osce--2020-12-08--ODIHR opens limited election observation mission in Kyrgyzstan

BISHKEK , 9 December 2020 – The OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights ( ODIHR ) today opened a limited election observation mission ( LEOM ) for the 10 January early presidential election in Kyrgyzstan , following an invitation from the national authorities .
The mission is led by Tamas Meszerics and consists of a core team of 13 experts based in Bishkek and 22 long-term observers , who will be deployed throughout the country from 15 December .
The mission will assess whether the elections are held in line with OSCE commitments and other international obligations and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as with national legislation .
Observers will closely monitor fundamental aspects of the elections such as voter registration , campaign activities , the work of the election administration and relevant government bodies , election-related legislation and its implementation , and the resolution of election-related disputes .
The mission will also monitor media coverage of the campaign .
Meetings with numerous representatives of state authorities , political parties , civil society , the media and the international community form an integral part of the observation .
While mission members will visit a limited number @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there will not be any systematic observation of voting , counting or tabulation of results .
An interim report will be published to update the public and media during the course of the observation .
The day after the elections , ODIHR ’ s preliminary findings and conclusions will be presented at a press conference .
A final report summing up the observation and making recommendations for improvements will be published approximately two months after the end of the election process .
NB The ODIHR LEOM and the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mandates .
For further information , please visit https : //www.osce.org/odihr/elections/kyrgyzstan or contact Egor Tilpunov , Media Analyst , at egor.tilpunov @ odihr.kg or +996 772 207 028 ,

BISHKEK, 9 December 2020 – The OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) today opened a limited election observation mission (LEOM) for the 10 January early presidential election in Kyrgyzstan, following an invitation from the national authorities.
The mission is led by Tamas Meszerics and consists of a core team of 13 experts based in Bishkek and 22 long-term observers, who will be deployed throughout the country from 15 December.
The mission will assess whether the elections are held in line with OSCE commitments and other international obligations and standards for democratic elections, as well as with national legislation. Observers will closely monitor fundamental aspects of the elections such as voter registration, campaign activities, the work of the election administration and relevant government bodies, election-related legislation and its implementation, and the resolution of election-related disputes. The mission will also monitor media coverage of the campaign.
Meetings with numerous representatives of state authorities, political parties, civil society, the media and the international community form an integral part of the observation.
While mission members will visit a limited number of polling stations on election day, there will not be any systematic observation of voting, counting or tabulation of results.
An interim report will be published to update the public and media during the course of the observation. The day after the elections, ODIHR’s preliminary findings and conclusions will be presented at a press conference. A final report summing up the observation and making recommendations for improvements will be published approximately two months after the end of the election process.
NB The ODIHR LEOM and the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek operate separately and independently under their own mandates.
For further information, please visit https://www.osce.org/odihr/elections/kyrgyzstan or contact Egor Tilpunov, Media Analyst, at egor.tilpunov@odihr.kg or +996 772 207 028,
or
Katya Andrusz, ODIHR spokesperson, at: katya.andrusz@odihr.pl or +48 609 522 266


osce--2020-12-08--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 292/2020 issued on 8 December 2020

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osce--2020-12-08--In Education, Change is the Only Constant- Bosnia and Herzegovina Needs to Invest in Evidence-Based

In Education, Change is the Only Constant- Bosnia and Herzegovina Needs to Invest in Evidence-Based Education Reforms

SARAJEVO , 8 December 2020 - One year after publication of the results of the first Programme for International Student Assessment ( PISA ) for Bosnia and Herzegovina ( BiH ) , the country marks today another important date for the education sector- the results for the Trends in Mathematics and Science Study ( TIMSS ) , conducted in 2019 .
The TIMSS results demonstrate that schools in BiH are not prepared for the knowledge society of the 21st century and that BiH ’ s children do not have the same opportunities to develop their potentials as their peers do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their future at stake , at least 600,000 children of BiH can not wait anymore .
As demonstrated by the 2018 PISA results and confirmed by the results from TIMSS we saw today , BiH faces a learning crisis .
That combined with the pandemic could undermine decades of progress and exacerbate entrenched inequalities .
Therefore , it is urgent that the education authorities in BiH design and implement comprehensive education reforms , based on the findings of international large-scale assessments , as the same provide detailed data for informed policy decisions .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ large-scale assessments is crucial for monitoring and following the developments and trends in education , so necessary adjustments to education reforms can be made .
In that context , we also recall the European Commission ’ s 2020 Report on BiH which notes that participation in such assessments should be taken to track the country ’ s progress and enhance visibility and comparability in a larger context .
A knowledgeable and skilled population is an indispensable component of any dynamic economy and inclusive , cohesive society which BiH aspires to , therefore education @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the country ’ s development efforts .
To ensure evidence-based education reform , BiH should take all the necessary steps for participation in the upcoming international large-scale assessments ( Progress in International Reading Literacy Study - PIRLS 2021 and PISA 2022 ) .
We call upon the authorities to reach consensus for BiH ’ s continuous participation in these valuable assessments whilst ensuring inclusivity and transparency of the assessment processes including through consistent co-operation with and between all education authorities .
Competent education authorities at all levels of government must take bold steps @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and quality education systems fit for the future .

SARAJEVO, 8 December 2020 - One year after publication of the results of the first Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) for Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH), the country marks today another important date for the education sector- the results for the Trends in Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS), conducted in 2019.
The TIMSS results demonstrate that schools in BiH are not prepared for the knowledge society of the 21st century and that BiH’s children do not have the same opportunities to develop their potentials as their peers do in high and middle-income countries. With their future at stake, at least 600,000 children of BiH cannot wait anymore.
As demonstrated by the 2018 PISA results and confirmed by the results from TIMSS we saw today, BiH faces a learning crisis. That combined with the pandemic could undermine decades of progress and exacerbate entrenched inequalities.
Therefore, it is urgent that the education authorities in BiH design and implement comprehensive education reforms, based on the findings of international large-scale assessments, as the same provide detailed data for informed policy decisions.
In addition, continuous participation in international large-scale assessments is crucial for monitoring and following the developments and trends in education, so necessary adjustments to education reforms can be made. In that context, we also recall the European Commission’s 2020 Report on BiH which notes that participation in such assessments should be taken to track the country’s progress and enhance visibility and comparability in a larger context.
A knowledgeable and skilled population is an indispensable component of any dynamic economy and inclusive, cohesive society which BiH aspires to, therefore education reform should be a central pillar of the country’s development efforts.
To ensure evidence-based education reform, BiH should take all the necessary steps for participation in the upcoming international large-scale assessments (Progress in International Reading Literacy Study - PIRLS 2021 and PISA 2022). We call upon the authorities to reach consensus for BiH’s continuous participation in these valuable assessments whilst ensuring inclusivity and transparency of the assessment processes including through consistent co-operation with and between all education authorities.
Competent education authorities at all levels of government must take bold steps now, to create inclusive, resilient and quality education systems fit for the future.


osce--2020-12-08--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 8 December 2020

Kamensk-Shakhtinskiy , Russian Federation .
The Observer Mission ( OM ) continues to operate 24/7 at both Border Crossing Points ( BCPs ) .
The overall number of border crossings by persons significantly decreased at both BCPs compared to the previous week .
The OM is currently operating with 22 permanent international Mission members , including the Chief Observer ( CO ) and one first responder [ 1 ] .
The Mission is supported administratively by a staff member and the Chief of Fund Administration based in Vienna .
Activities have been impacted by COVID-19 and measures undertaken by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of care of its Mission members and compliance with measures set by the host country authorities .
The Mission is continuing to keep the situation under review , in close contact with the OSCE Secretariat and the Chairmanship .
Following the host country recommendations , the observers are adhering to social distancing .
Due to the preventive measures taken by the central and regional authorities , the OM is faced with certain difficulties , but is still able to continue to fulfil its mandate without any limitations in its observation and reporting activities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 significantly decreased from 7,356 to 6,828 per day at both BCPs compared to last week [ 2 ] .
During the reporting period , the majority of border crossings were to Ukraine , with an average net flow of 57 per day for both @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ transport commuting between the non-government-controlled areas of Luhansk region of Ukraine and the Russian Federation was temporarily suspended and restored from 25 June .
During the reporting period , the number of persons in military-style outfits crossing the border was 11 , compared to 15 last week .
Seven persons crossed into the Russian Federation while another four persons crossed into Ukraine .
These individuals crossed the border on foot .
The OTs continued to report on families , sometimes with elderly persons and/or children , crossing the border at both BCPs with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ travelling in heavily loaded cars .
During this reporting week , two families were observed crossing into the Russian Federation and three families were observed crossing into Ukraine , compared to the previous reporting period when four families were observed crossing into the Russian Federation and two families crossing into Ukraine .
Regular local and long-distance bus connections continued to operate between Ukraine ( mostly from/to the Luhansk region ) and the Russian Federation .
During the reporting period , the OTs observed a slight decrease in the overall number of buses crossing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ compared to 235 observed during the previous week ) .
There were 114 buses bound for the Russian Federation and 119 bound for Ukraine .
On some occasions , the OTs noticed the bus drivers removing the itinerary signs from the windshields of their buses , while some buses did not display their route at all .
The majority of long-distance buses commuting between the Luhansk region and cities in the Russian Federation had Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region .
During the reporting period , the OTs observed a significant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crossing the border at both BCPs ( 757 compared to 848 during the previous reporting week ) ; 420 at the Gukovo BCP and 337 at the Donetsk BCP , 504 of these trucks crossed into the Russian Federation and 253 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crossing the border in both directions .
During the reporting period , the OTs observed a significant increase in the overall number of tanker trucks crossing the border at both BCPs ( 52 compared to 34 during the previous reporting week ) .
These trucks were observed crossing the border at both BCPs .
The trucks had the words “ Propane ” and “ Flammable ” written across the tanks in either Russian or Ukrainian .
The majority of tanker trucks had hazard signs , indicating that they were transporting propane or a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trucks underwent systematic inspection by the Russian Federation officials , which could include an X-ray check .
Due to the unfavourable observation position at the Gukovo BCP , the OTs continued to be unable to observe any X-ray checks .
Compared to the previous week , the total number of X-ray checks at the Donetsk BCP significantly decreased from 131 to 61 .
Of the total number of trucks scanned , 46 trucks ( 75 per cent ) were bound for Ukraine , the remaining 15 trucks ( 25 per cent ) crossed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ continued to observe passenger and cargo minivans [ 3 ] crossing the border in both directions at both BCPs .
The OTs observed minivans predominantly with Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region ; however , the OTs also saw minivans registered in the Russian Federation .
During the reporting period , the OTs observed a decrease in the overall number of minivans crossing the border at both BCPs ( 122 compared to 152 observed during the previous week ) ; 67 crossed into the Russian Federation and another 55 into Ukraine @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 11 trains were travelling to the Russian Federation and the remaining six 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ plates issued in the Luhansk region or Russian Federation licence plates .
A significant number of vehicles with “ LPR ” plates were also observed crossing the border in both directions on a daily basis .
The OTs also observed vehicles with Georgian and Lithuanian licence plates .
For trends and figures at a glance covering the period from 3 November to 8 December 2020 , please see the attachment here .
[ 1 ] First responders are OSCE staff or Mission members deployed for a short period of time .
[ 2 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Regional Representation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation .
[ 3 ] Cargo minivans : light commercial vehicles with a maximum authorized mass of more than 3.5 t and not more than 7.5 t ; with or without a trailer with a maximum mass of less than 750 kg ( small cargo vehicles which correspond to driving licence C1 ) .

SUMMARY
Kamensk-Shakhtinskiy, Russian Federation. The Observer Mission (OM) continues to operate 24/7 at both Border Crossing Points (BCPs). The overall number of border crossings by persons significantly decreased at both BCPs compared to the previous week.
OPERATIONAL REMARKS
The OM is currently operating with 22 permanent international Mission members, including the Chief Observer (CO) and one first responder[1]. The Mission is supported administratively by a staff member and the Chief of Fund Administration based in Vienna.
Update on COVID-19 measures
Activities have been impacted by COVID-19 and measures undertaken by the OM to ensure the safety and duty of care of its Mission members and compliance with measures set by the host country authorities. The Mission is continuing to keep the situation under review, in close contact with the OSCE Secretariat and the Chairmanship. Following the host country recommendations, the observers are adhering to social distancing. Due to the preventive measures taken by the central and regional authorities, the OM is faced with certain difficulties, but is still able to continue to fulfil its mandate without any limitations in its observation and reporting activities.
OBSERVATIONS AT THE BORDER CROSSING POINTS
Persons crossing the border
The profile of persons crossing the border can be categorized as follows:
Adults travelling on foot or by car with little or no luggage. Persons in military-style outfits. Families (often including elderly persons and/or children) travelling on foot or by car with a significant amount of luggage.
The average number of entries/exits significantly decreased from 7,356 to 6,828 per day at both BCPs compared to last week[2].
During the reporting period, the majority of border crossings were to Ukraine, with an average net flow of 57 per day for both BCPs. The Donetsk BCP continued to experience much more traffic than the Gukovo BCP.
Responding to the COVID-19 situation, the host country has closed its borders for the majority of foreigners starting from 18 March. Among the exceptions of persons allowed to cross the border (which entered into force on 19 March), are Ukrainian citizens and stateless persons holding passports or identification documents proving permanent residence in certain areas of Luhansk and Donetsk regions of Ukraine. In addition, reportedly, due to the threat of the spread of COVID-19, starting from 10 April, the organized passenger transport commuting between the non-government-controlled areas of Luhansk region of Ukraine and the Russian Federation was temporarily suspended and restored from 25 June.
Persons in military-style outfits
During the reporting period, the number of persons in military-style outfits crossing the border was 11, compared to 15 last week. Seven persons crossed into the Russian Federation while another four persons crossed into Ukraine. These individuals crossed the border on foot.
Families with a significant amount of luggage
The OTs continued to report on families, sometimes with elderly persons and/or children, crossing the border at both BCPs with a significant amount of luggage, or travelling in heavily loaded cars. During this reporting week, two families were observed crossing into the Russian Federation and three families were observed crossing into Ukraine, compared to the previous reporting period when four families were observed crossing into the Russian Federation and two families crossing into Ukraine.
Bus connections
Regular local and long-distance bus connections continued to operate between Ukraine (mostly from/to the Luhansk region) and the Russian Federation. During the reporting period, the OTs observed a slight decrease in the overall number of buses crossing the border at both BCPs (233 compared to 235 observed during the previous week). There were 114 buses bound for the Russian Federation and 119 bound for Ukraine.
On some occasions, the OTs noticed the bus drivers removing the itinerary signs from the windshields of their buses, while some buses did not display their route at all. The majority of long-distance buses commuting between the Luhansk region and cities in the Russian Federation had Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region.
Trucks
During the reporting period, the OTs observed a significant decrease in the overall number of trucks crossing the border at both BCPs (757 compared to 848 during the previous reporting week); 420 at the Gukovo BCP and 337 at the Donetsk BCP, 504 of these trucks crossed into the Russian Federation and 253 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 period, the OTs observed a significant increase in the overall number of tanker trucks crossing the border at both BCPs (52 compared to 34 during the previous reporting week). These trucks were observed crossing the border at both BCPs. The trucks had the words “Propane” and “Flammable” written across the tanks in either Russian or Ukrainian. The majority of tanker trucks had hazard signs, indicating that they were transporting propane or a mix of propane and butane. All trucks underwent systematic inspection by the Russian Federation officials, which could include an X-ray check. Due to the unfavourable observation position at the Gukovo BCP, the OTs continued to be unable to observe any X-ray checks.
Compared to the previous week, the total number of X-ray checks at the Donetsk BCP significantly decreased from 131 to 61. Of the total number of trucks scanned, 46 trucks (75 per cent) were bound for Ukraine, the remaining 15 trucks (25 per cent) crossed into the Russian Federation.
Minivans
The OM continued to observe passenger and cargo minivans[3] crossing the border in both directions at both BCPs. The OTs observed minivans predominantly with Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region; however, the OTs also saw minivans registered in the Russian Federation. During the reporting period, the OTs observed a decrease in the overall number of minivans crossing the border at both BCPs (122 compared to 152 observed during the previous week); 67 crossed into the Russian Federation and another 55 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 11 trains were travelling to the Russian Federation and the remaining six trains were travelling to Ukraine (more details are provided in the sections “trends and figures at a glance” below).
Visual observation was not possible because of the line of trees located between the train tracks and the BCP.
Other observations
The majority of vehicles crossing the border had Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region or Russian Federation licence plates. A significant number of vehicles with “LPR” plates were also observed crossing the border in both directions on a daily basis. The OTs also observed vehicles with Georgian and Lithuanian licence plates.
For trends and figures at a glance covering the period from 3 November to 8 December 2020, please see the attachment here.
[1] First responders are OSCE staff or Mission members deployed for a short period of time.
[2] Based on data received from the Regional Representation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation.
[3] Cargo minivans: light commercial vehicles with a maximum authorized mass of more than 3.5 t and not more than 7.5 t; with or without a trailer with a maximum mass of less than 750 kg (small cargo vehicles which correspond to driving licence C1).


osce--2020-12-08--ODIHR opens limited election observation mission in Kazakhstan

NUR-SULTAN , 8 December 2020 – The OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights ( ODIHR ) today formally opened a limited election observation mission ( LEOM ) for the 10 January parliamentary elections in Kazakhstan .
The mission ’ s deployment follows an invitation from the country ’ s authorities .
The mission is led by Ambassador Jarosław Marcin Domański and consists of a core team of 11 experts based in Nur-Sultan .
In addition , 24 long-term observers will be deployed throughout the country from 15 December .
The mission will assess the election for its compliance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and standards for democratic elections , as well as with national legislation .
Observers will closely monitor voter and candidate registration , campaign activities , the work of the election administration and relevant government bodies , election-related legislation and its implementation , and the resolution of election-related disputes .
The mission will also monitor the media coverage of the campaign .
In the course of its observation , the mission will meet with representatives of state authorities , political parties , civil society , the media and the international community .
While the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ polling stations on election day , there will not be any systematic observation of voting , counting or tabulation of the results .
On election day , the ODIHR LEOM will join efforts with a delegation from the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly .
The mission will publish an interim report in the course of its work .
The day after the elections , a statement of preliminary findings and conclusions will be issued at a press conference .
A final report summing up the observation and proposing recommendations will be published approximately two months @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The ODIHR LEOM and the OSCE Programme Office in Nur-Sultan operate separately and independently under their own mandates .
For further information , please visit www.osce.org/odihr/elections/kazakhstan .
You can also contact Elma Sehalic , Media Analyst , at + 7 701 3177 964 and elma.sehalic @ odihr.kz

NUR-SULTAN, 8 December 2020 – The OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) today formally opened a limited election observation mission (LEOM) for the 10 January parliamentary elections in Kazakhstan. The mission’s deployment follows an invitation from the country’s authorities.
The mission is led by Ambassador Jarosław Marcin Domański and consists of a core team of 11 experts based in Nur-Sultan. In addition, 24 long-term observers will be deployed throughout the country from 15 December.
The mission will assess the election for its compliance with OSCE commitments and other international obligations and standards for democratic elections, as well as with national legislation. Observers will closely monitor voter and candidate registration, campaign activities, the work of the election administration and relevant government bodies, election-related legislation and its implementation, and the resolution of election-related disputes. The mission will also monitor the media coverage of the campaign.
In the course of its observation, the mission will meet with representatives of state authorities, political parties, civil society, the media and the international community.
While the mission will visit a limited number of polling stations on election day, there will not be any systematic observation of voting, counting or tabulation of the results. On election day, the ODIHR LEOM will join efforts with a delegation from the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly.
The mission will publish an interim report in the course of its work. The day after the elections, a statement of preliminary findings and conclusions will be issued at a press conference. A final report summing up the observation and proposing recommendations will be published approximately two months after the end of the electoral process.
The ODIHR LEOM and the OSCE Programme Office in Nur-Sultan operate separately and independently under their own mandates.
For further information, please visit www.osce.org/odihr/elections/kazakhstan. You can also contact Elma Sehalic, Media Analyst, at + 7 701 3177 964 and elma.sehalic@odihr.kz
or
Katya Andrusz, ODIHR Spokesperson, at +48 609 522 266 and katya.andrusz@odihr.pl.


osce--2020-12-07--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 291/2020 issued on 7 December 2020


osce--2020-12-07--Civil society recommendations presented to OSCE executive structures, institutions at an online hand

Civil society recommendations presented to OSCE executive structures, institutions at an online handover meeting

The Civic Solidarity Platform , a coalition of civil society organizations from across the OSCE region , presented recommendations to the OSCE executive structures , institutions and participating States at an online event on 7 December 2020 .
About 50 representatives of civil society organizations participated in the meeting that took place in lieu of the OSCE Parallel Civil Society Conference 2020 .
At the virtual handover session , OSCE executive structures and institutions were handed the Tirana Declaration on Human Rights , Democracy and the Fight against Corruption , which calls on the OSCE and its participating States to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The Agenda for International Support of a Human Rights and Democracy Transition in Belarus by international and Belarusian civil society NGOs , which contains recommendations regarding international support to a human rights and democracy transition in Belarus , was also handed over .
Recommendations in the Tirana Declaration included , among other things , to continue the fight against corruption at all levels as a priority of the OSCE Chair and to prioritize the continuous monitoring and refining of strategies , tactics and steps to prevent and fight corruption in each state @ @ @ @ @ @ @ political sector .
The Agenda drew inspiration from several documents , including the report in the framework of the OSCE Moscow Mechanism , resolutions of the European Parliament and statements of the PACE Legal Affairs Committee , as well as deliberations at recent roundtable meetings and workshops organized by civil society groups .
In his address to the participants , Agron Tare , Deputy Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of Albania stressed that the Albania ’ s 2020 OSCE Chairmanship greatly values the role civil society plays in the OSCE area , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have made every effort to ensure broad and open access for civil society in our meetings , in line with our OSCE documents and decisions ” .
Robert Rydberg , Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs of Sweden representing the incoming OSCE Chair ; Katarzyna Gardapkhadze , First Deputy Director of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights and Jürgen Heissel , Director , the Office of the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media also attended the meeting .

The Civic Solidarity Platform, a coalition of civil society organizations from across the OSCE region, presented recommendations to the OSCE executive structures, institutions and participating States at an online event on 7 December 2020.
About 50 representatives of civil society organizations participated in the meeting that took place in lieu of the OSCE Parallel Civil Society Conference 2020.
At the virtual handover session, OSCE executive structures and institutions were handed the Tirana Declaration on Human Rights, Democracy and the Fight against Corruption, which calls on the OSCE and its participating States to radically step up the fight against corruption. The Agenda for International Support of a Human Rights and Democracy Transition in Belarus by international and Belarusian civil society NGOs, which contains recommendations regarding international support to a human rights and democracy transition in Belarus, was also handed over.
Recommendations in the Tirana Declaration included, among other things, to continue the fight against corruption at all levels as a priority of the OSCE Chair and to prioritize
the continuous monitoring and refining of strategies, tactics and steps to prevent and fight corruption in each state’s civil service, judiciary and political sector.
The Agenda drew inspiration from several documents, including the report in the framework of the OSCE Moscow Mechanism, resolutions of the European Parliament and statements of the PACE Legal Affairs Committee, as well as deliberations at recent roundtable meetings and workshops organized by civil society groups.
In his address to the participants, Agron Tare, Deputy Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of Albania stressed that the Albania’s 2020 OSCE Chairmanship greatly values the role civil society plays in the OSCE area, noting that “throughout this year we have made every effort to ensure broad and open access for civil society in our meetings, in line with our OSCE documents and decisions”.
Robert Rydberg, Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs of Sweden representing the incoming OSCE Chair; Katarzyna Gardapkhadze, First Deputy Director of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights and Jürgen Heissel, Director, the Office of the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media also attended the meeting.


osce--2020-12-07--Romania’s parliamentary elections well managed, but weakened by over-hasty legal changes, internatio

Romania’s parliamentary elections well managed, but weakened by over-hasty legal changes, international observers say

BUCHAREST , 7 December 2020 – Romania ’ s parliamentary elections were well run in adverse circumstances amid a surge in COVID-19 cases , but the late adoption of legislative amendments and some important regulations created uncertainty , international observers from the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights ( ODIHR ) said in a statement today .
“ I have deep respect for the staff at polling stations , the voters and the candidates themselves who took part in the democratic process on election day despite the increased risks , ” said Marianne Mikko , head of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The campaign remained anaemic , not only because of the pandemic but also due to political fatigue , as this was the fourth election in 18 months.
” While the campaign initially focused on issues such as economic recovery and anti-corruption , the worsening public health situation soon dominated the political debate .
The president repeatedly made his party preferences clear in public statements during the run-up to the elections .
This blurred the line between his official duties and the election campaign , at odds with international standards and the commitment made @ @ @ @ @ @ @ clear separation between the state and political parties .
A number of election-related amendments were recently adopted by parliament following a rushed procedure and without public debate , at odds with international commitments and good practice .
“ A complex and inconsistent legal framework covering different elections has created uncertainty about procedures and requirements , ” added Mikko .
“ Adopting a unified election code would be a big step forward for Romania in improving its election process.
” The election administration managed the process efficiently , and generally enjoyed confidence .
Nonetheless @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pandemic were made later than they should have been .
In the limited number of polling stations visited by the mission , the voting process was smooth , and procedures were followed .
Voters living abroad could cast their ballots by post or in person over the course of two days at polling stations across more than 90 countries .
However , health-related restrictions resulted in a reduction of polling stations abroad from last year ’ s presidential election .
ODIHR ’ s Special Election Assessment Mission ( SEAM ) to Romania took @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The mission focused on key issues identified by ODIHR ahead of the election in order to assess the extent to which the parliamentary elections were held in line with OSCE commitments and other international standards for democratic elections , as well as with national legislation .
For further information , please contact :

BUCHAREST, 7 December 2020 – Romania’s parliamentary elections were well run in adverse circumstances amid a surge in COVID-19 cases, but the late adoption of legislative amendments and some important regulations created uncertainty, international observers from the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) said in a statement today.
“I have deep respect for the staff at polling stations, the voters and the candidates themselves who took part in the democratic process on election day despite the increased risks,” said Marianne Mikko, head of the ODIHR special election assessment mission. “The campaign remained anaemic, not only because of the pandemic but also due to political fatigue, as this was the fourth election in 18 months.”
While the campaign initially focused on issues such as economic recovery and anti-corruption, the worsening public health situation soon dominated the political debate. The president repeatedly made his party preferences clear in public statements during the run-up to the elections. This blurred the line between his official duties and the election campaign, at odds with international standards and the commitment made by all OSCE countries to keep a clear separation between the state and political parties.
A number of election-related amendments were recently adopted by parliament following a rushed procedure and without public debate, at odds with international commitments and good practice.
“A complex and inconsistent legal framework covering different elections has created uncertainty about procedures and requirements,” added Mikko. “Adopting a unified election code would be a big step forward for Romania in improving its election process.”
The election administration managed the process efficiently, and generally enjoyed confidence. Nonetheless, important decisions related to the COVID-19 pandemic were made later than they should have been.
In the limited number of polling stations visited by the mission, the voting process was smooth, and procedures were followed. Voters living abroad could cast their ballots by post or in person over the course of two days at polling stations across more than 90 countries. However, health-related restrictions resulted in a reduction of polling stations abroad from last year’s presidential election.
ODIHR’s Special Election Assessment Mission (SEAM) to Romania took up its work on 12 November. The mission focused on key issues identified by ODIHR ahead of the election in order to assess the extent to which the parliamentary elections were held in line with OSCE commitments and other international standards for democratic elections, as well as with national legislation.
For further information, please contact:
Katya Andrusz, ODIHR: +48 609 522 266 or katya.andrusz@odihr.pl


osce--2020-12-07--ODIHR observers to Kazakhstan’s parliamentary elections to hold press conference on Tuesday

NUR-SULTAN , 7 December 2020 – Observers from the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights ( ODIHR ) @ @ @ @ @ on the opening of the observation mission to the 10 January 2021 parliamentary elections on @ @ @ @ @ to the role of the ODIHR limited election observation mission and its planned activities • @ @ @ @ @ attended in person or via Zoom ( details below ) • No registration is necessary @ @ @ @ @ press conference in person , but only questions from journalists will be taken • To @ @ @ @ @ please register with : Katya Andrusz , ODIHR spokesperson , katya.andrusz @ odihr.pl and Elma @ @ @ @ @ elma.sehalic @ odihr.kz

NUR-SULTAN, 7 December 2020 – Observers from the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) will hold a press conference on the opening of the observation mission to the 10 January 2021 parliamentary elections on Tuesday.
What:
An introduction to the role of the ODIHR limited election observation mission and its planned activities
The news conference can be attended in person or via Zoom (details below)
Who:
Jarosław Marcin Domański, Head of the ODIHR limited election observation mission
When:
14.00 local time (GMT +6) on 8 December 2020
Where:
Saryarka 3, Radisson Hotel, Saryarka Avenue 4, Nur-Sultan
Registration:


osce--2020-12-07--OSCE organizes online training seminar on enhancing communication of judiciary with media in Kazakhs

OSCE organizes online training seminar on enhancing communication of judiciary with media in Kazakhstan

An OSCE-supported training seminar for judges-co-ordinators and press secretaries on capacity-building in communication and enhancing interaction with the media concluded @ @ @ @ @ Nur-Sultan .
The two-day training seminar covered topics such as building public confidence in justice @ @ @ @ @ between the courts and the media .
Best practices in interaction with journalists and the @ @ @ @ @ , including social media were also discussed .
Participants learned to prepare for public interviews @ @ @ @ @ conflict situations , interact and respond to critical reports on social media , and reviewed @ @ @ @ @ event included a session dedicated to the use of new media and video-making tools for @ @ @ @ @ Some forty judges-co-ordinators and press secretaries all across the country took part in the event @ @ @ @ @ by the OSCE Programme Office in Nur-Sultan , the Supreme Court and the Friedrich Ebert @ @ @ @ @ event is part of the Programme Office ’ s long-standing efforts to enhance co-operation between @ @ @ @ @

An OSCE-supported training seminar for judges-co-ordinators and press secretaries on capacity-building in communication and enhancing interaction with the media concluded on 5 December 2020 in Nur-Sultan.
The two-day training seminar covered topics such as building public confidence in justice systems and effective communication practices between the courts and the media. Best practices in interaction with journalists and the general public through various channels, including social media were also discussed. Participants learned to prepare for public interviews and press conferences, handle conflict situations, interact and respond to critical reports on social media, and reviewed some practical cases. The event included a session dedicated to the use of new media and video-making tools for effective delivery of information.
Some forty judges-co-ordinators and press secretaries all across the country took part in the event. The seminar was co-organized by the OSCE Programme Office in Nur-Sultan, the Supreme Court and the Friedrich Ebert Foundation in Kazakhstan.
The event is part of the Programme Office’s long-standing efforts to enhance co-operation between courts and the media.


osce--2020-12-05--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 290/2020 issued on 5 December 2020


osce--2020-12-04--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 289/2020 issued on 4 December 2020


osce--2020-12-04--OSCE Chairperson-in-Office Rama announces appointments of senior OSCE officials, commends one of “mo

OSCE Chairperson-in-Office Rama announces appointments of senior OSCE officials, commends one of “most productive” Ministerial Councils in many years

TIRANA/VIENNA , 4 December 2020 — The appointment of four senior OSCE officials and the adoption of new commitments by States to strengthen the fight against organized crime and corruption as well as preventing torture made this one of the “ most productive ” Ministerial Councils in many years , said OSCE Chairperson-in-Office , Prime Minister and Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of Albania , Edi Rama , at the close of the 27th OSCE Ministerial Council .
He welcomed the participating States ’ adoption , by consensus , of decisions on the appointment of the following senior-level officials @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : • Matteo Mecacci ( Italy ) as the Director of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights ; • Teresa Ribeiro ( Portugal ) as OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media ; • Kairat Abdrakhmanov ( Kazakhstan ) as the OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities .
Looking back on the 2020 Albanian Chairmanship , Rama said that “ at the start of the year , I set out three objectives : to implement our commitments together ; to make a difference on the ground ; and to build @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , challenging ourselves to make an impression and an impact .
But this year was not what any of us expected.
” He spoke about overcoming the challenges raised by the COVID-19 pandemic , the loss of the OSCE ’ s most senior management and the new hostilities in the OSCE region .
“ We learnt on the job .
But we have done the job .
Against all the odds , we have delivered .
This Ministerial Council has been a success.
” Reflecting on the Council ’ s outcomes , Rama @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Minsk Group Co-Chair countries — Russia , France and the United States — who met on the margins of the Ministerial Council .
Their statement calls on Armenia and Azerbaijan to continue fully implementing their obligations under the 9 November arrangement .
“ Now is the time to take advantage of the ceasefire to negotiate a lasting and sustainable peace , under the auspices of the Co-Chairs , ” Rama said .
He further highlighted several commitments agreed by participating States over the last two days , where they agreed to strengthen efforts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and increased transparency , enhancing co-operation to counteract transnational organized crime , and in preventing and eradicating the use of torture .
The participating States also agreed on enhancing their co-operation with the OSCE ’ s Asian Partners and underlined the need to continue a results-oriented Transdniestrian Settlement Process in the “ 5+2 ” Format .
There was also agreement on North Macedonia chairing the OSCE in 2023 .
With these commitments , “ we have therefore delivered much-needed progress in all three dimensions of the OSCE ’ s security .
That has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Rama .
The OSCE Chairperson-in-Office thanked all the participating States , supporting staff and teams , and the OSCE Executive Structures and field missions for the success of the Ministerial Council and the work throughout the year .
“ We are a diverse Organization , and we may have our fair share of disagreements .
But when we come together , we can have a huge impact.
” He expressed his gratitude that the “ OSCE has always stood alongside us ” over the last two decades as Albania “ emerged from an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we are now.
” “ No matter what your history , no matter if you are from North America , Europe or Eurasia , no matter how large or small , the OSCE is a platform through which we can all be heard.
” Looking to the future , Rama encouraged participating States to engage in “ constructive , open-minded discussion ” to prepare the OSCE for the challenging times ahead .
He extended Albania ’ s support to Sweden as incoming Chair on 1 January 2021 .
“ We will stand by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , to help you in every way we can.
” Incoming OSCE Chairperson-in-Office and Swedish Minister of Foreign Affairs Ann Linde said : “ A heartfelt thank you to Prime Minister Rama for the professional organization of this Ministerial Council meeting , and for having guided the OSCE through a challenging year .
One of the most important results from this meeting is that we could come together to appoint new heads of the autonomous institutions and Secretary General .
This was significant given the important role of the OSCE institutions to support @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our commitments .
I look forward to presenting the Swedish Chairpersonship programme in January .
Through our priorities and activities , we hope to make a contribution to strengthened democracy and security in our region .
”

TIRANA/VIENNA, 4 December 2020 — The appointment of four senior OSCE officials and the adoption of new commitments by States to strengthen the fight against organized crime and corruption as well as preventing torture made this one of the “most productive” Ministerial Councils in many years, said OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, Prime Minister and Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of Albania, Edi Rama, at the close of the 27th OSCE Ministerial Council.
He welcomed the participating States’ adoption, by consensus, of decisions on the appointment of the following senior-level officials to the OSCE’s top positions:
Helga Schmid (Germany) as OSCE Secretary General;
Matteo Mecacci (Italy) as the Director of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights;
Teresa Ribeiro (Portugal) as OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media;
Kairat Abdrakhmanov (Kazakhstan) as the OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities.
Looking back on the 2020 Albanian Chairmanship, Rama said that “at the start of the year, I set out three objectives: to implement our commitments together; to make a difference on the ground; and to build stability through dialogue. We aimed high, challenging ourselves to make an impression and an impact. But this year was not what any of us expected.”
He spoke about overcoming the challenges raised by the COVID-19 pandemic, the loss of the OSCE’s most senior management and the new hostilities in the OSCE region. “We learnt on the job. But we have done the job. Against all the odds, we have delivered. This Ministerial Council has been a success.”
Reflecting on the Council’s outcomes, Rama noted the statement issued yesterday by the Minsk Group Co-Chair countries — Russia, France and the United States — who met on the margins of the Ministerial Council. Their statement calls on Armenia and Azerbaijan to continue fully implementing their obligations under the 9 November arrangement.
“Now is the time to take advantage of the ceasefire to negotiate a lasting and sustainable peace, under the auspices of the Co-Chairs,” Rama said.
He further highlighted several commitments agreed by participating States over the last two days, where they agreed to strengthen efforts in preventing and combating corruption through digitalization and increased transparency, enhancing co-operation to counteract transnational organized crime, and in preventing and eradicating the use of torture. The participating States also agreed on enhancing their co-operation with the OSCE’s Asian Partners and underlined the need to continue a results-oriented Transdniestrian Settlement Process in the “5+2” Format.
There was also agreement on North Macedonia chairing the OSCE in 2023.
With these commitments, “we have therefore delivered much-needed progress in all three dimensions of the OSCE’s security. That has been no small undertaking,” said Rama.
The OSCE Chairperson-in-Office thanked all the participating States, supporting staff and teams, and the OSCE Executive Structures and field missions for the success of the Ministerial Council and the work throughout the year. “We are a diverse Organization, and we may have our fair share of disagreements. But when we come together, we can have a huge impact.”
He expressed his gratitude that the “OSCE has always stood alongside us” over the last two decades as Albania “emerged from an isolated dictatorship, to the proud democracy we are now.”
“No matter what your history, no matter if you are from North America, Europe or Eurasia, no matter how large or small, the OSCE is a platform through which we can all be heard.”
Looking to the future, Rama encouraged participating States to engage in “constructive, open-minded discussion” to prepare the OSCE for the challenging times ahead. He extended Albania’s support to Sweden as incoming Chair on 1 January 2021. “We will stand by your side as part of the Troika, to help you in every way we can.”
Incoming OSCE Chairperson-in-Office and Swedish Minister of Foreign Affairs Ann Linde said: “A heartfelt thank you to Prime Minister Rama for the professional organization of this Ministerial Council meeting, and for having guided the OSCE through a challenging year. One of the most important results from this meeting is that we could come together to appoint new heads of the autonomous institutions and Secretary General. This was significant given the important role of the OSCE institutions to support all of us to live up to our commitments. I look forward to presenting the Swedish Chairpersonship programme in January. Through our priorities and activities, we hope to make a contribution to strengthened democracy and security in our region.”


osce--2020-12-04--OSCE PA migration committee members discuss voluntary relocation of child refugees at House of Lords

OSCE PA migration committee members discuss voluntary relocation of child refugees at House of Lords event

COPENHAGEN , 4 December 2020 – Several members of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly joined a web conference hosted by the British House of Lords , focused on taking stock of past action and addressing new challenges related to relocating vulnerable refugees .
Entitled “ Voluntary relocation of child refugees and other vulnerable refugees : achievements and future challenges , ” today ’ s meeting explored topics including the new arrivals of refugees by boat in Mediterranean countries and the United Kingdom , impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic , and the challenges posed by coming winter conditions .
Lord Alf Dubs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hoc Committee on Migration , co-chaired the meeting and spoke about the need for European solidarity , praising in particular the relocation schemes for child refugees in the European Union .
“ I would like the United Kingdom to co-operate fully on the issue of refugees with wider Europe , ” Lord Dubs said .
“ We must keep public opinion on board on this issue .
We must explain to the public what we are doing and why we are doing it , and how it relates to European humanitarian values.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Member of Parliament from Sweden who serves as Acting Chair of the OSCE PA Ad Hoc Committee on Migration , noted that there have been some encouraging developments in recent months , with the expansion of the voluntary relocation scheme from Greece initiated by the European Commission last spring .
She pointed however to a number of important challenges that remain and underlined that civil society organizations should be viewed as partners in efforts to address the needs of vulnerable refugees .
“ A significant number of children and other vulnerable refugees are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ arrangements which do not meet their special protection needs , ” Cederfelt said .
“ Regrettably , a decision was also made to close two other facilities on Lesbos which offered alternatives for vulnerable migrants .
Given the heightened health risks due to the COVID-19 pandemic as well as the lack of adequate facilities , the need for relocation of children and other vulnerable refugees from Greece and in particular the Aegean islands remains critical.
” She also highlighted the need to combat disinformation which contributes to spreading mistrust towards migrant communities .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ PA Ad Hoc Committee on Migration and Member of Parliament from Cyprus , noted that unaccompanied children are more vulnerable to abuse and emphasized the need to clarify their status to address their needs in a co-ordinated , responsible and dignified manner .
Underlining the significant migratory challenges which his country was experiencing , he called for an increase in relocations and stressed that it was not sufficient to rely on voluntary mechanisms for burden-sharing .
He also highlighted the crucial importance of reaching a consensus on the New Pact and burden-sharing among @ @ @ @ @ @ @ web conference discussed challenges related to unaccompanied minors and progress that has been made in relocations , including the difficulties of selecting vulnerable refugees and accommodating them locally .
There is a need for sustainable solutions and focus on reunification with family members , it was stressed , as well as promoting international co-operation to address the problem of the trafficking of children .
Furthermore , governments must address the ongoing problem of minors leaving reception centers and essentially going missing in Europe , it was underlined , with emphasis on improving the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they don ’ t disappear .
There was also discussion on the importance of the United Kingdom to continue working with the European Union after Brexit in order to continue relocating children .
Participants noted that the issue of vulnerable child refugees must be approached at the European level and ad hoc relocations need to be replaced by a more coherent approach as part of a functioning European asylum system .
The meeting was co-chaired by Alexander Dundee , Chair of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe Sub-Committee on Refugee and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ included participation by Chris Philp , Minister for Immigration Compliance and the Courts , Home Office in the UK ; Emanuela Del Re , Vice-Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation of Italy ; Stephan Mayer , Parliamentary State Secretary in the Ministry of the Interior of Germany ; Eirini Agapidaki , Greek Special Secretary for the Protection of Unaccompanied Minors ; Monika Ekström , Policy Officer at the EU Commission ; David Simmonds , Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Migration of the UK Parliament ; Rossella Pagliuchi-Lor , UNHCR Representative @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Chair of the European Affairs Committee of the Parliament of Croatia ; Pierre-Alain Fridez , Chair of the PACE Committee on Migration , Refugees and Displaced Persons , and former UK Labour Party Leader Jeremy Corbyn .

COPENHAGEN, 4 December 2020 – Several members of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly joined a web conference hosted by the British House of Lords, focused on taking stock of past action and addressing new challenges related to relocating vulnerable refugees. Entitled “Voluntary relocation of child refugees and other vulnerable refugees: achievements and future challenges,” today’s meeting explored topics including the new arrivals of refugees by boat in Mediterranean countries and the United Kingdom, impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the challenges posed by coming winter conditions.
Lord Alf Dubs, Member of the OSCE PA Ad Hoc Committee on Migration, co-chaired the meeting and spoke about the need for European solidarity, praising in particular the relocation schemes for child refugees in the European Union. “I would like the United Kingdom to co-operate fully on the issue of refugees with wider Europe,” Lord Dubs said. “We must keep public opinion on board on this issue. We must explain to the public what we are doing and why we are doing it, and how it relates to European humanitarian values.”
OSCE PA Vice-President Margareta Cederfelt, a Member of Parliament from Sweden who serves as Acting Chair of the OSCE PA Ad Hoc Committee on Migration, noted that there have been some encouraging developments in recent months, with the expansion of the voluntary relocation scheme from Greece initiated by the European Commission last spring. She pointed however to a number of important challenges that remain and underlined that civil society organizations should be viewed as partners in efforts to address the needs of vulnerable refugees.
“A significant number of children and other vulnerable refugees are still living in tents and other temporary arrangements which do not meet their special protection needs,” Cederfelt said. “Regrettably, a decision was also made to close two other facilities on Lesbos which offered alternatives for vulnerable migrants. Given the heightened health risks due to the COVID-19 pandemic as well as the lack of adequate facilities, the need for relocation of children and other vulnerable refugees from Greece and in particular the Aegean islands remains critical.” She also highlighted the need to combat disinformation which contributes to spreading mistrust towards migrant communities.
Kyriakos Hadjiyianni, Member of the OSCE PA Ad Hoc Committee on Migration and Member of Parliament from Cyprus, noted that unaccompanied children are more vulnerable to abuse and emphasized the need to clarify their status to address their needs in a co-ordinated, responsible and dignified manner. Underlining the significant migratory challenges which his country was experiencing, he called for an increase in relocations and stressed that it was not sufficient to rely on voluntary mechanisms for burden-sharing. He also highlighted the crucial importance of reaching a consensus on the New Pact and burden-sharing among EU Member States.
Speakers during the web conference discussed challenges related to unaccompanied minors and progress that has been made in relocations, including the difficulties of selecting vulnerable refugees and accommodating them locally. There is a need for sustainable solutions and focus on reunification with family members, it was stressed, as well as promoting international co-operation to address the problem of the trafficking of children. Furthermore, governments must address the ongoing problem of minors leaving reception centers and essentially going missing in Europe, it was underlined, with emphasis on improving the system for accommodating children to ensure that they don’t disappear.
There was also discussion on the importance of the United Kingdom to continue working with the European Union after Brexit in order to continue relocating children. Participants noted that the issue of vulnerable child refugees must be approached at the European level and ad hoc relocations need to be replaced by a more coherent approach as part of a functioning European asylum system.
The meeting was co-chaired by Alexander Dundee, Chair of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe Sub-Committee on Refugee and Migrant Children and Young People.
It included participation by Chris Philp, Minister for Immigration Compliance and the Courts, Home Office in the UK; Emanuela Del Re, Vice-Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation of Italy; Stephan Mayer, Parliamentary State Secretary in the Ministry of the Interior of Germany; Eirini Agapidaki, Greek Special Secretary for the Protection of Unaccompanied Minors; Monika Ekström, Policy Officer at the EU Commission; David Simmonds, Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Migration of the UK Parliament; Rossella Pagliuchi-Lor, UNHCR Representative in the UK; Domagoj Hajduković, Chair of the European Affairs Committee of the Parliament of Croatia; Pierre-Alain Fridez, Chair of the PACE Committee on Migration, Refugees and Displaced Persons, and former UK Labour Party Leader Jeremy Corbyn.


osce--2020-12-04--PA President and SG welcome appointments of top four posts at the OSCE, urge renewed commitment to m

PA President and SG welcome appointments of top four posts at the OSCE, urge renewed commitment to multilateralism

COPENHAGEN , 4 December 2020 – Welcoming the OSCE ’ s new Secretary General , Director of the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights , High Commissioner on National Minorities , and Representative on Freedom of the Media , the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly President and Secretary General today expressed hope that the filling of these positions marks the beginning of an era of renewed commitment to co-operation and dialogue .
“ On behalf of the Bureau of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly , I welcome today ’ s positive news about the appointments to the top four posts in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ George Tsereteli ( Georgia ) .
“ The Assembly ’ s leaders are eager to work closely together with our counterparts in all OSCE institutions to advance the goals of building comprehensive security in all dimensions – the political-military , economic and environmental , and human rights .
I am confident that the close and fruitful co-operation developed over recent years will be continued and further deepened , and that today ’ s decision on these leadership positions represents a renewed commitment to values of multilateralism and international co-operation at the heart of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ PA Secretary General Roberto Montella said : “ I congratulate the Albanian Chairmanship for steering this process and reaching consensus .
I look forward to working with Helga Schmid as the new Secretary General , Kairat Abdrakhmanov as High Commissioner on National Minorities , Maria Teresa Ribeiro as Representative on Freedom of the Media , and Matteo Mecacci as ODIHR Director .
In particular in election observation , but also in many other fields , the OSCE PA has a special relationship with the ODIHR , which we expect to develop further under @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the OSCE PA ’ s human rights committee , Matteo Mecacci .
All OSCE institutions must work together in the interests of delivering real results to the citizens of the OSCE area.
” Earlier this week , the PA issued a Call for Action to generate political impetus and raise public awareness to counter the decline of multilateralism affecting the OSCE .
The “ OSCE Call for Action : Reaffirming a Common Purpose ” initiative has been endorsed by 51 former OSCE Chairpersons-in-Office , Presidents of the OSCE PA , Secretaries General and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

COPENHAGEN, 4 December 2020 – Welcoming the OSCE’s new Secretary General, Director of the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights, High Commissioner on National Minorities, and Representative on Freedom of the Media, the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly President and Secretary General today expressed hope that the filling of these positions marks the beginning of an era of renewed commitment to co-operation and dialogue.
“On behalf of the Bureau of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly, I welcome today’s positive news about the appointments to the top four posts in the OSCE,” said OSCE PA President George Tsereteli (Georgia). “The Assembly’s leaders are eager to work closely together with our counterparts in all OSCE institutions to advance the goals of building comprehensive security in all dimensions – the political-military, economic and environmental, and human rights. I am confident that the close and fruitful co-operation developed over recent years will be continued and further deepened, and that today’s decision on these leadership positions represents a renewed commitment to values of multilateralism and international co-operation at the heart of the OSCE’s mission.”
OSCE PA Secretary General Roberto Montella said: “I congratulate the Albanian Chairmanship for steering this process and reaching consensus. I look forward to working with Helga Schmid as the new Secretary General, Kairat Abdrakhmanov as High Commissioner on National Minorities, Maria Teresa Ribeiro as Representative on Freedom of the Media, and Matteo Mecacci as ODIHR Director. In particular in election observation, but also in many other fields, the OSCE PA has a special relationship with the ODIHR, which we expect to develop further under the leadership of the former Chair of the OSCE PA’s human rights committee, Matteo Mecacci. All OSCE institutions must work together in the interests of delivering real results to the citizens of the OSCE area.”
Earlier this week, the PA issued a Call for Action to generate political impetus and raise public awareness to counter the decline of multilateralism affecting the OSCE. The “OSCE Call for Action: Reaffirming a Common Purpose” initiative has been endorsed by 51 former OSCE Chairpersons-in-Office, Presidents of the OSCE PA, Secretaries General and other Heads of Institutions of the OSCE.


osce--2020-12-04--OSCE promotes efficient land management in Turkmenistan

The application of Geographic Information Systems ( GIS ) to improve efficient land management was discussed at an OSCE-supported online training course held from 2 to 4 December 2020 .
The OSCE Centre in Ashgabat organized the three-day event in co-operation with the Scientific-Information Centre of the Inter-state Sustainable Development Commission of the International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea ( SIC ISDC IFAS ) .
“ This seminar , which was organized as a joint initiative , is expected to have great practical significance , because the fundamental concepts of remote sensing and GIS-related applications were presented and important @ @ @ @ @ @ @ addressing land degradation issues were also facilitated , ” said Natalya Drozd , Head of the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat .
During the first training session , international experts from Israel covered land degradation processes and how to apply GIS technology to land management analysis .
The second training session addressed indicators and existing monitoring frameworks available with GIS-data integration as well as the existing systems of indicators and monitoring frameworks for analysing land degradation .
On the third day , international experts focused on the evaluation analysis of satellite data in line @ @ @ @ @ @ @ productivity , carbon stock above and below ground , and the proportion of degraded land .
Representatives of Turkmenistan ’ s Ministry of Agriculture and Environmental Protection , the State Committee for Water Management , the Academy of Sciences and the National Institute of Deserts , Flora and Fauna , as well as specialists from SIC ISDC IFAS participated .

The application of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to improve efficient land management was discussed at an OSCE-supported online training course held from 2 to 4 December 2020.
The OSCE Centre in Ashgabat organized the three-day event in co-operation with the Scientific-Information Centre of the Inter-state Sustainable Development Commission of the International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea (SIC ISDC IFAS).
“This seminar, which was organized as a joint initiative, is expected to have great practical significance, because the fundamental concepts of remote sensing and GIS-related applications were presented and important discussions on improving evaluation methods necessary to addressing land degradation issues were also facilitated,” said Natalya Drozd, Head of the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat.
During the first training session, international experts from Israel covered land degradation processes and how to apply GIS technology to land management analysis.
The second training session addressed indicators and existing monitoring frameworks available with GIS-data integration as well as the existing systems of indicators and monitoring frameworks for analysing land degradation.
On the third day, international experts focused on the evaluation analysis of satellite data in line with trends in land cover, land productivity, carbon stock above and below ground, and the proportion of degraded land.
Representatives of Turkmenistan’s Ministry of Agriculture and Environmental Protection, the State Committee for Water Management, the Academy of Sciences and the National Institute of Deserts, Flora and Fauna, as well as specialists from SIC ISDC IFAS participated.


osce--2020-12-04--OSCE helps implement passenger data exchange system in Kyrgyzstan

The OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek successfully completed a one-day roundtable discussion focusing on progress in the framework of efforts in implementing a system for passenger data exchange , the Advance Passenger Information- Passenger Name Record ( API/PNR ) on 3 December 2020 .
The event was organized in co-operation with the State Committee for National Security ( SCNS ) of the Kyrgyz Republic .
Thirty-six representatives of law enforcement agencies , border control and airport authorities , as well as airlines operating international flights to the Kyrgyz Republic participated in the discussion .
The value of passenger data exchange @ @ @ @ @ @ @ repeatedly emphasized by the international community .
Participants acknowledged that during the COVID-19 pandemic , border- and law enforcement officers should explore how passenger data can contribute to public health , while also considering data protection and safeguarding human rights .
Participants discussed the implementation of the API/PNR system , and noted increased national expertise and significant progress achieved in a short period .
The work of the Passenger Information Unit ( PIU ) was also presented to participants .
Part of the Anti-Terrorism Center under the SCNS , this unit was set @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Programme Office in Bishkek .
The PIU will serve as a single window for all parties involved in the passenger data exchange process .
The roundtable discussion provided a platform for state agencies and airlines to share information about the current situation in the industry and their vision in organizing further process of co-operation in data exchange .
The project is implemented in line with United Nations Security Council Resolutions 2178 , 2396 and 2482 , which require collecting and using API and PNR data for the prevention , detection , investigation , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crimes .
The project is part of the OSCE ’ s efforts to promote compliance with the aforementioned UNSC Resolutions , as well as in support of the Ministerial Council Decision 6/16 on Enhancing the Use of API , adopted by OSCE participating States in December 2016 .

The OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek successfully completed a one-day roundtable discussion focusing on progress in the framework of efforts in implementing a system for passenger data exchange, the Advance Passenger Information- Passenger Name Record (API/PNR) on 3 December 2020. The event was organized in co-operation with the State Committee for National Security (SCNS) of the Kyrgyz Republic.
Thirty-six representatives of law enforcement agencies, border control and airport authorities, as well as airlines operating international flights to the Kyrgyz Republic participated in the discussion.
The value of passenger data exchange systems, in particular API/PNR, was repeatedly emphasized by the international community. Participants acknowledged that during the COVID-19 pandemic, border- and law enforcement officers should explore how passenger data can contribute to public health, while also considering data protection and safeguarding human rights.
Participants discussed the implementation of the API/PNR system, and noted increased national expertise and significant progress achieved in a short period. The work of the Passenger Information Unit (PIU) was also presented to participants. Part of the Anti-Terrorism Center under the SCNS, this unit was set up with the assistance of the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek. The PIU will serve as a single window for all parties involved in the passenger data exchange process.
The roundtable discussion provided a platform for state agencies and airlines to share information about the current situation in the industry and their vision in organizing further process of co-operation in data exchange. The project is implemented in line with United Nations Security Council Resolutions 2178, 2396 and 2482, which require collecting and using API and PNR data for the prevention, detection, investigation, and prosecution of terrorist offences and serious crimes.
The project is part of the OSCE’s efforts to promote compliance with the aforementioned UNSC Resolutions, as well as in support of the Ministerial Council Decision 6/16 on Enhancing the Use of API, adopted by OSCE participating States in December 2016.


osce--2020-12-04--OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan organizes international conference on combating corruption

The OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan , jointly with the Anti-Corruption Agency of the Republic of Uzbekistan and international partners , organized an international conference on prevention of corruption in the activities of state bodies on 3 December in Tashkent , which was conducted in a blended format .
More than 80 representatives from national government authorities , civil society and mass media , as well as international speakers , including heads and senior officers from anti-corruption agencies of Kazakhstan , Malaysia and Ukraine , international organization and others attended the conference both online and in-person .
The conference covered @ @ @ @ @ @ @ corruption , implementing integrity policies and practices in government institutions , and practical tools .
The conference was opened by Tanzila Narbaeva , Chairperson of Senate of the Republic of Uzbekistan and Akmal Burkhanov , Head of the Anti-corruption Agency , who briefed participants about on-going anti-corruption reforms in the country and the role of the newly established anti-corruption agency .
John MacGregor , Head of the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan , stressed the importance of risk assessment of public authorities and maintaining public control to ensure efficiency of anti-corruption measures in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ within the framework of the OSCE Good Governance programme .
It is a longstanding commitment of the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan to assist the country in combating corruption .

The OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan, jointly with the Anti-Corruption Agency of the Republic of Uzbekistan and international partners, organized an international conference on prevention of corruption in the activities of state bodies on 3 December in Tashkent, which was conducted in a blended format.
More than 80 representatives from national government authorities, civil society and mass media, as well as international speakers, including heads and senior officers from anti-corruption agencies of Kazakhstan, Malaysia and Ukraine, international organization and others attended the conference both online and in-person. The conference covered such topics as inter-agency co-operation to fight corruption, implementing integrity policies and practices in government institutions, and practical tools.
The conference was opened by Tanzila Narbaeva, Chairperson of Senate of the Republic of Uzbekistan and Akmal Burkhanov, Head of the Anti-corruption Agency, who briefed participants about on-going anti-corruption reforms in the country and the role of the newly established anti-corruption agency.
John MacGregor, Head of the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan, stressed the importance of risk assessment of public authorities and maintaining public control to ensure efficiency of anti-corruption measures in the country.
The conference was organized within the framework of the OSCE Good Governance programme. It is a longstanding commitment of the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan to assist the country in combating corruption.


osce--2020-12-04--OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan continues its series of activities in support of the rights

OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan continues its series of activities in support of the rights of persons with disabilities

The OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan co-organized two events on 2 and 3 December 2020 in blended formats in the field of the rights of persons with disabilities .
The discussion on the first day focused on the ratification by the Republic of Uzbekistan of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities .
Representatives from both chambers of Parliament and international experts from Estonia , Latvia and Kazakhstan attended the event .
On the second day , a roundtable discussion was held dedicated to the International Day of Persons with Disabilities on the theme “ Building @ @ @ @ @ @ @ accessible and sustainable post COVID-19 in Uzbekistan ” .
The event on 3 December was co-organized with the Association of People with Disability of Uzbekistan , the non-governmental organization Sharoit Plus , the UZReport TV company , the Zamin International Foundation , the United Nations in Uzbekistan , and the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights ' Regional Office for Central Asia .
John MacGregor , Head of the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan , recalled the OSCE commitments in the sphere of the rights of persons with disabilities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , in which participating States made a decision to ensure protection of the human rights of persons with disabilities and to take steps to ensure the equal opportunity of such persons to participate fully in the life of their society , among other things .
“ Today , it is not the first event , where we discuss the possible ratification by the Republic of Uzbekistan of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of People with Disabilities .
We should acknowledge certain progress of the host Government in this regard , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The organization of this event is a clear evidence of the firm approach of Uzbekistan to safeguard the human rights of people with disabilities , ” MacGregor said .
The activities are part of the OSCE project “ Support to the Promotion and Protection of the rights of persons with disabilities of Uzbekistan ” .

The OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan co-organized two events on 2 and 3 December 2020 in blended formats in the field of the rights of persons with disabilities. The discussion on the first day focused on the ratification by the Republic of Uzbekistan of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Representatives from both chambers of Parliament and international experts from Estonia, Latvia and Kazakhstan attended the event.
On the second day, a roundtable discussion was held dedicated to the International Day of Persons with Disabilities on the theme “Building Back Better: Toward a disability-inclusive, accessible and sustainable post COVID-19 in Uzbekistan”.
The event on 3 December was co-organized with the Association of People with Disability of Uzbekistan, the non-governmental organization Sharoit Plus, the UZReport TV company, the Zamin International Foundation, the United Nations in Uzbekistan, and the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights' Regional Office for Central Asia.
John MacGregor, Head of the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan, recalled the OSCE commitments in the sphere of the rights of persons with disabilities and referred to the 1991 Moscow Document, in which participating States made a decision to ensure protection of the human rights of persons with disabilities and to take steps to ensure the equal opportunity of such persons to participate fully in the life of their society, among other things.
“Today, it is not the first event, where we discuss the possible ratification by the Republic of Uzbekistan of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of People with Disabilities. We should acknowledge certain progress of the host Government in this regard, but still there is a way ahead. The organization of this event is a clear evidence of the firm approach of Uzbekistan to safeguard the human rights of people with disabilities,” MacGregor said.
The activities are part of the OSCE project “Support to the Promotion and Protection of the rights of persons with disabilities of Uzbekistan”.


osce--2020-12-03--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 288/2020 issued on 3 December 2020


osce--2020-12-03--We must support trafficking victims in times of crisis, especially women and children, urge particip

We must support trafficking victims in times of crisis, especially women and children, urge participants at OSCE Ministerial Council event

TIRANA/VIENNA , 3 December 2020 – Challenges faced by victims of trafficking and anti-trafficking actors supporting groups vulnerable to trafficking during the pandemic were discussed today on the margins of the online OSCE 2020 Ministerial Council .
Combating trafficking in human beings was a priority for the Albania ’ s 2020 Chairmanship .
The Chairmanship remains committed to strengthening the fight against trafficking in human beings ; a challenge felt throughout the OSCE region .
Some 160 representatives of the OSCE participating States , experts , civil society , academics and the media gathered to address emerging challenges in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ organized by the Office of the Special Representative and Co-ordinator for Combating Trafficking in Human Beings ( OSR/CTHB ) and the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights ( ODIHR ) .
Participants discussed potential measures and policies participating States can implement to ensure detection and identification of , as well as support and assistance to , women and children victims of trafficking .
Participants also discussed ways to decrease vulnerability to THB , especially in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic .
“ The year 2020 has been challenging for vulnerable persons @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” said Valiant Richey , OSCE Special Representative and Co-ordinator for Combating Trafficking in Human Beings .
“ The COVID-19 pandemic not only heightened existing risks , it also created new challenges for victims and survivors of trafficking , exacerbating the gender and age-specific vulnerabilities of groups at-risk of trafficking.
” Richey said the pandemic exposed existing gaps in national anti-trafficking frameworks in supporting the most vulnerable groups , providing assistance to victims , and countering the traffickers ’ impunity .
“ Human trafficking is a grave human rights violation , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ structural gender inequalities that enable discrimination , objectification , and subsequent exploitation of women and girls in our societies .
We must unite and strengthen our efforts in combating this scourge.
” Per-Anders Sunesson , Ambassador at Large for Combating Trafficking in Persons of the Swedish Foreign Ministry , said that addressing emerging human trafficking trends and consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic is of utmost importance .
“ Sweden highly appreciates ongoing co-operation with the OSCE and OSCE participating States on combating this heinous crime and assuring support to victims , ” he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ CEO of Timeas Cause Inc. and Survivor Leader from Canada , added : `` As a survivor , it is reassuring and inspiring to see a Ministerial meeting raise awareness about human trafficking during very difficult economic times.
” The speakers noted that as the world marks the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence campaign , it is crucial to highlight the gendered nature of trafficking , which disproportionately affects women and girls .
Dalia Leinarte , Member and Former Chairperson of the United Nations Committee on the Convention on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Women ( CEDAW ) noted that “ during the COVID pandemic , traffickers moved online like all of our lives moved online ” .
Leinarte led the drafting of the Committee ’ s latest recommendations , calling on social media platforms to use big data and artificial intelligence to help eliminate trafficking in women and girls , amid an increase in online traps designed to recruit potential victims during the COVID-19 pandemic .
Tatiana Kotlyarenko , ODIHR Adviser on Anti-Trafficking issues , said that the COVID-19 pandemic has fuelled previously existing trends in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Already before the COVID-19 pandemic , women and girls constituted the majority of detected victims of trafficking .
This trend will likely continue during and in the aftermath of the pandemic , especially affecting marginalized communities .
The increase of domestic violence is also very worrying , as it is a recognized , well-documented push factor into trafficking for sexual exploitation.
” In April 2020 , at the onset of the pandemic , the OSR/CTHB offered preliminary recommendations to OSCE participating States on short-term responses to the COVID-19 pandemic and in July 2020 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a report and recommendations on Addressing Emerging Human Trafficking Trends and Consequences of the COVID-19 Pandemic .

TIRANA/VIENNA, 3 December 2020 – Challenges faced by victims of trafficking and anti-trafficking actors supporting groups vulnerable to trafficking during the pandemic were discussed today on the margins of the online OSCE 2020 Ministerial Council.
Combating trafficking in human beings was a priority for the Albania’s 2020 Chairmanship. The Chairmanship remains committed to strengthening the fight against trafficking in human beings; a challenge felt throughout the OSCE region.
Some 160 representatives of the OSCE participating States, experts, civil society, academics and the media gathered to address emerging challenges in the field of human trafficking at the event organized by the Office of the Special Representative and Co-ordinator for Combating Trafficking in Human Beings (OSR/CTHB) and the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR).
Participants discussed potential measures and policies participating States can implement to ensure detection and identification of, as well as support and assistance to, women and children victims of trafficking. Participants also discussed ways to decrease vulnerability to THB, especially in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The year 2020 has been challenging for vulnerable persons, and particularly for victims of trafficking,” said Valiant Richey, OSCE Special Representative and Co-ordinator for Combating Trafficking in Human Beings. “The COVID-19 pandemic not only heightened existing risks, it also created new challenges for victims and survivors of trafficking, exacerbating the gender and age-specific vulnerabilities of groups at-risk of trafficking.”
Richey said the pandemic exposed existing gaps in national anti-trafficking frameworks in supporting the most vulnerable groups, providing assistance to victims, and countering the traffickers’ impunity. “Human trafficking is a grave human rights violation, and a form of gender-based violence grounded in structural gender inequalities that enable discrimination, objectification, and subsequent exploitation of women and girls in our societies. We must unite and strengthen our efforts in combating this scourge.”
Per-Anders Sunesson, Ambassador at Large for Combating Trafficking in Persons of the Swedish Foreign Ministry, said that addressing emerging human trafficking trends and consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic is of utmost importance. “Sweden highly appreciates ongoing co-operation with the OSCE and OSCE participating States on combating this heinous crime and assuring support to victims,” he said.
Timea Nagy, Founder and CEO of Timeas Cause Inc. and Survivor Leader from Canada, added: "As a survivor, it is reassuring and inspiring to see a Ministerial meeting raise awareness about human trafficking during very difficult economic times.”
The speakers noted that as the world marks the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence campaign, it is crucial to highlight the gendered nature of trafficking, which disproportionately affects women and girls.
Dalia Leinarte, Member and Former Chairperson of the United Nations Committee on the Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) noted that “during the COVID pandemic, traffickers moved online like all of our lives moved online”. Leinarte led the drafting of the Committee’s latest recommendations, calling on social media platforms to use big data and artificial intelligence to help eliminate trafficking in women and girls, amid an increase in online traps designed to recruit potential victims during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Tatiana Kotlyarenko, ODIHR Adviser on Anti-Trafficking issues, said that the COVID-19 pandemic has fuelled previously existing trends in the trafficking of human beings. “Already before the COVID-19 pandemic, women and girls constituted the majority of detected victims of trafficking. This trend will likely continue during and in the aftermath of the pandemic, especially affecting marginalized communities. The increase of domestic violence is also very worrying, as it is a recognized, well-documented push factor into trafficking for sexual exploitation.”
In April 2020, at the onset of the pandemic, the OSR/CTHB offered preliminary recommendations to OSCE participating States on short-term responses to the COVID-19 pandemic and in July 2020, ODIHR and UN Women jointly released a report and recommendations on Addressing Emerging Human Trafficking Trends and Consequences of the COVID-19 Pandemic.