osce--2020-09-28--OSCE Presence trains academic staff of first-ever Master’s Programme in Criminology in Albania

The OSCE Presence in Albania , together with the Faculties of Law and of Social Sciences of the University of Tirana , organized a training course from 22 to 25 September 2020 , for academic staff of the new Master ’ s Programme in Criminology .
The Master ’ s programme , which will start this academic year , is the first of its kind in Albania .
The OSCE Presence in Albania initiated the programme as part of a project financially supported by the United States Mission to OSCE .
Some 35 academics from both the Faculty of Law @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the training conducted by two international experts in criminology , Professor Kimberly McCabe and Professor Keith Smith , from the University of Lynchburg , Virginia , USA .
The training built upon the needs assessment analysis from a workshop held in May 2020 with the same target group .
The aim of the event was to deepen the knowledge of the academic staff of the Master ’ s programme , and to provide them with a more detailed overview of special courses related to criminology .
The four-day training course covered topics such @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in criminology ; teaching adult students and practitioners ; teaching research methods ; utilizing student research in the field , promoting leadership and staff development ; victimology , ethics and corruption ; legal systems and juveniles ; violent extremism and radicalization that lead to terrorism ( VERLT ) ; and organized crime and trafficking .
Throughout the entire project , the Presence aims at establishing a multi-disciplinary Master ’ s Programme on Criminology in Albania , offering a comprehensive , integrated curriculum , which is beneficial for various career paths in the justice @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Master ’ s programme , the Presence aims at improving the research capacities of professionals , academics and policy-makers in Albania to identify root causes of crime .
The Master ’ s programme will allow students to explore the inter-relationships between crime , justice and society in a comparative context , as well as promote restorative justice for victims and victim-centred responses .
It will concentrate on the practice of human rights , especially in the contexts of discrimination , migration , VERLT , right to privacy , and hate crimes .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Faculty of Law of the University of Tirana , with the support of the Faculty of Social Sciences , the Ministry of Justice and the Ministry of Interior .

The OSCE Presence in Albania, together with the Faculties of Law and of Social Sciences of the University of Tirana, organized a training course from 22 to 25 September 2020, for academic staff of the new Master’s Programme in Criminology. The Master’s programme, which will start this academic year, is the first of its kind in Albania. The OSCE Presence in Albania initiated the programme as part of a project financially supported by the United States Mission to OSCE.
Some 35 academics from both the Faculty of Law and Faculty of Social Sciences participated in the training conducted by two international experts in criminology, Professor Kimberly McCabe and Professor Keith Smith, from the University of Lynchburg, Virginia, USA. The training built upon the needs assessment analysis from a workshop held in May 2020 with the same target group.
The aim of the event was to deepen the knowledge of the academic staff of the Master’s programme, and to provide them with a more detailed overview of special courses related to criminology. The four-day training course covered topics such as improving criminal justice efforts through education in criminology; teaching adult students and practitioners; teaching research methods; utilizing student research in the field, promoting leadership and staff development; victimology, ethics and corruption; legal systems and juveniles; violent extremism and radicalization that lead to terrorism (VERLT); and organized crime and trafficking.
Throughout the entire project, the Presence aims at establishing a multi-disciplinary Master’s Programme on Criminology in Albania, offering a comprehensive, integrated curriculum, which is beneficial for various career paths in the justice system. In turn, through the Master’s programme, the Presence aims at improving the research capacities of professionals, academics and policy-makers in Albania to identify root causes of crime.
The Master’s programme will allow students to explore the inter-relationships between crime, justice and society in a comparative context, as well as promote restorative justice for victims and victim-centred responses. It will concentrate on the practice of human rights, especially in the contexts of discrimination, migration, VERLT, right to privacy, and hate crimes.
The project is implemented in close co-operation with the Faculty of Law of the University of Tirana, with the support of the Faculty of Social Sciences, the Ministry of Justice and the Ministry of Interior.


osce--2020-09-28--OSCE PA President and Secretary General condemn clashes in Nagorno-Karabakh conflict zone, urge rest

OSCE PA President and Secretary General condemn clashes in Nagorno-Karabakh conflict zone, urge restraint

COPENHAGEN , 27 September 2020 – Following reports of armed clashes along the Line of Contact in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict zone , OSCE Parliamentary President George Tsereteli condemned today ’ s military actions and urged restraint from Armenia and Azerbaijan to prevent further hostilities and the loss of life .
“ I call on both sides to cease hostilities in the interests of civilians who live in the area and recommit to negotiations under the auspices of the Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group in pursuit of long-term resolution of the conflict , ” Tsereteli said .
“ I am @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , particularly by reports of civilian deaths and the threat that it poses to regional security .
As stated today by the Co-Chairs , the sides must take all necessary measures to stabilize the situation on the ground .
There is no alternative to a political solution.
” OSCE PA Secretary General Roberto Montella added that the Parliamentary Assembly will continue to offer a forum for dialogue between Azerbaijani and Armenian parliamentarians .
“ The OSCE PA is ready to host parliamentary talks between the parties if requested by both sides , ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Group is the OSCE platform where this dispute ultimately needs to be settled , the Assembly can complement these efforts by helping to build confidence between the sides .
”

COPENHAGEN, 27 September 2020 – Following reports of armed clashes along the Line of Contact in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict zone, OSCE Parliamentary President George Tsereteli condemned today’s military actions and urged restraint from Armenia and Azerbaijan to prevent further hostilities and the loss of life.
“I call on both sides to cease hostilities in the interests of civilians who live in the area and recommit to negotiations under the auspices of the Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group in pursuit of long-term resolution of the conflict,” Tsereteli said. “I am deeply concerned by this most recent escalation, particularly by reports of civilian deaths and the threat that it poses to regional security. As stated today by the Co-Chairs, the sides must take all necessary measures to stabilize the situation on the ground. There is no alternative to a political solution.”
OSCE PA Secretary General Roberto Montella added that the Parliamentary Assembly will continue to offer a forum for dialogue between Azerbaijani and Armenian parliamentarians. “The OSCE PA is ready to host parliamentary talks between the parties if requested by both sides,” Montella said. “While the Minsk Group is the OSCE platform where this dispute ultimately needs to be settled, the Assembly can complement these efforts by helping to build confidence between the sides.”


osce--2020-09-28--Election observers to the US general election to hold press conference on Tuesday

WASHINGTON DC , 28 September 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 US general elections on Tuesday , September 29th .
NB Due to social distancing requirements , only 40 journalists will be able to attend the press conference in person , while all others will have the opportunity to watch and ask questions via Zoom .
Broadcast media wishing to film the press conference will be prioritized for personal attendance .
• An introduction to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and its planned activities • The press conference can be attended in person or via Zoom ( details below ) • No registration is necessary if you are attending the press conference in person , but only questions from journalists will be taken • To take part via Zoom , please register with : Katya Andrusz , ODIHR spokesperson , katya.andrusz @ odihr.pl and Ivan Godarsky , media analyst : ivan.godarsky @ odihr.us or +1 ( 310 ) 303-4496 For further information on ODIHR ’ s election observation activities in the United States @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : //www.osce.org/odihr/elections/USA

WASHINGTON DC, 28 September 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 US general elections on Tuesday, September 29th.
NB Due to social distancing requirements, only 40 journalists will be able to attend the press conference in person, while all others will have the opportunity to watch and ask questions via Zoom. Broadcast media wishing to film the press conference will be prioritized for personal attendance.
What:
An introduction to the role of the ODIHR election observation mission and its planned activities
The press conference can be attended in person or via Zoom (details below)
Who:
Ambassador Urszula Gacek, Head of the ODIHR Limited Election Observation Mission
When:
2pm Eastern Standard Time on September 29, 2020
Where:
Grand Ballroom, Marriott Metro Center, 775 12th St NW, Washington, DC
Registration:
No registration is necessary if you are attending the press conference in person, but only questions from journalists will be taken
To take part via Zoom, please register with: Katya Andrusz, ODIHR spokesperson, katya.andrusz@odihr.pl and Ivan Godarsky, media analyst: ivan.godarsky@odihr.us or +1 (310) 303-4496
For further information on ODIHR’s election observation activities in the United States of America, please visit: https://www.osce.org/odihr/elections/USA


osce--2020-09-27--OSCE Chairperson-in-Office calls for return to ceasefire around Nagorno-Karabakh and resumption of s

OSCE Chairperson-in-Office calls for return to ceasefire around Nagorno-Karabakh and resumption of substantive negotiations

VIENNA/TIRANA , 27 September 2020 – Noting the dramatic increase in violence along the line of contact today and reports @ @ @ @ @ Chairperson-in-Office , Albania ’ s Prime Minister and Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs , @ @ @ @ @ urgent de-escalation of the situation .
“ I urge all involved to immediately return to @ @ @ @ @ toll of this conflict increases any further , ” Rama said .
Rama noted that @ @ @ @ @ Minsk Group and the Personal Representative of the Chairperson-in-Office , Ambassador Andrzej Kasprzyk , have @ @ @ @ @ the sides .
Rama fully supports their efforts to stabilize the situation on the ground @ @ @ @ @ no alternative to a peaceful negotiated solution of the conflict .
He underscored his support @ @ @ @ @ to resume substantive negotiations without preconditions , as soon as possible .
The Chairperson-in-Office also @ @ @ @ @ families of those who lost their lives in this latest round of violence .

VIENNA/TIRANA, 27 September 2020 – Noting the dramatic increase in violence along the line of contact today and reports of civilian casualties, OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, Albania’s Prime Minister and Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Edi Rama, called for urgent de-escalation of the situation. “I urge all involved to immediately return to the ceasefire before the human toll of this conflict increases any further,” Rama said.
Rama noted that the Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group and the Personal Representative of the Chairperson-in-Office, Ambassador Andrzej Kasprzyk, have been in close contact with the sides. Rama fully supports their efforts to stabilize the situation on the ground and reiterated that there is no alternative to a peaceful negotiated solution of the conflict. He underscored his support for the Co-Chairs’ efforts to resume substantive negotiations without preconditions, as soon as possible.
The Chairperson-in-Office also offered his condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in this latest round of violence.


osce--2020-09-27--Statement by the Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group

Moscow , Paris , Washington DC , 27 September 2020 – The Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group ( Igor @ @ @ @ @ , Stephane Visconti of France , and Andrew Schofer of the United States of America @ @ @ @ @ : The Co-Chairs view with concern reports of large scale military actions along the Line @ @ @ @ @ conflict zone .
We strongly condemn the use of force and regret the senseless loss @ @ @ @ @ .
The Co-Chairs appeal to the sides to cease hostilities immediately and to resume negotiations @ @ @ @ @ of the conflict .
The Co-Chairs call on the sides to take all necessary measures @ @ @ @ @ the ground and reiterate that there is no alternative to a peaceful negotiated solution of @ @ @

Moscow, Paris, Washington DC, 27 September 2020 – The Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group (Igor Popov of the Russian Federation, Stephane Visconti of France, and Andrew Schofer of the United States of America) made the following statement:
The Co-Chairs view with concern reports of large scale military actions along the Line of Contact in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict zone. We strongly condemn the use of force and regret the senseless loss of life, including civilians. The Co-Chairs appeal to the sides to cease hostilities immediately and to resume negotiations to find a sustainable resolution of the conflict.
The Co-Chairs call on the sides to take all necessary measures to stabilize the situation on the ground and reiterate that there is no alternative to a peaceful negotiated solution of the conflict.


osce--2020-09-26--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 230/2020 issued on 26 September 2020

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osce--2020-09-25--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 229/2020 issued on 25 September 2020


osce--2020-09-25--OSCE dialogue meeting for journalists discusses media coverage of the Transdniestrian settlement pro

OSCE dialogue meeting for journalists discusses media coverage of the Transdniestrian settlement process

An online dialogue meeting focusing on reporting on the Transdniestrian settlement process , co-organized by the OSCE Mission in Moldova and the local NGO Independent Journalism Centre ( IJC ) , was held on 24 September 2020 .
The event aimed at encouraging co-operation between journalists from both banks of the Dniester/Nistru River , and contributing to media pluralism and advancing quality journalism .
During the event , the IJC presented results of their media monitoring , commissioned by the OSCE Mission , which assessed how media on both banks report on the settlement process .
“ The monitoring showed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ issues are not a priority for the bulk of mass media .
The media does not analyze the process but rather releases occasional news stories with quotes from official press releases , ” concluded Nadine Gogu , IJC Director .
“ In multiple cases , media reports on sensitive issues lacked balance and were biased towards one of the Sides.
” She recommended that media outlets report on the settlement process in an accurate , inclusive and systematic manner .
Antti Karttunen , Deputy Head of Mission , noted in his opening remarks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and accurate information on the Transdniestrian settlement process for the people on both banks , journalists can contribute to the advancement of the negotiations.
” In course of the dialogue meeting , journalists from both banks learnt good practices in promoting media pluralism and collaboration from their counterparts in Cyprus .
In 2017 , with the support of the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media , the Greek Cypriot and the Turkish Cypriot journalists ’ unions signed a Memorandum of Co-operation , which laid the ground for networking , exchange of information @ @ @ @ @ @ @ This included professional exchange programmes and the creation of a glossary of commonly used , yet sensitive , phrases in the journalists ’ respective languages .
The glossary serves as a voluntary reference tool for journalists in their everyday work .
The presentations prompted a discussion about how media representatives from both banks can co-operate and build closer professional links .
Among the initiatives voiced by the participants were producing joint media content about the life of people on both banks of the Dniester/Nistru .
“ The journalists can report about things , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ common : joint business projects , cultural traditions , brave doctors fighting the pandemic , ” said Luisa Doroshenko , a journalist from the left bank .
The dialogue meeting is part of the Mission ’ s project on promoting media ethics on both banks of the Dniester/Nistru River .

An online dialogue meeting focusing on reporting on the Transdniestrian settlement process, co-organized by the OSCE Mission in Moldova and the local NGO Independent Journalism Centre (IJC), was held on 24 September 2020. The event aimed at encouraging co-operation between journalists from both banks of the Dniester/Nistru River, and contributing to media pluralism and advancing quality journalism.
During the event, the IJC presented results of their media monitoring, commissioned by the OSCE Mission, which assessed how media on both banks report on the settlement process.
“The monitoring showed that the Transdniestrian settlement process and related issues are not a priority for the bulk of mass media. The media does not analyze the process but rather releases occasional news stories with quotes from official press releases,” concluded Nadine Gogu, IJC Director. “In multiple cases, media reports on sensitive issues lacked balance and were biased towards one of the Sides.” She recommended that media outlets report on the settlement process in an accurate, inclusive and systematic manner.
Antti Karttunen, Deputy Head of Mission, noted in his opening remarks that “by providing access to factual and accurate information on the Transdniestrian settlement process for the people on both banks, journalists can contribute to the advancement of the negotiations.”
In course of the dialogue meeting, journalists from both banks learnt good practices in promoting media pluralism and collaboration from their counterparts in Cyprus.
In 2017, with the support of the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, the Greek Cypriot and the Turkish Cypriot journalists’ unions signed a Memorandum of Co-operation, which laid the ground for networking, exchange of information and joint activities between the unions. This included professional exchange programmes and the creation of a glossary of commonly used, yet sensitive, phrases in the journalists’ respective languages. The glossary serves as a voluntary reference tool for journalists in their everyday work.
The presentations prompted a discussion about how media representatives from both banks can co-operate and build closer professional links. Among the initiatives voiced by the participants were producing joint media content about the life of people on both banks of the Dniester/Nistru.
“The journalists can report about things, which people on both banks have in common: joint business projects, cultural traditions, brave doctors fighting the pandemic,” said Luisa Doroshenko, a journalist from the left bank.
The dialogue meeting is part of the Mission’s project on promoting media ethics on both banks of the Dniester/Nistru River.


osce--2020-09-25--ODIHR opens election observation mission in Georgia

TBILISI , 25 September 2020 – The OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights ( ODIHR ) today opened an election observation mission ( EOM ) for the 31 October parliamentary elections in Georgia , following an invitation from the Georgian authorities .
The mission is led by Ambassador Jillian Stirk and consists of a core team of 13 experts based in Tbilisi and 27 long-term observers , who will be deployed throughout the country from 1 October .
In addition , ODIHR plans to request OSCE participating States to send 350 short-term observers , who would arrive several @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 representatives of relevant authorities and political parties , civil society @ @ @ @ @ @ @ form an integral part of the observation .
On election day itself , the ODIHR EOM will join efforts with delegations from the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly and the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe to monitor the opening of polling stations , voting , the counting of ballots and the 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 , a statement of preliminary findings and conclusions will be issued at a press @ @ @ @ @ @ @ final report summing up the observation and making recommendations for improvements approximately two months after the end of the election process .
For further information , please visit https : //www.osce.org/odihr/elections/georgia/461776

TBILISI, 25 September 2020 – The OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) today opened an election observation mission (EOM) for the 31 October parliamentary elections in Georgia, following an invitation from the Georgian authorities.
The mission is led by Ambassador Jillian Stirk and consists of a core team of 13 experts based in Tbilisi and 27 long-term observers, who will be deployed throughout the country from 1 October. In addition, ODIHR plans to request OSCE participating States to send 350 short-term observers, who would arrive several days before election day.
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 representatives of relevant authorities and political parties, civil society, the media and the international community form an integral part of the observation.
On election day itself, the ODIHR EOM will join efforts with delegations from the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly and the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe to monitor the opening of polling stations, voting, the counting of ballots and the 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, a statement of preliminary findings and conclusions will be issued at a press conference, and ODIHR will publish a final report summing up the observation and making recommendations for improvements approximately two months after the end of the election process.
For further information, please visit https://www.osce.org/odihr/elections/georgia/461776
or contact Egor Tilpunov, Media Analyst: +995 591803941 or egor.tilpunov@odihr.ge
or
Katya Andrusz, ODIHR Spokesperson: +48 609 522 266 (Warsaw mobile), or katya.andrusz@odihr.pl.


osce--2020-09-25--OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan runs a series of online webinars on the role of media in cou

OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan runs a series of online webinars on the role of media in countering terrorism and extremism

A webinar dedicated to the role of media in countering terrorism and extremism , was conducted on 21 and 22 September 2020 .
Twenty journalists from the Republic of Karakalpakstan and the Ferghana region participated in the event .
It was organized within the framework of co-operation between the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan and the Center for Retraining Journalists of Uzbekistan .
This event was part of a series of webinars , which started in July 2020 , for journalists from Uzbekistan ’ s Andijan , Samarkand and Surkhandarya regions .
The series aims to equip regional journalists with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about the threat of terrorism , consider gender-based aspects while reporting on the topic and work in partnership with civil society groups .
Subjects covered during this webinar included leading journalistic investigations , the use of new multimedia technologies in reporting , and journalists ’ safety .
“ The OSCE makes a comprehensive contribution to international efforts to combat terrorism , promote the practice of co-operation and co-ordination-based approaches to countering terrorism at all levels , and fosters public-private partnerships , ” said Richard Wheeler , Project Officer at the OSCE Project Co-ordinator @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the unique potential to counter the spread of ideas related to VERLT among youth '' .

A webinar dedicated to the role of media in countering terrorism and violent extremism, was conducted on 21 and 22 September 2020. Twenty journalists from the Republic of Karakalpakstan and the Ferghana region participated in the event. It was organized within the framework of co-operation between the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan and the Center for Retraining Journalists of Uzbekistan.
This event was part of a series of webinars, which started in July 2020, for journalists from Uzbekistan’s Andijan, Samarkand and Surkhandarya regions. The series aims to equip regional journalists with the necessary skills to inform the public about the threat of terrorism, consider gender-based aspects while reporting on the topic and work in partnership with civil society groups. Subjects covered during this webinar included leading journalistic investigations, the use of new multimedia technologies in reporting, and journalists’ safety.
“The OSCE makes a comprehensive contribution to international efforts to combat terrorism, promote the practice of co-operation and co-ordination-based approaches to countering terrorism at all levels, and fosters public-private partnerships,” said Richard Wheeler, Project Officer at the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan. "Mass media has the unique potential to counter the spread of ideas related to VERLT among youth".


osce--2020-09-25--Joint statement of the EU in BiH, U.S. Embassy and the OSCE Mission to BiH on adoption of Revised Na

Joint statement of the EU in BiH, U.S. Embassy and the OSCE Mission to BiH on adoption of Revised National War Crimes Processing Strategy

The Delegation of the European Union to Bosnia and Herzegovina ( BiH ) and EU Special Representative in BiH , the US Embassy in BiH and the OSCE Mission to BiH welcome yesterday ’ s long-awaited adoption of the Revised National War Crimes Processing Strategy by the BiH Council of Ministers .
The adoption of the Revised Strategy is an important step in delivering justice for all victims of war crimes and reducing the impunity gap , as well as a key requirement outlined in the European Commission Opinion on BiH ’ s EU membership application .
By seeking common @ @ @ @ @ @ @ politicians have shown they can make vital steps forward to deliver on citizens ’ expectations of a more just society firmly on course for EU membership .
Twenty-five years since the end of the conflict in BiH , hundreds of war crimes cases are still pending .
The adoption of the Revised Strategy will help accelerate the processing of war crimes cases , by providing more precise criteria on the distribution of cases to the appropriate level .
We will continue to support all prosecutors ’ offices in BiH in their efforts to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the Revised Strategy , the Prosecutor ’ s Office of BiH should focus exclusively on the most complex cases , including genocide and crimes against humanity allegations , and those with command responsibility for such crimes .
All less complex cases should be transferred to entity and district level prosecutor ’ s offices to be processed as soon as possible .
We call on the Prosecutor ’ s Office of BiH to proceed with this urgently , and in light of the findings of the recently published Korner Report .
Additionally , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ BiH must , without delay , introduce an effective accountability mechanism for judges and prosecutors who fail to implement related strategic goals and measures .
We will closely monitor these processes in the coming months .
It is also crucial that all authorities in BiH ensure that the judiciary processes war crime cases independently , impartially , professionally , and transparently .
This process must be free from politicization and with full respect for final and binding judicial decisions and acknowledgement of facts that have already been established by domestic and international courts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia ( ICTY ) .
We will closely monitor the implementation of the Revised Strategy and remain available to assist the justice sector in its efforts to deliver justice to victims .

The Delegation of the European Union to Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) and EU Special Representative in BiH, the US Embassy in BiH and the OSCE Mission to BiH welcome yesterday’s long-awaited adoption of the Revised National War Crimes Processing Strategy by the BiH Council of Ministers. The adoption of the Revised Strategy is an important step in delivering justice for all victims of war crimes and reducing the impunity gap, as well as a key requirement outlined in the European Commission Opinion on BiH’s EU membership application.
By seeking common ground for the greater good, BiH politicians have shown they can make vital steps forward to deliver on citizens’ expectations of a more just society firmly on course for EU membership.
Twenty-five years since the end of the conflict in BiH, hundreds of war crimes cases are still pending. The adoption of the Revised Strategy will help accelerate the processing of war crimes cases, by providing more precise criteria on the distribution of cases to the appropriate level. We will continue to support all prosecutors’ offices in BiH in their efforts to ensure their efficient processing.
In keeping with the Revised Strategy, the Prosecutor’s Office of BiH should focus exclusively on the most complex cases, including genocide and crimes against humanity allegations, and those with command responsibility for such crimes. All less complex cases should be transferred to entity and district level prosecutor’s offices to be processed as soon as possible. We call on the Prosecutor’s Office of BiH to proceed with this urgently, and in light of the findings of the recently published Korner Report. Additionally, the High Judicial and Prosecutorial Council of BiH must, without delay, introduce an effective accountability mechanism for judges and prosecutors who fail to implement related strategic goals and measures. We will closely monitor these processes in the coming months.
It is also crucial that all authorities in BiH ensure that the judiciary processes war crime cases independently, impartially, professionally, and transparently. This process must be free from politicization and with full respect for final and binding judicial decisions and acknowledgement of facts that have already been established by domestic and international courts, in particular the verdicts of the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY).
We will closely monitor the implementation of the Revised Strategy and remain available to assist the justice sector in its efforts to deliver justice to victims.


osce--2020-09-25--OSCE Presence trains Albania’s police on drug investigation

The OSCE Presence in Albania organized a course on drug investigation for fifteen officers from the Albanian State Police Anti-Drug Units from 22 to 25 September 2020 .
The course aimed at enhancing the State Police ’ s capacity to dismantle organized crime groups specialized in drug trafficking , through increasing their knowledge of the new ways criminal chains operate .
International experts from the Southeast European Law Enforcement Center , the USA ’ s Drug Enforcement Administration , and the UK ’ s National Crime Agency engaged participants in fictitious and real scenarios of criminal investigation cases of organized @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The training was part of a larger project run by the OSCE Presence to support Albanian law enforcement to improve regional co-operation and tackle serious and organized crime .
Over the last few years , the Presence in Albania has dedicated around three quarters of its police-related activities to address threats posed by criminal activity , and has enabled the participation of Albanian State Police officers in conferences and trainings abroad to strengthen their professional capacities in investigating drug related cases .
The Presence also contributed to the national action plan against cannabis @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Presence in Albania will continue supporting law enforcement agencies in Albania by building their capacities and especially improving their investigative skills in drugs and organized crime cases .

The OSCE Presence in Albania organized a course on drug investigation for fifteen officers from the Albanian State Police Anti-Drug Units from 22 to 25 September 2020. The course aimed at enhancing the State Police’s capacity to dismantle organized crime groups specialized in drug trafficking, through increasing their knowledge of the new ways criminal chains operate.
International experts from the Southeast European Law Enforcement Center, the USA’s Drug Enforcement Administration, and the UK’s National Crime Agency engaged participants in fictitious and real scenarios of criminal investigation cases of organized criminal groups dealing with drugs trafficking.
The training was part of a larger project run by the OSCE Presence to support Albanian law enforcement to improve regional co-operation and tackle serious and organized crime.
Over the last few years, the Presence in Albania has dedicated around three quarters of its police-related activities to address threats posed by criminal activity, and has enabled the participation of Albanian State Police officers in conferences and trainings abroad to strengthen their professional capacities in investigating drug related cases. The Presence also contributed to the national action plan against cannabis cultivation and trafficking 2017-2020.
The OSCE Presence in Albania will continue supporting law enforcement agencies in Albania by building their capacities and especially improving their investigative skills in drugs and organized crime cases.


osce--2020-09-24--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 228/2020 issued on 24 September 2020


osce--2020-09-24--Head of OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina concludes visit to Mostar and Stolac

Kathleen Kavalec , Head of the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina ( BiH ) concluded her two-day visit to Mostar and Stolac on 24 September 2020 .
Over the course of the visit , she discussed preparations for local elections , to be held later in the autumn , as well as the Mission ’ s continuous support in promoting inter-religious dialogue in the country .
“ I am happy the local inter-party dialogue regarding the organization of elections in Mostar is taking place and that citizens of Mostar will finally have an opportunity to exercise their democratic right @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the need for continuing constructive dialogue during the campaign and after the elections , including on the prevention of election fraud .
During the visit , Kavalec met with political parties representatives Edin Mušić , Chairperson of the SDA Board in Herzegovina-Neretva Canton ; Salem Marić , SDA City Board President ; representatives of the Mostar Election Commission ; CCI and Pod lupom , as well as Marin Bago and Husein Oručević , independent candidates and NGO activists ; Josip Merdžo , Secretary General of the Croat National Assembly ( HNS ) ; @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Party ; Arman Zalihić , President of SDP Board Mostar ; Stjepan Bošković , current Mayor of Stolac ( HDZ BiH ) ; and Zoran Turković , independent candidate for Mayor of Stolac .
Discussions focused on the Mission ’ s local election pledge initiative , which entails several key commitments aimed at contributing to a peaceful and fair electoral process in the local communities .
Kavalec used this opportunity to meet with religious officials Petar Palić , Bishop of Mostar-Duvno/Apostolic Administrator Trebinje-Mrkan ; and Salem ef .
Dedović , Mostar Mufti and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Community in Stolac Orhan Tikvesa to discuss inter-religious relations at the local level .
She reiterated the Mission 's continuous support of constructive dialogue and joint initiatives aimed at promoting tolerance and co-operation .
“ I recognize that 2020 is a sensitive year with approaching local elections , both in Mostar , which was previously deprived of it , and Stolac where there were issues at the previous local elections .
I also urge all community leaders , including religious leaders , to promote constructive dialogue and focus on pursuing politics that solve @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the communities within which they live , ” said Kavalec .
Ambassador Kavalec also met with Gorčin Dizdar , Head of the Mak Dizdar Foundation and project “ Stolac – Crossroads of Cultures ” .

Kathleen Kavalec, Head of the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) concluded her two-day visit to Mostar and Stolac on 24 September 2020. Over the course of the visit, she discussed preparations for local elections, to be held later in the autumn, as well as the Mission’s continuous support in promoting inter-religious dialogue in the country.
“I am happy the local inter-party dialogue regarding the organization of elections in Mostar is taking place and that citizens of Mostar will finally have an opportunity to exercise their democratic right,” said Ambassador Kavalec, highlighting the need for continuing constructive dialogue during the campaign and after the elections, including on the prevention of election fraud.
During the visit, Kavalec met with political parties representatives Edin Mušić, Chairperson of the SDA Board in Herzegovina-Neretva Canton; Salem Marić, SDA City Board President; representatives of the Mostar Election Commission; CCI and Pod lupom, as well as Marin Bago and Husein Oručević, independent candidates and NGO activists; Josip Merdžo, Secretary General of the Croat National Assembly (HNS); Slaven Raguž, President of Croat Republican Party; Arman Zalihić, President of SDP Board Mostar; Stjepan Bošković, current Mayor of Stolac (HDZ BiH); and Zoran Turković, independent candidate for Mayor of Stolac.
Discussions focused on the Mission’s local election pledge initiative, which entails several key commitments aimed at contributing to a peaceful and fair electoral process in the local communities.
Kavalec used this opportunity to meet with religious officials Petar Palić, Bishop of Mostar-Duvno/Apostolic Administrator Trebinje-Mrkan; and Salem ef. Dedović, Mostar Mufti and President of the Majlis of the Islamic Community in Stolac Orhan Tikvesa to discuss inter-religious relations at the local level. She reiterated the Mission's continuous support of constructive dialogue and joint initiatives aimed at promoting tolerance and co-operation.
“I recognize that 2020 is a sensitive year with approaching local elections, both in Mostar, which was previously deprived of it, and Stolac where there were issues at the previous local elections. I also urge all community leaders, including religious leaders, to promote constructive dialogue and focus on pursuing politics that solve real daily problems for citizens and strengthen the communities within which they live,” said Kavalec.
Ambassador Kavalec also met with Gorčin Dizdar, Head of the Mak Dizdar Foundation and project “Stolac – Crossroads of Cultures”.


osce--2020-09-24--OSCE Presence organizes first mobile journalism training for journalists of Albania’s public broadca

OSCE Presence organizes first mobile journalism training for journalists of Albania’s public broadcaster

The OSCE Presence in Albania organized two , three-day training sessions on how to film and edit stories on smartphones that ended on 24 September 2020 .
Twenty-five journalists from Albania ’ s public broadcaster RTSH participated .
The mobile journalism course – the first of this kind for RTSH – marks the start of a year-long professional training programme run by the OSCE Presence as part of the EU-funded Media in Focus project .
Twelve Tirana-based journalists and 13 correspondents from RTSH local studios in Shkodra , Kukës , Gjirokastra and Korça attended the online training , conducted by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
He provided the participants with mobile journalism skills , introduced them to a series of relevant applications , and guided them in producing their first stories on their smartphones .
“ Mobile journalism is the future , thus journalists need to be equipped with new digital skills which make their job easier and more interesting for the public .
This training was a first step in this direction , ” said Bledar Zaganjori , RTSH news director .
Over the course of the Media in Focus project , the OSCE Presence aims @ @ @ @ @ @ @ capacity-building for journalists and the production of new flagship programmes .
It also aims to improve and modernize the curricula of the Albanian Public School of Journalism .
Future training courses envisaged in the project will focus on investigative reporting , editorial judgement , principles of public service media , as well as on using social media and social networks for newsgathering .

The OSCE Presence in Albania organized two, three-day training sessions on how to film and edit stories on smartphones that ended on 24 September 2020. Twenty-five journalists from Albania’s public broadcaster RTSH participated. The mobile journalism course – the first of this kind for RTSH – marks the start of a year-long professional training programme run by the OSCE Presence as part of the EU-funded Media in Focus project.
Twelve Tirana-based journalists and 13 correspondents from RTSH local studios in Shkodra, Kukës, Gjirokastra and Korça attended the online training, conducted by the European Broadcasting Union expert Glen Mulcahy. He provided the participants with mobile journalism skills, introduced them to a series of relevant applications, and guided them in producing their first stories on their smartphones.
“Mobile journalism is the future, thus journalists need to be equipped with new digital skills which make their job easier and more interesting for the public. This training was a first step in this direction,” said Bledar Zaganjori, RTSH news director.
Over the course of the Media in Focus project, the OSCE Presence aims at strengthening the Albanian public broadcaster through capacity-building for journalists and the production of new flagship programmes. It also aims to improve and modernize the curricula of the Albanian Public School of Journalism. Future training courses envisaged in the project will focus on investigative reporting, editorial judgement, principles of public service media, as well as on using social media and social networks for newsgathering.


osce--2020-09-24--97th Incident Prevention and Response Mechanism meeting takes place in Ergneti

ERGNETI , 24 September 2020 - The 97th Incident Prevention and Response Mechanism ( IPRM ) took place in Ergneti , co-facilitated by Ambassador Marek Szczygieł , Head of the EU Monitoring Mission in Georgia ( EUMM ) and Ambassador Rudolf Michalka , Special Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office for the South Caucasus .
The meeting of the Ergneti IPRM was accompanied by all the necessary precautionary health measures in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic .
Participants stressed the value of the IPRM format , emphasized the importance of direct dialogue , and engaged in constructive discussions on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the ground .
The participants discussed several issues pertaining to stabilization and normalization , ‘ borderization ’ processes along the administrative boundary line ( ABL ) , the security situation in the Chorchana-Tsnelisi area , as well as other locations , and important freedom of movement and livelihood topics .
The impact of the prolonged closure of the controlled crossing points along the ABL and the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic were also discussed on the agenda .
Significant attention was devoted to the recent detention cases .
The co-facilitators welcomed the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ exchange in the IPRM format .
The important role of the EUMM-managed hotline was underscored , with the co-facilitators emphasizing that timely information exchange through all available platforms for preventing incidents and reducing tensions along the ABL remains crucial .
The co-facilitators also highlighted the importance of safeguarding human security in local communities and addressing challenges of the conflict-affected population .
The participants were called upon to make concerted efforts for maintaining general stability on the ground .
The participants agreed to plan for a subsequent meeting on 20 November 2020 , situation @ @

ERGNETI, 24 September 2020 - The 97th Incident Prevention and Response Mechanism (IPRM) took place in Ergneti, co-facilitated by Ambassador Marek Szczygieł, Head of the EU Monitoring Mission in Georgia (EUMM) and Ambassador Rudolf Michalka, Special Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office for the South Caucasus. The meeting of the Ergneti IPRM was accompanied by all the necessary precautionary health measures in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Participants stressed the value of the IPRM format, emphasized the importance of direct dialogue, and engaged in constructive discussions on the most pressing issues influencing stability and security on the ground.
The participants discussed several issues pertaining to stabilization and normalization, ‘borderization’ processes along the administrative boundary line (ABL), the security situation in the Chorchana-Tsnelisi area, as well as other locations, and important freedom of movement and livelihood topics. The impact of the prolonged closure of the controlled crossing points along the ABL and the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic were also discussed on the agenda. Significant attention was devoted to the recent detention cases.
The co-facilitators welcomed the participants’ commitment to engage in regular exchange in the IPRM format. The important role of the EUMM-managed hotline was underscored, with the co-facilitators emphasizing that timely information exchange through all available platforms for preventing incidents and reducing tensions along the ABL remains crucial.
The co-facilitators also highlighted the importance of safeguarding human security in local communities and addressing challenges of the conflict-affected population. The participants were called upon to make concerted efforts for maintaining general stability on the ground.
The participants agreed to plan for a subsequent meeting on 20 November 2020, situation permitting.


osce--2020-09-24--OSCE organizes online seminar for judges on freedom of expression and judicial regulation of defamat

OSCE organizes online seminar for judges on freedom of expression and judicial regulation of defamation cases in Kazakhstan

An OSCE-supported seminar on the protection of freedom of expression and the judicial regulation of defamation took place on 24 @ @ @ @ @ The OSCE Programme Office in Nur-Sultan co-organized the event with the Supreme Court , the @ @ @ @ @ Internews Kazakhstan and the United States Agency for International Development ( USAID ) .
Forty @ @ @ @ @ and the city courts of Nur-Sultan , Almaty , Shymkent and regions ( oblasts ) @ @ @ @ @ well as Master students of the Academy of Justice under the Supreme Court were familiarized @ @ @ @ @ judicial regulation of defamation cases .
A judge of the European Court of Human Rights @ @ @ @ @ and expertise on how the ECHR deals with cases on defamation matters in civil , @ @ @ @ @ Participants also learned about international standards on defamation trials in the European Court .
The @ @ @ @ @ Office ’ s activities aimed at promoting media freedom and freedom of expression in line @ @ @ @ @ .

An OSCE-supported seminar on the protection of freedom of expression and the judicial regulation of defamation took place on 24 September 2020 in Nur-Sultan. The OSCE Programme Office in Nur-Sultan co-organized the event with the Supreme Court, the NGO Legal Media Centre, Internews Kazakhstan and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).
Forty judges of the Supreme Court and the city courts of Nur-Sultan, Almaty, Shymkent and regions (oblasts) throughout the country, as well as Master students of the Academy of Justice under the Supreme Court were familiarized with international best practices on judicial regulation of defamation cases. A judge of the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) shared knowledge and expertise on how the ECHR deals with cases on defamation matters in civil, administrative and criminal proceedings. Participants also learned about international standards on defamation trials in the European Court.
The event is part of the Office’s activities aimed at promoting media freedom and freedom of expression in line with OSCE principles and commitments.


osce--2020-09-24--OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan co-organizes seminar for judges on using provisions of inter

OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan co-organizes seminar for judges on using provisions of international treaties in national court decisions

Judges and members of Uzbekistan ’ s Supreme Court and the National Human Rights Centre completed a three-day seminar on 24 September 2020 about using the provisions of international treaties in decisions of the country ’ s courts .
Some 69 participants , including 13 women , took part in the seminar , which was conducted in a blended format .
The OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan , in co-operation with the Supreme Court , the National Human Rights Centre , the United Nations Development Programme ’ s ( UNDP ) Rule of Law Partnership in Uzbekistan Project , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ organized the seminar .
Kozimzhon Kamilov , Chairperson of the Supreme Court ; Daniel Rosenblum , U.S .
Ambassador to Uzbekistan ; Professor Akmal Saidov , Director of the National Human Rights Centre ; Matilda Dimovska , Resident Representative of UNDP in Uzbekistan ; and Ambassador John MacGregor , the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan welcomed the participants .
In their remarks , they highlighted the country ’ s reforms in the fields of the rule of law , independence of the judiciary and the administration of justice .
The OSCE Project Co-ordinator @ @ @ @ @ @ @ commitments and reminded the judges of the need for a strong independent judiciary , observing that much progress is being made in that direction .
“ Viewed from the prism of the OSCE ’ s comprehensive approach to security , the benefits to the people of Uzbekistan comes from not only a greater attention to their human rights , but the strengthened economic security accruing from stronger rule of law , ” he said .
During the seminar , two international experts , George Tugushi ( Georgia ) and Alexander Vashkevich ( Belarus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ delivering justice .
They pointed to other countries ’ experiences in implementing provisions of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights ( ICCPR ) , the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel , Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment ( CAT ) , and the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women ( CEDAW ) in national court decisions .
Participants also worked on case studies related to peaceful assembly , extradition and gender-based discrimination .
The participating judges are from Tashkent city and the regions of Tashkent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , criminal and civil cases , as part of a project to support judicial and legal reforms in the country .
The OSCE Project Co-ordinator and the Supreme Court are implementing this project .
This seminar is planned to be held in other regions of Uzbekistan in the coming months .

Judges and members of Uzbekistan’s Supreme Court and the National Human Rights Centre completed a three-day seminar on 24 September 2020 about using the provisions of international treaties in decisions of the country’s courts.
Some 69 participants, including 13 women, took part in the seminar, which was conducted in a blended format. The OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan, in co-operation with the Supreme Court, the National Human Rights Centre, the United Nations Development Programme’s (UNDP) Rule of Law Partnership in Uzbekistan Project, and the United States Agency for International Development organized the seminar.
Kozimzhon Kamilov, Chairperson of the Supreme Court; Daniel Rosenblum, U.S. Ambassador to Uzbekistan; Professor Akmal Saidov, Director of the National Human Rights Centre; Matilda Dimovska, Resident Representative of UNDP in Uzbekistan; and Ambassador John MacGregor, the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan welcomed the participants. In their remarks, they highlighted the country’s reforms in the fields of the rule of law, independence of the judiciary and the administration of justice.
The OSCE Project Co-ordinator noted that there are numerous relevant OSCE commitments and reminded the judges of the need for a strong independent judiciary, observing that much progress is being made in that direction. “Viewed from the prism of the OSCE’s comprehensive approach to security, the benefits to the people of Uzbekistan comes from not only a greater attention to their human rights, but the strengthened economic security accruing from stronger rule of law,” he said.
During the seminar, two international experts, George Tugushi (Georgia) and Alexander Vashkevich (Belarus), discussed the international standards in delivering justice. They pointed to other countries’ experiences in implementing provisions of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (CAT), and the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) in national court decisions. Participants also worked on case studies related to peaceful assembly, extradition and gender-based discrimination.
The participating judges are from Tashkent city and the regions of Tashkent and Sirdaryo who are working on administrative, criminal and civil cases, as part of a project to support judicial and legal reforms in the country. The OSCE Project Co-ordinator and the Supreme Court are implementing this project. This seminar is planned to be held in other regions of Uzbekistan in the coming months.


osce--2020-10-06--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 238/2020 issued on 6 October 2020


osce--2020-10-06--OSCE-wide conference emphasizes role of community policing as effective tool for preventing drug use

OSCE-wide conference emphasizes role of community policing as effective tool for preventing drug use among young people

VIENNA , 6 October 2020 – Community policing and a closer partnership between public authorities and youth are effective tools for creating a drug-free environment at the community level , said speakers at the OSCE-wide Conference on Combating the Threat of Illicit Drugs and the Diversion of Chemical Precursors held in Vienna and online today .
Convened by Albania ’ s 2020 OSCE Chairmanship in co-operation with the Strategic Police Matters Unit of the OSCE Transnational Threats Department , the conference gathered more than 200 experts from national drug structures , representatives of international , regional and civil society organizations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ participating States and OSCE Partners for Co-operation .
Participants at the conference exchanged best practices and lessons learned on effective drug prevention measures targeted at youth .
Opening the conference , Inid Milo , Head of Albania ’ s OSCE Chairmanship Task Force , said : “ Community policing is an excellent tool for implementing a comprehensive drug control strategy on the community level .
Prevention doesn ’ t always get the right attention , because prevention requires long-term and often subtle efforts that do not immediately bring obvious or recognizable outcomes .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ costly and in the long run more effective than combating the use of illicit drugs.
” Miwa Kato , Director of the Division for Operations at the UN Office on Drugs and Crime , reiterated that community policing could play a constructive and effective prevention role by promoting a healthy and safe community environment that protects adolescents against substance use and facilitates positive attitudes toward law enforcement .
She also welcomed the opportunity to strengthen co-operation between the UN and the OSCE in this important field .
Tuula Yrjölä , OSCE Officer-in-Charge/Secretary General @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Centre , added : “ The best way to fight drug abuse by young people is through prevention , where police and community policing play a pivotal role in the efforts to combat the distribution and use of drugs in local communities .
The OSCE will continue providing tailored , non-duplicative assistance to strengthen operational capacities , complement global anti-drug efforts and promote national , regional and international responses.
” Participants at the conference also focused on how to inform , engage and raise awareness among youth on the impact and dangers of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the importance of human rights and gender-related issues when designing and implementing drug control policies .
This event builds upon the 2012 and 2015 OSCE conferences on drugs , youth and prevention and is taking place amid growing calls from experts to promote designing and implementing effective and long-term drug policy reforms , investing equally in preventive , enforcement , treatment and rehabilitation measures .

VIENNA, 6 October 2020 – Community policing and a closer partnership between public authorities and youth are effective tools for creating a drug-free environment at the community level, said speakers at the OSCE-wide Conference on Combating the Threat of Illicit Drugs and the Diversion of Chemical Precursors held in Vienna and online today.
Convened by Albania’s 2020 OSCE Chairmanship in co-operation with the Strategic Police Matters Unit of the OSCE Transnational Threats Department, the conference gathered more than 200 experts from national drug structures, representatives of international, regional and civil society organizations, and the private sector from OSCE participating States and OSCE Partners for Co-operation. Participants at the conference exchanged best practices and lessons learned on effective drug prevention measures targeted at youth.
Opening the conference, Inid Milo, Head of Albania’s OSCE Chairmanship Task Force, said: “Community policing is an excellent tool for implementing a comprehensive drug control strategy on the community level. Prevention doesn’t always get the right attention, because prevention requires long-term and often subtle efforts that do not immediately bring obvious or recognizable outcomes. Nevertheless, prevention will be always less costly and in the long run more effective than combating the use of illicit drugs.”
Miwa Kato, Director of the Division for Operations at the UN Office on Drugs and Crime, reiterated that community policing could play a constructive and effective prevention role by promoting a healthy and safe community environment that protects adolescents against substance use and facilitates positive attitudes toward law enforcement. She also welcomed the opportunity to strengthen co-operation between the UN and the OSCE in this important field.
Tuula Yrjölä, OSCE Officer-in-Charge/Secretary General, Director of the OSCE Conflict Prevention Centre, added: “The best way to fight drug abuse by young people is through prevention, where police and community policing play a pivotal role in the efforts to combat the distribution and use of drugs in local communities. The OSCE will continue providing tailored, non-duplicative assistance to strengthen operational capacities, complement global anti-drug efforts and promote national, regional and international responses.”
Participants at the conference also focused on how to inform, engage and raise awareness among youth on the impact and dangers of illicit drugs. The meeting emphasized also the importance of human rights and gender-related issues when designing and implementing drug control policies.
This event builds upon the 2012 and 2015 OSCE conferences on drugs, youth and prevention and is taking place amid growing calls from experts to promote designing and implementing effective and long-term drug policy reforms, investing equally in preventive, enforcement, treatment and rehabilitation measures.


osce--2020-10-06--Nagorno-Karabakh bloodshed must end, says OSCE PA President, urging a return to negotiations

COPENHAGEN , 6 October 2020 – Appalled by the continuation of bloodshed in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict zone , as well as beyond the line of contact , OSCE PA President George Tsereteli today reiterated the call to cease hostilities in the interest of civilians and recommit to negotiations towards a peaceful solution of the conflict according to OSCE principles and commitments .
During the past week , he has been in direct contact with the Speakers of Parliament of Armenia and Azerbaijan , to underline the position of the OSCE PA and to urge both sides to resume the negotiation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gravely concerned by reports of increasing casualties related to the conflict , in particular the impact on the local population which , despite the obligation to protect civilians , continues to suffer from the ongoing fighting , ” Tsereteli stated today .
“ We fully support the call of the Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group from France , Russia and the United States , as well as the presidents and foreign ministries of the respective countries , for an unconditional ceasefire.
” The President also expressed concerns over reports of the use @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the OSCE PA adopted a resolution in 2008 which called for all OSCE participating States to “ prohibit the use , development , production , acquisition , stockpiling , retention or transfer of cluster munitions.
” Tsereteli called upon all sides to refrain from the use of these weapons and to fully respect requirements under international law to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure .
“ It is totally unacceptable that there are threats to destroy critical infrastructures in the region which could lead to humanitarian catastrophes .
The continued use of force does @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the conflict .
Instead , it continues to bear the cost of human lives and further aggravate the plight of civilians , ” Tsereteli said .
“ Ultimately , any continued use of force will be detrimental to finding a peaceful solution to the conflict for decades to come , notwithstanding the outcome of the ongoing armed conflict .
We will continue to place all our efforts in helping to generate political will for reconciliation.
” “ As a platform for dialogue , the OSCE PA continues to stand ready to host parliamentary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” Secretary General Roberto Montella added .
“ Parliamentary dialogue can play an important role in rebuilding communication lines , once the negotiation process in the Minsk Group aimed at the peaceful resolution of the conflict has resumed.
” “ I would like to underline , that the OSCE PA consistently supports the work of the OSCE structures and mechanisms which are mandated by participating States to deal with this conflict , ” Montella said .
“ In addition , the PA has also the responsibility of analyzing strengths and weaknesses , with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to maximize effectiveness .
This is particularly important in situations like this , when the ongoing cost of human life justifies it .
”

COPENHAGEN, 6 October 2020 – Appalled by the continuation of bloodshed in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict zone, as well as beyond the line of contact, OSCE PA President George Tsereteli today reiterated the call to cease hostilities in the interest of civilians and recommit to negotiations towards a peaceful solution of the conflict according to OSCE principles and commitments. During the past week, he has been in direct contact with the Speakers of Parliament of Armenia and Azerbaijan, to underline the position of the OSCE PA and to urge both sides to resume the negotiation process.
“We continue to be gravely concerned by reports of increasing casualties related to the conflict, in particular the impact on the local population which, despite the obligation to protect civilians, continues to suffer from the ongoing fighting,” Tsereteli stated today. “We fully support the call of the Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group from France, Russia and the United States, as well as the presidents and foreign ministries of the respective countries, for an unconditional ceasefire.”
The President also expressed concerns over reports of the use of banned cluster bombs, noting that the OSCE PA adopted a resolution in 2008 which called for all OSCE participating States to “prohibit the use, development, production, acquisition, stockpiling, retention or transfer of cluster munitions.” Tsereteli called upon all sides to refrain from the use of these weapons and to fully respect requirements under international law to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure.
“It is totally unacceptable that there are threats to destroy critical infrastructures in the region which could lead to humanitarian catastrophes. The continued use of force does not contribute towards the peaceful solution of the conflict. Instead, it continues to bear the cost of human lives and further aggravate the plight of civilians,” Tsereteli said. “Ultimately, any continued use of force will be detrimental to finding a peaceful solution to the conflict for decades to come, notwithstanding the outcome of the ongoing armed conflict. We will continue to place all our efforts in helping to generate political will for reconciliation.”
“As a platform for dialogue, the OSCE PA continues to stand ready to host parliamentary talks if requested by the sides,” Secretary General Roberto Montella added. “Parliamentary dialogue can play an important role in rebuilding communication lines, once the negotiation process in the Minsk Group aimed at the peaceful resolution of the conflict has resumed.”
“I would like to underline, that the OSCE PA consistently supports the work of the OSCE structures and mechanisms which are mandated by participating States to deal with this conflict,” Montella said. “In addition, the PA has also the responsibility of analyzing strengths and weaknesses, with the aim of channeling the organizational capacities to maximize effectiveness. This is particularly important in situations like this, when the ongoing cost of human life justifies it.”


osce--2020-10-06--OSCE Media freedom office calls for proposals on initiatives that address challenge of Artificial In

OSCE Media freedom office calls for proposals on initiatives that address challenge of Artificial Intelligence on freedom of expression

The Office of the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media ( RFoM ) is calling for proposals for innovative ideas and initiatives to tackle the challenges brought by Artificial Intelligence ( AI ) on the freedom of expression .
This call is being made as part of the RFoM ’ s project , Spotlight on the Impact of AI on Freedom of Expression ( # SAIFE ) .
Initiatives selected by the RFoM will receive funding for their implementation .
These initiatives will directly contribute to the RFoM ’ s # SAIFE project and its aim to find the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ expression and media pluralism , when deploying AI .
Supported activities can include , but are not limited to , the development of tools to counter freedom of expression challenges posed by AI ; educational and awareness-raising activities ; podcasts ; documentaries ; mini-series ; exhibitions ; and storytelling .
For more information , including how to apply , see the call for proposals here .
Applications must be submitted by 31 October using the following template .
For an overview on the general focus of the # SAIFE project , see here @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ osce.org .

The Office of the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media (RFoM) is calling for proposals for innovative ideas and initiatives to tackle the challenges brought by Artificial Intelligence (AI) on the freedom of expression. This call is being made as part of the RFoM’s project, Spotlight on the Impact of AI on Freedom of Expression (#SAIFE). Initiatives selected by the RFoM will receive funding for their implementation.
These initiatives will directly contribute to the RFoM’s #SAIFE project and its aim to find the most effective ways to safeguard freedom of expression and media pluralism, when deploying AI.
Supported activities can include, but are not limited to, the development of tools to counter freedom of expression challenges posed by AI; educational and awareness-raising activities; podcasts; documentaries; mini-series; exhibitions; and storytelling.
For more information, including how to apply, see the call for proposals here.
Applications must be submitted by 31 October using the following template.
For an overview on the general focus of the #SAIFE project, see here.
Applications should be sent to AIFreeSpeech@osce.org.


osce--2020-10-06--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 6 October 2020

Kamensk-Shakhtinskiy , Russian Federation .
The Observer Mission ( OM ) continues to operate 24/7 at both Border Crossing Points ( BCPs ) .
The overall number of border crossings by persons decreased at both BCPs compared to the previous week .
The OM is currently operating with 22 permanent international Mission members , including the Chief Observer ( CO ) and one first responder [ 1 ] .
The Mission is supported administratively by a staff member and the Chief of Fund Administration based in Vienna .
Activities have been impacted by COVID-19 and measures undertaken by the OM @ @ @ @ @ @ @ care of its Mission members and compliance with measures set by the host country authorities .
The Mission is continuing to keep the situation under review , in close contact with the OSCE Secretariat and the Chairmanship .
Following the host country recommendations , the observers are adhering to social distancing .
Due to the preventive measures taken by the central and regional authorities , the OM is faced with certain difficulties , but is still able to continue to fulfil its mandate without any limitations in its observation and reporting activities .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 decreased from 8,353 to 8,021 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 172 per day for both BCPs .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 four , compared to one last week .
Two persons crossed into the Russian Federation while another two 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 a significant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ heavily loaded cars .
During this reporting week , seven families were observed crossing into the Russian Federation while another two families were observed crossing into Ukraine , compared to the previous reporting period when seven families were observed crossing to the Russian Federation , while another two families crossed into Ukraine .
Regular local and long-distance bus connections continued to operate between Ukraine ( mostly from/to the Luhansk region ) and the Russian Federation .
During the reporting period , the OTs observed an increase in the overall number of buses crossing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ compared to 304 observed during the previous week ) .
There were 167 buses bound for the Russian Federation and 165 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 decrease @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the border at both BCPs ( 938 compared to 1,047 during the previous reporting week ) ; 540 at the Gukovo BCP and 398 at the Donetsk BCP , 490 of these trucks crossed into the Russian Federation and 448 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 , Ukraine and trucks with “ LPR ” plates .
The OTs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the border in both directions .
During the reporting period , the OTs observed a slight decrease in the overall number of tanker trucks crossing the border at both BCPs ( 46 compared to 53 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ underwent systematic inspection by the Russian Federation officials , which could include an X-ray check .
Due to the unfavorable observation position at the Gukovo BCP , the OTs continued to be unable to observe any X-ray checks .
During the reporting period , the X-ray vehicle at the Donetsk BCP was not operating due to the ongoing construction activities ; consequently , no X-ray checks were observed by the OTs .
The OM continued to observe passenger and cargo minivans [ 3 ] crossing the border in both directions at both BCPs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 slight increase in the overall number of minivans crossing the border at both BCPs ( 146 compared to 138 observed during the previous week ) ; 72 crossed into the Russian Federation and another 74 into Ukraine .
The OTs continued to pick up the sound of trains on the railway tracks located approximately 150m south-west of the Gukovo BCP .
During @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trains on 23 occasions ; the OTs assessed that 11 trains were travelling to the Russian Federation and the remaining 12 trains were travelling to Ukraine ( more details are provided in the sections “ trends and figures at a glance ” below ) .
Visual observation was not possible because of the line of trees located between the train tracks and the BCP .
The majority of vehicles crossing the border had Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region or Russian Federation licence plates .
A significant number of vehicles with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crossing the border in both directions on a daily basis .
During the reporting week , the OTs at the Donetsk BCP observed ambulances on two separate occasions : On 29 September at 13:17 , the OT observed an ambulance with Russian Federation licence plates crossing the border from the Russian Federation and leaving for Ukraine .
The vehicle bore the sign `` Children Reanimation 148 ” – written in Russian .
On 30 September at 16:26 , the OT observed an ambulance with Russian Federation licence plates with two medics on board @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and parking next to the main building .
The vehicle had an inscription `` Urgent Medical Help '' - written in Russian - on the side .
At 16:36 , the ambulance drove back to the Russian Federation .
The OT was unable to observe any other details from its position .
For trends and figures at a glance covering the period from 1 September to 6 October 2020 , please see the attachment here .
[ 1 ] First responders are OSCE staff or Mission members deployed for a short period of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 ) .

SUMMARY
Kamensk-Shakhtinskiy, Russian Federation. The Observer Mission (OM) continues to operate 24/7 at both Border Crossing Points (BCPs). The overall number of border crossings by persons decreased at both BCPs compared to the previous week.
OPERATIONAL REMARKS
The OM is currently operating with 22 permanent international 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 decreased from 8,353 to 8,021 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 172 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 four, compared to one last week. Two persons crossed into the Russian Federation while another two 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, seven families were observed crossing into the Russian Federation while another two families were observed crossing into Ukraine, compared to the previous reporting period when seven families were observed crossing to the Russian Federation, while another two families crossed into Ukraine.
Bus connections
Regular local and long-distance bus connections continued to operate between Ukraine (mostly from/to the Luhansk region) and the Russian Federation. During the reporting period, the OTs observed an increase in the overall number of buses crossing the border at both BCPs (332 compared to 304 observed during the previous week). There were 167 buses bound for the Russian Federation and 165 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 decrease in the overall number of trucks crossing the border at both BCPs (938 compared to 1,047 during the previous reporting week); 540 at the Gukovo BCP and 398 at the Donetsk BCP, 490 of these trucks crossed into the Russian Federation and 448 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, Ukraine 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 slight decrease in the overall number of tanker trucks crossing the border at both BCPs (46 compared to 53 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 unfavorable observation position at the Gukovo BCP, the OTs continued to be unable to observe any X-ray checks.
During the reporting period, the X-ray vehicle at the Donetsk BCP was not operating due to the ongoing construction activities; consequently, no X-ray checks were observed by the OTs.
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 slight increase in the overall number of minivans crossing the border at both BCPs (146 compared to 138 observed during the previous week); 72 crossed into the Russian Federation and another 74 into Ukraine.
Trains
The OTs continued to pick up the sound of trains on the railway tracks located approximately 150m south-west of the Gukovo BCP. During the reporting week, the OTs heard trains on 23 occasions; the OTs assessed that 11 trains were travelling to the Russian Federation and the remaining 12 trains were travelling to Ukraine (more details are provided in the sections “trends and figures at a glance” below).
Visual observation was not possible because of the line of trees located between the train tracks and the BCP.
Other observations
The majority of vehicles crossing the border had Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region or Russian Federation licence plates. A significant number of vehicles with “LPR” plates were also observed crossing the border in both directions on a daily basis.
During the reporting week, the OTs at the Donetsk BCP observed ambulances on two separate occasions:
On 29 September at 13:17, the OT observed an ambulance with Russian Federation licence plates crossing the border from the Russian Federation and leaving for Ukraine. The vehicle bore the sign "Children Reanimation 148” – written in Russian.
On 30 September at 16:26, the OT observed an ambulance with Russian Federation licence plates with two medics on board entering the BCP from the Russian Federation and parking next to the main building. The vehicle had an inscription "Urgent Medical Help" - written in Russian - on the side. At 16:36, the ambulance drove back to the Russian Federation. The OT was unable to observe any other details from its position.
For trends and figures at a glance covering the period from 1 September to 6 October 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--2020-10-06--OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan provides humanitarian aid

On 6 October 2020 , the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan ( PCUz ) handed over ultraviolet ( UV ) @ @ @ @ @ Scientific Research Institute of Virology of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Uzbekistan @ @ @ @ @ .
The mobile-pulsed xenon UV antibacterial system equipment helps to disinfect air and surfaces at @ @ @ @ @ medical personnel from contracting COVID-19 when carrying out their duties and responsibilities .
The equipment @ @ @ @ @ healthcare system and will assist with preventing the spread of COVID-19 in the country .
@ @ @ @ @ COVID-19 will allow Uzbekistan to better deal with the negative economic effects and security impacts @ @ @ @ @ explained John MacGregor , OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan .
“ The pandemic related to @ @ @ @ @ transnational threat to global and regional security for many generations .
In keeping with the @ @ @ @ @ comprehensive security , the PCUz has donated the mobile-pulsed UV antibacterial system in order to @ @ @ @ @ against this transnational threat .
”

On 6 October 2020, the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan (PCUz) handed over ultraviolet (UV) antibacterial system equipment to the Scientific Research Institute of Virology of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Uzbekistan as part of pandemic-related aid.
The mobile-pulsed xenon UV antibacterial system equipment helps to disinfect air and surfaces at hospitals, which can protect medical personnel from contracting COVID-19 when carrying out their duties and responsibilities. The equipment will be used in the healthcare system and will assist with preventing the spread of COVID-19 in the country.
“Curtailing the spread of COVID-19 will allow Uzbekistan to better deal with the negative economic effects and security impacts of the pandemic,” explained John MacGregor, OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan. “The pandemic related to COVID-19 is the most serious transnational threat to global and regional security for many generations. In keeping with the OSCE’s mandate for comprehensive security, the PCUz has donated the mobile-pulsed UV antibacterial system in order to assist Uzbekistan in its fight against this transnational threat.”


osce--2020-10-05--Statement by the Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group

MOSCOW / PARIS / WASHINGTON , D.C. , October 5 , 2020 - The Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation Sergey Lavrov , Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of France Jean-Yves Le Drian , and Secretary of State of the United States of America Michael R. Pompeo , representing the Co-Chair countries of the OSCE Minsk Group , condemn in the strongest terms the unprecedented and dangerous escalation of violence in and outside of the Nagorno-Karabakh zone .
The Ministers stress unconditionally that recent attacks allegedly targeting civilian centers - both along the Line of Contact and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ outside the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict zone - and the disproportionate nature of such attacks constitute an unacceptable threat to the stability of the region .
Recalling the October 1 statement of the Heads of State of the three Co-Chair countries of the OSCE Minsk Group , the Ministers call once again upon the conflicting parties to accept an immediate and unconditional ceasefire .
The Co-Chairing countries are determined to exercise fully their mandate , entrusted to them by the OSCE and the international community , with the contribution of the Minsk Group capitals .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to advance their engagement with the sides , and urge them to commit now to resuming the settlement process on the basis of existing core principles and relevant international documents well-known by both parties .

MOSCOW / PARIS / WASHINGTON, D.C., October 5, 2020 - The Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation Sergey Lavrov, Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of France Jean-Yves Le Drian, and Secretary of State of the United States of America Michael R. Pompeo, representing the Co-Chair countries of the OSCE Minsk Group, condemn in the strongest terms the unprecedented and dangerous escalation of violence in and outside of the Nagorno-Karabakh zone.
The Ministers stress unconditionally that recent attacks allegedly targeting civilian centers - both along the Line of Contact and on the territories of Azerbaijan and Armenia outside the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict zone - and the disproportionate nature of such attacks constitute an unacceptable threat to the stability of the region.
Recalling the October 1 statement of the Heads of State of the three Co-Chair countries of the OSCE Minsk Group, the Ministers call once again upon the conflicting parties to accept an immediate and unconditional ceasefire. The Co-Chairing countries are determined to exercise fully their mandate, entrusted to them by the OSCE and the international community, with the contribution of the Minsk Group capitals. As such, they will firmly continue to advance their engagement with the sides, and urge them to commit now to resuming the settlement process on the basis of existing core principles and relevant international documents well-known by both parties.


osce--2020-10-05--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 237/2020 issued on 5 October 2020

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