osce--2020-09-15--Water management in focus of OSCE seminar in Turkmenistan

An OSCE-organized online seminar “ The use of innovative technologies as a key to rational water management ” opened on 15 September 2020 in Ashgabat .
The OSCE Centre in Ashgabat organized the two-day event to facilitate the exchange of best practices of OSCE participating States in the area of integration and implementation of the innovative technologies for the rational distribution and management of water resources .
The discussions will focus on climate change mitigation and the promotion of green values .
The event brings together officials from Turkmenistan ’ s Ministry of Agriculture and Environmental Protection , State Committee @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Representatives of the Executive Committee of the International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea and public organizations dealing with environmental issues are also attending .
The seminar addresses the importance of innovative technologies in rational water management and the benefits of nature-based solutions for agriculture water management .
International experts will elaborate on developing the integrated water resources management ( IWRM ) focusing on international perspective and advanced experience .
“ The innovative technological developments , which offer new broad opportunities for rational and sustainable water management , are crucial to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ use and enhancement of legal and financial framework for international co-operation in the area of water management and water diplomacy , ” said Natalya Drozd , Head of the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat .
Participants will discuss scientific and technological education as a step to a holistic approach in water management and exchanged views on the importance of water for life and food .
“ Our seminar was tailored based on the recommendations and outcomes of the regional seminar on sustainable water management organized by the Centre in November 2019 .
We look @ @ @ @ @ @ @ co-operation and to design efficient approaches to addressing water issues jointly that will result from today ’ s event , ” said Drozd .

An OSCE-organized online seminar “The use of innovative technologies as a key to rational water management” opened on 15 September 2020 in Ashgabat.
The OSCE Centre in Ashgabat organized the two-day event to facilitate the exchange of best practices of OSCE participating States in the area of integration and implementation of the innovative technologies for the rational distribution and management of water resources. The discussions will focus on climate change mitigation and the promotion of green values.
The event brings together officials from Turkmenistan’s Ministry of Agriculture and Environmental Protection, State Committee of Water Economy and other relevant institutions. Representatives of the Executive Committee of the International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea and public organizations dealing with environmental issues are also attending.
The seminar addresses the importance of innovative technologies in rational water management and the benefits of nature-based solutions for agriculture water management. International experts will elaborate on developing the integrated water resources management (IWRM) focusing on international perspective and advanced experience.
“The innovative technological developments, which offer new broad opportunities for rational and sustainable water management, are crucial to the development of efficient national systems of water use and enhancement of legal and financial framework for international co-operation in the area of water management and water diplomacy,” said Natalya Drozd, Head of the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat.
Participants will discuss scientific and technological education as a step to a holistic approach in water management and exchanged views on the importance of water for life and food.
“Our seminar was tailored based on the recommendations and outcomes of the regional seminar on sustainable water management organized by the Centre in November 2019. We look forward to new ideas to strengthen regional co-operation and to design efficient approaches to addressing water issues jointly that will result from today’s event,” said Drozd.


osce--2020-09-14--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 219/2020 issued on 14 September 2020

Sign up to receive OSCE Press Releases and Media Advisories by email as soon as they have been published .

Subscribe to OSCE
Sign up to receive OSCE Press Releases and Media Advisories by email as soon as they have been published.


osce--2020-09-14--International co-operation vital for addressing terrorism during the pandemic, OSCE PA counter-terro

International co-operation vital for addressing terrorism during the pandemic, OSCE PA counter-terrorism Chair says in Vienna

VIENNA , 14 September 2020 – Parliamentarians play a crucial role in promoting international co-operation and championing a whole-of-society approach in countering and preventing terrorism including during the pandemic , Austrian parliamentarian Reinhold Lopatka said at the 2020 OSCE-wide Counter-Terrorism Conference in Vienna today .
Lopatka , who serves as Chair of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly ’ s Ad Hoc Committee on Countering Terrorism , addressed the event following a meeting on the margins with Amb .
Igli Hasani , representing the Albanian OSCE Chairmanship .
Not only has COVID-19 greatly affected our everyday lives , Lopatka said in his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ threats such as violent extremism and terrorism .
“ The pandemic seems to have provided a fertile ground for terrorist groups to boost their online propaganda , call for new attacks , increase recruitment operations , stigmatize minorities , and above all , disseminate false and discriminatory information , ” Lopatka said .
He highlighted the timely Parliamentary Web Dialogues the PA has organized in recent months to promote policy exchanges and ensure that counter-terrorism efforts remain high on governments ’ agendas during this period .
Among the key OSCE PA findings , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time online during the pandemic , it is essential to address cybersecurity issues as a matter of priority .
It is also urgent to address the negative narratives and disinformation directed towards particular groups , he said .
Another area of priority is to focus on economic difficulties and social unrest , and redirect attention towards the most vulnerable layers of our societies , as well as those who might be more prone to radicalization in the current pandemic context , Lopatka said .
“ International co-operation in addressing terrorism is and must @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ I am confident that there is simply no other way to effectively tackle this threat which , one way or another , affects all our countries.
” The OSCE-wide conference is taking place in Vienna from 14-15 September under the theme , “ Effective Partnerships against Terrorism and Violent Extremism and Radicalization that Lead to Terrorism.
” It brings together high-level representatives and practitioners from governments , international organizations , the public and private sector , and civil society to explore ways to strengthen partnerships in the fight against terrorism .
In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the sides reiterated the focus on strengthening effective partnerships against terrorism and exploring opportunities to further enhance co-operation .
Lopatka stressed that parliamentarians have a key role in countering terrorism by developing legislation and mobilizing resources , ensuring oversight of governments and security bodies , and promoting dialogue between governments , local communities and civil society .

VIENNA, 14 September 2020 – Parliamentarians play a crucial role in promoting international co-operation and championing a whole-of-society approach in countering and preventing terrorism including during the pandemic, Austrian parliamentarian Reinhold Lopatka said at the 2020 OSCE-wide Counter-Terrorism Conference in Vienna today.
Lopatka, who serves as Chair of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly’s Ad Hoc Committee on Countering Terrorism, addressed the event following a meeting on the margins with Amb. Igli Hasani, representing the Albanian OSCE Chairmanship.
Not only has COVID-19 greatly affected our everyday lives, Lopatka said in his address, it has shifted attention from threats such as violent extremism and terrorism.
“The pandemic seems to have provided a fertile ground for terrorist groups to boost their online propaganda, call for new attacks, increase recruitment operations, stigmatize minorities, and above all, disseminate false and discriminatory information,” Lopatka said.
He highlighted the timely Parliamentary Web Dialogues the PA has organized in recent months to promote policy exchanges and ensure that counter-terrorism efforts remain high on governments’ agendas during this period.
Among the key OSCE PA findings, Lopatka underlined that with more people spending time online during the pandemic, it is essential to address cybersecurity issues as a matter of priority. It is also urgent to address the negative narratives and disinformation directed towards particular groups, he said.
Another area of priority is to focus on economic difficulties and social unrest, and redirect attention towards the most vulnerable layers of our societies, as well as those who might be more prone to radicalization in the current pandemic context, Lopatka said.
“International co-operation in addressing terrorism is and must remain vital,” concluded Lopatka. “I am confident that there is simply no other way to effectively tackle this threat which, one way or another, affects all our countries.”
The OSCE-wide conference is taking place in Vienna from 14-15 September under the theme, “Effective Partnerships against Terrorism and Violent Extremism and Radicalization that Lead to Terrorism.” It brings together high-level representatives and practitioners from governments, international organizations, the public and private sector, and civil society to explore ways to strengthen partnerships in the fight against terrorism.
In Lopatka’s meeting with Ambassador Hasani, the sides reiterated the focus on strengthening effective partnerships against terrorism and exploring opportunities to further enhance co-operation. Lopatka stressed that parliamentarians have a key role in countering terrorism by developing legislation and mobilizing resources, ensuring oversight of governments and security bodies, and promoting dialogue between governments, local communities and civil society.


osce--2020-09-14--OSCE conducts EU-funded training on sustained field operation capacity for officials of Tajikistan’s

OSCE conducts EU-funded training on sustained field operation capacity for officials of Tajikistan’s Committee of Emergency Situations and Civil Defence

The OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe started a four-week training course for 20 staff members of Tajikistan ’ s Committee of Emergency Situations and Civil Defence ( CoESCD ) on 14 September .
Participants will be able to improve skills required for addressing various emergencies .
They will work on how to prepare for conducting sustainable field operations in challenging conditions typical for the Committee 's area of operations .
Representatives of the CoESCD and the OSCE will deliver theoretical and practical sessions , which will include map reading and orientation , basic alpinism and pathfinding , and search and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ include human rights and gender-related aspects of conducting rescue operations .
This is the first in a series of training courses within the 18-month EU-funded project organized to strengthen the capacity of the Committee of Emergency Situations and Civil Defence .
“ Today ’ s training is the first action implemented through a new type of programme , which allows us to invest simultaneously in both security and sustainable development .
The project will bring together security providers and civilian actors , from both sides of the Tajik-Afghan border , and equip them @ @ @ @ @ @ @ types of crisis , ” noted Petra Gašparova , Chargé d ’ affaires of the European Union in Tajikistan .
The aim of the project “ Stabilization of Tajikistan ’ s southern border region with Afghanistan ” is to address various threats and risks related to natural disasters , which Tajikistan frequently faces along its southern border .
The project is implemented by the OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe .
“ The project will further strengthen the co-operation , built over the last years , between the OSCE and the CoESCD .
In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ between the OSCE and EU to enhance capacity of the host country in addressing relevant challenges , ” said Valeriu Chiveri , Head of the OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe .
He noted that the project will enable CoESCD officials , representing different regions of the country , to improve their skills and strengthen the capacity of the Committee to respond effectively to natural disasters and other crises , thus contributing to the overall security of Tajikistan .
Capacity-building through training courses is one part of this EU-funded project .
The project will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ work of the Committee ’ s training centre in Karatag in order to host training courses on a regular basis .
Other project activities include providing specialized equipment for first responders .
The EU has promoted security and effective border management in Tajikistan since 2003 , notably through the regional Border Management Central Asia Programme ( BOMCA ) and the Central Asia Drug Action Programme ( CADAP ) .
Through the EU ’ s Foreign Policy Instrument contributing to Peace and Stability , the EU helps building critical infrastructure in the Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , promoting cross-border dialogue for tolerance and peace , supports actions aiming at preventing violent extremism or fighting disinformation .

The OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe started a four-week training course for 20 staff members of Tajikistan’s Committee of Emergency Situations and Civil Defence (CoESCD) on 14 September.
Participants will be able to improve skills required for addressing various emergencies. They will work on how to prepare for conducting sustainable field operations in challenging conditions typical for the Committee's area of operations. Representatives of the CoESCD and the OSCE will deliver theoretical and practical sessions, which will include map reading and orientation, basic alpinism and pathfinding, and search and rescue operations. The course will also include human rights and gender-related aspects of conducting rescue operations.
This is the first in a series of training courses within the 18-month EU-funded project organized to strengthen the capacity of the Committee of Emergency Situations and Civil Defence.
“Today’s training is the first action implemented through a new type of programme, which allows us to invest simultaneously in both security and sustainable development. The project will bring together security providers and civilian actors, from both sides of the Tajik-Afghan border, and equip them to better prevent and effectively manage different types of crisis,” noted Petra Gašparova, Chargé d’affaires of the European Union in Tajikistan.
The aim of the project “Stabilization of Tajikistan’s southern border region with Afghanistan” is to address various threats and risks related to natural disasters, which Tajikistan frequently faces along its southern border. The project is implemented by the OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe.
“The project will further strengthen the co-operation, built over the last years, between the OSCE and the CoESCD. In addition, it also demonstrates good co-operation between the OSCE and EU to enhance capacity of the host country in addressing relevant challenges,” said Valeriu Chiveri, Head of the OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe. He noted that the project will enable CoESCD officials, representing different regions of the country, to improve their skills and strengthen the capacity of the Committee to respond effectively to natural disasters and other crises, thus contributing to the overall security of Tajikistan.
Capacity-building through training courses is one part of this EU-funded project. The project will also assist in conducting renovation and construction work of the Committee’s training centre in Karatag in order to host training courses on a regular basis. Other project activities include providing specialized equipment for first responders.
The EU has promoted security and effective border management in Tajikistan since 2003, notably through the regional Border Management Central Asia Programme (BOMCA) and the Central Asia Drug Action Programme (CADAP). Through the EU’s Foreign Policy Instrument contributing to Peace and Stability, the EU helps building critical infrastructure in the Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Oblast, helps stabilizing the border regions, promoting cross-border dialogue for tolerance and peace, supports actions aiming at preventing violent extremism or fighting disinformation.


osce--2020-09-14--Press Statement by the Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group

PARIS , 14 September 2020 – The Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group ( Igor Popov of the Russian Federation , Stephane Visconti of France , and Andrew Schofer of the United States of America ) held intensive consultations in Paris on September 14 .
Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office ( PRCiO ) Andrzej Kasprzyk also participated in the meetings .
The Co-Chairs reviewed the situation in the region with particular focus on new developments following the mid-July violent escalation on the Armenia-Azerbaijan border .
The Co-Chairs carefully considered and assessed the private and public messages and concerns of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by the PRCiO on the security situation on the ground and welcomed his concrete preparations for the resumption of monitoring activities .
The Co-Chairs spoke separately by phone with Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov and Armenian Foreign Minister Zohrab Mnatsakanyan and invited the ministers to meet individually with the Co-Chairs in person in the coming weeks to further clarify their respective positions , with the aim of resuming serious substantive negotiations without preconditions .
The Co-Chairs remain actively and fully engaged in facilitating negotiations for a peaceful and comprehensive settlement in accordance with @ @ @ @

PARIS, 14 September 2020 – The Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group (Igor Popov of the Russian Federation, Stephane Visconti of France, and Andrew Schofer of the United States of America) held intensive consultations in Paris on September 14. Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office (PRCiO) Andrzej Kasprzyk also participated in the meetings.
The Co-Chairs reviewed the situation in the region with particular focus on new developments following the mid-July violent escalation on the Armenia-Azerbaijan border. The Co-Chairs carefully considered and assessed the private and public messages and concerns of the sides. The Co-Chairs were briefed by the PRCiO on the security situation on the ground and welcomed his concrete preparations for the resumption of monitoring activities.
The Co-Chairs spoke separately by phone with Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov and Armenian Foreign Minister Zohrab Mnatsakanyan and invited the ministers to meet individually with the Co-Chairs in person in the coming weeks to further clarify their respective positions, with the aim of resuming serious substantive negotiations without preconditions.
The Co-Chairs remain actively and fully engaged in facilitating negotiations for a peaceful and comprehensive settlement in accordance with their OSCE mandate.


osce--2020-09-14--OSCE supports Central Asian Leadership Programme for environmental leaders

The OSCE-supported annual Central Asian Leadership Programme began on 14 September 2020 in Almaty .
The five-day online youth leadership programme was co-organized by the OSCE Programme Office in Nur-Sultan in partnership with the Regional Environmental Centre for Central Asia , the UN Environment Programme ( UNEP ) , the Office of the Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities ( OCEEA ) , the European Union , the US Agency for International Development ( USAID ) and the World Bank .
Some 45 young environmental leaders and decision-makers from the government , academic and civil society organizations of Afghanistan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan participated in the event .
Discussions focused on understanding trends to avert climate change and to address environmental challenges .
This year the programme was organized as an input to the “ Year of Volunteers in Kazakhstan ” and covered topics such as integrated water resource management , role of communities in addressing environmental challenges , regional co-operation and disaster risk reduction in the context of sustainable development and the COVID-19 pandemic .
The Central Asian Leadership Programme is in its eleventh consecutive year .
It is part of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the network of young environmental leaders in the Central Asian region and beyond and to promote regional dialogue and co-operation in environmental security and sustainable development .

The OSCE-supported annual Central Asian Leadership Programme began on 14 September 2020 in Almaty.
The five-day online youth leadership programme was co-organized by the OSCE Programme Office in Nur-Sultan in partnership with the Regional Environmental Centre for Central Asia, the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), the Office of the Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities (OCEEA), the European Union, the US Agency for International Development (USAID) and the World Bank.
Some 45 young environmental leaders and decision-makers from the government, academic and civil society organizations of Afghanistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan participated in the event. Discussions focused on understanding trends to avert climate change and to address environmental challenges. This year the programme was organized as an input to the “Year of Volunteers in Kazakhstan” and covered topics such as integrated water resource management, role of communities in addressing environmental challenges, regional co-operation and disaster risk reduction in the context of sustainable development and the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Central Asian Leadership Programme is in its eleventh consecutive year. It is part of the Office’s long-standing efforts to strengthen the network of young environmental leaders in the Central Asian region and beyond and to promote regional dialogue and co-operation in environmental security and sustainable development.


osce--2020-09-12--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 218/2020 issued on 12 September 2020


osce--2020-09-11--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 217/2020 issued on 11 September 2020


osce--2020-09-11--OSCE participating States decide the 2020 Human Dimension Implementation Meeting will not take place

OSCE participating States decide the 2020 Human Dimension Implementation Meeting will not take place due to COVID-19

VIENNA/WARSAW , 11 September 2020 – OSCE participating States today unanimously decided that the OSCE ’ s annual Human Dimension Implementation Meeting ( HDIM ) will exceptionally not take place in 2020 , due to the unique , unprecedented and unpredictable circumstances caused by the COVID-19 pandemic .
The consensus decision , taken by the OSCE Permanent Council , does not establish any precedent for the organization of the HDIM in the future .
The Albanian OSCE Chair and the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights ( ODIHR ) confirmed that they are subsequently preparing a series of new @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coming months .
The events will aim to maintain focus on topical issues related to human rights , democracy and the rule of law , which are critical for strengthening security throughout the OSCE region .
“ We are committed to continue bringing together and promoting a frank dialogue between states and civil society , and these events will be open to both , ” the Chair and ODIHR said .
The Human Dimension Implementation Meeting is Europe ’ s largest annual human rights conference , and a unique international platform for dialogue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s comprehensive concept of security , bringing together national authorities , civil society , international organizations , and academia on equal footing .

VIENNA/WARSAW, 11 September 2020 – OSCE participating States today unanimously decided that the OSCE’s annual Human Dimension Implementation Meeting (HDIM) will exceptionally not take place in 2020, due to the unique, unprecedented and unpredictable circumstances caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The consensus decision, taken by the OSCE Permanent Council, does not establish any precedent for the organization of the HDIM in the future.
The Albanian OSCE Chair and the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) confirmed that they are subsequently preparing a series of new online events to be held in the coming months. The events will aim to maintain focus on topical issues related to human rights, democracy and the rule of law, which are critical for strengthening security throughout the OSCE region.
“We are committed to continue bringing together and promoting a frank dialogue between states and civil society, and these events will be open to both,” the Chair and ODIHR said.
The Human Dimension Implementation Meeting is Europe’s largest annual human rights conference, and a unique international platform for dialogue at the core of the OSCE’s comprehensive concept of security, bringing together national authorities, civil society, international organizations, and academia on equal footing.


osce--2020-09-10--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 216/2020 issued on 10 September 2020


osce--2020-09-10--Improve transparency and institutions’ resilience in fight against corruption urge participants of 2

Improve transparency and institutions’ resilience in fight against corruption urge participants of 2020 OSCE Forum in Prague

PRAGUE , 10 September 2020 – “ Corruption shrinks tax revenue , distorts markets , hampers trade and investment and deepens inequalities .
Every time illegal private gain wins out against the public good , it weakens our social fabric .
Our objective is nothing short of zero tolerance for corruption , ” said Albania ’ s Acting Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of Albania Gent Cakaj , while opening the 2020 OSCE Economic and Environmental Forum today in Prague .
The two-day Forum focuses on preventing and combating corruption through innovation , increased transparency and digitalization in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ officials and experts from academia , NGOs , international organizations and the private sector of the 57 OSCE participating States .
“ Vast sums of money that should be spent on vital public services – education , health care , social services and all-important infrastructure – end up in the pockets of the corrupt , ” said Cakaj .
“ As we face the economic fall-out of the COVID-19 pandemic , it is our moral duty to re-double our efforts to prevent and combat corruption in order to guarantee the effective and efficient @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unprecedented crisis.
” Throughout 2020 , the OSCE addressed corruption in parallel with good governance : the other side of the corruption coin .
Tuula Yrjölä , OSCE Officer in Charge/Secretary General , Director of Conflict Prevention Centre , said that the impact of technology on security , economic and environmental issues , is a discussion worth promoting across the OSCE ’ s comprehensive agenda .
“ We can only benefit from being proactive in addressing challenges and opportunities related to this area .
Leveraging the power of innovation can be a great @ @ @ @ @ @ @ prosperity for us all.
” Tomáš Petříček , Minister of Foreign Affairs of Czech Republic , said that corruption affects to a greater or lesser extent all the OSCE participating States , including his own .
“ We must prevent and combat corruption in a comprehensive way and ensure involvement of civil society and the private sector .
It is necessary to strengthen the OSCE tools and commitments at the Ministerial Council in December in Tirana , in order to be able to fight this scourge more effectively.
” Marina Sereni , Deputy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ International Cooperation of Italy , Keith Krach , Under Secretary for Economic Growth , Energy and the Environment , U.S Department of State , Jean-Luc Lemahieu , Director of Division for Policy Analysis and Public Affairs ( UNODC ) , and Professor Paola Severino , Special Representative of the Chairperson-in-Office on Combating Corruption gave keynote speeches .
In conclusion , Cakaj said that without good governance there can be no sustainable victories in the fight against corruption .
“ We need good governance to achieve our shared 2030 sustainable development goals in relation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ transparency and the prevention of corruption , ” he said .
The fight against corruption is one of Albania ’ s 2020 OSCE Chairmanship key priorities .

PRAGUE, 10 September 2020 – “Corruption shrinks tax revenue, distorts markets, hampers trade and investment and deepens inequalities. Every time illegal private gain wins out against the public good, it weakens our social fabric. Our objective is nothing short of zero tolerance for corruption,” said Albania’s Acting Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of Albania Gent Cakaj, while opening the 2020 OSCE Economic and Environmental Forum today in Prague.
The two-day Forum focuses on preventing and combating corruption through innovation, increased transparency and digitalization in the OSCE region. It gathered senior government officials and experts from academia, NGOs, international organizations and the private sector of the 57 OSCE participating States.
“Vast sums of money that should be spent on vital public services – education, health care, social services and all-important infrastructure – end up in the pockets of the corrupt,” said Cakaj. “As we face the economic fall-out of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is our moral duty to re-double our efforts to prevent and combat corruption in order to guarantee the effective and efficient utilization of public funds in tackling this unprecedented crisis.”
Throughout 2020, the OSCE addressed corruption in parallel with good governance: the other side of the corruption coin.
Tuula Yrjölä, OSCE Officer in Charge/Secretary General, Director of Conflict Prevention Centre, said that the impact of technology on security, economic and environmental issues, is a discussion worth promoting across the OSCE’s comprehensive agenda. “We can only benefit from being proactive in addressing challenges and opportunities related to this area. Leveraging the power of innovation can be a great resource for enhancing security, stability and prosperity for us all.”
Tomáš Petříček, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Czech Republic, said that corruption affects to a greater or lesser extent all the OSCE participating States, including his own. “We must prevent and combat corruption in a comprehensive way and ensure involvement of civil society and the private sector. It is necessary to strengthen the OSCE tools and commitments at the Ministerial Council in December in Tirana, in order to be able to fight this scourge more effectively.”
Marina Sereni, Deputy Minister, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Italy, Keith Krach, Under Secretary for Economic Growth, Energy and the Environment, U.S Department of State, Jean-Luc Lemahieu, Director of Division for Policy Analysis and Public Affairs (UNODC), and Professor Paola Severino, Special Representative of the Chairperson-in-Office on Combating Corruption gave keynote speeches.
In conclusion, Cakaj said that without good governance there can be no sustainable victories in the fight against corruption. “We need good governance to achieve our shared 2030 sustainable development goals in relation to economic growth, environmental protection, transparency and the prevention of corruption,” he said.
The fight against corruption is one of Albania’s 2020 OSCE Chairmanship key priorities.


osce--2020-09-23--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 227/2020 issued on 23 September 2020


osce--2020-09-23--Poland presidential election 2020: ODIHR Special Election Assessment Mission Final Report

The presidential election in Poland was professionally managed despite legal uncertainty during the electoral process and gaps in regulating important aspects .
These are some of the main conclusions from the final report on the Polish presidential election held over two rounds on 28 June and 12 July 2020 , as published by the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights ( ODIHR ) .
The decision to proceed with the constitutionally mandated election following the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic necessitated legal and practical adjustments .
However , some of the changes jeopardized the stability and clarity of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for candidate registration , campaigning and campaign finance , voting methods , and resolution of election disputes .
Candidates campaigned freely but intolerant rhetoric , failure by the public broadcaster to ensure balanced and impartial coverage and cases of misuse of state resources diminished the process .
The report offers 33 recommendations to improve the conduct of elections in Poland and to support efforts in aligning them with OSCE commitments , as well as other international obligations and standards for democratic elections .
• Ensuring that changes to electoral legislation , including for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of law and are timely , enabling a meaningful public debate • Amending the legislation to adequately define and explicitly prohibit misuse of public funds , including campaigning by public officials and favourable treatment of incumbents by public media • Ensuring the editorial independence of the public broadcaster , including through a transparent and competitive selection process for management and legal safeguards for financial sustainability and autonomy • Upholding effective oversight during the campaign by setting up a related body provided with adequate powers to quickly tackle campaign finance-related complaints and enforce sanctions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Broadcasting Council through law and requiring the authority to actively monitor the broadcast media in order to fulfil its mandate to ensure impartial coverage • Ending restrictions on the electoral rights of persons with intellectual or psychosocial disabilities • Reviewing the Election Code to provide an effective remedy regarding complaints that challenge the election results between the two rounds

The presidential election in Poland was professionally managed despite legal uncertainty during the electoral process and gaps in regulating important aspects. These are some of the main conclusions from the final report on the Polish presidential election held over two rounds on 28 June and 12 July 2020, as published by the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR).
The decision to proceed with the constitutionally mandated election following the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic necessitated legal and practical adjustments. However, some of the changes jeopardized the stability and clarity of the election legislation and had practical implications for candidate registration, campaigning and campaign finance, voting methods, and resolution of election disputes. Candidates campaigned freely but intolerant rhetoric, failure by the public broadcaster to ensure balanced and impartial coverage and cases of misuse of state resources diminished the process.
The report offers 33 recommendations to improve the conduct of elections in Poland and to support efforts in aligning them with OSCE commitments, as well as other international obligations and standards for democratic elections.
Key recommendations include:


osce--2020-09-23--OSCE Parliamentary Assembly Bureau holds discussion with Belarusian Head of Delegation and exiled op

OSCE Parliamentary Assembly Bureau holds discussion with Belarusian Head of Delegation and exiled opposition leader, urges further dialogue

COPENHAGEN , 23 September 2020 – OSCE Parliamentary Assembly President George Tsereteli ( Georgia ) and Secretary General Roberto Montella opened a web meeting today with Belarusian Head of Delegation Andrei Savinykh , Belarusian opposition presidential candidate Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya , and OSCE PA Bureau members by noting the importance of building dialogue for the benefit of all .
Following weeks of increased polarization in Belarus characterized by street protests , violence and mass arrests , what is needed is to find common ground and pursue a way forward for the country , the PA leaders stressed .
In her opening @ @ @ @ @ @ @ events in Belarus have surpassed anything previously experienced .
The 9 August election was marred by irregularities both on election day and before with the exclusion of candidates , she said .
Subsequent demonstrations were met by state repression , she underlined , which has led to greater resolve for democratic change from the Belarusian people .
( Video is available here . )
Tsikhanouskaya said that Alexander Lukashenko has lost support from Belarusian society and to facilitate transition of power , she instituted the Coordination Council on 14 August .
The country @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she noted , asserting that the only solution is a new election .
The OSCE has a role in facilitating dialogue and promoting the conduct of fair elections , she said , expressing support for the move by 17 OSCE participating States to invoke the Moscow Mechanism on 17 September to examine alleged human rights violations .
“ We have the right to a free and fair election and we will achieve that , ” Tsikhanouskaya said .
“ We are firm in our resolution and we will prevail.
” Andrei Savinykh disputed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ illegitimate , highlighting exit polls showing broad support for the incumbent .
He stressed that attempts to take power by unconstitutional means are punishable by law .
Savinykh noted that Belarus is planning some constitutional changes , to be undertaken by 2022 , in order to liberalize the political system , transfer power from the Presidency to the Parliament and achieve more balance between the three branches of power , as well as to empower political parties .
There is also a need to modernize the law on mass events , he said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unsanctioned by local authorities .
“ We will implement all the changes only through peaceful , normal dialogue with actors inside of Belarus – actors who are interested in achieving results in the interests of the whole country , ” he said .
In the discussion , ten members of the Bureau took the floor and raised issues related to the need for dialogue without preconditions .
Neither side should exclude the other and both should strive to find a creative mechanism to engage in discussions , it was stressed .
Members highlighted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ role of the OSCE .
All OSCE countries have committed to respecting human rights , it was pointed out , with members noting that reports of abuse in Belarusian jails are disturbing .
President Tsereteli stressed that authorities must find a more constructive way forward .
There is a need for commitment on both sides to find common ground , he said , noting that the OSCE PA is well suited to facilitate and support that process .
“ We need more wisdom and more patience , ” Tsereteli said .
When it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ direct dialogue with the Coordination Council , Savinykh raised concerns over its status as a lawful body , noting that it is outside of the legal structure of the Belarusian political system .
He said however that the government is eager to act in the interests of Belarusian society .
Savinykh said that human rights are a fundamental obligation , noting that there is room for development of human rights standards in Belarus .
In order to develop it , however , he noted the importance of formal legal processes , highlighting the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the electoral code .
Tsikhanouskaya noted that with so many opposition leaders in prison , there is a need for amnesty in order for any meaningful dialogue to take place .
OSCE PA Bureau members said that effort should be made to continue discussions between the authorities and the opposition , even if they are not done through official channels .
Informal dialogue can be done in small steps that are useful in building trust , and this can be pursued without preconditions , it was stressed .
Secretary General Montella said that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ possible common ground at this point in time and pursue a constructive way forward for Belarus rather than arguing on irreconcilable and polarized narratives of past facts .
The OSCE PA will follow up in the coming days with both sides to define a way forward in the interest of all Belarus citizens .
Video of the online meeting is available here .

COPENHAGEN, 23 September 2020 – OSCE Parliamentary Assembly President George Tsereteli (Georgia) and Secretary General Roberto Montella opened a web meeting today with Belarusian Head of Delegation Andrei Savinykh, Belarusian opposition presidential candidate Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, and OSCE PA Bureau members by noting the importance of building dialogue for the benefit of all. Following weeks of increased polarization in Belarus characterized by street protests, violence and mass arrests, what is needed is to find common ground and pursue a way forward for the country, the PA leaders stressed.
In her opening remarks, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya said that recent events in Belarus have surpassed anything previously experienced. The 9 August election was marred by irregularities both on election day and before with the exclusion of candidates, she said. Subsequent demonstrations were met by state repression, she underlined, which has led to greater resolve for democratic change from the Belarusian people. (Video is available here.)
Tsikhanouskaya said that Alexander Lukashenko has lost support from Belarusian society and to facilitate transition of power, she instituted the Coordination Council on 14 August. The country is in a severe political crisis, she noted, asserting that the only solution is a new election. The OSCE has a role in facilitating dialogue and promoting the conduct of fair elections, she said, expressing support for the move by 17 OSCE participating States to invoke the Moscow Mechanism on 17 September to examine alleged human rights violations. “We have the right to a free and fair election and we will achieve that,” Tsikhanouskaya said. “We are firm in our resolution and we will prevail.”
Andrei Savinykh disputed the claim that the August election was illegitimate, highlighting exit polls showing broad support for the incumbent. He stressed that attempts to take power by unconstitutional means are punishable by law.
Savinykh noted that Belarus is planning some constitutional changes, to be undertaken by 2022, in order to liberalize the political system, transfer power from the Presidency to the Parliament and achieve more balance between the three branches of power, as well as to empower political parties. There is also a need to modernize the law on mass events, he said, pointing out that demonstrations are mostly unsanctioned by local authorities. “We will implement all the changes only through peaceful, normal dialogue with actors inside of Belarus – actors who are interested in achieving results in the interests of the whole country,” he said.
In the discussion, ten members of the Bureau took the floor and raised issues related to the need for dialogue without preconditions. Neither side should exclude the other and both should strive to find a creative mechanism to engage in discussions, it was stressed. Members highlighted support for civil society and the constructive role of the OSCE. All OSCE countries have committed to respecting human rights, it was pointed out, with members noting that reports of abuse in Belarusian jails are disturbing.
President Tsereteli stressed that authorities must find a more constructive way forward. There is a need for commitment on both sides to find common ground, he said, noting that the OSCE PA is well suited to facilitate and support that process. “We need more wisdom and more patience,” Tsereteli said.
When it comes to the prospect of engaging in direct dialogue with the Coordination Council, Savinykh raised concerns over its status as a lawful body, noting that it is outside of the legal structure of the Belarusian political system. He said however that the government is eager to act in the interests of Belarusian society. Savinykh said that human rights are a fundamental obligation, noting that there is room for development of human rights standards in Belarus. In order to develop it, however, he noted the importance of formal legal processes, highlighting the plans to reform the constitution and amend the electoral code.
Tsikhanouskaya noted that with so many opposition leaders in prison, there is a need for amnesty in order for any meaningful dialogue to take place.
OSCE PA Bureau members said that effort should be made to continue discussions between the authorities and the opposition, even if they are not done through official channels. Informal dialogue can be done in small steps that are useful in building trust, and this can be pursued without preconditions, it was stressed.
Secretary General Montella said that the important thing is to find any possible common ground at this point in time and pursue a constructive way forward for Belarus rather than arguing on irreconcilable and polarized narratives of past facts. The OSCE PA will follow up in the coming days with both sides to define a way forward in the interest of all Belarus citizens.
Video of the online meeting is available here.


osce--2020-09-23--ODIHR opens election observation mission in Ukraine

KYIV , 23 September 2020 – The OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights ( ODIHR ) today opened an election observation mission ( EOM ) for the 25 October local elections in Ukraine , following an invitation from the national authorities .
The mission is led by Ingibjörg Sólrún Gisladóttir and consists of a core team of 15 experts based in Kyiv and 66 long-term observers , who will be deployed throughout the country from 29 September .
ODIHR also plans to request OSCE participating States to send 600 short-term observers , who would arrive several days before @ @ @ @ @ @ @ whether the elections are held in line with OSCE commitments and other international obligations and standards for democratic elections , as well as with national legislation .
Observers will closely monitor key aspects of the elections such as voter registration , campaign activities and their financing , the work of the election administration and relevant government bodies , election-related legislation and its implementation , and the resolution of election-related disputes .
The mission will also monitor media coverage of the campaign .
Meetings with representatives of state authorities , political parties , civil @ @ @ @ @ @ @ community are also planned .
The ODIHR mission will co-operate closely with the health authorities of Ukraine and follow the protocols they have established .
An interim report will be published to update the public and media during the course of the observation .
ODIHR will present its preliminary findings and conclusions at a press conference the day after the election , and will publish its final report on the observation including potential recommendations approximately two months after the end of the election process .
The ODIHR election observation mission , the OSCE @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Ukraine operate separately and independently under their respective mandates .
For further information , please visit https : //www.osce.org/odihr/elections/ukraine or contact Veronica Laputska , Media Analyst , at veronica.laputska @ odihr.org.ua or +380 678 802 642 ,

KYIV, 23 September 2020 – The OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) today opened an election observation mission (EOM) for the 25 October local elections in Ukraine, following an invitation from the national authorities.
The mission is led by Ingibjörg Sólrún Gisladóttir and consists of a core team of 15 experts based in Kyiv and 66 long-term observers, who will be deployed throughout the country from 29 September. ODIHR also plans to request OSCE participating States to send 600 short-term observers, who would arrive several days before election day.
The mission will assess whether the elections are held in line with OSCE commitments and other international obligations and standards for democratic elections, as well as with national legislation. Observers will closely monitor key aspects of the elections such as voter registration, campaign activities and their financing, the work of the election administration and relevant government bodies, election-related legislation and its implementation, and the resolution of election-related disputes. The mission will also monitor media coverage of the campaign.
Meetings with representatives of state authorities, political parties, civil society, the media and the international community are also planned. The ODIHR mission will co-operate closely with the health authorities of Ukraine and follow the protocols they have established.
An interim report will be published to update the public and media during the course of the observation. ODIHR will present its preliminary findings and conclusions at a press conference the day after the election, and will publish its final report on the observation including potential recommendations approximately two months after the end of the election process.
The ODIHR election observation mission, the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission and the Office of the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Ukraine operate separately and independently under their respective mandates.
For further information, please visit https://www.osce.org/odihr/elections/ukraine or contact Veronica Laputska, Media Analyst, at veronica.laputska@odihr.org.ua or +380 678 802 642,
or
Katya Andrusz, ODIHR Spokesperson, at: katya.andrusz@odihr.pl or +48 609 522 266


osce--2020-09-23--ODIHR opens election observation mission in Moldova

CHISINAU , 23 September 2020 – The OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights ( ODIHR ) today formally opened an election observation mission ( EOM ) for the 1 November presidential election in Moldova .
The mission ’ s deployment follows an invitation from the national authorities .
The mission is led by Corien Jonker and consists of a core team of 11 experts based in Chisinau and 24 long-term observers , who will be deployed throughout the country from 30 September .
In addition , ODIHR will request that the participating States provide 200 short-term observers , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ day .
The mission will assess the presidential election for its compliance with OSCE commitments and other international obligations and standards for democratic elections , as well as with national legislation .
Observers will closely monitor all aspects of the election , including potential post-election developments .
Specific areas of focus include the implementation of the amended legal framework , candidate registration , campaign activities , as well as election dispute resolution and election media coverage .
They will also assess the implementation of previous ODIHR election recommendations .
In the course of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with representatives from the state authorities and political parties and with candidates , as well as with representatives from civil society , the media and the international community .
On election day , the ODIHR mission will join efforts with the delegation from the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe to observe the opening of polling stations , voting , the counting of ballots and the tabulation of results .
The mission will publish an interim report in the course of its work , and will issue a statement of preliminary findings @ @ @ @ @ @ @ day after the election .
ODIHR will issue a final report on the observation approximately eight weeks after the end of the electoral process .
The ODIHR EOM and the OSCE Mission to Moldova operate separately and independently under their own mandates .
Kira Kalinina , Media Analyst with the Election Observation Mission : kira.kalinina @ odihr.md or +373 69002667

CHISINAU, 23 September 2020 – The OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) today formally opened an election observation mission (EOM) for the 1 November presidential election in Moldova. The mission’s deployment follows an invitation from the national authorities.
The mission is led by Corien Jonker and consists of a core team of 11 experts based in Chisinau and 24 long-term observers, who will be deployed throughout the country from 30 September. In addition, ODIHR will request that the participating States provide 200 short-term observers, who will arrive several days before election day.
The mission will assess the presidential election for its compliance with OSCE commitments and other international obligations and standards for democratic elections, as well as with national legislation.
Observers will closely monitor all aspects of the election, including potential post-election developments. Specific areas of focus include the implementation of the amended legal framework, candidate registration, campaign activities, as well as election dispute resolution and election media coverage. They will also assess the implementation of previous ODIHR election recommendations.
In the course of its observation, the mission will meet with representatives from the state authorities and political parties and with candidates, as well as with representatives from civil society, the media and the international community.
On election day, the ODIHR mission will join efforts with the delegation from the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe to observe the opening of polling stations, voting, the counting of ballots and the tabulation of results.
The mission will publish an interim report in the course of its work, and will issue a statement of preliminary findings and conclusions at a press conference the day after the election. ODIHR will issue a final report on the observation approximately eight weeks after the end of the electoral process.
The ODIHR EOM and the OSCE Mission to Moldova operate separately and independently under their own mandates.
For further information, contact:
Katya Andrusz, ODIHR spokesperson: Katya.Andrusz@odihr.pl or +48 609 522 266
Kira Kalinina, Media Analyst with the Election Observation Mission: kira.kalinina@odihr.md or +373 69002667


osce--2020-09-22--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 226/2020 issued on 22 September 2020


osce--2020-09-22--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 September 2020

Kamensk-Shakhtinskiy , Russian Federation .
The Observer Mission ( OM ) continues to operate 24/7 at both Border Crossing Points ( BCPs ) .
The overall number of border crossings by persons increased at both BCPs compared to the previous week .
The OM is currently operating with 22 permanent international Mission members , including the Chief Observer ( CO ) and one first responder [ 1 ] .
The Mission is supported administratively by a staff member and the Chief of Fund Administration based in Vienna .
Activities have been impacted by COVID-19 and measures undertaken by the OM @ @ @ @ @ @ @ care of its Mission members and compliance with measures set by the host country authorities .
The Mission is continuing to keep the situation under review , in close contact with the OSCE Secretariat and the Chairmanship .
Following the host country recommendations , the observers are adhering to social distancing .
Due to the preventive measures taken by the central and regional authorities , the OM is faced with certain difficulties , but is still able to continue to fulfil its mandate without any limitations in its observation and reporting activities .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ can be categorized as follows : • Adults travelling on foot or by car with little or no luggage .
• Families ( often including elderly persons and/or children ) travelling on foot or by car with a significant amount of luggage .
The average number of entries/exits slightly increased from 10,017 to 10,270 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 44 per day for both BCPs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 one , compared to eight last week .
No persons crossed into the Russian Federation while one crossed into Ukraine .
This individual crossed the border on foot .
The OTs continued to report on families , sometimes with elderly persons and/or children , crossing the border at both BCPs with a significant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ heavily loaded cars .
During this reporting week , five families were observed crossing into the Russian Federation while another three families were observed crossing into Ukraine , compared to the previous reporting period when two families were observed crossing to the Russian Federation , while another three families crossed into Ukraine .
Regular local and long-distance bus connections continued to operate between Ukraine ( mostly from/to the Luhansk region ) and the Russian Federation .
During the reporting period , the OTs observed an increase in the overall number of buses crossing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ compared to 328 observed during the previous week ) .
There were 191 buses bound for the Russian Federation and 173 bound for Ukraine .
On some occasions , the OTs noticed the bus drivers removing the itinerary signs from the windshields of their buses , while some buses did not display their route at all .
The majority of long-distance buses commuting between the Luhansk region and cities in the Russian Federation had Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region .
During the reporting period , the OTs observed a slight @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crossing the border at both BCPs ( 988 compared to 957 during the previous reporting week ) ; 559 at the Gukovo BCP and 429 at the Donetsk BCP , 535 of these trucks crossed into the Russian Federation and 453 crossed into Ukraine .
Most of the trucks observed by the OTs had Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region ; however , on a daily basis , the OTs also noted trucks registered in the Russian Federation , Belarus , Ukraine and trucks with “ LPR ” plates .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crossing the border in both directions .
During the reporting period , the OTs observed a slight increase in the overall number of tanker trucks crossing the border at both BCPs ( 52 compared to 45 during the previous reporting week ) .
These trucks were observed crossing the border at both BCPs .
The trucks had the words “ Propane ” and “ Flammable ” written across the tanks in either Russian or Ukrainian .
The majority of tanker trucks had hazard signs , indicating that they were transporting propane or a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trucks underwent systematic inspection by the Russian Federation officials , which could include an X-ray check .
Due to the unfavourable observation position at the Gukovo BCP , the OTs continued to be unable to observe any X-ray checks .
During the reporting period , the X-ray vehicle at the Donetsk BCP was not operating due to the ongoing construction activities ; consequently , no X-ray checks were observed by the OTs .
The OM continued to observe passenger and cargo minivans [ 3 ] crossing the border in both directions at both @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 just a slight decrease in the overall number of minivans crossing the border at both BCPs ( 160 compared to 161 observed during the previous week ) ; 88 crossed into the Russian Federation and another 72 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ OTs heard trains on 31 occasions ; the OTs assessed that 18 trains were travelling to the Russian Federation and the remaining 13 trains were travelling to Ukraine ( more details are provided in the sections “ trends and figures at a glance ” below ) .
Visual observation was not possible because of the line of trees located between the train tracks and the BCP .
The majority of vehicles crossing the border had Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region or Russian Federation licence plates .
A significant number of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also observed crossing the border in both directions on a daily basis .
The OTs also observed cars with licence plates registered in Georgia .
During the reporting week , the OTs at the Donetsk BCP observed police vehicles on four separate occasions : On 15 September at 12:40 , the OT observed a police minivan with Russian Federation licence plates with three individuals on board , entering the BCP from the Russian Federation and parking next to the main building .
At 13:48 , the police vehicle drove back to the Russian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the OT observed another police minivan with Russian Federation licence plates with three individuals on board , entering the BCP from the Russian Federation and parking next to the main building .
At 17:52 , the police vehicle drove back to the Russian Federation .
On 18 September at 18:45 , the OT observed a police vehicle with Russian Federation licence plates , entering the BCP from the Russian Federation and parking behind the main building .
At 18:53 , the police car drove back with three individuals on board including the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ notice any other details from its position .
On 21 September at 16:52 , the OT observed a police vehicle with Russian Federation licence plates , accompanied by a green SUV , type UAZ , with an inscription “ Russian Border Guards “ ( in Russian ) on signboards and with flashing lights on , entering the BCP from the Russian Federation and parking next to the main building .
At 16:55 , both vehicles drove back to the Russian Federation .
The OT was unable to notice any other details from its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the OTs at the Donetsk BCP observed a group of brand-new vehicles on two separate occasions : On 15 September at 13:13 , the OT observed a group of 16 brand-new ambulances , type UAZ , with no licence plates entering the BCP from the Russian Federation and parking at the customs control area .
The vehicles bore the inscription “ Urgent Medical Help ” ( in Russian ) on signboards and a sign “ Red Cross ” at the front and the rear sides .
The OT noticed only a driver inside @ @ @ @ @ @ @ customs and border control procedures and left for Ukraine at 16:15 .
On 16 September at 13:00 , the OT observed a group of 13 brand-new vehicles type FORD TRANSIT ( seven ambulances and six white minivans ) with no licence plates , entering the BCP from the Russian Federation and parking at the customs control area .
The ambulances bore the inscription “ Urgent Medical Help ” ( in Russian ) on signboards .
All vehicles underwent customs and border control procedures and left for Ukraine at 16:45 .
The OT noticed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ On 16 September at 11:07 , the OT at the Donetsk BCP observed an ambulance with Russian Federation licence plates entering the BCP from the Russian Federation and parking in front of the main building .
The OT noticed a driver and three female medics on board .
The ambulance drove back to the Russian Federation with an elderly female patient at 11:23 .
The OT was unable to notice any other details from its position .
On 18 September at 09:36 , the OT at the Donetsk BCP observed a white funeral @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” ( in Russian ) on boards , entering the BCP from Ukraine .
After undergoing border control procedures , the vehicle left the BCP towards the Russian Federation .
The OT was unable to observe any other details from its position .
For trends and figures at a glance covering the period from 18 August to 22 September 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation .
[ 3 ] Cargo minivans : light commercial vehicles with a maximum authorized mass of more than 3.5 t and not more than 7.5 t ; with or without a trailer with a maximum mass of less than 750 kg ( small cargo vehicles which correspond to driving licence C1 ) .

SUMMARY
Kamensk-Shakhtinskiy, Russian Federation. The Observer Mission (OM) continues to operate 24/7 at both Border Crossing Points (BCPs). The overall number of border crossings by persons increased at both BCPs compared to the previous week.
OPERATIONAL REMARKS
The OM is currently operating with 22 permanent international Mission members, including the Chief Observer (CO) and one first responder[1]. The Mission is supported administratively by a staff member and the Chief of Fund Administration based in Vienna.
Update on COVID-19 measures
Activities have been impacted by COVID-19 and measures undertaken by the OM to ensure the safety and duty of care of its Mission members and compliance with measures set by the host country authorities. The Mission is continuing to keep the situation under review, in close contact with the OSCE Secretariat and the Chairmanship. Following the host country recommendations, the observers are adhering to social distancing. Due to the preventive measures taken by the central and regional authorities, the OM is faced with certain difficulties, but is still able to continue to fulfil its mandate without any limitations in its observation and reporting activities.
OBSERVATIONS AT THE BORDER CROSSING POINTS
Persons crossing the border
The profile of persons crossing the border can be categorized as follows:
Adults travelling on foot or by car with little or no luggage. Persons in military-style outfits. Families (often including elderly persons and/or children) travelling on foot or by car with a significant amount of luggage.
The average number of entries/exits slightly increased from 10,017 to 10,270 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 44 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 one, compared to eight last week. No persons crossed into the Russian Federation while one crossed into Ukraine. This individual 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, five families were observed crossing into the Russian Federation while another three families were observed crossing into Ukraine, compared to the previous reporting period when two families were observed crossing to the Russian Federation, while another three families crossed into Ukraine.
Bus connections
Regular local and long-distance bus connections continued to operate between Ukraine (mostly from/to the Luhansk region) and the Russian Federation. During the reporting period, the OTs observed an increase in the overall number of buses crossing the border at both BCPs (364 compared to 328 observed during the previous week). There were 191 buses bound for the Russian Federation and 173 bound for Ukraine.
On some occasions, the OTs noticed the bus drivers removing the itinerary signs from the windshields of their buses, while some buses did not display their route at all. The majority of long-distance buses commuting between the Luhansk region and cities in the Russian Federation had Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region.
Trucks
During the reporting period, the OTs observed a slight increase in the overall number of trucks crossing the border at both BCPs (988 compared to 957 during the previous reporting week); 559 at the Gukovo BCP and 429 at the Donetsk BCP, 535 of these trucks crossed into the Russian Federation and 453 crossed into Ukraine. Most of the trucks observed by the OTs had Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region; however, on a daily basis, the OTs also noted trucks registered in the Russian Federation, Belarus, Ukraine and trucks with “LPR” plates.
The OTs also continued to observe tanker trucks crossing the border in both directions. During the reporting period, the OTs observed a slight increase in the overall number of tanker trucks crossing the border at both BCPs (52 compared to 45 during the previous reporting week). These trucks were observed crossing the border at both BCPs. The trucks had the words “Propane” and “Flammable” written across the tanks in either Russian or Ukrainian. The majority of tanker trucks had hazard signs, indicating that they were transporting propane or a mix of propane and butane. All trucks underwent systematic inspection by the Russian Federation officials, which could include an X-ray check. Due to the unfavourable observation position at the Gukovo BCP, the OTs continued to be unable to observe any X-ray checks.
During the reporting period, the X-ray vehicle at the Donetsk BCP was not operating due to the ongoing construction activities; consequently, no X-ray checks were observed by the OTs.
Minivans
The OM continued to observe passenger and cargo minivans[3] crossing the border in both directions at both BCPs. The OTs observed minivans predominantly with Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region; however, the OTs also saw minivans registered in the Russian Federation. During the reporting period, the OTs observed just a slight decrease in the overall number of minivans crossing the border at both BCPs (160 compared to 161 observed during the previous week); 88 crossed into the Russian Federation and another 72 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 31 occasions; the OTs assessed that 18 trains were travelling to the Russian Federation and the remaining 13 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 cars with licence plates registered in Georgia.
During the reporting week, the OTs at the Donetsk BCP observed police vehicles on four separate occasions:
On 15 September at 12:40, the OT observed a police minivan with Russian Federation licence plates with three individuals on board, entering the BCP from the Russian Federation and parking next to the main building. At 13:48, the police vehicle drove back to the Russian Federation.
The same day at 17:18, the OT observed another police minivan with Russian Federation licence plates with three individuals on board, entering the BCP from the Russian Federation and parking next to the main building. At 17:52, the police vehicle drove back to the Russian Federation.
On 18 September at 18:45, the OT observed a police vehicle with Russian Federation licence plates, entering the BCP from the Russian Federation and parking behind the main building. At 18:53, the police car drove back with three individuals on board including the driver. The OT was unable to notice any other details from its position.
On 21 September at 16:52, the OT observed a police vehicle with Russian Federation licence plates, accompanied by a green SUV, type UAZ, with an inscription “Russian Border Guards“ (in Russian) on signboards and with flashing lights on, entering the BCP from the Russian Federation and parking next to the main building. At 16:55, both vehicles drove back to the Russian Federation. The OT was unable to notice any other details from its position.
During the reporting week, the OTs at the Donetsk BCP observed a group of brand-new vehicles on two separate occasions:
On 15 September at 13:13, the OT observed a group of 16 brand-new ambulances, type UAZ, with no licence plates entering the BCP from the Russian Federation and parking at the customs control area. The vehicles bore the inscription “Urgent Medical Help” (in Russian) on signboards and a sign “Red Cross” at the front and the rear sides. The OT noticed only a driver inside each vehicle. All the vehicles underwent customs and border control procedures and left for Ukraine at 16:15.
On 16 September at 13:00, the OT observed a group of 13 brand-new vehicles type FORD TRANSIT (seven ambulances and six white minivans) with no licence plates, entering the BCP from the Russian Federation and parking at the customs control area. The ambulances bore the inscription “Urgent Medical Help” (in Russian) on signboards. All vehicles underwent customs and border control procedures and left for Ukraine at 16:45. The OT noticed only a driver inside each vehicle.
On 16 September at 11:07, the OT at the Donetsk BCP observed an ambulance with Russian Federation licence plates entering the BCP from the Russian Federation and parking in front of the main building. The OT noticed a driver and three female medics on board. The ambulance drove back to the Russian Federation with an elderly female patient at 11:23. The OT was unable to notice any other details from its position.
On 18 September at 09:36, the OT at the Donetsk BCP observed a white funeral minivan bearing an inscription “Ritual Services” (in Russian) on boards, entering the BCP from Ukraine. After undergoing border control procedures, the vehicle left the BCP towards the Russian Federation. The OT was unable to observe any other details from its position.
For trends and figures at a glance covering the period from 18 August to 22 September 2020, please see the attachment here
[1] First responders are OSCE staff or Mission members deployed for a short period of time.
[2]Based on data received from the Regional Representation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation.
[3] Cargo minivans: light commercial vehicles with a maximum authorized mass of more than 3.5 t and not more than 7.5 t; with or without a trailer with a maximum mass of less than 750 kg (small cargo vehicles which correspond to driving licence C1).


osce--2020-09-22--OSCE supports online training seminar for young professionals and civil servants from Central Asia a

OSCE supports online training seminar for young professionals and civil servants from Central Asia and Afghanistan on climate change mitigation

An OSCE-supported training seminar on climate change mitigation and adaptation in Central Asia concluded on 22 September 2020 in Almaty @ @ @ @ @ Programme Office in Nur-Sultan , in partnership with the German-Kazakh University organized the two-day event @ @ @ @ @ in charge of environmental protection , climate change and water management in Central Asia and @ @ @ @ @ the main consequences of climate change in relation to water resources management , international laws @ @ @ @ @ in the context of climate change and youth engagement in environmental matters .
The training @ @ @ @ @ the Central Asian Leadership Programme for young leaders held from 14 to 18 September 2020 @ @ @ @ @ capacities of young government employees and future decision-makers through raising awareness on main environmental challenges @ @ @ @ @ from the region .
The event is part of the Programme Office ’ s long-standing @ @ @ @ @ promote environmental leadership in the Central Asian region and Afghanistan .

An OSCE-supported training seminar on climate change mitigation and adaptation in Central Asia concluded on 22 September 2020 in Almaty, Kazakhstan.
The OSCE Programme Office in Nur-Sultan, in partnership with the German-Kazakh University organized the two-day event. Some 25 civil servants in charge of environmental protection, climate change and water management in Central Asia and Afghanistan attended. Participants discussed the main consequences of climate change in relation to water resources management, international laws and regulation of water security in the context of climate change and youth engagement in environmental matters.
The training seminar is a follow-up to the Central Asian Leadership Programme for young leaders held from 14 to 18 September 2020. It aimed to strengthen capacities of young government employees and future decision-makers through raising awareness on main environmental challenges and building networks among professionals from the region.
The event is part of the Programme Office’s long-standing efforts to engage youth and promote environmental leadership in the Central Asian region and Afghanistan.


osce--2020-09-22--Digitalization of customs and transport procedures discussed at OSCE seminar in Ashgabat

An OSCE-organized online seminar on digitalization of customs and transport procedures in compliance with the international standards , the UN conventions and agreements for representatives from the Ministry of Trade and Foreign Economic Relations , transport agencies and other relevant institutions opened on 22 September 2020 in Ashgabat .
International experts from Georgia and the Russian Federation presented effective mechanisms and digital tools in the transport , transit and customs management .
An online scoping meeting preceded the seminar on 4 September 2020 , which discussed the current needs of national partner institutions and determined the areas of interest for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Centre in Ashgabat , to complement and support the ongoing national efforts in trade and transport area .
“ The OSCE participating States recognize that promoting connectivity through facilitating transit and trade and measures undertaken at all management levels can intensify mutually beneficial economic co-operation , which contributes to good neighborly relations and strengthens trust and mutual understanding across the OSCE region , ” said Natalya Drozd , Head of the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat .
The two-day seminar provided an overview of digital transport and transit documents , and best international practices @ @ @ @ @ @ @ opportunities for the development of a seamless multimodal transport , a single window system and the related challenges and opportunities .
“ The Centre organized this seminar to support the consistent steps of the Government of Turkmenistan aimed at the digitalization of customs procedures which are of particular importance for enhancing co-operation in the area of transport and communication with other countries , ” added Drozd .
Experts shared experiences related to the electronic exchange of data and the introduction of the ASYCUDA ( Automated System for Customs Data ) World information system @ @ @ @ @ @ @ secure transport management in emergencies , including the COVID-19 pandemic .
Discussions focused on the digital future of the regional transport corridors , trends and opportunities .
The seminar was organized within the framework of the project “ Promoting regional economic connectivity and development of regional logistic and transport infrastructure ” .

An OSCE-organized online seminar on digitalization of customs and transport procedures in compliance with the international standards, the UN conventions and agreements for representatives from the Ministry of Trade and Foreign Economic Relations, transport agencies and other relevant institutions opened on 22 September 2020 in Ashgabat.
International experts from Georgia and the Russian Federation presented effective mechanisms and digital tools in the transport, transit and customs management. An online scoping meeting preceded the seminar on 4 September 2020, which discussed the current needs of national partner institutions and determined the areas of interest for further action and co-operation with the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat, to complement and support the ongoing national efforts in trade and transport area.
“The OSCE participating States recognize that promoting connectivity through facilitating transit and trade and measures undertaken at all management levels can intensify mutually beneficial economic co-operation, which contributes to good neighborly relations and strengthens trust and mutual understanding across the OSCE region,” said Natalya Drozd, Head of the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat.
The two-day seminar provided an overview of digital transport and transit documents, and best international practices and their implementation. Participants also discussed opportunities for the development of a seamless multimodal transport, a single window system and the related challenges and opportunities.
“The Centre organized this seminar to support the consistent steps of the Government of Turkmenistan aimed at the digitalization of customs procedures which are of particular importance for enhancing co-operation in the area of transport and communication with other countries,” added Drozd.
Experts shared experiences related to the electronic exchange of data and the introduction of the ASYCUDA (Automated System for Customs Data) World information system as well as on how to ensure secure transport management in emergencies, including the COVID-19 pandemic. Discussions focused on the digital future of the regional transport corridors, trends and opportunities.
The seminar was organized within the framework of the project “Promoting regional economic connectivity and development of regional logistic and transport infrastructure”.


osce--2020-09-21--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 225/2020 issued on 21 September 2020


osce--2020-09-21--Election observers to Ukraine’s local elections to hold press conference on Wednesday

KYIV , 21 September 2020 – Observers from the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights ( ODIHR ) @ @ @ @ @ on the opening of the observation mission to the local elections in Ukraine on Wednesday @ @ @ @ @ An introduction to the role of the ODIHR election observation mission and its planned activities @ @ @ @ @ be attended in person or via Zoom ( details below ) • No registration is @ @ @ @ @ the press conference in person , but only questions from journalists will be taken .
@ @ @ @ @ Zoom , please register with : Katya Andrusz , ODIHR spokesperson , katya.andrusz @ odihr.pl @ @ @ @ @ analyst : Veronica.Laputska @ odihr.org.ua or +380 678 802 642 .
For further information on @ @ @ @ @ activities in Ukraine , please visit : https : //www.osce.org/odihr/elections/ukraine

KYIV, 21 September 2020 – Observers from the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) will hold a press conference on the opening of the observation mission to the local elections in Ukraine on Wednesday, 23 September.
What:
An introduction to the role of the ODIHR election observation mission and its planned activities
The press conference can be attended in person or via Zoom (details below)
Who:
Ingibjörg Sólrún Gisladóttir, Head of the ODIHR Election Observation Mission
When:
14.00 on 23 September 2020
Where:
Hilton Kyiv Hotel, Tarasa Shevchenko Boulevard, 30
Registration:
No registration is necessary if you are attending the press conference in person, but only questions from journalists will be taken.
To take part via Zoom, please register with: Katya Andrusz, ODIHR spokesperson, katya.andrusz@odihr.pl and Veronica Laputska, media analyst: Veronica.Laputska@odihr.org.ua or +380 678 802 642.
For further information on ODIHR’s election observation activities in Ukraine, please visit: https://www.osce.org/odihr/elections/ukraine


osce--2020-09-21--OSCE Mission to Montenegro supports training course for potential applicants to Regional Youth Co-op

OSCE Mission to Montenegro supports training course for potential applicants to Regional Youth Co-operation Office Open Call

In preparation for the fourth Regional Youth Co-operation Office ( RYCO ) Call for Proposals , the RYCO Local Branch Office and the OSCE Mission to Montenegro organized a training course for potential applicants from 18 to 20 September 2020 in Podgorica .
The training course gathered 18 NGOs to develop their capacities in project writing that connect young people with one another , within the region , in response to the RYCO Open Call .
The training course also provided an opportunity to discuss how to safely design an interactive project during the COVID-19 pandemic .
Opening the event @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s Democratization Programme Manager , said that the COVID-19 pandemic has affected the lives of all .
“ It has altered how we connect and has changed youth activism , co-operation and , in particular , mobility programmes , ” said Magnaguagno .
However , she said these challenges have provided a new impetus to the role that RYCO must play to support young people to come together in a safe environment .
“ Young people are not sitting still .
They are actively exploring innovative ways to continue to be connected and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Magnaguagno .
Edin Koljenović , Head of the RYCO Local Branch Office in Montenegro , said that projects that foster reconciliation and regional youth co-operation during and post COVID-19 crisis are the focus of the fourth RYCO Open Call .
“ I am glad that there is a great interest of the civil society organizations in the RYCO Capacity Building Training that is happening in the times of Covid-19 pandemic , ” said Koljenović .
Andrea Mićanović , representative of the youth of Montenegro in the RYCO Steering Board , said that the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ just a health crisis .
“ Negative consequences are also felt in education , economy , mental health , family and other interpersonal relationships .
Young people are often seen as the future of a society , but we are the present .
What we do today shapes the world we will live in tomorrow .
That is why our region relies on us and I hope we will not let it down , ” said Mićanović .
RYCO , founded in 2016 at the Western Balkans Sixth Summit in Paris , is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spirit of reconciliation and co-operation among youth in the region through exchange programmes .

In preparation for the fourth Regional Youth Co-operation Office (RYCO) Call for Proposals, the RYCO Local Branch Office and the OSCE Mission to Montenegro organized a training course for potential applicants from 18 to 20 September 2020 in Podgorica.
The training course gathered 18 NGOs to develop their capacities in project writing that connect young people with one another, within the region, in response to the RYCO Open Call. The training course also provided an opportunity to discuss how to safely design an interactive project during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Opening the event, Lia Magnaguagno, OSCE Mission’s Democratization Programme Manager, said that the COVID-19 pandemic has affected the lives of all. “It has altered how we connect and has changed youth activism, co-operation and, in particular, mobility programmes,” said Magnaguagno. However, she said these challenges have provided a new impetus to the role that RYCO must play to support young people to come together in a safe environment. “Young people are not sitting still. They are actively exploring innovative ways to continue to be connected and have their voices heard,” said Magnaguagno.
Edin Koljenović, Head of the RYCO Local Branch Office in Montenegro, said that projects that foster reconciliation and regional youth co-operation during and post COVID-19 crisis are the focus of the fourth RYCO Open Call. “I am glad that there is a great interest of the civil society organizations in the RYCO Capacity Building Training that is happening in the times of Covid-19 pandemic,” said Koljenović.
Andrea Mićanović, representative of the youth of Montenegro in the RYCO Steering Board, said that the current crisis has long been more than just a health crisis. “Negative consequences are also felt in education, economy, mental health, family and other interpersonal relationships. Young people are often seen as the future of a society, but we are the present. What we do today shapes the world we will live in tomorrow. That is why our region relies on us and I hope we will not let it down,” said Mićanović.
RYCO, founded in 2016 at the Western Balkans Sixth Summit in Paris, is an independent institutional mechanism to promote the spirit of reconciliation and co-operation among youth in the region through exchange programmes.


osce--2020-09-21--Leadership, women’s political participation and public speaking skills in focus of OSCE-supported we

Leadership, women’s political participation and public speaking skills in focus of OSCE-supported webinar in Kazakhstan

The OSCE Programme Office in Nur-Sultan , in co-operation with the National Commission for Women , Family and Demographic Policy @ @ @ @ @ , the UN Women Office in Kazakhstan , and the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions @ @ @ @ @ ) organized an online event for women politicians and those that aspire to become politically @ @ @ @ @ 19 September 2020 .
The seminar was designed to broaden participants ’ understanding of the @ @ @ @ @ the tools and strategies of effective political campaigns , as well as to develop and @ @ @ @ @ and effective communication .
Forty-eight women representatives from political parties , academia , business and @ @ @ @ @ This event will be followed by a four-day module in Kazakh language for Kazakh speaking @ @ @ @ @ September .
Both events are part of the Programme Office ’ s continuous efforts to @ @ @ @ @ empowerment initiatives in the host country .

The OSCE Programme Office in Nur-Sultan, in co-operation with the National Commission for Women, Family and Demographic Policy under the President of Kazakhstan, the UN Women Office in Kazakhstan, and the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) organized an online event for women politicians and those that aspire to become politically active, from 16 to 19 September 2020.
The seminar was designed to broaden participants’ understanding of the key components of leadership, the tools and strategies of effective political campaigns, as well as to develop and practice skills in public speaking and effective communication. Forty-eight women representatives from political parties, academia, business and civil society organizations participated.
This event will be followed by a four-day module in Kazakh language for Kazakh speaking participants scheduled for 23- 26 September.
Both events are part of the Programme Office’s continuous efforts to support gender mainstreaming and economic empowerment initiatives in the host country.


osce--2020-09-19--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 224/2020 issued on 19 September 2020

Sign up to receive OSCE Press Releases and Media Advisories by email as soon as they have been published .

Subscribe to OSCE
Sign up to receive OSCE Press Releases and Media Advisories by email as soon as they have been published.


osce--2020-09-19--OSCE Mission to BiH supports a sitting volleyball tournament in Maglaj

The OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina ( BiH ) supported Maglaj Municipality in organizing a sitting volleyball tournament on 19 September 2020 in Maglaj .
The aim of the tournament , which gathered sitting volleyball teams from Doboj , Derventa and Maglaj , was to strengthen co-operation between the teams and promote tolerance and mutual respect .
Most of the competing athletes are veterans of the war in BiH .
Will Richard , Head of OSCE Field Office Travnik , complimented the participating teams and Maglaj Municipality for implementing measures to help ensure the safety of all of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ see these athletes competing in the sitting volleyball tournament in Maglaj .
It is a very symbolic event when you have former soldiers from opposing sides now competing against each other in a friendly sporting event .
I applaud their efforts .
Sport can be a powerful way to promote tolerance and mutual respect .
The tournament is also an opportunity to raise awareness of the needs of people with disabilities .
The global pandemic has represented a challenge for all of us , but it is especially difficult for the most vulnerable @ @ @ @ @

The OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) supported Maglaj Municipality in organizing a sitting volleyball tournament on 19 September 2020 in Maglaj.
The aim of the tournament, which gathered sitting volleyball teams from Doboj, Derventa and Maglaj, was to strengthen co-operation between the teams and promote tolerance and mutual respect. Most of the competing athletes are veterans of the war in BiH.
Will Richard, Head of OSCE Field Office Travnik, complimented the participating teams and Maglaj Municipality for implementing measures to help ensure the safety of all of the participants.
“I am happy to see these athletes competing in the sitting volleyball tournament in Maglaj. It is a very symbolic event when you have former soldiers from opposing sides now competing against each other in a friendly sporting event. I applaud their efforts. Sport can be a powerful way to promote tolerance and mutual respect. The tournament is also an opportunity to raise awareness of the needs of people with disabilities. The global pandemic has represented a challenge for all of us, but it is especially difficult for the most vulnerable groups of society.”