehicles; 29 crossed into the Russian Federation and another 47 into Ukraine.
Trains
The OTs continued to pick up the sound of trains on the railway tracks located approximately 150m south-west of the Gukovo BCP. During the reporting week, the OTs heard trains on 17 occasions; the OTs assessed that ten trains were travelling to the Russian Federation and the remaining seven trains were travelling to Ukraine (more details are provided in the sections “trends and figures at a glance” below).
Visual observation was not possible because of the line of trees located between the train tracks and the BCP.
Other observations
The majority of vehicles crossing the border had Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region or Russian Federation licence plates. A significant number of vehicles with “LPR” plates were also observed crossing the border in both directions on a daily basis.
On 19 May at 19:44, the OT at the Donetsk BCP observed a minivan with “LPR” plates entering the BCP from the Russian Federation with the sign “LPR Post” (in Russian) on the side. After undergoing border control procedures, the vehicle crossed into Ukraine.
On 20 May at 15:03, the OT at the Donetsk BCP observed a white van with “LPR” plates arriving at the BCP from Ukraine. The vehicle had the inscription “Ritual cortege” (in Russian) on the side and in front. In addition to the driver, two passengers were also observed on board. After undergoing X-ray check and border control procedures, at 13:12 the vehicle crossed to the Russian Federation.
On 20 May at 17:48, a police minivan entered Donetsk BCP from the Russian Federation and parked behind the main building. At 18:22, the vehicle left the BCP to the Russian Federation. At 18:37, the same police minivan returned and parked behind the main building. At 19:50, the vehicle left the BCP towards the Russian Federation with flashing lights on.
During the reporting week, the OTs at both BCPs noticed helicopters flying along the border on two separate occasions:
On 22 May at 12:25, the OT at the Donetsk BCP observed a helicopter flying from the north which then turned in an easterly direction. The helicopter remained inside the airspace of the Russian Federation the entire time it was visible to the OT.
The same day at 12:50, the OT at the Gukovo BCP observed a helicopter flying from the north in a north-easterly direction at approximately 150-200 metres distance from the BCP. The helicopter remained inside the airspace of the Russian Federation the entire time it was visible to the OT.
On 26 May at 07:10, the OT at the Donetsk BCP observed two white minivans with "LPR" plates arriving at Donetsk BCP from Ukraine. The minivans had the sign “LPR Post" on the side. After undergoing border control procedures, both vehicles left towards the Russian Federation at 07:33.
For trends and figures at a glance covering the period from 21 April to 26 May 2020, please see the attachment here.
[1]Based on data received from the Regional Representation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation.
[2] Cargo minivans: light commercial vehicles with a maximum authorized mass of more than 3.5 t and not more than 7.5 t; with or without a trailer with a maximum mass of less than 750 kg (small cargo vehicles which correspond to driving licence C1).


osce--2020-05-28--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 27 May 2020

KYIV , 28 May 2020 – The Special Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office in Ukraine and in the Trilateral Contact Group , Ambassador Heidi Grau , made the following statement to the press after the regular meetings of the TCG and its working groups through video-conferencing : “ The security situation in the conflict zone in the east of Ukraine remains tense .
Last week , the number of ceasefire violations rose by half compared to the previous one .
The number of civilian casualties has likewise increased .
According to the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission , five children were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more than in the first four months of this year altogether .
It is unacceptable .
The extraordinary TCG meeting at the end of last week enabled to grant the necessary conditions for secure repair works on the high-voltage power line in the vicinity of Berezivske in the Luhansk region .
I urge the signatories of the Minsk Agreements to take further actions to lower tension .
This issue was in the centre of the TCG discussions .
Besides , the Security Working Group considered issues related to the identification of additional disengagement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the preparation and implementation of the updated demining plan .
The Political Working Group discussed aspects of the special status of certain areas of Donetsk and Luhansk regions and the implementation of the ‘ Steinmeier formula ’ in Ukrainian legislation .
The Humanitarian Working Group focused on further mutual release and exchange of conflict-related detainees .
The participants also discussed the issue of providing the necessary security guarantees for the construction works in view of the simultaneous opening of additional entry-exit crossing points on the line of contact in the Luhansk region .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ water supplies , pension payments and the resumption of socio-economic ties across the line of contact .
”

KYIV, 28 May 2020 – The Special Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office in Ukraine and in the Trilateral Contact Group, Ambassador Heidi Grau, made the following statement to the press after the regular meetings of the TCG and its working groups through video-conferencing:
“The security situation in the conflict zone in the east of Ukraine remains tense. Last week, the number of ceasefire violations rose by half compared to the previous one.
The number of civilian casualties has likewise increased. According to the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission, five children were injured in May, that is, more than in the first four months of this year altogether. It is unacceptable.
The extraordinary TCG meeting at the end of last week enabled to grant the necessary conditions for secure repair works on the high-voltage power line in the vicinity of Berezivske in the Luhansk region.
I urge the signatories of the Minsk Agreements to take further actions to lower tension. This issue was in the centre of the TCG discussions. Besides, the Security Working Group considered issues related to the identification of additional disengagement areas of forces and hardware as well the preparation and implementation of the updated demining plan.
The Political Working Group discussed aspects of the special status of certain areas of Donetsk and Luhansk regions and the implementation of the ‘Steinmeier formula’ in Ukrainian legislation.
The Humanitarian Working Group focused on further mutual release and exchange of conflict-related detainees.
The participants also discussed the issue of providing the necessary security guarantees for the construction works in view of the simultaneous opening of additional entry-exit crossing points on the line of contact in the Luhansk region.
The Economic Working Group addressed issues of water supplies, pension payments and the resumption of socio-economic ties across the line of contact.”


osce--2020-05-27--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 125/2020 issued on 27 May 2020


osce--2020-05-26--Tajikistan parliamentary elections 2020: ODIHR observation mission final report

The 2020 parliamentary elections in Tajikistan took place in a tightly controlled environment in which there was no space left for a pluralistic political debate and voters did not have genuine political alternatives to choose from .
Operational aspects of the elections appeared to be efficiently administered .
These are some of the main conclusions from the final report on Tajikistan ’ s parliamentary elections of 1 March 2020 , as published by the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights ( ODIHR ) .
The final report , published on 27 May 2020 , also states that significant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ process with Tajikistan ’ s OSCE commitments and standards for democratic elections .
It offers 23 recommendations to improve the conduct of elections and increase the transparency in the electoral process .
• A comprehensive review of the electoral legal framework in an open and inclusive manner • Enabling journalists to carry out their professional duties freely by reducing interference from state authorities • Ensuring the independence of election administration members by providing adequate transparency and accountability measures during the selection process • Improving the accuracy of voter lists , including through the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ register • Robust procedures for counting and tabulating results , developed and adhered to at all levels of election administration in order to enhance integrity and transparency • Publishing full preliminary and final election results in a timely manner , in line with basic principles for transparency and accountability ODIHR deployed an Election Assessment Mission on 13 February 2020 to observe the parliamentary elections .
All 57 countries across the OSCE region have formally committed to following up promptly on ODIHR ’ s election assessments and recommendations .

The 2020 parliamentary elections in Tajikistan took place in a tightly controlled environment in which there was no space left for a pluralistic political debate and voters did not have genuine political alternatives to choose from. Operational aspects of the elections appeared to be efficiently administered. These are some of the main conclusions from the final report on Tajikistan’s parliamentary elections of 1 March 2020, as published by the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR).
The final report, published on 27 May 2020, also states that significant efforts are needed to align the electoral process with Tajikistan’s OSCE commitments and standards for democratic elections. It offers 23 recommendations to improve the conduct of elections and increase the transparency in the electoral process.
Recommendations
Key recommendations include:
A comprehensive review of the electoral legal framework in an open and inclusive manner
Enabling journalists to carry out their professional duties freely by reducing interference from state authorities
Ensuring the independence of election administration members by providing adequate transparency and accountability measures during the selection process
Improving the accuracy of voter lists, including through the introduction of a permanent, centralized voter register
Providing independent, non-partisan citizen election observation
Robust procedures for counting and tabulating results, developed and adhered to at all levels of election administration in order to enhance integrity and transparency
Publishing full preliminary and final election results in a timely manner, in line with basic principles for transparency and accountability
ODIHR deployed an Election Assessment Mission on 13 February 2020 to observe the parliamentary elections. All 57 countries across the OSCE region have formally committed to following up promptly on ODIHR’s election assessments and recommendations.


osce--2020-05-27--OSCE promotes cross-border trade and transit in Turkmenistan

An OSCE-organized online training on border crossing facilitation for transit goods carried by rail and road , opened in Ashgabat on 27 May 2020 .
The training is organized within the framework of the Centre ’ s extra-budgetary project on “ Strengthening State Border Service Capacities in Turkmenistan ” , which places a particular focus on promoting cross-border trade and transit in the Central Asian region .
The purpose of the online training was to introduce participants to security , public health , technical , economic and environmental aspects of rail and road border crossing of transit goods as well @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
As trade facilitation requires an interdisciplinary approach , the training brought together representatives of four government agencies : State Border , Customs and Migration Services of Turkmenistan as well as the Transport Police of Turkmenistan ’ s Ministry of Internal Affairs .
During the opening session , Natalya Drozd , Head of the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat said : “ Turkmenistan is investing continuous efforts in establishing new large-scale regional infrastructure frameworks to be better connected to their neighbours , and to boost co-operation with many more countries through various regional platforms.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ digital age , as transportation of goods across borders involves sending , transit and receiving countries , it is important that software systems used by relevant border and customs agencies are compatible and make it easy to facilitate transit of goods .
“ We organized this event in an effort to support the host country ’ s initiatives on the development of international multimodal transit corridors and on sustainable transport , as reflected in United Nations General Assembly resolutions on the role of transport and transit corridors in ensuring international co-operation for sustainable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from the Russian Federation and representatives from the UN Conference on Trade and Development , the EU-funded Border Management Programme in Central Asia , International Trade Centre , the OSCE Secretariat in Vienna , International Road Transport Union and World Customs Organization covered a wide range of topics on border crossing facilitation for transit goods .
Experts stressed the importance of developing technologies and real-time information sharing for the efficient harmonization of border crossing and customs procedures .
This would enable smooth movement of transit goods across borders .
The training was organized @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Germany and Norway .

An OSCE-organized online training on border crossing facilitation for transit goods carried by rail and road, opened in Ashgabat on 27 May 2020. The training is organized within the framework of the Centre’s extra-budgetary project on “Strengthening State Border Service Capacities in Turkmenistan”, which places a particular focus on promoting cross-border trade and transit in the Central Asian region.
The purpose of the online training was to introduce participants to security, public health, technical, economic and environmental aspects of rail and road border crossing of transit goods as well as computerization and digitalization of transport infrastructures. As trade facilitation requires an interdisciplinary approach, the training brought together representatives of four government agencies: State Border, Customs and Migration Services of Turkmenistan as well as the Transport Police of Turkmenistan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs.
During the opening session, Natalya Drozd, Head of the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat said: “Turkmenistan is investing continuous efforts in establishing new large-scale regional infrastructure frameworks to be better connected to their neighbours, and to boost co-operation with many more countries through various regional platforms.”
She also noted that in the digital age, as transportation of goods across borders involves sending, transit and receiving countries, it is important that software systems used by relevant border and customs agencies are compatible and make it easy to facilitate transit of goods. “We organized this event in an effort to support the host country’s initiatives on the development of international multimodal transit corridors and on sustainable transport, as reflected in United Nations General Assembly resolutions on the role of transport and transit corridors in ensuring international co-operation for sustainable development”.”
An international expert from the Russian Federation and representatives from the UN Conference on Trade and Development, the EU-funded Border Management Programme in Central Asia, International Trade Centre, the OSCE Secretariat in Vienna, International Road Transport Union and World Customs Organization covered a wide range of topics on border crossing facilitation for transit goods.
Experts stressed the importance of developing technologies and real-time information sharing for the efficient harmonization of border crossing and customs procedures. This would enable smooth movement of transit goods across borders.
The training was organized with the financial support of the Governments of Germany and Norway.


osce--2020-05-27--OSCE and adelphi launch a regional consultation on climate change and security in South-Eastern Euro

OSCE and adelphi launch a regional consultation on climate change and security in South-Eastern Europe

VIENNA , 27 May 2020 – Some 80 participants representing a wide variety of sectors and stakeholders from the OSCE participating States in South-Eastern Europe convened today in an online webinar to discuss climate change and security in the region .
This introductory meeting , organized by the Office of the Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities in partnership with the Berlin-based think tank adelphi , kicks off a regional consultation process on climate change and security .
Naser Nuredini , Minister of Environment and Physical Planning of North Macedonia , underlined in his opening remarks that the COVID @ @ @ @ @ @ @ regional co-operation in order to overcome the difficult challenges arising from a pandemic .
“ Climate change will be a significant security risk for the region and we must work together to overcome these risks , ” said Nuredini .
“ Finding long-term solutions to climate change will help us all comply with the requirements on the path to the EU .
Working together on this issue will prove pivotal for the integration with the EU.
” Vuk Žugić , Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities , drew attention to some similarities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ change .
Both , he said , are global and do not recognize borders .
Both could have implications for security and stability , and both require a co-operative response .
“ Possibly , a major difference between the current pandemic and climate change is the pace at which they develop : COVID 19 has hit the world suddenly , whereas climate change has been happening gradually , ” he said .
“ With today ’ s initiative , the OSCE aims to create new avenues for transboundary and regional co-operation in South-Eastern @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to broader efforts for a transition to greener and climate-resilient economies and societies in the region.
” Lukas Rüttinger , Senior Project Manager at adelphi , highlighted the linkages between climate change and security and their relevance for South-Eastern Europe .
“ Climate change acts as a risk multiplier , exacerbating other challenges .
Because the region has so many shared , transboundary natural resources like rivers and forests , it is important to strengthen co-operation around climate change and security , ” he said .
Today ’ s introductory session will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and online surveys with the stakeholders from South-Eastern Europe in the weeks to come .
The consultations take place within the framework of the OSCE project “ Strengthening Responses to Security Risks from Climate Change in South-Eastern Europe , Eastern Europe , the South Caucasus and Central Asia ” .

VIENNA, 27 May 2020 – Some 80 participants representing a wide variety of sectors and stakeholders from the OSCE participating States in South-Eastern Europe convened today in an online webinar to discuss climate change and security in the region.
This introductory meeting, organized by the Office of the Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities in partnership with the Berlin-based think tank adelphi, kicks off a regional consultation process on climate change and security.
Naser Nuredini, Minister of Environment and Physical Planning of North Macedonia, underlined in his opening remarks that the COVID 19 crisis has shown the importance of regional co-operation in order to overcome the difficult challenges arising from a pandemic.
“Climate change will be a significant security risk for the region and we must work together to overcome these risks,” said Nuredini. “Finding long-term solutions to climate change will help us all comply with the requirements on the path to the EU. Working together on this issue will prove pivotal for the integration with the EU.”
Vuk Žugić, Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities, drew attention to some similarities between the COVID 19 pandemic and climate change. Both, he said, are global and do not recognize borders. Both could have implications for security and stability, and both require a co-operative response.
“Possibly, a major difference between the current pandemic and climate change is the pace at which they develop: COVID 19 has hit the world suddenly, whereas climate change has been happening gradually,” he said. “With today’s initiative, the OSCE aims to create new avenues for transboundary and regional co-operation in South-Eastern Europe. This will be our contribution to broader efforts for a transition to greener and climate-resilient economies and societies in the region.”
Lukas Rüttinger, Senior Project Manager at adelphi, highlighted the linkages between climate change and security and their relevance for South-Eastern Europe. “Climate change acts as a risk multiplier, exacerbating other challenges. Because the region has so many shared, transboundary natural resources like rivers and forests, it is important to strengthen co-operation around climate change and security,” he said.
Today’s introductory session will be followed by interactive events in smaller groups and online surveys with the stakeholders from South-Eastern Europe in the weeks to come.
The consultations take place within the framework of the OSCE project “Strengthening Responses to Security Risks from Climate Change in South-Eastern Europe, Eastern Europe, the South Caucasus and Central Asia”.


osce--2020-05-28--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 126/2020 issued on 28 May 2020


osce--2020-05-28--OSCE organizes online consultations on combatting money laundering and financing of terrorism in Tur

OSCE organizes online consultations on combatting money laundering and financing of terrorism in Turkmenistan

Officials from Turkmenistan ’ s institutions and representatives of non-governmental entities , involved in the Eurasian Group on combatting money laundering and financing of terrorism ( EAG ) Mutual Evaluation process are participating in OSCE-organized online consultations from 27 to 30 May 2020 in Ashgabat .
Representatives of the Ministry of Finance and Economy , Financial Monitoring Department ( FIU ) , the Central bank , financial and non-financial institutions , the State Statistics Committee , law-enforcement and military bodies , as well as other relevant institutions and non-government organizations are attending the event .
The online consultations were organized @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Finance and Economy of Turkmenistan within the framework of the OSCE Centre ’ s project on “ Strengthening Adherence to Good Governance Principles ” .
The Centre organized consultations to provide support as part of national preparations to undergo the Mutual Evaluation of EAG that is planned in September 2020 .
An international expert from Belarus facilitated the event .
“ The OSCE ’ s strategic document mandated the Organization to implement activities in the AML/CFT area , including providing support in enhancing national legislation and mechanisms of its implementation in line with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Head of the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat , in her opening speech .
“ The consultations are part of the Centre ’ s consistent work aimed at providing assistance to the government of Turkmenistan to implement international commitments in the area of anti-corruption and AML/CFT and we are committed to continuing our partnership , ” Drozd said .

Officials from Turkmenistan’s institutions and representatives of non-governmental entities, involved in the Eurasian Group on combatting money laundering and financing of terrorism (EAG) Mutual Evaluation process are participating in OSCE-organized online consultations from 27 to 30 May 2020 in Ashgabat.
Representatives of the Ministry of Finance and Economy, Financial Monitoring Department (FIU), the Central bank, financial and non-financial institutions, the State Statistics Committee, law-enforcement and military bodies, as well as other relevant institutions and non-government organizations are attending the event.
The online consultations were organized in close co-operation with the Ministry of Finance and Economy of Turkmenistan within the framework of the OSCE Centre’s project on “Strengthening Adherence to Good Governance Principles”.
The Centre organized consultations to provide support as part of national preparations to undergo the Mutual Evaluation of EAG that is planned in September 2020. An international expert from Belarus facilitated the event.
“The OSCE’s strategic document mandated the Organization to implement activities in the AML/CFT area, including providing support in enhancing national legislation and mechanisms of its implementation in line with international standards,” said Natalya Drozd, Head of the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat, in her opening speech.
“The consultations are part of the Centre’s consistent work aimed at providing assistance to the government of Turkmenistan to implement international commitments in the area of anti-corruption and AML/CFT and we are committed to continuing our partnership,” Drozd said.


osce--2020-05-29--OSCE SMM Spot Report 28/2020: Explosion close to SMM patrol near Molodizhne, Luhansk region

On 29 May , an SMM patrol comprising five members and two vehicles was positioned at a checkpoint of the @ @ @ @ @ of Molodizhne ( non-government-controlled , 63km west of Luhansk ) .
A patrol member was @ @ @ @ @ with the members of the armed formations in order to move across the checkpoint , @ @ @ @ @ improvised barrier .
At about 13:37 , the patrol members heard an undetermined explosion at @ @ @ @ @ south-south-west , and the patrol member outside the vehicle felt a shockwave while members of @ @ @ @ @ checkpoint took cover .
The patrol was unable to assess the weapon used and the @ @ @ @ @ member of the armed formations removed the barrier , and the SMM immediately left the @ @ @ @ @ its base in non-government-controlled Luhansk city .

On 29 May, an SMM patrol comprising five members and two vehicles was positioned at a checkpoint of the armed formations about 1.7km south-west of Molodizhne (non-government-controlled, 63km west of Luhansk). A patrol member was outside his vehicle, interacting with the members of the armed formations in order to move across the checkpoint, which was blocked by an improvised barrier.
At about 13:37, the patrol members heard an undetermined explosion at an assessed distance of 100m south-south-west, and the patrol member outside the vehicle felt a shockwave while members of the armed formations near the checkpoint took cover. The patrol was unable to assess the weapon used and the direction of fire.
A member of the armed formations removed the barrier, and the SMM immediately left the area and returned safely to its base in non-government-controlled Luhansk city.


osce--2020-05-29--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 127/2020 issued on 29 May 2020


osce--2020-05-29--OSCE SMM Spot Report 27/2020: Members of the armed formations continued to deny SMM patrols passage

OSCE SMM Spot Report 27/2020: Members of the armed formations continued to deny SMM patrols passage at checkpoints in Donetsk and Luhansk regions

From 23 to 29 May , members of the armed formations again denied SMM attempts to cross into non-government-controlled areas along official crossing routes : five times in Donetsk region and four times in Luhansk region , while further attempts to cross into government-controlled areas were also denied , once in Donetsk region and three times in Luhansk region .
On 23 , 24 , 25 , 26 , 27 , 28 and 29 May , at a checkpoint south of the Stanytsia Luhanska bridge ( 15km north-east of Luhansk ) , members of the armed formations again denied the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ occasions , and passage towards government-controlled areas on three other occasions , referring to the closure of the checkpoint due to COVID-19 .
On 23 and 27 May , at a checkpoint 600m west of Verkhnoshyrokivske ( formerly Oktiabr , non-government-controlled , 85km south of Donetsk ) , members of the armed formations again denied the SMM passage towards non-government-controlled areas , referring to quarantine restrictions due to COVID-19 .
On 24 and 28 May , at a checkpoint near Horlivka ( non-government-controlled , 39km north-east of Donetsk ) , members of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ towards non-government-controlled areas , referring to quarantine restrictions due to COVID-19 .
On 25 May , at a checkpoint near Olenivka ( non-government-controlled , 23km south-west of Donetsk ) , members of the armed formations again denied the SMM passage towards government-controlled areas on one occasion , stating that the SMM did not have permission to pass , and again denied passage towards non-government-controlled areas on another occasion , referring to quarantine restrictions due to COVID-19 .
The Mission began facing repeated denials when attempting to cross into non-government-controlled areas at checkpoints of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 21 March and Luhansk region on 23 March ( see previous SMM Spot Reports ) .
They restrict the SMM ’ s freedom of movement across the contact line , thus impeding the implementation of its mandate throughout the country .
With regard to COVID-19 , the SMM has introduced a number of stringent mitigation measures into its operational procedures .
These include strict adherence to social distancing rules both internally and with external interlocutors , daily temperature checks , use of PPE and minimizing the number of personnel in vehicles .

From 23 to 29 May, members of the armed formations again denied SMM attempts to cross into non-government-controlled areas along official crossing routes: five times in Donetsk region and four times in Luhansk region, while further attempts to cross into government-controlled areas were also denied, once in Donetsk region and three times in Luhansk region.
On 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28 and 29 May, at a checkpoint south of the Stanytsia Luhanska bridge (15km north-east of Luhansk), members of the armed formations again denied the SMM passage towards non-government-controlled areas on four occasions, and passage towards government-controlled areas on three other occasions, referring to the closure of the checkpoint due to COVID-19.
On 23 and 27 May, at a checkpoint 600m west of Verkhnoshyrokivske (formerly Oktiabr, non-government-controlled, 85km south of Donetsk), members of the armed formations again denied the SMM passage towards non-government-controlled areas, referring to quarantine restrictions due to COVID-19.
On 24 and 28 May, at a checkpoint near Horlivka (non-government-controlled, 39km north-east of Donetsk), members of the armed formations again denied the SMM passage towards non-government-controlled areas, referring to quarantine restrictions due to COVID-19.
On 25 May, at a checkpoint near Olenivka (non-government-controlled, 23km south-west of Donetsk), members of the armed formations again denied the SMM passage towards government-controlled areas on one occasion, stating that the SMM did not have permission to pass, and again denied passage towards non-government-controlled areas on another occasion, referring to quarantine restrictions due to COVID-19.
The Mission began facing repeated denials when attempting to cross into non-government-controlled areas at checkpoints of the armed formations in Donetsk region on 21 March and Luhansk region on 23 March (see previous SMM Spot Reports). They restrict the SMM’s freedom of movement across the contact line, thus impeding the implementation of its mandate throughout the country.
***
With regard to COVID-19, the SMM has introduced a number of stringent mitigation measures into its operational procedures. These include strict adherence to social distancing rules both internally and with external interlocutors, daily temperature checks, use of PPE and minimizing the number of personnel in vehicles.


osce--2020-05-29--OSCE helps Albania’s anti-trafficking officials develop first simulation training

Preparations for the first ever Albanian anti-trafficking simulation-based training started at an online meeting on 29 May 2020 .
The OSCE Presence in Albania and the Office of the OSCE Special Representative and Co-ordinator for Combating Trafficking presented Albania ’ s group of experts that will design the specific training for Albania with the methodology of this flagship OSCE approach to capacity-building in this field .
The training will consist of realistic , practical and cross-dimensional simulation exercises that will enhance anti-trafficking officials ’ ability to identify victims , investigate suspected trafficking cases and prosecute exploiters and perpetrators .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ addressing human trafficking , in particular in regard to victims ’ identification , the investigation and prosecution of perpetrators .
Through this training , Albania is the first country in the region that will be able to undertake a pioneering and groundbreaking approach towards capacity-building in tackling trafficking in human beings , ” said Bernd Borchardt , Head of the OSCE Presence in Albania .
Rovena Voda , Albania ’ s Deputy Minister of Interior and National Anti-Trafficking Co-ordinator , said that during the 2020 OSCE Chairmanship , Albania has committed that it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ human beings , a challenge felt throughout the OSCE are .
“ Building upon existing instruments , such as this simulation training developed by the OSCE Office of the Special Anti-Trafficking Coordinator ’ s Office , the Albanian Chairmanship will support the development practices to prevent and combat human trafficking , ” said Voda .
The group of experts , comprising a wide range of professionals , from law enforcement agencies , the State Labour Inspectorate , the State Agency for Child Protection , Tirana University and civil society organizations , will work @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a training in which Albania ’ s anti-trafficking practitioners will work in teams to investigate simulated cases of labour and sexual exploitation among migrants , including child victims of trafficking .
“ Simulation-based trainings provide a unique opportunity to participants to practice and master their skills in a safe learning environment and to receive immediate feedback from other professionals , ” said Val Richey , OSCE Special Representative and Co-ordinator for Combating Trafficking in Human Beings .
Over the course of eight simulation-based courses held since 2016 , his Office has trained 529 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seven Partners for Co-operation and six countries from Central and Western Africa .
The training is part of the OSCE Presence ’ s project ‘ Action against Human Trafficking in Albania ’ , which is funded by UNICEF with the support of the United Kingdom .

Preparations for the first ever Albanian anti-trafficking simulation-based training started at an online meeting on 29 May 2020. The OSCE Presence in Albania and the Office of the OSCE Special Representative and Co-ordinator for Combating Trafficking presented Albania’s group of experts that will design the specific training for Albania with the methodology of this flagship OSCE approach to capacity-building in this field.
The training will consist of realistic, practical and cross-dimensional simulation exercises that will enhance anti-trafficking officials’ ability to identify victims, investigate suspected trafficking cases and prosecute exploiters and perpetrators.
“Albania continues to confront numerous challenges in addressing human trafficking, in particular in regard to victims’ identification, the investigation and prosecution of perpetrators. Through this training, Albania is the first country in the region that will be able to undertake a pioneering and groundbreaking approach towards capacity-building in tackling trafficking in human beings,” said Bernd Borchardt, Head of the OSCE Presence in Albania.
Rovena Voda, Albania’s Deputy Minister of Interior and National Anti-Trafficking Co-ordinator, said that during the 2020 OSCE Chairmanship, Albania has committed that it will strengthen the fight against trafficking in human beings, a challenge felt throughout the OSCE are. “Building upon existing instruments, such as this simulation training developed by the OSCE Office of the Special Anti-Trafficking Coordinator’s Office, the Albanian Chairmanship will support the development practices to prevent and combat human trafficking,” said Voda.
The group of experts, comprising a wide range of professionals, from law enforcement agencies, the State Labour Inspectorate, the State Agency for Child Protection, Tirana University and civil society organizations, will work together over the next months to develop a training in which Albania’s anti-trafficking practitioners will work in teams to investigate simulated cases of labour and sexual exploitation among migrants, including child victims of trafficking.
“Simulation-based trainings provide a unique opportunity to participants to practice and master their skills in a safe learning environment and to receive immediate feedback from other professionals,” said Val Richey, OSCE Special Representative and Co-ordinator for Combating Trafficking in Human Beings. Over the course of eight simulation-based courses held since 2016, his Office has trained 529 practitioners from over 54 participating States, seven Partners for Co-operation and six countries from Central and Western Africa.
The training is part of the OSCE Presence’s project ‘Action against Human Trafficking in Albania’, which is funded by UNICEF with the support of the United Kingdom.


osce--2020-05-29--OSCE Presence donates personal protection equipment to Albania’s Border Police

At the imminent opening of Albania ’ s borders , the OSCE Presence , on 28 May 2020 in Tirana , donated personal protection equipment against COVID-19 , worth 20,000 euro , to Albania ’ s Border Police .
General Director of the State Police , Ardi Veliu , considered the donation as very necessary .
“ I thank you for this donation and for the support and assistance that the OSCE has continuously given to the State Police and specifically to the Border Police .
With the opening of borders , the Border Police will be faced with new @ @ @ @ @ @ @ citizens , therefore we need to be prepared and fully-equipped , ” he said .
The personal protection equipment that the Presence donated to the Border Police include infra-red thermometers , plastic face shields , carbon face masks , disinfectants , and full protection body suits .
They will be distributed to all border-crossing points in Albania , including ports and the international airport .
During the COVID-19 pandemic , the Presence also visited Albania ’ s main border crossing points to assess the overall situation , as well as measures taken in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has a long-standing co-operation with Albania ’ s Border and Migration Police , and works with them to establish joint protocols , and police co-operation centres .
It also offers capacity-building for a better control of Albania ’ s borders against criminal activities such as drug trafficking , human trafficking , irregular migration , and foreign terrorists fighters .

At the imminent opening of Albania’s borders, the OSCE Presence, on 28 May 2020 in Tirana, donated personal protection equipment against COVID-19, worth 20,000 euro, to Albania’s Border Police.
General Director of the State Police, Ardi Veliu, considered the donation as very necessary. “I thank you for this donation and for the support and assistance that the OSCE has continuously given to the State Police and specifically to the Border Police. With the opening of borders, the Border Police will be faced with new challenges regarding physical distancing and contact with citizens, therefore we need to be prepared and fully-equipped,” he said.
The personal protection equipment that the Presence donated to the Border Police include infra-red thermometers, plastic face shields, carbon face masks, disinfectants, and full protection body suits. They will be distributed to all border-crossing points in Albania, including ports and the international airport.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Presence also visited Albania’s main border crossing points to assess the overall situation, as well as measures taken in light of the pandemic.
The Presence has a long-standing co-operation with Albania’s Border and Migration Police, and works with them to establish joint protocols, and police co-operation centres. It also offers capacity-building for a better control of Albania’s borders against criminal activities such as drug trafficking, human trafficking, irregular migration, and foreign terrorists fighters.


osce--2020-05-29--OSCE Representative on Freedom of Media concerned about blocking of website in Tajikistan

VIENNA , 29 May 2020 – The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media , Harlem Désir , expressed his concern today about Tajikistan ’ s Supreme Court ruling to block access to the Akhbor.com news site in the country on the grounds of providing a platform to “ terrorist and extremist organizations ” .
“ I am concerned by the restriction of access to the Akhbor news site from the territory of Tajikistan , ” Désir said .
“ The ongoing blocking of an online news resource is a severe restriction on the freedom of expression , which goes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ specific content .
I recall the importance of taking into account the principle of proportionality in any decision affecting media freedom.
” The Supreme Court blocked access to Akhbor.com in Tajikistan starting 19 March .
Human rights advocates reported that the Akhbor site , based in Prague , the Czech Republic , had been blocked for at least two years .
The Court argued that the site provided access to the Islamic Renaissance Party of Tajikistan , the National Alliance of Tajikistan and others , which are considered extremist and terrorist organizations in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Freedom of the Media observes media developments in all 57 OSCE participating States .
She provides early warning on violations of freedom of expression and media freedom and promotes full compliance with OSCE media freedom commitments .
Learn more at www.osce.org/fom , Twitter : @ OSCE_RFoM and at www.facebook.com/osce.rfom .

VIENNA, 29 May 2020 – The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, Harlem Désir, expressed his concern today about Tajikistan’s Supreme Court ruling to block access to the Akhbor.com news site in the country on the grounds of providing a platform to “terrorist and extremist organizations”.
“I am concerned by the restriction of access to the Akhbor news site from the territory of Tajikistan,” Désir said. “The ongoing blocking of an online news resource is a severe restriction on the freedom of expression, which goes far beyond the request to take down specific content. I recall the importance of taking into account the principle of proportionality in any decision affecting media freedom.”
The Supreme Court blocked access to Akhbor.com in Tajikistan starting 19 March. Human rights advocates reported that the Akhbor site, based in Prague, the Czech Republic, had been blocked for at least two years. The Court argued that the site provided access to the Islamic Renaissance Party of Tajikistan, the National Alliance of Tajikistan and others, which are considered extremist and terrorist organizations in the country.
The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media observes media developments in all 57 OSCE participating States. He provides early warning on violations of freedom of expression and media freedom and promotes full compliance with OSCE media freedom commitments. Learn more at www.osce.org/fom, Twitter: @OSCE_RFoM and at www.facebook.com/osce.rfom.


osce--2020-05-29--OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina donates IT equipment to Canton 10 Ministry of Education

The OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina ( BiH ) , as part of its wider initiative to support Bosnia @ @ @ @ @ response , on 29 May 2020 in Livno , provided IT equipment for the Ministry @ @ @ @ @ Canton 10 Ministry of Education was given laptops , tablets and PCs to be distributed @ @ @ @ @ , Head of the OSCE Field Office Drvar , complimented the efforts of the Ministry @ @ @ @ @ the necessary conditions for all students in Canton 10 to have access to online education @ @ @ @ @ students can not follow distance learning due to the lack of technical equipment , ” @ @ @ @ @ donation gives an excellent opportunity to provide the students with the adequate tools to finalize @ @ @ @ @ their results .
”

The OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH), as part of its wider initiative to support Bosnia and Herzegovina in its pandemic response, on 29 May 2020 in Livno, provided IT equipment for the Ministry of Education Canton 10.
Canton 10 Ministry of Education was given laptops, tablets and PCs to be distributed to students.
Christopher Blair, Head of the OSCE Field Office Drvar, complimented the efforts of the Ministry of Education to provide all the necessary conditions for all students in Canton 10 to have access to online education.
“Unfortunately, certain students cannot follow distance learning due to the lack of technical equipment,” said Blair. “This donation gives an excellent opportunity to provide the students with the adequate tools to finalize the school year and achieve their results.”


osce--2020-06-05--Parliamentarians, experts and officials from UN and OSCE meet online to discuss counter-terrorism in

Parliamentarians, experts and officials from UN and OSCE meet online to discuss counter-terrorism in an era of pandemic

COPENHAGEN , 5 June 2020 – While much of the international community ’ s attention is currently focused on fighting the COVID-19 pandemic , traditional threats such as terrorism and violent extremism are as relevant as ever and must remain high on the international agenda , participants said at the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly ’ s seventh meeting of the Ad Hoc Committee on Countering Terrorism ( CCT ) today .
The meeting , held in an online format , was addressed by CCT Chair Reinhold Lopatka ( Austria ) , Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism Vladimir Voronkov @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Security Committee and Head of UK Delegation to the OSCE Neil Bush , and Chelsea L. Daymon , an independent expert on terrorism and political violence .
Parliamentarians discussed how crisis situations such as the COVID-19 pandemic can aggravate threats by offering new opportunities for terrorist groups to prosper and achieve their goals , as the attention of the world has shifted elsewhere .
The impact of economic disruption related to the COVID-19 pandemic could lead to greater radicalization and fuel the rise of extremism , while some are exploiting the crisis to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , promote hate speech and spread propaganda , it was noted .
“ The global crisis caused by COVID-19 has exacerbated existing grievances and protracted conflicts and led to the emergence of new terrorist trends , ” said Under-Secretary-General Voronkov .
“ ISIL , Al-Qaida and their supporters have expanded the dissemination of violent ideologies and are intensifying recruitment efforts , both online and offline.
” Other violent extremists are also exploiting the fear and anxiety caused by the pandemic to spread misinformation and further their ideologies , according to Voronkov , who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in addressing these issues .
“ We need strong partnerships , such as the one we have with the OSCE and its Parliamentary Assembly , ” Voronkov said .
In his opening remarks , CCT Chair Lopatka noted that the uncertainty caused by COVID-19 could trigger dangerous dynamics and fuel violent extremism .
“ Extremists exploit the crisis for their despicable purposes , and violent protests and even attacks could result from dangerous conspiracy myths , ” Lopatka said .
“ Right-wing extremists increasingly propagate hatred of foreigners , especially Asians , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Jewish world conspiracy .
Left-wing extremists blame the capitalist system for causing the crisis , reject governmental surveillance and foment social unrest.
” Neil Bush spoke about the importance of promoting a whole-of-society approach to counter-terrorism , which would involve utilizing all the tools of civil society and governments , as well as the business community and educational institutions .
Chelsea L. Daymon said that terrorists are taking advantage of the fact that the focus of governments is currently on the COVID-19 pandemic .
Extremists of various stripes are exploiting the situation and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pandemic , she said .
In the discussion , members spoke about the importance of distinguishing terrorist movements from social movements , with very clear legal distinctions .
Designating activists as terrorists is dangerous , it was stressed , and should be avoided .
The importance of preserving fundamental freedoms while countering terrorism was also emphasized , as well as how to address the question of dealing with returning foreign terrorist fighters .
Committee members also discussed ongoing work of the CCT , including a Parliamentary Web Dialogue scheduled for late June , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and joint activities with other institutions of the OSCE .
Parliamentarians explored ways to address recent terrorism trends and consolidate the OSCE PA ’ s network of strategic partnerships .
Also addressing the meeting were PA President George Tsereteli , Secretary General Roberto Montella , and Alena Kupchyna , the OSCE Co-ordinator for Activities to Address Transnational Threats .
The Ad Hoc Committee on Countering Terrorism was established by the OSCE PA ’ s Standing Committee on 5 July 2017 at the 26th Annual Session in Minsk .
In consultation with relevant partners @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trends in the OSCE region to identify priority areas of engagement for the OSCE PA , aiming to advance a parliamentary contribution to the global fight against terrorism and violent extremism .
For more on the work of the OSCE PA on counter-terrorism , please click here .
For more on the OSCE PA 's response to the COVID-19 crisis , please click here .

COPENHAGEN, 5 June 2020 – While much of the international community’s attention is currently focused on fighting the COVID-19 pandemic, traditional threats such as terrorism and violent extremism are as relevant as ever and must remain high on the international agenda, participants said at the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly’s seventh meeting of the Ad Hoc Committee on Countering Terrorism (CCT) today.
The meeting, held in an online format, was addressed by CCT Chair Reinhold Lopatka (Austria), Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism Vladimir Voronkov, Chair of the OSCE’s Security Committee and Head of UK Delegation to the OSCE Neil Bush, and Chelsea L. Daymon, an independent expert on terrorism and political violence.
Parliamentarians discussed how crisis situations such as the COVID-19 pandemic can aggravate threats by offering new opportunities for terrorist groups to prosper and achieve their goals, as the attention of the world has shifted elsewhere. The impact of economic disruption related to the COVID-19 pandemic could lead to greater radicalization and fuel the rise of extremism, while some are exploiting the crisis to advance extremist narratives, disseminate conspiracy theories, promote hate speech and spread propaganda, it was noted.
“The global crisis caused by COVID-19 has exacerbated existing grievances and protracted conflicts and led to the emergence of new terrorist trends,” said Under-Secretary-General Voronkov. “ISIL, Al-Qaida and their supporters have expanded the dissemination of violent ideologies and are intensifying recruitment efforts, both online and offline.”
Other violent extremists are also exploiting the fear and anxiety caused by the pandemic to spread misinformation and further their ideologies, according to Voronkov, who welcomed the work of the OSCE PA in addressing these issues. “We need strong partnerships, such as the one we have with the OSCE and its Parliamentary Assembly,” Voronkov said.
In his opening remarks, CCT Chair Lopatka noted that the uncertainty caused by COVID-19 could trigger dangerous dynamics and fuel violent extremism.
“Extremists exploit the crisis for their despicable purposes, and violent protests and even attacks could result from dangerous conspiracy myths,” Lopatka said. “Right-wing extremists increasingly propagate hatred of foreigners, especially Asians, and also spread the anti-Semitic myth of a Jewish world conspiracy. Left-wing extremists blame the capitalist system for causing the crisis, reject governmental surveillance and foment social unrest.”
Neil Bush spoke about the importance of promoting a whole-of-society approach to counter-terrorism, which would involve utilizing all the tools of civil society and governments, as well as the business community and educational institutions. Chelsea L. Daymon said that terrorists are taking advantage of the fact that the focus of governments is currently on the COVID-19 pandemic. Extremists of various stripes are exploiting the situation and offering their own narratives to explain the pandemic, she said.
In the discussion, members spoke about the importance of distinguishing terrorist movements from social movements, with very clear legal distinctions. Designating activists as terrorists is dangerous, it was stressed, and should be avoided. The importance of preserving fundamental freedoms while countering terrorism was also emphasized, as well as how to address the question of dealing with returning foreign terrorist fighters.
Committee members also discussed ongoing work of the CCT, including a Parliamentary Web Dialogue scheduled for late June, an upcoming co-ordination meeting with UNOCT, and joint activities with other institutions of the OSCE. Parliamentarians explored ways to address recent terrorism trends and consolidate the OSCE PA’s network of strategic partnerships.
Also addressing the meeting were PA President George Tsereteli, Secretary General Roberto Montella, and Alena Kupchyna, the OSCE Co-ordinator for Activities to Address Transnational Threats.
The Ad Hoc Committee on Countering Terrorism was established by the OSCE PA’s Standing Committee on 5 July 2017 at the 26th Annual Session in Minsk. In consultation with relevant partners, the Ad Hoc Committee assesses terrorism trends in the OSCE region to identify priority areas of engagement for the OSCE PA, aiming to advance a parliamentary contribution to the global fight against terrorism and violent extremism.
For more on the work of the OSCE PA on counter-terrorism, please click here.
For more on the OSCE PA's response to the COVID-19 crisis, please click here.


osce--2020-06-05--OSCE SMM Spot Report 30/2020: Members of the armed formations continued to deny SMM patrols passage

OSCE SMM Spot Report 30/2020: Members of the armed formations continued to deny SMM patrols passage at checkpoints in Donetsk and Luhansk regions

From 30 May to 5 June , members of the armed formations again denied SMM attempts to cross into non-government-controlled areas along official crossing routes : six times in Donetsk region and four times in Luhansk region , while further attempts to cross into government-controlled areas were also denied , once in Donetsk region and three times in Luhansk region .
On 30 and 31 May and on 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 and 5 June , at a checkpoint south of the Stanytsia Luhanska bridge ( 15km north-east of Luhansk ) , members of the armed formations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ areas on four occasions , and passage towards government-controlled areas on three other occasions , each time referring to the closure of the checkpoint due to COVID-19 .
On 31 May and on 4 June , at a checkpoint 600m west of Verkhnoshyrokivske ( formerly Oktiabr , non-government-controlled , 85km south of Donetsk ) , members of the armed formations again denied the SMM passage towards non-government-controlled areas , referring to quarantine restrictions due to COVID-19 .
On 1 and 3 June , at a checkpoint near Horlivka ( non-government-controlled , 39km north-east @ @ @ @ @ @ @ armed formations again denied the SMM passage towards non-government-controlled areas , on both occasions referring to quarantine restrictions due to COVID-19 .
On 2 June , at a checkpoint near Olenivka ( non-government-controlled , 23km south-west of Donetsk ) , members of the armed formations again denied the SMM passage towards government-controlled areas on one occasion and again denied passage towards non-government-controlled areas on another occasion , both times referring to quarantine restrictions due to COVID-19 .
On 5 June , at a checkpoint near Oleksandrivka ( non-government-controlled , 20km south-west of Donetsk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ denied the SMM passage towards non-government-controlled areas , referring to quarantine restrictions due to COVID-19 .
In addition , on 30 May , the Mission was unable to proceed towards non-government-controlled areas due to the presence of metal bars and a pile of tyres at the same checkpoint .
The Mission began facing repeated denials when attempting to cross into non-government-controlled areas at checkpoints of the armed formations in Donetsk region on 21 March and Luhansk region on 23 March ( see previous SMM Spot Reports ) .
They restrict the SMM ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ line , thus impeding the implementation of its mandate throughout the country .
With regard to COVID-19 , the SMM has introduced a number of stringent mitigation measures into its operational procedures .
These include strict adherence to social distancing rules both internally and with external interlocutors , daily temperature checks , use of PPE and minimizing the number of personnel in vehicles .

From 30 May to 5 June, members of the armed formations again denied SMM attempts to cross into non-government-controlled areas along official crossing routes: six times in Donetsk region and four times in Luhansk region, while further attempts to cross into government-controlled areas were also denied, once in Donetsk region and three times in Luhansk region.
On 30 and 31 May and on 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 June, at a checkpoint south of the Stanytsia Luhanska bridge (15km north-east of Luhansk), members of the armed formations again denied the SMM passage towards non-government-controlled areas on four occasions, and passage towards government-controlled areas on three other occasions, each time referring to the closure of the checkpoint due to COVID-19.
On 31 May and on 4 June, at a checkpoint 600m west of Verkhnoshyrokivske (formerly Oktiabr, non-government-controlled, 85km south of Donetsk), members of the armed formations again denied the SMM passage towards non-government-controlled areas, referring to quarantine restrictions due to COVID-19.
On 1 and 3 June, at a checkpoint near Horlivka (non-government-controlled, 39km north-east of Donetsk), members of the armed formations again denied the SMM passage towards non-government-controlled areas, on both occasions referring to quarantine restrictions due to COVID-19.
On 2 June, at a checkpoint near Olenivka (non-government-controlled, 23km south-west of Donetsk), members of the armed formations again denied the SMM passage towards government-controlled areas on one occasion and again denied passage towards non-government-controlled areas on another occasion, both times referring to quarantine restrictions due to COVID-19.
On 5 June, at a checkpoint near Oleksandrivka (non-government-controlled, 20km south-west of Donetsk), members of the armed formations denied the SMM passage towards non-government-controlled areas, referring to quarantine restrictions due to COVID-19. In addition, on 30 May, the Mission was unable to proceed towards non-government-controlled areas due to the presence of metal bars and a pile of tyres at the same checkpoint.
The Mission began facing repeated denials when attempting to cross into non-government-controlled areas at checkpoints of the armed formations in Donetsk region on 21 March and Luhansk region on 23 March (see previous SMM Spot Reports). They restrict the SMM’s freedom of movement across the contact line, thus impeding the implementation of its mandate throughout the country.
***
With regard to COVID-19, the SMM has introduced a number of stringent mitigation measures into its operational procedures. These include strict adherence to social distancing rules both internally and with external interlocutors, daily temperature checks, use of PPE and minimizing the number of personnel in vehicles.


osce--2020-06-05--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 133/2020 issued on 5 June 2020


osce--2020-06-04--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 132/2020 issued on 4 June 2020