osce--2020-12-22--OSCE national workshop promotes social re-use of confiscated assets in Bosnia and Herzegovina

The OSCE held an online national workshop for Bosnia and Herzegovina on the social re-use of confiscated assets on 21 December 2020 .
More than 20 representatives from prosecutions ’ offices , law enforcement , asset management agencies and civil society organizations participated in the event .
The workshop , organized by the Office of the Coordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities ( OCEEA ) and the Transnational Threats Department ( TNTD ) , aimed at building knowledge and raising awareness among civil society and policy makers on the possibility of re-using assets confiscated from organized crime for social @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the society .
One of the main goals of the workshop is to promote the involvement of civil society organizations in the prevention of and fight against organized crime and corruption .
“ In Bosnia and Herzegovina , a functioning institutional and legal framework covering all levels of authority is needed to enable more efficient and effective use of asset recovery measures in criminal proceedings , especially in organized crime and corruption cases , ” stated Kathleen Kavalec , Head of the OSCE Mission to BiH , when delivering opening remarks .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the most common practice , the social re-use can be a meaningful tool for promoting a culture of legality and giving back to societies what organized crime and corruption have deprived them of .
The Italian Ambassador to Bosnia and Herzegovina , Nicola Minasi , highlighted that the social re-use of properties confiscated from criminal organizations has a great social impact , as it demonstrates that the rule of law and societies win .
“ However , it is crucial for prosecution offices , law enforcement and civil society organizations to co-operate for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ workshop discussed the legal framework in BiH enabling social re-use of assets confiscated from criminal activity ; presented international best practices on how assets confiscated from organized crime can be re-used for social purposes ; and exchanged views on current challenges and ways forward in this specific field .
The Chief Prosecutor of the Prosecutor ’ s Office of Bosnia and Hercegovina , Gordana Tadic , thanked the OSCE for supporting prosecutors first in their work on war crimes , then in combating corruption and economic crime , and now helping to guarantee @ @ @ @ @ @ @ work through social re-use of confiscated assets .
The virtual workshop was organized within the framework of the OSCE extra budgetary project on “ Strengthening the fight against transnational organized crime in South-Eastern Europe through improved regional co-operation in asset seizure , confiscation , management and re-use ” funded by the United States Department of State , Italy , Germany and the United Kingdom .
It is part of a series of national workshops on social re-use in the South-Eastern Europe .

The OSCE held an online national workshop for Bosnia and Herzegovina on the social re-use of confiscated assets on 21 December 2020. More than 20 representatives from prosecutions’ offices, law enforcement, asset management agencies and civil society organizations participated in the event.
The workshop, organized by the Office of the Coordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities (OCEEA) and the Transnational Threats Department (TNTD), aimed at building knowledge and raising awareness among civil society and policy makers on the possibility of re-using assets confiscated from organized crime for social purposes and the benefits this practice brings to the society. One of the main goals of the workshop is to promote the involvement of civil society organizations in the prevention of and fight against organized crime and corruption.
“In Bosnia and Herzegovina, a functioning institutional and legal framework covering all levels of authority is needed to enable more efficient and effective use of asset recovery measures in criminal proceedings, especially in organized crime and corruption cases,” stated Kathleen Kavalec, Head of the OSCE Mission to BiH, when delivering opening remarks.
While the sale of confiscated assets is the most common practice, the social re-use can be a meaningful tool for promoting a culture of legality and giving back to societies what organized crime and corruption have deprived them of. The Italian Ambassador to Bosnia and Herzegovina, Nicola Minasi, highlighted that the social re-use of properties confiscated from criminal organizations has a great social impact, as it demonstrates that the rule of law and societies win. “However, it is crucial for prosecution offices, law enforcement and civil society organizations to co-operate for this common cause.”
Participants at the workshop discussed the legal framework in BiH enabling social re-use of assets confiscated from criminal activity; presented international best practices on how assets confiscated from organized crime can be re-used for social purposes; and exchanged views on current challenges and ways forward in this specific field.
The Chief Prosecutor of the Prosecutor’s Office of Bosnia and Hercegovina, Gordana Tadic, thanked the OSCE for supporting prosecutors first in their work on war crimes, then in combating corruption and economic crime, and now helping to guarantee that BiH sees the results of previous work through social re-use of confiscated assets.
The virtual workshop was organized within the framework of the OSCE extra budgetary project on “Strengthening the fight against transnational organized crime in South-Eastern Europe through improved regional co-operation in asset seizure, confiscation, management and re-use” funded by the United States Department of State, Italy, Germany and the United Kingdom. It is part of a series of national workshops on social re-use in the South-Eastern Europe.


osce--2020-12-22--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 22 December 2020

Kamensk-Shakhtinskiy , Russian Federation .
The Observer Mission ( OM ) continues to operate 24/7 at both Border Crossing Points ( BCPs ) .
The overall number of border crossings by persons increased at both BCPs compared to the previous week .
The ninety-ninth Russian convoy of seven vehicles crossed into Ukraine and returned through the Donetsk Border Crossing Point .
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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its mandate without any limitations in its observation and reporting activities .
The profile of persons crossing the border can be categorized as follows : • Adults travelling on foot or by car with little or no luggage .
• Families ( often including elderly persons and/or children ) travelling on foot or by car with a significant amount of luggage .
The average number of entries/exits increased from 7,117 to 7,521 per day at both BCPs compared to last week [ 2 ] .
During the reporting period , the majority of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an average net flow of 591 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 .
During the reporting period , the number of persons in military-style outfits crossing the border was 13 , the same number as recorded the previous reporting week .
Five persons crossed into the Russian Federation while another eight persons crossed into Ukraine .
These individuals crossed the border on foot .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 , one family was observed crossing into the Russian Federation and four families were observed crossing into Ukraine , compared to the previous reporting period when three families were observed crossing into the Russian Federation and eight families crossing into Ukraine .
Regular local and long-distance bus connections continued to operate between Ukraine ( mostly from/to the Luhansk region ) and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the OTs observed a decrease in the overall number of buses crossing the border at both BCPs ( 303 compared to 315 observed during the previous week ) .
There were 154 buses bound for the Russian Federation and 149 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Luhansk region .
During the reporting period , the OTs observed an increase in the overall number of trucks crossing the border at both BCPs ( 922 compared to 874 during the previous reporting week ) ; 516 at the Gukovo BCP and 406 at the Donetsk BCP , 494 of these trucks crossed into the Russian Federation and 428 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Belarus , Georgia , Lithuania and trucks with “ LPR ” plates .
The OTs also continued to observe tanker trucks crossing the border in both directions .
During the reporting period , the OTs observed a decrease in the overall number of tanker trucks crossing the border at both BCPs ( 45 compared to 52 during the previous reporting week ) .
These trucks were observed crossing the border at both BCPs .
The trucks had the words “ Propane ” and “ Flammable ” written across the tanks in either Russian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 .
Compared to the previous week , the total number of X-ray checks at the Donetsk BCP slightly decreased from 132 to 126 .
Of the total number of trucks scanned , 124 trucks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for Ukraine , the remaining two trucks ( two per cent ) crossed into the Russian Federation .
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 ( 173 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ week ) ; 100 crossed into the Russian Federation and another 73 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 the reporting week , the OTs heard trains on nine occasions ; the OTs assessed that four trains were travelling to the Russian Federation and the remaining five trains were travelling to Ukraine ( more details are provided in the sections “ trends and figures at a glance ” below ) .
Visual observation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 “ LPR ” plates were also observed crossing the border in both directions on a daily basis .
The OTs also observed vehicles with Georgian , Armenian and Lithuanian licence plates .
On 15 December at 10:15 , the OT at the Donetsk BCP observed a black funeral minivan entering the BCP from Ukraine @ @ @ @ @ @ @ board .
After undergoing customs control procedures , the minivan crossed the border into the Russian Federation .
On 19 December at 01:17 , the OT at the Donetsk BCP observed a white funeral minivan , entering the BCP from Ukraine .
The vehicle had an inscription “ Funeral Transport ” ( in Russian ) on the side .
The OT noticed only the driver on board .
After undergoing customs control procedures , the minivan crossed the border into the Russian Federation .
On 17 December at 06:34 , the ninety-ninth [ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Donetsk Border Crossing Point ( BCP ) .
A total of seven vehicles were checked by Russian Federation border guards and customs officers prior to their crossing into Ukraine .
All seven vehicles had crossed back into the Russian Federation the same day .
( See OM Spot Report of 17 December 2020 : https : //www.osce.org/observer-mission-at-russian-checkpoints-gukovo-and- ... ) For trends and figures at a glance covering the period from 10 November to 22 December 2020 , please see the attachment here .
[ 1 ] First responders are OSCE staff or Mission @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 ) .
[ 4 ] Based on the Observer Mission ’ s counting , this convoy is considered the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ through the “ Donetsk ” or “ Gukovo ” BCPs .
However , so far all these convoys crossed through the “ Donetsk ” BCP .

SUMMARY
Kamensk-Shakhtinskiy, Russian Federation. The Observer Mission (OM) continues to operate 24/7 at both Border Crossing Points (BCPs). The overall number of border crossings by persons increased at both BCPs compared to the previous week. The ninety-ninth Russian convoy of seven vehicles crossed into Ukraine and returned through the Donetsk Border Crossing Point.
OPERATIONAL REMARKS
The OM is currently operating with 22 permanent international Mission members, including the Chief Observer (CO) and one first responder[1]. The Mission is supported administratively by a staff member and the Chief of Fund Administration based in Vienna.
Update on COVID-19 measures
Activities have been impacted by COVID-19 and measures undertaken by the OM to ensure the safety and duty of care of its Mission members and compliance with measures set by the host country authorities. The Mission is continuing to keep the situation under review, in close contact with the OSCE Secretariat and the Chairmanship. Following the host country recommendations, the observers are adhering to social distancing. Due to the preventive measures taken by the central and regional authorities, the OM is faced with certain difficulties, but is still able to continue to fulfil its mandate without any limitations in its observation and reporting activities.
OBSERVATIONS AT THE BORDER CROSSING POINTS
Persons crossing the border
The profile of persons crossing the border can be categorized as follows:
Adults travelling on foot or by car with little or no luggage. Persons in military-style outfits. Families (often including elderly persons and/or children) travelling on foot or by car with a significant amount of luggage.
The average number of entries/exits increased from 7,117 to 7,521 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 591 per day for both BCPs. The Donetsk BCP continued to experience much more traffic than the Gukovo BCP.
Responding to the COVID-19 situation, the host country has closed its borders for the majority of foreigners starting from 18 March. Among the exceptions of persons allowed to cross the border (which entered into force on 19 March), are Ukrainian citizens and stateless persons holding passports or identification documents proving permanent residence in certain areas of Luhansk and Donetsk regions of Ukraine. In addition, reportedly, due to the threat of the spread of COVID-19, starting from 10 April, the organized passenger transport commuting between the non-government-controlled areas of Luhansk region of Ukraine and the Russian Federation was temporarily suspended and restored from 25 June.
Persons in military-style outfits
During the reporting period, the number of persons in military-style outfits crossing the border was 13, the same number as recorded the previous reporting week. Five persons crossed into the Russian Federation while another eight persons crossed into Ukraine. These individuals crossed the border on foot.
Families with a significant amount of luggage
The OTs continued to report on families, sometimes with elderly persons and/or children, crossing the border at both BCPs with a significant amount of luggage, or travelling in heavily loaded cars. During this reporting week, one family was observed crossing into the Russian Federation and four families were observed crossing into Ukraine, compared to the previous reporting period when three families were observed crossing into the Russian Federation and eight families crossing into Ukraine.
Bus connections
Regular local and long-distance bus connections continued to operate between Ukraine (mostly from/to the Luhansk region) and the Russian Federation. During the reporting period, the OTs observed a decrease in the overall number of buses crossing the border at both BCPs (303 compared to 315 observed during the previous week). There were 154 buses bound for the Russian Federation and 149 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 an increase in the overall number of trucks crossing the border at both BCPs (922 compared to 874 during the previous reporting week); 516 at the Gukovo BCP and 406 at the Donetsk BCP, 494 of these trucks crossed into the Russian Federation and 428 crossed into Ukraine. Most of the trucks observed by the OTs had Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region; however, on a daily basis, the OTs also noted trucks registered in the Russian Federation, Belarus, Georgia, Lithuania and trucks with “LPR” plates.
The OTs also continued to observe tanker trucks crossing the border in both directions. During the reporting period, the OTs observed a decrease in the overall number of tanker trucks crossing the border at both BCPs (45 compared to 52 during the previous reporting week). These trucks were observed crossing the border at both BCPs. The trucks had the words “Propane” and “Flammable” written across the tanks in either Russian or Ukrainian. The majority of tanker trucks had hazard signs, indicating that they were transporting propane or a mix of propane and butane. All trucks underwent systematic inspection by the Russian Federation officials, which could include an X-ray check. Due to the unfavorable observation position at the Gukovo BCP, the OTs continued to be unable to observe any X-ray checks.
Compared to the previous week, the total number of X-ray checks at the Donetsk BCP slightly decreased from 132 to 126. Of the total number of trucks scanned, 124 trucks (98 per cent) were bound for Ukraine, the remaining two trucks (two per cent) crossed into the Russian Federation.
Minivans
The OM continued to observe passenger and cargo minivans[3] crossing the border in both directions at both BCPs. The OTs observed minivans predominantly with Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region; however, the OTs also saw minivans registered in the Russian Federation. During the reporting period, the OTs observed a slight increase in the overall number of minivans crossing the border at both BCPs (173 compared to 161 observed during the previous week); 100 crossed into the Russian Federation and another 73 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 nine occasions; the OTs assessed that four trains were travelling to the Russian Federation and the remaining five trains were travelling to Ukraine (more details are provided in the sections “trends and figures at a glance” below).
Visual observation was not possible because of the line of trees located between the train tracks and the BCP.
Other observations
The majority of vehicles crossing the border had Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region or Russian Federation licence plates. A significant number of vehicles with “LPR” plates were also observed crossing the border in both directions on a daily basis. The OTs also observed vehicles with Georgian, Armenian and Lithuanian licence plates.
On 15 December at 10:15, the OT at the Donetsk BCP observed a black funeral minivan entering the BCP from Ukraine. The OT noticed only driver on board. After undergoing customs control procedures, the minivan crossed the border into the Russian Federation.
On 19 December at 01:17, the OT at the Donetsk BCP observed a white funeral minivan, entering the BCP from Ukraine. The vehicle had an inscription “Funeral Transport” (in Russian) on the side. The OT noticed only the driver on board. After undergoing customs control procedures, the minivan crossed the border into the Russian Federation.
On 17 December at 06:34, the ninety-ninth[4] Russian convoy arrived at the Donetsk Border Crossing Point (BCP). A total of seven vehicles were checked by Russian Federation border guards and customs officers prior to their crossing into Ukraine. All seven vehicles had crossed back into the Russian Federation the same day. (See OM Spot Report of 17 December 2020: https://www.osce.org/observer-mission-at-russian-checkpoints-gukovo-and-...)
For trends and figures at a glance covering the period from 10 November to 22 December 2020, please see the attachment here.
[1]First responders are OSCE staff or Mission members deployed for a short period of time.
[2]Based on data received from the Regional Representation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation.
[3]Cargo minivans: light commercial vehicles with a maximum authorized mass of more than 3.5 t and not more than 7.5 t; with or without a trailer with a maximum mass of less than 750 kg (small cargo vehicles which correspond to driving licence C1).
[4]Based on the Observer Mission’s counting, this convoy is considered the ninety-seventh convoy that has crossed into Ukraine through the “Donetsk” or “Gukovo” BCPs. However, so far all these convoys crossed through the “Donetsk” BCP.


osce--2020-12-22--Hate speech online reduced as report into “STOP! Hate Speech” campaign in Bosnia Herzegovina shows

SARAJEVO , 22 December 2020 – The Press Council in Bosnia and Herzegovina ( BiH ) , with the support of the OSCE Mission to BiH , published today the analysis of the “ STOP !
Hate Speech ” campaign .
The analysis finds that while still present in media sphere , hate speech has declined in comparison with prior analyses focusing on the same web-portals conducted during previous election cycles .
Launched on 16 October 2020 the campaign was aimed at identifying and responding to hate speech in online commentary during the 2020 local election campaign .
From 16 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from across 14 internet web portals in BiH were monitored and analyzed .
“ The Press Council of BiH and other relevant institutions helped familiarise the public with possible legal repercussions of hate speech .
Failure of public , state and political leaders to demonstrate decency and the type of discourse they engage in greatly contributes to shaping public opinion and triggering reactions of readers who use on-line media to channel their frustrations , ” said Darko Maric , analyst and author of the analysis .
“ It is essential that such leaders @ @ @ @ @ @ @ often overlook the fact that freedom of speech is not and should not be used as an excuse for hate speech.
” Head of the OSCE Mission to BiH , Kathleen Kavalec , said : “ I am glad to see that the use of offensive , divisive or humiliating language during this election campaign cycle appears to have decreased .
We can not yet be sure whether this decline will be sustained , but these results can motivate us to unite our efforts and to combat spreading views that could fuel intolerance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Working closely with editors and journalists , the Press Council of BiH has been fighting hate speech online for the past ten years , while making sure that freedom of speech is protected and pointing to its abuses .
“ Media outlets that care about their credibility understand that dissemination of hateful messages in comments sections poses danger and is punishable under the law .
That is why they are finding ways to eliminate such comments and react to suggestions of the Press Council of BiH .
These encouraging results motivate us to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ online sphere and create more room for dialogue among participants in online communication , based on arguments , ” said Dzenana Burek , Executive Director of the Press Council in BiH .

SARAJEVO, 22 December 2020 – The Press Council in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH), with the support of the OSCE Mission to BiH, published today the analysis of the “STOP! Hate Speech” campaign. The analysis finds that while still present in media sphere, hate speech has declined in comparison with prior analyses focusing on the same web-portals conducted during previous election cycles.
Launched on 16 October 2020 the campaign was aimed at identifying and responding to hate speech in online commentary during the 2020 local election campaign. From 16 October to 30 November, user comments from across 14 internet web portals in BiH were monitored and analyzed.
“The Press Council of BiH and other relevant institutions helped familiarise the public with possible legal repercussions of hate speech. Failure of public, state and political leaders to demonstrate decency and the type of discourse they engage in greatly contributes to shaping public opinion and triggering reactions of readers who use on-line media to channel their frustrations,” said Darko Maric, analyst and author of the analysis. “It is essential that such leaders be held accountable, given that they often overlook the fact that freedom of speech is not and should not be used as an excuse for hate speech.”
Head of the OSCE Mission to BiH, Kathleen Kavalec, said: “I am glad to see that the use of offensive, divisive or humiliating language during this election campaign cycle appears to have decreased. We cannot yet be sure whether this decline will be sustained, but these results can motivate us to unite our efforts and to combat spreading views that could fuel intolerance or spark conflict in local communities.”
Working closely with editors and journalists, the Press Council of BiH has been fighting hate speech online for the past ten years, while making sure that freedom of speech is protected and pointing to its abuses.
“Media outlets that care about their credibility understand that dissemination of hateful messages in comments sections poses danger and is punishable under the law. That is why they are finding ways to eliminate such comments and react to suggestions of the Press Council of BiH. These encouraging results motivate us to stay engaged in reducing hate speech in online sphere and create more room for dialogue among participants in online communication, based on arguments,” said Dzenana Burek, Executive Director of the Press Council in BiH.


osce--2020-12-21--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 303/2020 issued on 21 December 2020

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osce--2020-12-21--OSCE Project Co-ordinator supports self-employment of women as post COVID-19 economic rehabilitation

On 20 December 2020 , the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan ( PCUz ) concluded a series of training courses on how to set up an online culinary business as a means of economic rehabilitation following the COVID-19 pandemic .
The courses were attended by 28 women and began on 17 December with a three-day series of culinary master classes conducted by Shirin Alimova , a self-made female entrepreneur who now runs a chain of confectionary stores and is a member of the World Association of Chefs ' Societies .
The training courses were part of the OSCE PCUz ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ female entrepreneurs through digital means , which were implemented jointly with Coca-Cola , IT-Park Uzbekistan and the Business Women Association .
Another one of PCUz ’ s activities in 2020 was supporting a women-led start-up , ‘ Coozin ’ , which developed a digital platform to help women run online culinary businesses and to provide online training courses on how to start an online business .
More than 70 women have taken part in the courses since the launch of the digital platform .
Hans-Ullrich Ihm , Senior Project Officer at the OSCE @ @ @ @ @ @ @ platform will allow women to sell their products online and share their practical experiences in the format of video lessons .
”

On 20 December 2020, the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan (PCUz) concluded a series of training courses on how to set up an online culinary business as a means of economic rehabilitation following the COVID-19 pandemic.
The courses were attended by 28 women and began on 17 December with a three-day series of culinary master classes conducted by Shirin Alimova, a self-made female entrepreneur who now runs a chain of confectionary stores and is a member of the World Association of Chefs' Societies.
The training courses were part of the OSCE PCUz’s 2020 project activities aimed at supporting female entrepreneurs through digital means, which were implemented jointly with Coca-Cola, IT-Park Uzbekistan and the Business Women Association.
Another one of PCUz’s activities in 2020 was supporting a women-led start-up, ‘Coozin’, which developed a digital platform to help women run online culinary businesses and to provide online training courses on how to start an online business. More than 70 women have taken part in the courses since the launch of the digital platform.
Hans-Ullrich Ihm, Senior Project Officer at the OSCE PCUz, said: “This unique platform will allow women to sell their products online and share their practical experiences in the format of video lessons.”


osce--2020-12-21--OSCE Centre in Ashgabat and Foreign Ministry of Turkmenistan present plan for projects in 2021

The OSCE Centre in Ashgabat and the government of Turkmenistan presented the plan for projects intended for joint implementation in 2021 during an online briefing on 21 December 2020 .
The event brought together officials of the Turkmen government , including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs , and key national partner institutions as well as representatives of international organizations and embassies of OSCE participating States and Partners for Co-operation accredited in Turkmenistan .
Opening the briefing , Natalya Drozd , Head of the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat , stressed that the departing year was successful with many results for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pandemic .
“ Success of our activities would not be possible without our national partners , and I would like to express sincere appreciation to the host government , the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and all partner institutions for constructive co-operation and efficient support for our activities throughout the year , ” said Drozd .
Representatives from the Centre briefed participants on its project activities throughout 2020 , which focused on preventive diplomacy and border management , trade and transport facilitation and environmental protection , rule of law and media reform .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ related to the global COVID-19 health crisis and addressing its consequences across different spheres were also emphasized .
“ The year 2021 promises to be even more active and yield more results than the departing year , ” said Drozd .
” We designed the project plan for next year to build on the achievements of the previous years while also taking into account the OSCE ’ s priorities for 2021 and the objectives set by the host government.
” “ It is my firm belief that our activities in the upcoming year @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Turkmenistan and the OSCE and attaining our common goals , ” she added .
In 2021 , the Centre will continue its essential projects and will launch a number of groundbreaking initiatives , including on strengthening cybersecurity and digitalization of customs procedures , developing e-commerce , attracting foreign investments , trial monitoring , as well as the interaction of state institutions with the public and media during pandemic and emergency situations .
The work of the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat under the leadership of Natalya Drozd and its contribution to strengthening Turkmenistan ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the state order ‘ Bitaraplyk ’ ( Neutrality ) award presented by the Turkmen government to the Head of Centre , Natalya Drozd , on the occasion of the 25th anniversary of Turkmenistan 's Permanent Neutrality celebrated on 12 December 2020 .
The award will serve as an impetus for continuing and enhancing the Centre ’ s collaboration with the host country and will strengthen the image of the OSCE in Turkmenistan .

The OSCE Centre in Ashgabat and the government of Turkmenistan presented the plan for projects intended for joint implementation in 2021 during an online briefing on 21 December 2020.
The event brought together officials of the Turkmen government, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and key national partner institutions as well as representatives of international organizations and embassies of OSCE participating States and Partners for Co-operation accredited in Turkmenistan.
Opening the briefing, Natalya Drozd, Head of the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat, stressed that the departing year was successful with many results for the Centre despite restrictions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Success of our activities would not be possible without our national partners, and I would like to express sincere appreciation to the host government, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and all partner institutions for constructive co-operation and efficient support for our activities throughout the year,” said Drozd.
Representatives from the Centre briefed participants on its project activities throughout 2020, which focused on preventive diplomacy and border management, trade and transport facilitation and environmental protection, rule of law and media reform. The Centre’s initiatives on preventative measures related to the global COVID-19 health crisis and addressing its consequences across different spheres were also emphasized.
“The year 2021 promises to be even more active and yield more results than the departing year,” said Drozd. ”We designed the project plan for next year to build on the achievements of the previous years while also taking into account the OSCE’s priorities for 2021 and the objectives set by the host government.”
“It is my firm belief that our activities in the upcoming year will further contribute to strengthening co-operation between Turkmenistan and the OSCE and attaining our common goals,” she added.
In 2021, the Centre will continue its essential projects and will launch a number of groundbreaking initiatives, including on strengthening cybersecurity and digitalization of customs procedures, developing e-commerce, attracting foreign investments, trial monitoring, as well as the interaction of state institutions with the public and media during pandemic and emergency situations.
The work of the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat under the leadership of Natalya Drozd and its contribution to strengthening Turkmenistan’s co-operation with the OSCE was recognized with the state order ‘Bitaraplyk’ (Neutrality) award presented by the Turkmen government to the Head of Centre, Natalya Drozd, on the occasion of the 25th anniversary of Turkmenistan's Permanent Neutrality celebrated on 12 December 2020. The award will serve as an impetus for continuing and enhancing the Centre’s collaboration with the host country and will strengthen the image of the OSCE in Turkmenistan.


osce--2020-12-21--OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan promotes environmental education in pre-school education fac

OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan promotes environmental education in pre-school education facilities

On 20 December 2020 , training for the management and teachers in 13 pre-school education organizations concluded the OSCE Project @ @ @ @ @ ( PCUz ) series of activities in 2020 aimed at introducing environmental education in pre-school @ @ @ @ @ total of 50 staff members from selected organizations underwent training on the education of children @ @ @ @ @ to 6 years on environmental behaviour and waste sorting .
The training course was based @ @ @ @ @ by the PCUz jointly with the partners , public movement Hashar Week and tested on @ @ @ @ @ during the week .
These activities were implemented in the framework of the project supporting @ @ @ @ @ economy policies and mechanisms and in the framework of the Memorandum of Understanding signed by @ @ @ @ @ Ministry of Pre-School Education and Cycling Federation of Uzbekistan earlier in November .
The Memorandum @ @ @ @ @ cycling education in 13 selected pre-school facilities and further scaling across the country and development @ @ @ @ @ environmental behavior among children and their parents .

On 20 December 2020, training for the management and teachers in 13 pre-school education organizations concluded the OSCE Project Co-ordinator’s in Uzbekistan (PCUz) series of activities in 2020 aimed at introducing environmental education in pre-school education in Uzbekistan.
A total of 50 staff members from selected organizations underwent training on the education of children at the age of 3 to 6 years on environmental behaviour and waste sorting. The training course was based on the interactive game developed by the PCUz jointly with the partners, public movement Hashar Week and tested on the focus group of children during the week.
These activities were implemented in the framework of the project supporting the government on introducing green economy policies and mechanisms and in the framework of the Memorandum of Understanding signed by the PCUz, and the Ministry of Pre-School Education and Cycling Federation of Uzbekistan earlier in November.
The Memorandum includes piloting of environmental and cycling education in 13 selected pre-school facilities and further scaling across the country and development of animated media materials promoting environmental behavior among children and their parents.


osce--2020-12-21--OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan supports development of the draft National Action Plan on im

OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan supports development of the draft National Action Plan on implementing the Recommendations of the UN Committee Against Torture

The OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan co-organized a webinar to discuss drafting of the National Action Plan ( NAP ) @ @ @ @ @ Recommendations of the UN Committee Against Torture ( CAT ) .
The event took place @ @ @ @ @ The webinar was held in co-operation with the National Human Rights Centre of the Republic @ @ @ @ @ of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights in Central Asia and the United @ @ @ @ @ .
During the event , international experts from the UN Subcommittee on Prevention of Torture @ @ @ @ @ for Human Rights ' Regional Office for Central Asia and the OSCE shared experiences of @ @ @ @ @ developing and implementing the NAPs on the implementation of the Recommendations of the UN CAT @ @ @ @ @ platform for the officials of the judiciary and law enforcement agencies of the Republic of @ @ @ @ @ agencies , and civil society institutions to exchange ideas on further improving the state policy @ @ @ @ @

The OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan co-organized a webinar to discuss drafting of the National Action Plan (NAP) on the implementation of the Recommendations of the UN Committee Against Torture (CAT). The event took place on 17 December 2020.
The webinar was held in co-operation with the National Human Rights Centre of the Republic of Uzbekistan, the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights in Central Asia and the United Nations Development Program in Uzbekistan.
During the event, international experts from the UN Subcommittee on Prevention of Torture, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights' Regional Office for Central Asia and the OSCE shared experiences of a number of countries in developing and implementing the NAPs on the implementation of the Recommendations of the UN CAT.
The webinar provided a platform for the officials of the judiciary and law enforcement agencies of the Republic of Uzbekistan, relevant ministries and agencies, and civil society institutions to exchange ideas on further improving the state policy on prevention of torture.


osce--2020-12-21--OSCE Project Co-ordinator supports combating corruption through open data promotion

On 18 December 2020 , the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan ( PCUz ) held an online seminar on open data for anti-corruption .
The event was organized in co-operation with the State Committee of the Republic of Uzbekistan on statistics and the Anti-corruption Agency of the Republic of Uzbekistan along with the International Open Data Charter ( ODC ) .
The seminar was organized to introduce practical tools known as the “ Open Up Guides ” curated resources on how to publish and use open data for preventing corruption .
Experts of the ODC , invited by the PCUz @ @ @ @ @ @ @ data for anti-corruption and explained how to implement the Anti-Corruption Tool of Open Up Guide .
During group discussion sessions , participants exchanged views on prospects of open data usage .
Over 40 participants attended the event , including data officers and other specialists of the Ministry of Economic Development and Poverty Reduction , Ministry of Finance , Ministry of Foreign Investment and Trade , Ministry of Justice , State Customs Committee , State Tax Committee , the Central Bank and others .
“ Ensuring an efficient system of open data is a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and strengthening good governance ” said Hans-Ullrich Ihm , Senior Project Officer at the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan .
“ This seminar will support the promotion of open data initiatives in Uzbekistan .
”

On 18 December 2020, the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan (PCUz) held an online seminar on open data for anti-corruption. The event was organized in co-operation with the State Committee of the Republic of Uzbekistan on statistics and the Anti-corruption Agency of the Republic of Uzbekistan along with the International Open Data Charter (ODC).
The seminar was organized to introduce practical tools known as the “Open Up Guides” curated resources on how to publish and use open data for preventing corruption. Experts of the ODC, invited by the PCUz, spoke about the value of open data for anti-corruption and explained how to implement the Anti-Corruption Tool of Open Up Guide. During group discussion sessions, participants exchanged views on prospects of open data usage.
Over 40 participants attended the event, including data officers and other specialists of the Ministry of Economic Development and Poverty Reduction, Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Foreign Investment and Trade, Ministry of Justice, State Customs Committee, State Tax Committee, the Central Bank and others.
“Ensuring an efficient system of open data is a fundamental crux for the prevention of corruption and strengthening good governance” said Hans-Ullrich Ihm, Senior Project Officer at the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan. “This seminar will support the promotion of open data initiatives in Uzbekistan.”


osce--2020-12-19--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 302/2020 issued on 19 December 2020


osce--2020-12-18--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 301/2020 issued on 18 December 2020


osce--2020-12-18--On International Human Solidarity Day, AECT calls on States to support anti-trafficking civil societ

On International Human Solidarity Day, AECT calls on States to support anti-trafficking civil society organizations in times of COVID-19 pandemic

VIENNA , 18 December 2020 – On the occasion of the International Human Solidarity Day , 20 December , the Alliance against Trafficking in Persons ' Expert Co-ordination Team ( AECT ) calls on States to increase their support to anti-trafficking civil society organizations during the COVID-19 pandemic .
With the virus ' spread , the world faces an unprecedented threat to public health that , in turn , creates extraordinary challenges to the economic and social cohesion of all communities .
This poses an amplified risk of trafficking in human beings due to increased vulnerabilities , changing modus operandi @ @ @ @ @ @ @ enforcement , service providers and other anti-trafficking stakeholders , and impeded access to assistance .
Civil society organizations are particularly well placed to complement governments ' activities in combating trafficking in human beings .
However , they often face legal , financial and practical challenges affecting their daily work , which has been exacerbated by the pandemic .
The AECT believes that national strategies and actions to combat trafficking in human beings , particularly in the current environment , would benefit substantially from the inclusion of and support to civil society organizations working @ @ @ @ @ @ @ victims .
The AECT is a broad international forum that includes international , non-governmental , and inter-governmental organizations joining forces to prevent and combat human trafficking .
It helps develop effective joint strategies and provides OSCE participating States and Partners for Co-operation with innovative and co-ordinated approaches to strengthen the prevention of trafficking in human beings and the fight against it .
The Team provides a unique platform for co-ordination , expert exchange and consultation among over 30 key international and regional organizations and civil society networks active in combating trafficking in human @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Russian here .
On behalf of the AECT ( in alphabetical order ) : Anti-Slavery International ; Council of Europe ( CoE ) ; Council of the Baltic Sea States ( CBSS ) ; ECPAT International ; European Women 's Lobby ; Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime ; International Centre for Migration Policy Development ( ICMPD ) ; International Labour Organization ( ILO ) ; International Network of NGOs against Trafficking in Human Beings and Other Forms of Violence ( chaired in 2019-2020 by Volunteers ’ Movement “ The Alternative ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ IOM ) ; International Trade Union Confederation ( ITUC ) ; La Strada International ; Missing Children Europe ; Office of the OSCE Special Representative and Co-ordinator for Combating Trafficking in Human Beings ( OSCE OSR/CTHB ) ; Platform for International Cooperation on Undocumented Migrants ( PICUM ) ; Terre des Hommes ; The Churches ' Commission for Migrants in Europe ( CCME ) ; United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women ( UN WOMEN ) ; United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights ( OHCHR ) ; United @ @ @ @ @ @ @ )

VIENNA, 18 December 2020 – On the occasion of the International Human Solidarity Day, 20 December, the Alliance against Trafficking in Persons' Expert Co-ordination Team (AECT) calls on States to increase their support to anti-trafficking civil society organizations during the COVID-19 pandemic.
With the virus' spread, the world faces an unprecedented threat to public health that, in turn, creates extraordinary challenges to the economic and social cohesion of all communities. This poses an amplified risk of trafficking in human beings due to increased vulnerabilities, changing modus operandi of criminals, reduced activities of law enforcement, service providers and other anti-trafficking stakeholders, and impeded access to assistance.
Civil society organizations are particularly well placed to complement governments' activities in combating trafficking in human beings. However, they often face legal, financial and practical challenges affecting their daily work, which has been exacerbated by the pandemic.
The AECT believes that national strategies and actions to combat trafficking in human beings, particularly in the current environment, would benefit substantially from the inclusion of and support to civil society organizations working to prevent human trafficking and assist its victims.
The AECT is a broad international forum that includes international, non-governmental, and inter-governmental organizations joining forces to prevent and combat human trafficking. It helps develop effective joint strategies and provides OSCE participating States and Partners for Co-operation with innovative and co-ordinated approaches to strengthen the prevention of trafficking in human beings and the fight against it.
The Team provides a unique platform for co-ordination, expert exchange and consultation among over 30 key international and regional organizations and civil society networks active in combating trafficking in human beings.
Entire statement available in English and Russian here.
On behalf of the AECT (in alphabetical order): Anti-Slavery International ; Council of Europe (CoE) ; Council of the Baltic Sea States (CBSS) ; ECPAT International ; European Women's Lobby ; Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime ; International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD) ; International Labour Organization (ILO) ; International Network of NGOs against Trafficking in Human Beings and Other Forms of Violence (chaired in 2019-2020 by Volunteers’ Movement “The Alternative”) ; International Organization for Migration (IOM) ; International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) ; La Strada International ; Missing Children Europe ; Office of the OSCE Special Representative and Co-ordinator for Combating Trafficking in Human Beings (OSCE OSR/CTHB) ; Platform for International Cooperation on Undocumented Migrants (PICUM) ; Terre des Hommes ; The Churches' Commission for Migrants in Europe (CCME); United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN WOMEN) ; United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) ; United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)


osce--2020-12-18--OSCE completes pilot training course on prevention of human trafficking and labour exploitation in s

OSCE completes pilot training course on prevention of human trafficking and labour exploitation in supply chains

No activities of the OSCE executive structures , including contracts for goods and services , should ever contribute to any form of trafficking in human beings - was the base of the OSCE Office of the Special Representative and Co-ordinator for Combating Trafficking in Human Being pilot training course .
Focused on the prevention of human trafficking and labour exploitation in supply chains , including OSCE ’ s , the course was held from 3 to17 December 2020 .
The OSCE procurement and project staff attended the course .
The content was based on the draft Guidance for OSCE Procurement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ staff better to understand risks in the OSCE supply chains , review their own practices to address such risks and to be part of a wider effort to CTHB/LE in-supply chains .
The course provided a conceptual overview for understanding countering trafficking for labour exploitations and organizational commitments that are relevant for the OSCE ’ s procurement procedures and allowed participants to analyse and reflect on how it would affect their department .
A pilot round was conducted over three online sessions to test the developed material and receive input from OSCE procurement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ field operations and all executive structures , on what other information is needed and what aspects should be added .
The course consisted of : • Key concepts and laws on CTHB/LE and the risks of CTHB/LE in OSCE supply chains ; • Using procurement processes and contracting to prevent risks of CTHB/LE ; • Supply chain mapping and addressing risks through each stage of the procurement process , from drafting to terminating a contract ; The course also had two modules which addressed procurement staff only : human rights risks assessment and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ monitoring the procurement progress , as well as understanding the value of partnerships and collaboration in managing risks in procurement .
The final version of the training course , for a broader audience of OSCE staff members , will start in 2021 .
This activity supports the goals and commitments the OSCE set in the 2013 Addendum to the OSCE Action Plan , and the OSCE MC Decision 6/17 from 2017 .

No activities of the OSCE executive structures, including contracts for goods and services, should ever contribute to any form of trafficking in human beings - was the base of the OSCE Office of the Special Representative and Co-ordinator for Combating Trafficking in Human Being pilot training course. Focused on the prevention of human trafficking and labour exploitation in supply chains, including OSCE’s, the course was held from 3 to17 December 2020.
The OSCE procurement and project staff attended the course. The content was based on the draft Guidance for OSCE Procurement on CTHB/LE in supply chains, allowing staff better to understand risks in the OSCE supply chains, review their own practices to address such risks and to be part of a wider effort to CTHB/LE in-supply chains.
The course provided a conceptual overview for understanding countering trafficking for labour exploitations and organizational commitments that are relevant for the OSCE’s procurement procedures and allowed participants to analyse and reflect on how it would affect their department.
A pilot round was conducted over three online sessions to test the developed material and receive input from OSCE procurement and programmatic staff from the Secretariat, field operations and all executive structures, on what other information is needed and what aspects should be added.
The course consisted of:
Key concepts and laws on CTHB/LE and the risks of CTHB/LE in OSCE supply chains;
Using procurement processes and contracting to prevent risks of CTHB/LE;
Supply chain mapping and addressing risks through each stage of the procurement process, from drafting to terminating a contract;
The course also had two modules which addressed procurement staff only: human rights risks assessment and contract management; engaging with suppliers and monitoring the procurement progress, as well as understanding the value of partnerships and collaboration in managing risks in procurement.
The final version of the training course, for a broader audience of OSCE staff members, will start in 2021. This activity supports the goals and commitments the OSCE set in the 2013 Addendum to the OSCE Action Plan, and the OSCE MC Decision 6/17 from 2017.


osce--2020-12-18--Your vote matters - Statement of Kathleen Kavalec, Head of the OSCE Mission to BiH, on the upcoming

Your vote matters - Statement of Kathleen Kavalec, Head of the OSCE Mission to BiH, on the upcoming local elections in Mostar

SARAJEVO , 18 December 2020 - On 20 December the citizens of Mostar will , finally have the opportunity , after waiting 12 long years , to vote in local elections for the City of Mostar .
I encourage all eligible voters to use this opportunity to strengthen democracy by exercising your right to vote for the candidates you believe will best serve the interests of your community .
n this difficult time of the COVID-19 pandemic , we urge all voters to protect both themselves and polling station workers by wearing masks and respecting all epidemiological measures while voting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ political parties , coalitions , and independent candidates participating in these local elections signed a pledge to respect the principles of free and fair elections .
Those who signed the pledge agreed to ensure a peaceful and fair electoral process and to uphold key democratic principles , including to respect the legality of elections , to avoid exerting political pressure on voters , and to refrain from using inflammatory or divisive rhetoric .
We call on all political parties and candidates to respect these principles , to show respect for their competitors and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after election day , and to accept officially-confirmed electoral results .
We call for peaceful celebrations following the announcement of the results .
Local election administration officials must ensure that vote counting and tabulation are carried out in a fair and transparent manner .
Doing so will help protect the integrity of the election process and help build public trust in democracy more generally .
It is crucial that officials refrain from any activity that might jeopardize the integrity and transparency of elections , which could lead to possible prosecution or sanctions .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ BiH , let me express appreciation to the Coalition for Free and Fair Elections ‘ Pod Lupom ’ that will deploy independent observers to all polling stations in Mostar .
The presence of independent , trained election observers is one of the best safeguards of election integrity .
Citizens can also play an important role in defending the integrity of the voting by reporting any indications of possible electoral irregularities or fraud they may witness to the Central Electoral Commission , independent observers , the police and/or prosecutors .
Thank you also to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mostar Municipal Election Commissions , polling station workers , observers , police and other officials who are working so hard to make it possible for these elections to proceed as safely as possible .
By taking the time to cast your ballots , you will ensure that your voice is heard in future decisions of your local community .
The OSCE Mission to BiH looks forward to continuing to support the democratic development of Mostar for the benefit for all citizens .

SARAJEVO, 18 December 2020 - On 20 December the citizens of Mostar will, finally have the opportunity, after waiting 12 long years, to vote in local elections for the City of Mostar.
I encourage all eligible voters to use this opportunity to strengthen democracy by exercising your right to vote for the candidates you believe will best serve the interests of your community. n this difficult time of the COVID-19 pandemic, we urge all voters to protect both themselves and polling station workers by wearing masks and respecting all epidemiological measures while voting.
On 18 November 2020, numerous political parties, coalitions, and independent candidates participating in these local elections signed a pledge to respect the principles of free and fair elections. Those who signed the pledge agreed to ensure a peaceful and fair electoral process and to uphold key democratic principles, including to respect the legality of elections, to avoid exerting political pressure on voters, and to refrain from using inflammatory or divisive rhetoric. We call on all political parties and candidates to respect these principles, to show respect for their competitors and for voters before, during, and after election day, and to accept officially-confirmed electoral results. We call for peaceful celebrations following the announcement of the results.
Local election administration officials must ensure that vote counting and tabulation are carried out in a fair and transparent manner. Doing so will help protect the integrity of the election process and help build public trust in democracy more generally. It is crucial that officials refrain from any activity that might jeopardize the integrity and transparency of elections, which could lead to possible prosecution or sanctions.
On behalf of the OSCE Mission to BiH, let me express appreciation to the Coalition for Free and Fair Elections ‘Pod Lupom’ that will deploy independent observers to all polling stations in Mostar. The presence of independent, trained election observers is one of the best safeguards of election integrity. Citizens can also play an important role in defending the integrity of the voting by reporting any indications of possible electoral irregularities or fraud they may witness to the Central Electoral Commission, independent observers, the police and/or prosecutors.
Thank you also to all the members of the Central and Mostar Municipal Election Commissions, polling station workers, observers, police and other officials who are working so hard to make it possible for these elections to proceed as safely as possible.
Dear citizens of Mostar,
By taking the time to cast your ballots, you will ensure that your voice is heard in future decisions of your local community.
The OSCE Mission to BiH looks forward to continuing to support the democratic development of Mostar for the benefit for all citizens.


osce--2020-12-18--On International Migrants Day, OSCE PA migration committee head emphasizes contributions of migrants

On International Migrants Day, OSCE PA migration committee head emphasizes contributions of migrants, urges support to overcome COVID-19 challenges

COPENHAGEN , 18 December 2020 – Marking International Migrants Day , Chair of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly ’ s Ad Hoc Committee on Migration Margareta Cederfelt ( Sweden ) highlighted the contributions of migrants to society and recalled the difficulties that they face , particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic .
She noted that COVID-19 travel restrictions , border closures and lockdowns have created new challenges for migrants while exacerbating their existing vulnerabilities .
“ This year has been tough for all of us , but let us not forget that it has been harder for some than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Millions of migrants have been stranded around the world due to mobility restrictions imposed in response to the pandemic .
Many others have lost income as sectors such as hospitality , restaurants , transportation and tourism have suffered .
As we celebrate International Migrants Day under the theme ‘ Reimagining Human Mobility , ’ we should remember the migrants who need support in these difficult times.
” Cederfelt noted that the pandemic has also highlighted the valuable contributions of migrants .
“ Migrants have in many ways made life in the pandemic more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to provide food , health care , transportation , and other essential services , ” Cederfelt said .
Pointing to troubling situations in a number of countries , Cederfelt urged governments to implement independent and effective human rights monitoring mechanisms to ensure that the fundamental rights of migrants and asylum seekers are upheld , including at the borders of the European Union .
Yesterday , the Ad Hoc Committee on Migration held an online meeting focused on Bosnia and Herzegovina , which included briefings by authorities as well as representatives of inter-governmental and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Committee members heard from representatives of the Ministry of Security of Bosnia and Herzegovina , the UN High Commissioner on Refugees representative in Bosnia and Herzegovina , the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina , the Danish Refugee Council , and NGOs “ SOS Balkanroute ” and “ Are You Syrious , ” a member of the Border Violence Monitoring Network .
Participants discussed the migratory situation in the country , warning of an impending humanitarian crisis due to the planned closure of yet another reception facility without alternative accommodation plans , even @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stressed the need for urgent action to be taken to accommodate the needs of migrants without proper shelter , as well as pursuing coherent and long-term solutions to managing migration .
Other issues raised included specific protection needs of unaccompanied minors , obstacles in accessing the asylum system , border violence and “ pushbacks , ” and ongoing work in state capacity building and identifying victims of human trafficking .
The priorities of the BiH government were outlined by Saša Kecman , Advisor to the Minister at the Ministry of Security .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a number of issues , including improving the entry system , capacity building , and countering irregular migration .
Ad Hoc Committee members expressed concerns about the situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina , noting that the COVID 19 pandemic has exacerbated tensions and hostility towards migrants .
They discussed the challenges of migrants “ sleeping rough ” and recurrent reports of “ pushbacks ” along the border between BiH and Croatia , underlining the importance of reinforcing accountability through the establishment of a credible and effective monitoring mechanism with the participation of national @ @ @ @ @ @ @ society to trigger concrete action .
Cederfelt also noted that the Ad Hoc Committee on Migration is planning a field trip to BiH as soon as the conditions permit to hold consultations with a broad range of governmental and non-governmental stakeholders and to see the situation on the ground .
For more on the OSCE PA 's migration-related work , please click here .

COPENHAGEN, 18 December 2020 – Marking International Migrants Day, Chair of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly’s Ad Hoc Committee on Migration Margareta Cederfelt (Sweden) highlighted the contributions of migrants to society and recalled the difficulties that they face, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. She noted that COVID-19 travel restrictions, border closures and lockdowns have created new challenges for migrants while exacerbating their existing vulnerabilities.
“This year has been tough for all of us, but let us not forget that it has been harder for some than others,” Cederfelt said. “Millions of migrants have been stranded around the world due to mobility restrictions imposed in response to the pandemic. Many others have lost income as sectors such as hospitality, restaurants, transportation and tourism have suffered. As we celebrate International Migrants Day under the theme ‘Reimagining Human Mobility,’ we should remember the migrants who need support in these difficult times.”
Cederfelt noted that the pandemic has also highlighted the valuable contributions of migrants. “Migrants have in many ways made life in the pandemic more bearable, often working on the frontlines to provide food, health care, transportation, and other essential services,” Cederfelt said.
Pointing to troubling situations in a number of countries, Cederfelt urged governments to implement independent and effective human rights monitoring mechanisms to ensure that the fundamental rights of migrants and asylum seekers are upheld, including at the borders of the European Union.
Yesterday, the Ad Hoc Committee on Migration held an online meeting focused on Bosnia and Herzegovina, which included briefings by authorities as well as representatives of inter-governmental and non-governmental organizations working on the ground. Committee members heard from representatives of the Ministry of Security of Bosnia and Herzegovina, the UN High Commissioner on Refugees representative in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Danish Refugee Council, and NGOs “SOS Balkanroute” and “Are You Syrious,” a member of the Border Violence Monitoring Network.
Participants discussed the migratory situation in the country, warning of an impending humanitarian crisis due to the planned closure of yet another reception facility without alternative accommodation plans, even as winter is setting in. They stressed the need for urgent action to be taken to accommodate the needs of migrants without proper shelter, as well as pursuing coherent and long-term solutions to managing migration.
Other issues raised included specific protection needs of unaccompanied minors, obstacles in accessing the asylum system, border violence and “pushbacks,” and ongoing work in state capacity building and identifying victims of human trafficking. The priorities of the BiH government were outlined by Saša Kecman, Advisor to the Minister at the Ministry of Security. He explained that the Ministry is working on a number of issues, including improving the entry system, capacity building, and countering irregular migration.
Ad Hoc Committee members expressed concerns about the situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina, noting that the COVID 19 pandemic has exacerbated tensions and hostility towards migrants. They discussed the challenges of migrants “sleeping rough” and recurrent reports of “pushbacks” along the border between BiH and Croatia, underlining the importance of reinforcing accountability through the establishment of a credible and effective monitoring mechanism with the participation of national human rights institutions as well as civil society to trigger concrete action.
Cederfelt also noted that the Ad Hoc Committee on Migration is planning a field trip to BiH as soon as the conditions permit to hold consultations with a broad range of governmental and non-governmental stakeholders and to see the situation on the ground.
For more on the OSCE PA's migration-related work, please click here.


osce--2020-12-18--Like all of us, migrants need safety and stability after this year of crisis, OSCE human rights offi

Like all of us, migrants need safety and stability after this year of crisis, OSCE human rights office says

WARSAW , 18 December 2020 – In a year that has made our common humanity so clear as the world struggles to overcome the Covid-19 pandemic , greater efforts must be taken to safeguard and promote the human rights of all migrants , the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights ( ODIHR ) said on the occasion of International Migrants Day .
As we look towards 2021 in the hope it will bring health , wellbeing , and new opportunities to us and our loved ones , let us not forget the plight of the many migrants across @ @ @ @ @ @ @ move or trapped in overcrowded camps or shelters .
Whether they are travelling with their families or have left them far behind , they too are hoping that the next year will bring them safety and stability .
The pandemic has exposed many challenges already present in our societies for this ever-growing group of people , and highlighted the precarious situation in which many migrant communities across the OSCE region live .
They were affected by border closures and movement restrictions , continue to suffer from unemployment or face greater risk exposure as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and economies running .
Migrants have also found themselves the target of intolerance and hate-motivated attacks following the outbreak of the pandemic , and often unjustly blamed for the rapid spread of the virus .
Migrant women in particular have suffered from discrimination and hatred .
It ’ s important to understand that hate crime can lead to lasting trauma among victims , their families and communities as they struggle with a sense of fear and uncertainty that goes beyond the individual crimes perpetrated against them .
On today ’ s International Migrants @ @ @ @ @ @ @ OSCE countries to strengthen their commitment to combat xenophobia and protect the human rights of migrants across the region .
At the same time , better co-ordination between national services responsible for migrants is needed to ensure their long-term integration , as well as improved co-operation between host countries .
Migrants should never be left unprotected due to a lack of policy at national or international level .
In recent years , ODIHR has provided opportunities for more than 2,000 officials , experts and civil society representatives working on different aspects of migration @ @ @ @ @ @ @ good practices in areas ranging from alternatives to immigration detention through to border monitoring .
Other ODIHR resources in this area , including policy recommendations and guidance , can be found here .

WARSAW, 18 December 2020 – In a year that has made our common humanity so clear as the world struggles to overcome the Covid-19 pandemic, greater efforts must be taken to safeguard and promote the human rights of all migrants, the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) said on the occasion of International Migrants Day.
As we look towards 2021 in the hope it will bring health, wellbeing, and new opportunities to us and our loved ones, let us not forget the plight of the many migrants across the OSCE region who remain on the move or trapped in overcrowded camps or shelters. Whether they are travelling with their families or have left them far behind, they too are hoping that the next year will bring them safety and stability.
The pandemic has exposed many challenges already present in our societies for this ever-growing group of people, and highlighted the precarious situation in which many migrant communities across the OSCE region live. They were affected by border closures and movement restrictions, continue to suffer from unemployment or face greater risk exposure as essential workers responsible for keeping our societies and economies running.
Migrants have also found themselves the target of intolerance and hate-motivated attacks following the outbreak of the pandemic, and often unjustly blamed for the rapid spread of the virus. Migrant women in particular have suffered from discrimination and hatred. It’s important to understand that hate crime can lead to lasting trauma among victims, their families and communities as they struggle with a sense of fear and uncertainty that goes beyond the individual crimes perpetrated against them.
On today’s International Migrants Day, it is therefore time for OSCE countries to strengthen their commitment to combat xenophobia and protect the human rights of migrants across the region. At the same time, better co-ordination between national services responsible for migrants is needed to ensure their long-term integration, as well as improved co-operation between host countries. Migrants should never be left unprotected due to a lack of policy at national or international level.
In recent years, ODIHR has provided opportunities for more than 2,000 officials, experts and civil society representatives working on different aspects of migration and human rights to learn and exchange good practices in areas ranging from alternatives to immigration detention through to border monitoring. Other ODIHR resources in this area, including policy recommendations and guidance, can be found here.


osce--2020-12-17--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 300/2020 issued on 17 December 2020


osce--2020-12-17--OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Banja Luka Field Office awards winners of students’ essay c

OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Banja Luka Field Office awards winners of students’ essay competition on addressing environmental challenges

The winners of the essay competition for students on the topic of “ Ecological incidents in Bosnia and Herzegovina and their possible solutions ” , which was organized by the Banja Luka Field Office of the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina ( BiH ) , were awarded on 17 December 2020 .
The OSCE Mission ’ s organizing partners in this competition were the Faculty of Natural Science and Mathematics at the University of Banja Luka ; the Faculty for Ecology at the Independent University Banja Luka ; and the Faculty for Ecology at the University for Business Studies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ issues , such as the current issue of the disposal of COVID-19 medical waste , reducing the environmental footprint , and the pyralene chemical leak in Banja Luka a few years ago .
Dr. Maja Manojlović , Assistant Professor and Head of the Symposium for Ecology and Environment Protection at the Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics University in Banja Luka stated how daily environmental incidents at the local and global levels , require us to adapt our living habits in terms of sustainability , taking care of our legacy and the legacy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Andrijana Martinov , a student of the second cycle at the Faculty of Ecology at the Independent University of Banja Luka wrote about the attitude toward COVID-19-related waste materials outside health and stationary institutions .
“ Most of us do not know why the professionals in ecological area of expertise fail to fight and offer a systemic solution to this and similar problems , ” she said .
Dmitry Iordanidi , Deputy Head of the OSCE Mission to BiH , added : “ As we all see in our daily lives , Bosnia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ including toxic air pollution , illegal dumping , poor waste management , uncontrolled construction and other problems which threaten people ’ s health , living standards , and security whilst endangering this country ’ s natural resources and rich biodiversity.
” Recognizing that a clean and safe environment is in the interests of all citizens , the OSCE Mission works to raise awareness and promote collective responses to the manifold environmental challenges that BiH faces .
The perspectives of young people presented through the essays aim at enriching the debate on how to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Considering that environmental problems are huge , stands of future ecologists are important in promoting principles of good environmental governance .

The winners of the essay competition for students on the topic of “Ecological incidents in Bosnia and Herzegovina and their possible solutions”, which was organized by the Banja Luka Field Office of the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH), were awarded on 17 December 2020.
The OSCE Mission’s organizing partners in this competition were the Faculty of Natural Science and Mathematics at the University of Banja Luka; the Faculty for Ecology at the Independent University Banja Luka; and the Faculty for Ecology at the University for Business Studies.
The essays covered a variety of issues, such as the current issue of the disposal of COVID-19 medical waste, reducing the environmental footprint, and the pyralene chemical leak in Banja Luka a few years ago.
Dr. Maja Manojlović, Assistant Professor and Head of the Symposium for Ecology and Environment Protection at the Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics University in Banja Luka stated how daily environmental incidents at the local and global levels, require us to adapt our living habits in terms of sustainability, taking care of our legacy and the legacy of future generations.
Competition winner, Andrijana Martinov, a student of the second cycle at the Faculty of Ecology at the Independent University of Banja Luka wrote about the attitude toward COVID-19-related waste materials outside health and stationary institutions. “Most of us do not know why the professionals in ecological area of expertise fail to fight and offer a systemic solution to this and similar problems,” she said.
Dmitry Iordanidi, Deputy Head of the OSCE Mission to BiH, added: “As we all see in our daily lives, Bosnia and Herzegovina faces serious environmental challenges, including toxic air pollution, illegal dumping, poor waste management, uncontrolled construction and other problems which threaten people’s health, living standards, and security whilst endangering this country’s natural resources and rich biodiversity.”
Recognizing that a clean and safe environment is in the interests of all citizens, the OSCE Mission works to raise awareness and promote collective responses to the manifold environmental challenges that BiH faces.
The perspectives of young people presented through the essays aim at enriching the debate on how to address environmental challenges from a different angle. Considering that environmental problems are huge, stands of future ecologists are important in promoting principles of good environmental governance.


osce--2020-12-17--Spot Report by OSCE Observer Mission: 99th Russian convoy of seven vehicles crossed into Ukraine and

Spot Report by OSCE Observer Mission: 99th Russian convoy of seven vehicles crossed into Ukraine and returned through Donetsk Border Crossing Point

On 17 December at 06:34 ( Moscow time ) , the ninety-ninth [ 1 ] Russian convoy arrived at the Donetsk Border Crossing Point ( BCP ) .
A total of seven vehicles were checked by Russian Federation border guards and customs officers prior to their crossing into Ukraine .
All seven vehicles had crossed back into the Russian Federation by 14:54 on 17 December .
On 17 December at 06:34 , the Observer Mission observed the arrival of a Russian convoy at the gate of the Donetsk BCP .
The convoy consisted of seven vehicles : one escort car @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was civilian and five trucks belonged to the Russian Ministry of Emergency Situations ( MES ) .
All six cargo trucks bore the inscription “ Humanitarian aid from the Russian Federation ” ( in Russian ) .
At 06:34 , the vehicles entered the customs control area .
Once the convoy arrived , the vehicles were visually checked from the outside by Russian Federation border guards and customs officers .
The truck drivers rolled up/opened the tarpaulins of the trucks and the border guards and customs officials performed a visual observation from the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ used by Russian Federation border guards to check the vehicles from the outside .
One Russian Federation border guard took photos and videoed the convoy crossing .
Three Ukrainian border guards and two customs officers were observed accompanying their Russian counter parts ; they also performed a visual observation of the vehicles from the outside ( without entering the trucks ’ cargo space ) .
By 06:46 , all seven vehicles had left the BCP towards Ukraine .
At 14:50 , the convoy returned and queued in the customs area .
The Russian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ checked the returning convoy from the outside .
Ukrainian representatives – three border guards and two customs officers – were present during this check .
The Ukrainian officials also performed visual checks of the trucks from the outside .
One dog was present and used by Russian Federation border guards to check the vehicles from the outside .
By 14:54 , all seven vehicles had crossed back into the Russian Federation .
[ 1 ] Based on the Observer Mission ’ s counting , this convoy is considered the ninety-ninth convoy that has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” or “ Gukovo ” BCPs .
However , so far all these convoys crossed through the “ Donetsk ” BCP .

SUMMARY
On 17 December at 06:34 (Moscow time), the ninety-ninth[1] Russian convoy arrived at the Donetsk Border Crossing Point (BCP). A total of seven vehicles were checked by Russian Federation border guards and customs officers prior to their crossing into Ukraine. All seven vehicles had crossed back into the Russian Federation by 14:54 on 17 December.
DETAIL
Leaving the Russian Federation
On 17 December at 06:34, the Observer Mission observed the arrival of a Russian convoy at the gate of the Donetsk BCP. The convoy consisted of seven vehicles: one escort car and six cargo trucks. One truck was civilian and five trucks belonged to the Russian Ministry of Emergency Situations (MES). All six cargo trucks bore the inscription “Humanitarian aid from the Russian Federation” (in Russian). At 06:34, the vehicles entered the customs control area. Once the convoy arrived, the vehicles were visually checked from the outside by Russian Federation border guards and customs officers. The truck drivers rolled up/opened the tarpaulins of the trucks and the border guards and customs officials performed a visual observation from the outside. One dog was present and used by Russian Federation border guards to check the vehicles from the outside. One Russian Federation border guard took photos and videoed the convoy crossing.
Three Ukrainian border guards and two customs officers were observed accompanying their Russian counter parts; they also performed a visual observation of the vehicles from the outside (without entering the trucks’ cargo space). By 06:46, all seven vehicles had left the BCP towards Ukraine.
Returning to the Russian Federation
At 14:50, the convoy returned and queued in the customs area. The Russian Federation border guards and customs officers visually checked the returning convoy from the outside. Ukrainian representatives – three border guards and two customs officers – were present during this check. The Ukrainian officials also performed visual checks of the trucks from the outside. One dog was present and used by Russian Federation border guards to check the vehicles from the outside. By 14:54, all seven vehicles had crossed back into the Russian Federation.
[1]Based on the Observer Mission’s counting, this convoy is considered the ninety-ninth convoy that has crossed into Ukraine through the “Donetsk” or “Gukovo” BCPs. However, so far all these convoys crossed through the “Donetsk” BCP.


osce--2020-12-17--Migration is key contributor to development and economic growth, say participants of OSCE conference

Migration is key contributor to development and economic growth, say participants of OSCE conference ahead of International Migrants Day

Experiences of local governments where migrants contribute successfully to the economic growth of hosting communities , was the focus of the OSCE webinar hosted on 16 December 2020 , ahead of International Migrants Day on 18 December .
Experts and practitioners from local authorities , academia , the private sector and international organizations discussed policy approaches that could harness the socioeconomic potential of diverse societies .
“ Migrants can successfully contribute to the economic growth of host communities provided policy approaches lay down the conditions to participate in the labour market , ” said Luca Fratini , the Director of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ When migrants are granted the possibility to take an active part in their own socioeconomic integration , they can trigger benefits for everyone , migrants and the host society alike.
” The Deputy Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities , Ermelinda Meksi , reminded the audience that international migration as a form of development is clearly stated in OSCE commitments in the second dimension .
“ To ensure that the potential benefits of migration are maximized and widely shared , governments need to tailor appropriate regulations , ” said Meksi @ @ @ @ @ @ @ between countries is a tremendous engine of trade , entrepreneurship , and the spread of ideas .
Assisting new destinations to absorb and benefit from migration flows is an essential part of any serious policy agenda to regulate migration in this century .
This is even more important now that the COVID-19 pandemic is calling for unprecedented collaborative efforts to cope with the negative consequences of lockdown measures and support a much needed recovery ” Since the 1975 Helsinki Final Act , OSCE participating States have acknowledged the increasing importance of and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the socio-economic development , social cohesion , security and stability in all countries .
“ Recognizing that migrants and refugees are not only people in need but also individuals with skills and talents to offer , can contribute to changing the narrative on migration , ” said Luca Pianese , OSCE Senior Migration and Security Expert .
“ In doing so , migrants can be powerful levers for economic , social and cultural development.
” The Webinar was organized jointly by the Office of the Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Office of Secretary General .

Experiences of local governments where migrants contribute successfully to the economic growth of hosting communities, was the focus of the OSCE webinar hosted on 16 December 2020, ahead of International Migrants Day on 18 December.
Experts and practitioners from local authorities, academia, the private sector and international organizations discussed policy approaches that could harness the socioeconomic potential of diverse societies.
“Migrants can successfully contribute to the economic growth of host communities provided policy approaches lay down the conditions to participate in the labour market,” said Luca Fratini, the Director of the Office of the OSCE Secretary General. “When migrants are granted the possibility to take an active part in their own socioeconomic integration, they can trigger benefits for everyone, migrants and the host society alike.”
The Deputy Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities, Ermelinda Meksi, reminded the audience that international migration as a form of development is clearly stated in OSCE commitments in the second dimension.
“To ensure that the potential benefits of migration are maximized and widely shared, governments need to tailor appropriate regulations,” said Meksi. “The physical movement of people between countries is a tremendous engine of trade, entrepreneurship, and the spread of ideas. Assisting new destinations to absorb and benefit from migration flows is an essential part of any serious policy agenda to regulate migration in this century. This is even more important now that the COVID-19 pandemic is calling for unprecedented collaborative efforts to cope with the negative consequences of lockdown measures and support a much needed recovery”
Since the 1975 Helsinki Final Act, OSCE participating States have acknowledged the increasing importance of and the benefits stemming from effective migration management for the socio-economic development, social cohesion, security and stability in all countries.
“Recognizing that migrants and refugees are not only people in need but also individuals with skills and talents to offer, can contribute to changing the narrative on migration,” said Luca Pianese, OSCE Senior Migration and Security Expert. “In doing so, migrants can be powerful levers for economic, social and cultural development.”
The Webinar was organized jointly by the Office of the Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities and the External Co-operation Section of the OSCE Office of Secretary General.


osce--2020-12-17--Press Statement of Special Representative Grau after the regular Meeting of Trilateral Contact Group

Press Statement of Special Representative Grau after the regular Meeting of Trilateral Contact Group on 16 December 2020

KYIV , 16 December 2020 — The Special Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office in Ukraine and in the Trilateral Contact Group ( TCG ) , Ambassador Heidi Grau , made the following statement to the press after the regular meetings of the TCG and its Working Groups held through video conferencing : “ Today was this year ’ s last regular meeting of the Trilateral Contact Group .
I would like to recall that the Normandy Four Summit was held in Paris in December last year .
Let this be a call for action resolutely aimed at implementing the taskings @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the leaders of the Normandy Four .
According to the assessment of the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission ( SMM ) , the ceasefire continues to be generally respected .
However , in recent weeks there have also been alarming trends towards an increase in its violations .
Compliance with the ceasefire , including the functioning of the measures to strengthen the ceasefire that came into force on 27 July 2020 , and of the co-ordination mechanism for responding to its violations , were the focus of the discussions in the Security Working Group @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a positive impact on the lives of the civilian population in the conflict zone .
However , the number of civilian casualties caused by mines and other explosive devices has increased compared to the previous year .
In this regard , I consider it essential that the agreements that have been preliminary achieved in the field of security be finalized in the TCG , including those on the identification of new demining areas , without linking this to any political preconditions .
The Political Working Group discussed issues related to the implementation of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ develop a draft action plan in full compliance with the Minsk agreements .
I look forward to the prolongation of the law `` On Special Order of Local Self-Government in Certain Areas of Donetsk and Luhansk Regions '' by the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine to help productive discussions in the Working Group .
The Humanitarian Working Group discussed the conditions for the future operation of the entry-exit crossing points ( EECPs ) on the contact line near Zolote and Shchastia of the Luhansk region .
The deliberations also concerned issues of mutual release @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as the search for missing persons .
The Economic Working Group focused on water supplies across the contact line and the payment of pensions to Ukrainian citizens residing in certain areas of the Donetsk and Luhansk regions .
The Ukrainian side reported on the opening of a multifunctional service centre at EECP Novotroitske in the Donetsk region .
On the eve of the forthcoming New Year and Christmas holidays , I once again urge the sides to respect a sustainable ceasefire .
As we continue our work in the TCG in the coming @ @ @ @ @ @ @ understanding , a constructive approach and the political will of the sides to achieve a peaceful conflict settlement .
”

KYIV, 16 December 2020 — The Special Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office in Ukraine and in the Trilateral Contact Group (TCG), Ambassador Heidi Grau, made the following statement to the press after the regular meetings of the TCG and its Working Groups held through video conferencing:
“Today was this year’s last regular meeting of the Trilateral Contact Group.
I would like to recall that the Normandy Four Summit was held in Paris in December last year. Let this be a call for action resolutely aimed at implementing the taskings given to the Trilateral Contact Group by the leaders of the Normandy Four.
According to the assessment of the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission (SMM), the ceasefire continues to be generally respected. However, in recent weeks there have also been alarming trends towards an increase in its violations.
Compliance with the ceasefire, including the functioning of the measures to strengthen the ceasefire that came into force on 27 July 2020, and of the co-ordination mechanism for responding to its violations, were the focus of the discussions in the Security Working Group.
Adherence to the ceasefire has had a positive impact on the lives of the civilian population in the conflict zone. However, the number of civilian casualties caused by mines and other explosive devices has increased compared to the previous year. In this regard, I consider it essential that the agreements that have been preliminary achieved in the field of security be finalized in the TCG, including those on the identification of new demining areas, without linking this to any political preconditions.
The Political Working Group discussed issues related to the implementation of the mandate given by the TCG to develop a draft action plan in full compliance with the Minsk agreements.
I look forward to the prolongation of the law "On Special Order of Local Self-Government in Certain Areas of Donetsk and Luhansk Regions" by the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine to help productive discussions in the Working Group.
The Humanitarian Working Group discussed the conditions for the future operation of the entry-exit crossing points (EECPs) on the contact line near Zolote and Shchastia of the Luhansk region.
The deliberations also concerned issues of mutual release and exchange of conflict-related detainees as well as the search for missing persons.
The Economic Working Group focused on water supplies across the contact line and the payment of pensions to Ukrainian citizens residing in certain areas of the Donetsk and Luhansk regions. The Ukrainian side reported on the opening of a multifunctional service centre at EECP Novotroitske in the Donetsk region.
On the eve of the forthcoming New Year and Christmas holidays, I once again urge the sides to respect a sustainable ceasefire. As we continue our work in the TCG in the coming year 2021, I hope for mutual understanding, a constructive approach and the political will of the sides to achieve a peaceful conflict settlement.”