osce--2020-10-05--OSCE conference highlights importance of enhanced strategic partnerships in fight against organized

OSCE conference highlights importance of enhanced strategic partnerships in fight against organized crime

VIENNA , 5 October 2020 - How to address organized crime through strategic partnerships among law enforcement agencies , national institutions , civil society organizations and the private sector , was the focus of an OSCE conference held in Vienna and online today .
Over 250 representatives of government institutions from the OSCE participating States , the OSCE ’ s Partners for Co-operation , and experts from academia , civil society , the UN and other international and regional organizations , took part .
Speakers at the conference , which was organized by Albania ’ s 2020 OSCE Chairmanship and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ OSCE Secretariat ’ s Transnational Threats Department , said that transnational organized crime continues to represent one of the most serious global threats to security and stability across the OSCE and Mediterranean regions .
Moreover , having witnessed the rapid adaptability of the organized crime to any situation and exploitation of even the global pandemic by criminal groups , there is an urgency to further enhance multi-layered strategic co-operation , they said .
“ A holistic , comprehensive and international approach to the complexities of organized crime has become an imperative , ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Interior , Besfort Lamallari , as he opened the conference .
“ Albania is convinced that an effective approach requires concerted whole-of-government and multi-stakeholder action , including strong partnerships between criminal justice institutions , civil society and the private sector .
This threat needs a multifaceted response – from prevention , through investigations and criminal justice , to rehabilitation – led by democratic institutions that respect human rights and the rule of law.
” OSCE Co-ordinator of Activities to Address Transnational Threats , Ambassador Alena Kupchyna reiterated the need to “ enhance the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , increase the collaboration with financial institutions and anti-corruption bodies , strengthen international co-operation and make full use of available international legal instruments.
” She also highlighted the importance of inclusion of all relevant stakeholders : civil society organizations , academia and the private sector .
Over the course of the conference , the participants highlighted main trends and challenges in the fight against organized crime and presented concrete examples of responses developed by OSCE participating States .
There was also a discussion about what more the OSCE participating States and the Mediterranean @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and illicit finance , such as improving financial crime investigations and the recovery of criminal assets .
The conference ’ s final session explored the link between organized crime and cyber-enabled crime .
The participants examined the extent to which organized crime groups use cyberspace to commit crimes such as fraud and the trafficking of illicit drugs or weapons on the dark web .
Concluding the conference , OSCE Officer-in-Charge/Secretary General , Director of the OSCE Conflict Prevention Centre , Tuula Yrjölä , said : “ There is much scope for intensifying our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ levels in the wider OSCE region , including among and between the OSCE participating States and the Mediterranean Partners for Co-operation .
The Mediterranean Partners are particularly exposed to similar challenges and have elaborated tailored responses based on their local realities and needs .
Information exchanges and best practices bring mutually-beneficial results.
” The Head of the Task Force for Albania ’ s OSCE Chairmanship , Inid Milo , concluded : “ OSCE participating States , should work together even more closely and intensively so that our commitments in the area of combating @ @ @ @ @ @ @ concrete actions on the ground .
We must not forget that , as in many other crises , the most vulnerable demographics are facing the largest threats .
This is why we must commit to have an inclusive approach that will invest not only in repression but also in prevention as well , through work with the youth and education institutions .
This is an investment in the future .
If we fail to make it today , the cost for our societies of tomorrow will be immense.
” The outcomes of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ identify the main and common challenges in combating organized crime , and outline possible joint initiatives with OSCE participating States and Partners for Co-operation .

VIENNA, 5 October 2020 - How to address organized crime through strategic partnerships among law enforcement agencies, national institutions, civil society organizations and the private sector, was the focus of an OSCE conference held in Vienna and online today. Over 250 representatives of government institutions from the OSCE participating States, the OSCE’s Partners for Co-operation, and experts from academia, civil society, the UN and other international and regional organizations, took part.
Speakers at the conference, which was organized by Albania’s 2020 OSCE Chairmanship and the Strategic Police Matters Unit of the OSCE Secretariat’s Transnational Threats Department, said that transnational organized crime continues to represent one of the most serious global threats to security and stability across the OSCE and Mediterranean regions. Moreover, having witnessed the rapid adaptability of the organized crime to any situation and exploitation of even the global pandemic by criminal groups, there is an urgency to further enhance multi-layered strategic co-operation, they said.
“A holistic, comprehensive and international approach to the complexities of organized crime has become an imperative,” said Albania’s Deputy Minister of Interior, Besfort Lamallari, as he opened the conference. “Albania is convinced that an effective approach requires concerted whole-of-government and multi-stakeholder action, including strong partnerships between criminal justice institutions, civil society and the private sector. This threat needs a multifaceted response – from prevention, through investigations and criminal justice, to rehabilitation – led by democratic institutions that respect human rights and the rule of law.”
OSCE Co-ordinator of Activities to Address Transnational Threats, Ambassador Alena Kupchyna reiterated the need to “enhance the capabilities along the entire criminal justice chain, increase the collaboration with financial institutions and anti-corruption bodies, strengthen international co-operation and make full use of available international legal instruments.” She also highlighted the importance of inclusion of all relevant stakeholders: civil society organizations, academia and the private sector.
Over the course of the conference, the participants highlighted main trends and challenges in the fight against organized crime and presented concrete examples of responses developed by OSCE participating States. There was also a discussion about what more the OSCE participating States and the Mediterranean Partners could do to counter organized crime and illicit finance, such as improving financial crime investigations and the recovery of criminal assets.
The conference’s final session explored the link between organized crime and cyber-enabled crime. The participants examined the extent to which organized crime groups use cyberspace to commit crimes such as fraud and the trafficking of illicit drugs or weapons on the dark web.
Concluding the conference, OSCE Officer-in-Charge/Secretary General, Director of the OSCE Conflict Prevention Centre, Tuula Yrjölä, said: “There is much scope for intensifying our efforts to foster strategic co-operation at all levels in the wider OSCE region, including among and between the OSCE participating States and the Mediterranean Partners for Co-operation. The Mediterranean Partners are particularly exposed to similar challenges and have elaborated tailored responses based on their local realities and needs. Information exchanges and best practices bring mutually-beneficial results.”
The Head of the Task Force for Albania’s OSCE Chairmanship, Inid Milo, concluded: “OSCE participating States, should work together even more closely and intensively so that our commitments in the area of combating organized crime be implemented and translated into concrete actions on the ground. We must not forget that, as in many other crises, the most vulnerable demographics are facing the largest threats. This is why we must commit to have an inclusive approach that will invest not only in repression but also in prevention as well, through work with the youth and education institutions. This is an investment in the future. If we fail to make it today, the cost for our societies of tomorrow will be immense.”
The outcomes of the discussions will help the Transnational Threats Department identify the main and common challenges in combating organized crime, and outline possible joint initiatives with OSCE participating States and Partners for Co-operation.


osce--2020-10-05--Trial management in complex corruption cases, focus of OSCE-supported meeting

The OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina ( BiH ) organized an online peer-to-peer meeting on trial management in complex corruption cases on 5 October 2020 .
The meeting gathered 25 judges and prosecutors from different jurisdictions in Bosnia and Herzegovina as well as partners from different international organizations working with judiciary .
The meeting was organized as a follow-up to its report “ Trial Monitoring of Corruption Cases in BiH : Second Assessment ” .
The aim of the meeting was to discuss the identified trends and practices hindering judicial response to corruption , with a particular focus on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ judicial response to corruption in BiH is far from adequate .
This is especially true when it comes to tackling medium and high-level cases .
Problems in the management of trials have been seriously undermining the efficient and effective processing of corruption cases .
Serious delays were observed in most courts dealing with serious corruption cases ” , said Michael Schuetz , Head of Rule of Law of the OSCE Mission to BiH .
“ Not just in BiH , but across the region , changing the culture of impunity requires a resolute @ @ @ @ @ @ @ criminal justice system , ” he added .
The experiences and challenges faced by the Sarajevo Cantonal Prosecutor ’ s Office and Cantonal Court , which have the largest number of corruption cases , were presented by Sabina Sarajlija , Chief Prosecutor of the Cantonal Prosecutor ’ s Office Sarajevo , Adisa Zahiragić , Head of Criminal Division of the Cantonal Court in Sarajevo and Sanela Rondić , Judge at the Cantonal Court in Sarajevo .
To support BiH in tackling corruption , the OSCE Mission to BiH has been monitoring corruption-related criminal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ part of the project “ Assessing Needs of Judicial Response to Corruption through Monitoring of Criminal Cases ” , made possible with the support of the US Department of State ’ s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs .
The third report on the monitoring of corruption cases before courts in BiH , produced within this project , is expected to be presented by the end of 2020 .

The OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) organized an online peer-to-peer meeting on trial management in complex corruption cases on 5 October 2020. The meeting gathered 25 judges and prosecutors from different jurisdictions in Bosnia and Herzegovina as well as partners from different international organizations working with judiciary. The meeting was organized as a follow-up to its report “Trial Monitoring of Corruption Cases in BiH: Second Assessment”.
The aim of the meeting was to discuss the identified trends and practices hindering judicial response to corruption, with a particular focus on the management of trials.
“The judicial response to corruption in BiH is far from adequate. This is especially true when it comes to tackling medium and high-level cases. Problems in the management of trials have been seriously undermining the efficient and effective processing of corruption cases. Serious delays were observed in most courts dealing with serious corruption cases”, said Michael Schuetz, Head of Rule of Law of the OSCE Mission to BiH. “Not just in BiH, but across the region, changing the culture of impunity requires a resolute, impartial and consistent response by the criminal justice system,” he added.
The experiences and challenges faced by the Sarajevo Cantonal Prosecutor’s Office and Cantonal Court, which have the largest number of corruption cases, were presented by Sabina Sarajlija, Chief Prosecutor of the Cantonal Prosecutor’s Office Sarajevo, Adisa Zahiragić, Head of Criminal Division of the Cantonal Court in Sarajevo and Sanela Rondić, Judge at the Cantonal Court in Sarajevo.
To support BiH in tackling corruption, the OSCE Mission to BiH has been monitoring corruption-related criminal trials since 2017. This work is part of the project “Assessing Needs of Judicial Response to Corruption through Monitoring of Criminal Cases”, made possible with the support of the US Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs. The third report on the monitoring of corruption cases before courts in BiH, produced within this project, is expected to be presented by the end of 2020.


osce--2020-10-05--OSCE organizes online training seminar for journalists on data analytics

An OSCE-supported online training-seminar concluded on 3 October 2020 .
The OSCE Programme Office in Nur-Sultan organized the three-day event @ @ @ @ @ journalists on data management .
National experts introduced new approaches to big data and data @ @ @ @ @ analysis and advocacy .
They also presented methodologies for working with various open-source materials and @ @ @ @ @ .
Participants learned best practices on data-journalism and critical thinking in using big data .
@ @ @ @ @ apply the gained knowledge using practical exercises aimed at strengthening their skills in data collection @ @ @ @ @ also familiarized with data visualization applications .
Some 15 representatives of the media community attended @ @ @ @ @ is part of the Programme Office ’ s activities aimed at promoting media development and @ @ @ @ @ with OSCE principles and commitments .

An OSCE-supported online training-seminar concluded on 3 October 2020. The OSCE Programme Office in Nur-Sultan organized the three-day event to build capacity of Kazakh-speaking journalists on data management.
National experts introduced new approaches to big data and data visualization for media production, analysis and advocacy. They also presented methodologies for working with various open-source materials and their processing for media reporting. Participants learned best practices on data-journalism and critical thinking in using big data. Attendees had the opportunity to apply the gained knowledge using practical exercises aimed at strengthening their skills in data collection and curation. They were also familiarized with data visualization applications.
Some 15 representatives of the media community attended the event.
The event is part of the Programme Office’s activities aimed at promoting media development and freedom of expression in line with OSCE principles and commitments.


osce--2020-10-05--Lively campaign and efficient administration of Kyrgyzstan’s parliamentary elections tainted by clai

Lively campaign and efficient administration of Kyrgyzstan’s parliamentary elections tainted by claims of vote buying, international observers say

BISHKEK , 5 October 2020 – Kyrgyzstan ’ s parliamentary elections were generally well run and candidates could campaign freely , but credible allegations of vote buying remain a serious concern , international observers from the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights ( ODIHR ) said in a statement today .
“ We saw a lively campaign in elections that were held in very challenging circumstances , but the tone was at times harsh , ” said Thomas Boserup , head of ODIHR ’ s limited election observation mission .
“ It was disappointing to see the lack @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with most campaign coverage amounting to no more than paid advertising .
This lowered both the quality and variety of information available to voters.
” Some 3.5 million people were eligible to vote in yesterday ’ s parliamentary elections .
The election administration carried out its work efficiently and took care to provide comprehensive health safety measures .
At the same time , controversies following a number of its decisions aroused misgivings over the administration ’ s impartiality .
Election day went smoothly and was generally well organized , although health protocols were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ posted on the election administration ’ s website shortly after the end of voting , ensuring transparency .
Kyrgyzstan ’ s legal framework forms a good basis for democratic elections , with positive changes to electoral legislation since the last parliamentary elections .
However , a number of recent legislative changes have failed to address other limitations .
Campaign financing is lacking in transparency , while a ban on some forms of donation disadvantaged parties with greater funding constraints .
Although candidates could generally campaign freely , there were a number of concerns @ @ @ @ @ @ @ disruption of campaign events .
While public media provided free airtime to all contestants , the fact that campaign coverage was often produced and paid for by the contestants themselves resulted in a lack of journalistic reporting , with coverage reflecting the financial resources of the parties and candidates rather than providing an objective analysis of their programmes .
ODIHR ’ s Limited Election Observation Mission to Kyrgyzstan took up its work on 4 September and will end on 15 October .
The mission is assessing the extent to which the elections were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other international standards for democratic elections , as well as with national legislation .
For further information , please contact :

BISHKEK, 5 October 2020 – Kyrgyzstan’s parliamentary elections were generally well run and candidates could campaign freely, but credible allegations of vote buying remain a serious concern, international observers from the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) said in a statement today.
“We saw a lively campaign in elections that were held in very challenging circumstances, but the tone was at times harsh,” said Thomas Boserup, head of ODIHR’s limited election observation mission. “It was disappointing to see the lack of critical reporting in the media, with most campaign coverage amounting to no more than paid advertising. This lowered both the quality and variety of information available to voters.”
Some 3.5 million people were eligible to vote in yesterday’s parliamentary elections. The election administration carried out its work efficiently and took care to provide comprehensive health safety measures. At the same time, controversies following a number of its decisions aroused misgivings over the administration’s impartiality. Election day went smoothly and was generally well organized, although health protocols were not always implemented consistently. Preliminary results were posted on the election administration’s website shortly after the end of voting, ensuring transparency.
Kyrgyzstan’s legal framework forms a good basis for democratic elections, with positive changes to electoral legislation since the last parliamentary elections. However, a number of recent legislative changes have failed to address other limitations. Campaign financing is lacking in transparency, while a ban on some forms of donation disadvantaged parties with greater funding constraints.
Although candidates could generally campaign freely, there were a number of concerns, including reports of candidate intimidation and disruption of campaign events. While public media provided free airtime to all contestants, the fact that campaign coverage was often produced and paid for by the contestants themselves resulted in a lack of journalistic reporting, with coverage reflecting the financial resources of the parties and candidates rather than providing an objective analysis of their programmes.
ODIHR’s Limited Election Observation Mission to Kyrgyzstan took up its work on 4 September and will end on 15 October. The mission is assessing the extent to which the elections were held in line with OSCE commitments and other international standards for democratic elections, as well as with national legislation.
For further information, please contact:
Katya Andrusz, ODIHR: +48 609 522 266 or katya.andrusz@odihr.pl


osce--2020-10-03--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 236/2020 issued on 3 October 2020

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osce--2020-10-02--Statement by the Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group

MOSCOW / PARIS / WASHINGTON , D.C. , October 2 , 2020 - The Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group ( Igor Popov of the Russian Federation , Stéphane Visconti of France , and Andrew Schofer of the United States of America ) released the following statement today : The Co-Chairs strongly condemn the continued violence in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict zone as well as against targets in the territory of Armenia and Azerbaijan away from the Line of Contact , and express our alarm at reports of increasing civilian casualties .
Targeting or threatening civilians is never acceptable under any @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sides to observe fully their international obligations to protect civilian populations .
The Co-Chairs also stress that participation in the escalating violence by external parties undermines efforts to achieve lasting peace in the region .
Recalling the October 1 statement of the Presidents of the three Co-Chair countries , the Co-Chairs once again call for an immediate cessation of hostilities and the resumption of substantive negotiations , in good faith and without preconditions .
The Co-Chairs also call urgently for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire to enable the repatriation of remains of fallen servicemen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

MOSCOW / PARIS / WASHINGTON, D.C., October 2, 2020 - The Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group (Igor Popov of the Russian Federation, Stéphane Visconti of France, and Andrew Schofer of the United States of America) released the following statement today:
The Co-Chairs strongly condemn the continued violence in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict zone as well as against targets in the territory of Armenia and Azerbaijan away from the Line of Contact, and express our alarm at reports of increasing civilian casualties. Targeting or threatening civilians is never acceptable under any circumstances. The Co-Chairs call on the sides to observe fully their international obligations to protect civilian populations.
The Co-Chairs also stress that participation in the escalating violence by external parties undermines efforts to achieve lasting peace in the region.
Recalling the October 1 statement of the Presidents of the three Co-Chair countries, the Co-Chairs once again call for an immediate cessation of hostilities and the resumption of substantive negotiations, in good faith and without preconditions.
The Co-Chairs also call urgently for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire to enable the repatriation of remains of fallen servicemen in coordination with the OSCE and ICRC.


osce--2020-10-02--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 235/2020 issued on 2 October 2020


osce--2020-10-02--OSCE commends the important step made in increasing the transparency and integrity of the election a

OSCE commends the important step made in increasing the transparency and integrity of the election administration in BiH

SARAJEVO , 2 October 2020 - The OSCE Mission to BiH welcomes the continued efforts of the BiH Central Election @ @ @ @ @ increase the transparency and integrity of the election administration .
Yesterday ’ s CEC 's @ @ @ @ @ of voters registered for out-of-country voting in the local elections 2020 is a further significant @ @ @ @ @ We invite all the interested parties , political subjects , CSOs and citizens , to @ @ @ @ @ mistakes , and potential irregularities within the given deadline of 03 October .
Preparatory activities @ @ @ @ @ the integrity of the elections are essential to restore trust of BiH citizens in the @ @ @

SARAJEVO, 2 October 2020 - The OSCE Mission to BiH welcomes the continued efforts of the BiH Central Election Commission (CEC) to increase the transparency and integrity of the election administration.
Yesterday’s CEC's decision on confirmation and publication of voters registered for out-of-country voting in the local elections 2020 is a further significant step in this direction.
We invite all the interested parties, political subjects, CSOs and citizens, to check the lists, report mistakes, and potential irregularities within the given deadline of 03 October.
Preparatory activities aimed at protecting and improving the integrity of the elections are essential to restore trust of BiH citizens in the election process.


osce--2020-10-02--North Macedonia early parliamentary elections 2020: ODIHR Special election assessment mission final

North Macedonia early parliamentary elections 2020: ODIHR Special election assessment mission final report

The early parliamentary elections in North Macedonia were well administered amid necessary COVID-19 related adjustments but persistent shortcomings and instability in the legal framework underlined the need for comprehensive reform in advance of future elections .
These are some of the main conclusions after the 15 July 2020 elections , as detailed in the final report published by the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights ( ODIHR ) .
The report offers 32 recommendations to improve the conduct of elections and increase the transparency of and public confidence in the electoral process .
• Reviewing and revising the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , following a broad , inclusive and timely consultation - in order to ensure harmonization with other relevant laws and compliance with OSCE commitments and international standards • Establishing a permanent composition and mandate for the State Election Commission and providing clear and transparent procedures for appointing its commissioners • Clarifying and consolidating legal instructions on voter registration procedures , to correspond to the functionality of the central population register • Providing the State Commission for the Prevention of Corruption and the State Audit Office with adequate human and financial resources to effectively @ @ @ @ @ @ @ period • Reconsidering regulations on paid political advertisements in the media , in order to allow unimpeded access to the media on a non-discriminatory basis • Implementing reforms to promote the political independence of the public broadcaster , including reducing its dependence on the state budget and changing the procedure for selection and appointment of the members of the Programmatic Council • Eliminating undue restrictions on the right to lodge electoral complaints and appeals in order to provide effective legal remedies ODIHR deployed a Special Election Assessment Mission on 22 June 2020 to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Macedonia .
All 57 countries across the OSCE region have formally committed to follow up promptly on ODIHR ’ s election assessments and recommendations .

The early parliamentary elections in North Macedonia were well administered amid necessary COVID-19 related adjustments but persistent shortcomings and instability in the legal framework underlined the need for comprehensive reform in advance of future elections. These are some of the main conclusions after the 15 July 2020 elections, as detailed in the final report published by the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR).
The report offers 32 recommendations to improve the conduct of elections and increase the transparency of and public confidence in the electoral process.
Recommendations
Key recommendations include:
Reviewing and revising the Electoral Code – in a public procedure, following a broad, inclusive and timely consultation - in order to ensure harmonization with other relevant laws and compliance with OSCE commitments and international standards
Establishing a permanent composition and mandate for the State Election Commission and providing clear and transparent procedures for appointing its commissioners
Clarifying and consolidating legal instructions on voter registration procedures, to correspond to the functionality of the central population register
Providing the State Commission for the Prevention of Corruption and the State Audit Office with adequate human and financial resources to effectively carry out their mandates during the electoral period
Reconsidering regulations on paid political advertisements in the media, in order to allow unimpeded access to the media on a non-discriminatory basis
Implementing reforms to promote the political independence of the public broadcaster, including reducing its dependence on the state budget and changing the procedure for selection and appointment of the members of the Programmatic Council
Eliminating undue restrictions on the right to lodge electoral complaints and appeals in order to provide effective legal remedies
ODIHR deployed a Special Election Assessment Mission on 22 June 2020 to observe the early parliamentary elections in North Macedonia.
All 57 countries across the OSCE region have formally committed to follow up promptly on ODIHR’s election assessments and recommendations.


osce--2020-10-01--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 234/2020 issued on 1 October 2020


osce--2020-10-01--Voting Matters: Head of OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina and  Principal Deputy High Representa

Voting Matters: Head of OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina and  Principal Deputy High Representative visit Brčko District

BRČKO , Bosnia and Herzegovina , 1 October 2020 – Head of the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina ( BiH ) , Ambassador Kathleen Kavalec , and the Principal Deputy High Representative and Brčko District Supervisor , Michael Scanlan , concluded today their visit to Brčko District ( BD ) .
The focus of the visit was to discuss with local officials the steps they are taking to ensure that the voters of the District can have high confidence in the 15 November election process in the District .
Ambassador Kavalec and Supervisor Scanlan welcomed the progress made by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of electoral fraud in Brčko District .
One of the avenues for such fraud is the inaccuracy of the voter registry .
For this reason , the OSCE Mission supports the work by BD authorities to review the residence status of the District ’ s inhabitants and to clean up the voter registry in the coming period .
Ambassador Kavalec and Supervisor Scanlan met with the Public Registry Office to hear about progress made in this important effort .
They underscored the importance of sending a clear message that only genuine residents of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the negative practices of the past .
The OSCE Head of Mission and Brčko District Supervisor also met with representatives of 25 political parties , coalitions , and independent candidates to discuss the need for continued reforms that advance the interests of all citizens .
The leaders of political parties signed an election pledge in which the political parties committed themselves to constructive conduct during the campaign .
Ambassador Kavalec and Supervisor Scanlan noted that citizens want to see parties and politicians focus on offering concrete policy proposals that will improve their daily @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the Brčko Supervisor applauded the BD authorities ’ adoption of the Law on Peaceful Assembly and welcomed the commitment to adopt the Law on Associations and Foundations and the Law on the Rights of National Minorities before the election campaign starts .
They also urged the authorities to advance their preparations of a new BD Law on the Prevention of Conflict of Interest so it would be ready to be adopted by the newly elected Assembly .
They expressed the continued readiness of the OSCE Mission to BiH and the Office of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
During the meetings with representatives of BD law enforcement agencies and the judiciary , Ambassador Kavalec and Supervisor Scanlan underlined specific roles that different institutions have in preventing and combating election fraud , and encouraged a proactive approach and closer co-operation between the Public Registry Department , the BD Police and the BD Prosecutor ’ s Office .
Another key issue that the Supervisor discussed in an earlier visit with the heads of Brčko ’ s courts is the adequate sentencing in corruption and election fraud cases that is meant to serve @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be thinking of misusing public funds or exerting improper influence in the election process .
In that context , judges from Brčko will participate in a seminar on sentencing hosted by the Embassy of the United States .
It was also noted that the District will be unique in BiH , as independent observers will be present at all polling stations , without exceptions , to help safeguard the integrity of the election process .
These measures and close co-operation between all relevant institutions should provide for a safe and fair environment for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Brčko ’ s capacity to serve as an example to others in BiH on how elections should be conducted .
Ambassador Kavalec and Supervisor Scanlan urged voters to choose their representatives based on long-term policies and concrete issues .
They also commended the commitment of the Brčko District authorities to secure funding for personal protective equipment to be distributed to all polling stations in an effort to curb the spread of COVID-19 .

BRČKO, Bosnia and Herzegovina, 1 October 2020 – Head of the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH), Ambassador Kathleen Kavalec, and the Principal Deputy High Representative and Brčko District Supervisor, Michael Scanlan, concluded today their visit to Brčko District (BD). The focus of the visit was to discuss with local officials the steps they are taking to ensure that the voters of the District can have high confidence in the 15 November election process in the District.
Ambassador Kavalec and Supervisor Scanlan welcomed the progress made by law enforcement authorities to address the allegations of electoral fraud in Brčko District. One of the avenues for such fraud is the inaccuracy of the voter registry. For this reason, the OSCE Mission supports the work by BD authorities to review the residence status of the District’s inhabitants and to clean up the voter registry in the coming period. Ambassador Kavalec and Supervisor Scanlan met with the Public Registry Office to hear about progress made in this important effort. They underscored the importance of sending a clear message that only genuine residents of the District can vote, thus changing the negative practices of the past.
The OSCE Head of Mission and Brčko District Supervisor also met with representatives of 25 political parties, coalitions, and independent candidates to discuss the need for continued reforms that advance the interests of all citizens. The leaders of political parties signed an election pledge in which the political parties committed themselves to constructive conduct during the campaign. Ambassador Kavalec and Supervisor Scanlan noted that citizens want to see parties and politicians focus on offering concrete policy proposals that will improve their daily lives.
The OSCE Head of Mission and the Brčko Supervisor applauded the BD authorities’ adoption of the Law on Peaceful Assembly and welcomed the commitment to adopt the Law on Associations and Foundations and the Law on the Rights of National Minorities before the election campaign starts. They also urged the authorities to advance their preparations of a new BD Law on the Prevention of Conflict of Interest so it would be ready to be adopted by the newly elected Assembly. They expressed the continued readiness of the OSCE Mission to BiH and the Office of the High Representative to support the process.
During the meetings with representatives of BD law enforcement agencies and the judiciary, Ambassador Kavalec and Supervisor Scanlan underlined specific roles that different institutions have in preventing and combating election fraud, and encouraged a proactive approach and closer co-operation between the Public Registry Department, the BD Police and the BD Prosecutor’s Office. Another key issue that the Supervisor discussed in an earlier visit with the heads of Brčko’s courts is the adequate sentencing in corruption and election fraud cases that is meant to serve as a deterrent to others who might be thinking of misusing public funds or exerting improper influence in the election process. In that context, judges from Brčko will participate in a seminar on sentencing hosted by the Embassy of the United States.
It was also noted that the District will be unique in BiH, as independent observers will be present at all polling stations, without exceptions, to help safeguard the integrity of the election process.
These measures and close co-operation between all relevant institutions should provide for a safe and fair environment for voters to cast their votes, restoring Brčko’s capacity to serve as an example to others in BiH on how elections should be conducted.
Ambassador Kavalec and Supervisor Scanlan urged voters to choose their representatives based on long-term policies and concrete issues. They also commended the commitment of the Brčko District authorities to secure funding for personal protective equipment to be distributed to all polling stations in an effort to curb the spread of COVID-19.


osce--2020-10-01--OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina co-organizes training course on ethical standards and discipl

OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina co-organizes training course on ethical standards and disciplinary practice for judges and prosecutors

The OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina ( BiH ) organized two online training courses on ethical standards and disciplinary practice for newly appointed judges and prosecutors and legal associates , on 1 and 2 October 2020 .
The event aimed at increasing participants ’ understanding of ethical standards and the substance of codes of ethics for judges and prosecutors .
The training course particularly focused on impartiality and accountability , conflict of interest , the use of social media and public statements .
Dmitry Iordanidi , Deputy Head of the OSCE Mission to BiH stated : “ Integrity , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ holders are of paramount importance .
They must be respected to ensure that citizens have faith in a fair , reliable justice system .
The OSCE Mission to BiH remains dedicated to upholding professional standards within the judiciary.
” Mirza H. Omerović , Deputy Chief Disciplinary Counsel , added : “ The Office of the Disciplinary Counsel appreciates the OSCE Mission 's continuous support .
Improving the integrity of the judiciary of Bosnia and Herzegovina is our common goal .
We are pleased to once again participate in this training for judges and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ discipline , conflict of interest , and judicial integrity as a whole .
These topics are of critical importance.
”  Participants had the opportunity to learn about practical instances of disciplinary procedures conducted by the disciplinary bodies of the BiH High Judicial and Prosecutorial Council .
The training course is organized jointly by the OSCE Mission to BiH , Judicial and Prosecutorial Training Centre of the Federation of BiH , and the Office of the Disciplinary Counsel of the BiH High Judicial and Prosecutorial Council .

The OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) organized two online training courses on ethical standards and disciplinary practice for newly appointed judges and prosecutors and legal associates, on 1 and 2 October 2020.
The event aimed at increasing participants’ understanding of ethical standards and the substance of codes of ethics for judges and prosecutors. The training course particularly focused on impartiality and accountability, conflict of interest, the use of social media and public statements.
Dmitry Iordanidi, Deputy Head of the OSCE Mission to BiH stated: “Integrity, independence, and accountability of judicial office holders are of paramount importance. They must be respected to ensure that citizens have faith in a fair, reliable justice system. The OSCE Mission to BiH remains dedicated to upholding professional standards within the judiciary.”
Mirza H. Omerović, Deputy Chief Disciplinary Counsel, added: “The Office of the Disciplinary Counsel appreciates the OSCE Mission's continuous support. Improving the integrity of the judiciary of Bosnia and Herzegovina is our common goal. We are pleased to once again participate in this training for judges and prosecutors in the area of ethics, discipline, conflict of interest, and judicial integrity as a whole. These topics are of critical importance.”
Participants had the opportunity to learn about practical instances of disciplinary procedures conducted by the disciplinary bodies of the BiH High Judicial and Prosecutorial Council.
The training course is organized jointly by the OSCE Mission to BiH, Judicial and Prosecutorial Training Centre of the Federation of BiH, and the Office of the Disciplinary Counsel of the BiH High Judicial and Prosecutorial Council.


osce--2020-10-13--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 13 October 2020

Kamensk-Shakhtinskiy , Russian Federation .
The Observer Mission ( OM ) continues to operate 24/7 at both Border Crossing Points ( BCPs ) .
The overall number of border crossings by persons decreased at both BCPs compared to the previous week .
The OM is currently operating with 22 permanent international Mission members , including the Chief Observer ( CO ) and one first responder [ 1 ] .
The Mission is supported administratively by a staff member and the Chief of Fund Administration based in Vienna .
Activities have been impacted by COVID-19 and measures undertaken by the OM @ @ @ @ @ @ @ care of its Mission members and compliance with measures set by the host country authorities .
The Mission is continuing to keep the situation under review , in close contact with the OSCE Secretariat and the Chairmanship .
Following the host country recommendations , the observers are adhering to social distancing .
Due to the preventive measures taken by the central and regional authorities , the OM is faced with certain difficulties , but is still able to continue to fulfil its mandate without any limitations in its observation and reporting activities .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ can be categorized as follows : • Adults travelling on foot or by car with little or no luggage .
• Families ( often including elderly persons and/or children ) travelling on foot or by car with a significant amount of luggage .
The average number of entries/exits decreased from 8,021 to 7,709 per day at both BCPs compared to last week [ 2 ] .
During the reporting period , the majority of border crossings were to the Russian Federation , with an average net flow of 131 per day for both @ @ @ @ @ @ @ experience much more traffic than the Gukovo BCP .
Responding to the COVID-19 situation , the host country has closed its borders for the majority of foreigners starting from 18 March .
Among the exceptions of persons allowed to cross the border ( which entered into force on 19 March ) , are Ukrainian citizens and stateless persons holding passports or identification documents proving permanent residence in certain areas of Luhansk and Donetsk regions of Ukraine .
In addition , reportedly , due to the threat of the spread of COVID-19 , starting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ transport commuting between the non-government-controlled areas of Luhansk region of Ukraine and the Russian Federation was temporarily suspended and restored from 25 June .
During the reporting period , the number of persons in military-style outfits crossing the border was two , compared to four last week .
Two persons crossed into the Russian Federation while no persons crossed into Ukraine .
These individuals crossed the border on foot .
The OTs continued to report on families , sometimes with elderly persons and/or children , crossing the border at both BCPs with a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in heavily loaded cars .
During this reporting week , nine families were observed crossing into the Russian Federation while another five families were observed crossing into Ukraine , compared to the previous reporting period when seven families were observed crossing to the Russian Federation , while another two families crossed into Ukraine .
Regular local and long-distance bus connections continued to operate between Ukraine ( mostly from/to the Luhansk region ) and the Russian Federation .
During the reporting period , the OTs observed a slight decrease in the overall number of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( 302 compared to 332 observed during the previous week ) .
There were 148 buses bound for the Russian Federation and 154 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of trucks crossing the border at both BCPs ( 935 compared to 938 during the previous reporting week ) ; 523 at the Gukovo BCP and 412 at the Donetsk BCP , 479 of these trucks crossed into the Russian Federation and 456 crossed into Ukraine .
Most of the trucks observed by the OTs had Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region ; however , on a daily basis , the OTs also noted trucks registered in the Russian Federation , Belarus , Lithuania and trucks with “ LPR ” plates @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tanker trucks crossing the border in both directions .
During the reporting period , the OTs observed an increase in the overall number of tanker trucks crossing the border at both BCPs ( 60 compared to 46 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 .
The OM continued to observe passenger and cargo minivans [ 3 ] crossing the border in both directions at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ predominantly with Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region ; however , the OTs also saw minivans registered in the Russian Federation .
During the reporting period , the OTs observed a slight decrease in the overall number of minivans crossing the border at both BCPs ( 135 compared to 146 observed during the previous week ) ; 68 crossed into the Russian Federation and another 67 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 32 occasions ; the OTs assessed that 17 trains were travelling to the Russian Federation and the remaining 15 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 vehicles with Georgian and Lithuanian licence plates .
On 8 October at 13:15 , the OT at the Donetsk BCP observed a group of seven brand-new public utility vehicles with no licence plates entering the BCP from the Russian Federation and parking in the customs control area .
The group consisted of four multi-purpose trucks type “ GAZon Next ” , two medium-duty trucks type “ GAZ Sadko Next ” and one asphalt distributor type “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ customs control procedures and at 17:38 crossed the border into Ukraine .
For trends and figures at a glance covering the period from 8 September to 13 October 2020 , please see the attachment here .
[ 1 ] First responders are OSCE staff or Mission members deployed for a short period of time .
[ 2 ] Based on data received from the Regional Representation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation .
[ 3 ] Cargo minivans : light commercial vehicles with a maximum authorized mass of more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 7.5 t ; with or without a trailer with a maximum mass of less than 750 kg ( small cargo vehicles which correspond to driving licence C1 ) .

SUMMARY
Kamensk-Shakhtinskiy, Russian Federation. The Observer Mission (OM) continues to operate 24/7 at both Border Crossing Points (BCPs). The overall number of border crossings by persons decreased at both BCPs compared to the previous week.
OPERATIONAL REMARKS
The OM is currently operating with 22 permanent international Mission members, including the Chief Observer (CO) and one first responder[1]. The Mission is supported administratively by a staff member and the Chief of Fund Administration based in Vienna.
Update on COVID-19 measures
Activities have been impacted by COVID-19 and measures undertaken by the OM to ensure the safety and duty of care of its Mission members and compliance with measures set by the host country authorities. The Mission is continuing to keep the situation under review, in close contact with the OSCE Secretariat and the Chairmanship. Following the host country recommendations, the observers are adhering to social distancing. Due to the preventive measures taken by the central and regional authorities, the OM is faced with certain difficulties, but is still able to continue to fulfil its mandate without any limitations in its observation and reporting activities.
OBSERVATIONS AT THE BORDER CROSSING POINTS
Persons crossing the border
The profile of persons crossing the border can be categorized as follows:
Adults travelling on foot or by car with little or no luggage. Persons in military-style outfits. Families (often including elderly persons and/or children) travelling on foot or by car with a significant amount of luggage.
The average number of entries/exits decreased from 8,021 to 7,709 per day at both BCPs compared to last week[2].
During the reporting period, the majority of border crossings were to the Russian Federation, with an average net flow of 131 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 two, compared to four last week. Two persons crossed into the Russian Federation while no persons crossed into Ukraine. These individuals crossed the border on foot.
Families with a significant amount of luggage
The OTs continued to report on families, sometimes with elderly persons and/or children, crossing the border at both BCPs with a significant amount of luggage, or travelling in heavily loaded cars. During this reporting week, nine families were observed crossing into the Russian Federation while another five families were observed crossing into Ukraine, compared to the previous reporting period when seven families were observed crossing to the Russian Federation, while another two families crossed into Ukraine.
Bus connections
Regular local and long-distance bus connections continued to operate between Ukraine (mostly from/to the Luhansk region) and the Russian Federation. During the reporting period, the OTs observed a slight decrease in the overall number of buses crossing the border at both BCPs (302 compared to 332 observed during the previous week). There were 148 buses bound for the Russian Federation and 154 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 decrease in the overall number of trucks crossing the border at both BCPs (935 compared to 938 during the previous reporting week); 523 at the Gukovo BCP and 412 at the Donetsk BCP, 479 of these trucks crossed into the Russian Federation and 456 crossed into Ukraine. Most of the trucks observed by the OTs had Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region; however, on a daily basis, the OTs also noted trucks registered in the Russian Federation, Belarus, Lithuania and trucks with “LPR” plates.
The OTs also continued to observe tanker trucks crossing the border in both directions. During the reporting period, the OTs observed an increase in the overall number of tanker trucks crossing the border at both BCPs (60 compared to 46 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 a slight decrease in the overall number of minivans crossing the border at both BCPs (135 compared to 146 observed during the previous week); 68 crossed into the Russian Federation and another 67 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 32 occasions; the OTs assessed that 17 trains were travelling to the Russian Federation and the remaining 15 trains were travelling to Ukraine (more details are provided in the sections “trends and figures at a glance” below).
Visual observation was not possible because of the line of trees located between the train tracks and the BCP.
Other observations
The majority of vehicles crossing the border had Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region or Russian Federation licence plates. A significant number of vehicles with “LPR” plates were also observed crossing the border in both directions on a daily basis. The OTs also observed vehicles with Georgian and Lithuanian licence plates.
On 8 October at 13:15, the OT at the Donetsk BCP observed a group of seven brand-new public utility vehicles with no licence plates entering the BCP from the Russian Federation and parking in the customs control area. The group consisted of four multi-purpose trucks type “GAZon Next”, two medium-duty trucks type “GAZ Sadko Next” and one asphalt distributor type “MAZ”. All the vehicles underwent customs control procedures and at 17:38 crossed the border into Ukraine.
For trends and figures at a glance covering the period from 8 September to 13 October 2020, please see the attachment here.
[1] First responders are OSCE staff or Mission members deployed for a short period of time.
[2] Based on data received from the Regional Representation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation.
[3] Cargo minivans: light commercial vehicles with a maximum authorized mass of more than 3.5 t and not more than 7.5 t; with or without a trailer with a maximum mass of less than 750 kg (small cargo vehicles which correspond to driving licence C1).


osce--2020-10-13--Statement by the Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group

GENEVA/MOSCOW , 13 October , 2020 - The Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group ( Igor Popov of the Russian @ @ @ @ @ France , and Andrew Schofer of the United States of America ) released the following @ @ @ @ @ note with alarm the continuing violence in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict .
The Co-Chairs call on @ @ @ @ @ Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan to take immediate steps to execute in full the obligations @ @ @ @ @ the October 10 Moscow statement , in order to prevent catastrophic consequences for the region @ @ @ @ @ civilian casualties are unacceptable under any circumstances .
The Co-Chairs call on the sides to @ @ @ @ @ to allow the return of remains , prisoners of war , and detainees , and @ @ @ @ @ agree urgently upon a ceasefire verification mechanism .
Following conversations with Armenian Foreign Minister Zohrab @ @ @ @ @ Jeyhun Bayramov , the Co-Chairs are working with the sides on the substantive issues of @ @ @ @ @ in order to reach a negotiated solution .

GENEVA/MOSCOW, 13 October, 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) released the following statement today:
The Co-Chairs note with alarm the continuing violence in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. The Co-Chairs call on Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan to take immediate steps to execute in full the obligations of the sides according to the October 10 Moscow statement, in order to prevent catastrophic consequences for the region.
The Co-Chairs reiterate that civilian casualties are unacceptable under any circumstances. The Co-Chairs call on the sides to implement the humanitarian ceasefire immediately to allow the return of remains, prisoners of war, and detainees, and appeal to the sides to agree urgently upon a ceasefire verification mechanism.
Following conversations with Armenian Foreign Minister Zohrab Mnatsakanyan and Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov, the Co-Chairs are working with the sides on the substantive issues of the Nagorno-Karabakh political settlement process in order to reach a negotiated solution.


osce--2020-10-12--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 243/2020 issued on 12 October 2020


osce--2020-10-12--2020 OSCE Asian Conference participants urge for OSCE’s comprehensive engagement in times of global

2020 OSCE Asian Conference participants urge for OSCE’s comprehensive engagement in times of global security challenges

VIENNA , 12 October 2020 – Multilateral responses to the global security challenges in the time of the COVID-19 pandemic , and the OSCE ’ s comprehensive engagement are the focus of the two-day 2020 OSCE Asian Conference , virtually hosted by the Republic of Korea , in close co-operation with Slovakia , the 2020 OSCE Asian Partners for Co-operation Group Chair .
“ The Asian Conference provides us with an opportunity to pool our wisdom and promote concrete efforts to cope with emerging global security challenges , ” said Ambassador Shin Chae-Hyun , Permanent Representative of the Republic of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the conference .
Ambassador Lee Taeho , Vice Foreign Minister of the Republic of Korea , said that we live in a world where a single country can not manage the entirety of comprehensive security .
“ The global challenges that the world faces today , such as infectious diseases , environmental risks , and cybersecurity threats , call for global solutions and transnational governance , ” he said .
“ The Republic of Korea remains steadfast in nurturing trust-building dialogues and facilitating multilateral security co-operation in Northeast Asia and beyond , to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Korean Peninsula and in the region.
” Ambassador Ingrid Brocková , State Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs of Slovakia , on behalf of the OSCE Asian partners for Co-operation Group ’ s Chair , said that multilateralism is being challenged now more than ever .
“ While the international community got comfortable speaking up in favour of multilateralism on many occasions , its actions , in some cases , tell a different story , ” she said .
“ The need to respond collectively to challenges in various areas @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and climate change , digital agenda , technology and innovation has become even more urgent.
” Participants agreed that the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted security challenges that everybody faces , despite geographical distance .
Tuula Yrjölä , OSCE Officer-in-Charge/Secretary General , Director of Conflict Prevention Centre , said that in these uncertain times , maintaining a co-operative spirit can no longer be taken for granted .
“ It is all the more important that we reinforce each other in the firm conviction that addressing global security challenges requires teamwork , close co-operation and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ – in fair weather and in times of trouble , ” said Yrjölä .
These messages were reinforced by Agron Tare , Deputy Foreign Minister of Albania , representing the 2020 Albanian OSCE Chairmanship .
“ Multilateralism is under siege .
Our principles and values are being tested .
Divergent security perceptions are eroding the common efforts of international organizations .
There is too little trust .
Too little compromise .
Too little solidarity .
As a result , our co-operation , our stability , and our security is suffering .
We all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we need to step up , ” said Tare .
The event that takes place on the 25th anniversary of the OSCE Asian Partnership and covers all three dimensions of security : regional confidence- and security-building measures , a recurring theme for the OSCE Asian Partnership ; mitigating trans-border environmental risks and challenges , disaster risk reduction and preparedness responses in times of COVID-19 ; and the nexus between security and access to information , similarities and differences in approaches to the pandemic .

VIENNA, 12 October 2020 – Multilateral responses to the global security challenges in the time of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the OSCE’s comprehensive engagement are the focus of the two-day 2020 OSCE Asian Conference, virtually hosted by the Republic of Korea, in close co-operation with Slovakia, the 2020 OSCE Asian Partners for Co-operation Group Chair.
“The Asian Conference provides us with an opportunity to pool our wisdom and promote concrete efforts to cope with emerging global security challenges,” said Ambassador Shin Chae-Hyun, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Korea to the OSCE, while opening the conference.
Ambassador Lee Taeho, Vice Foreign Minister of the Republic of Korea, said that we live in a world where a single country cannot manage the entirety of comprehensive security. “The global challenges that the world faces today, such as infectious diseases, environmental risks, and cybersecurity threats, call for global solutions and transnational governance,” he said. “The Republic of Korea remains steadfast in nurturing trust-building dialogues and facilitating multilateral security co-operation in Northeast Asia and beyond, to establish permanent peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula and in the region.”
Ambassador Ingrid Brocková, State Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs of Slovakia, on behalf of the OSCE Asian partners for Co-operation Group’s Chair, said that multilateralism is being challenged now more than ever. “While the international community got comfortable speaking up in favour of multilateralism on many occasions, its actions, in some cases, tell a different story,” she said. “The need to respond collectively to challenges in various areas such as health, education, environment and climate change, digital agenda, technology and innovation has become even more urgent.”
Participants agreed that the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted security challenges that everybody faces, despite geographical distance.
Tuula Yrjölä, OSCE Officer-in-Charge/Secretary General, Director of Conflict Prevention Centre, said that in these uncertain times, maintaining a co-operative spirit can no longer be taken for granted. “It is all the more important that we reinforce each other in the firm conviction that addressing global security challenges requires teamwork, close co-operation and institutionalized links that we can rely on – in fair weather and in times of trouble,” said Yrjölä.
These messages were reinforced by Agron Tare, Deputy Foreign Minister of Albania, representing the 2020 Albanian OSCE Chairmanship. “Multilateralism is under siege. Our principles and values are being tested. Divergent security perceptions are eroding the common efforts of international organizations. There is too little trust. Too little compromise. Too little solidarity. As a result, our co-operation, our stability, and our security is suffering. We all know we have a problem. And we need to step up,” said Tare.
The event that takes place on the 25th anniversary of the OSCE Asian Partnership and covers all three dimensions of security: regional confidence- and security-building measures, a recurring theme for the OSCE Asian Partnership; mitigating trans-border environmental risks and challenges, disaster risk reduction and preparedness responses in times of COVID-19; and the nexus between security and access to information, similarities and differences in approaches to the pandemic.


osce--2020-10-12--Economic and good governance challenges through lenses of open data and digital tools focus of OSCE

Economic and good governance challenges through lenses of open data and digital tools focus of OSCE webinar

The role of open data and digital tools in enhancing good governance and anti-corruption mechanisms in the context of current economic challenges was the focus of a virtual webinar organized by the Office of the Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities ( OCEEA ) on 9 October 2020 .
More than one hundred representatives of civil society organizations , businesses , chambers of commerce and business associations from the OSCE region as well as other international organizations discussed the potential of open data in enhancing good governance measures and economic recovery post-COVID-19 .
Ambassador James S. Gilmore , Permanent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ OSCE said during the opening remarks : ‘ Preventing and combating corruption is , and should remain , a key pillar of the OSCE .
I welcome the Albanian Chairmanship ’ s strong commitment to addressing the challenge of corruption , promoting accountability and transparency in governance .
Rooting out corruption improves the business environment and reinforces the trust of citizens in their government .
We all seek sustained economic growth , prosperity , and security across the region .
These are all key ingredients in an economic recovery.
” “ Connectivity is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for consumers , citizens and the environment .
Powerful digital networks can generate jobs and give people access to workplaces , schools and health care , thus helping to close the digital divide , “ said the Director for Technology , Trade , Finance , Policies and Investment Promotion at the German Federal Foreign Office , Ambassador Alexander Schoenfelder .
“ Without effective prevention of corruption , sustainable investments in projects to strengthen trade , transport and connectivity are doomed to failure , ” said the Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the foreign direct investments and for societies , he said , to be able to look to the future with confidence .
“ In today ’ s interconnected world , this is essential.
” The sessions provided an overview of the challenges and needs of economies in Central Asia , Eastern and South-Eastern Europe , the policy response measures and the role of open data in these processes and how open data and digital platforms can support good governance and economic recovery .
Participants looked into trends and opportunities in the fields of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ supply chains , beneficial ownership , etc .
The webinar served as a kick-off discussion for a series of capacity building seminars on open data and digital platforms aimed at strengthening good governance measures and improving the business climate .
The kick-off webinar and the series of subsequent capacity building seminars are organized within the framework of the extra-budgetary project “ Promoting Good Governance and Enhancing Anti-Corruption Efforts in the OSCE Area through the Use of Open Data and New Digital Technologies ” , funded by Germany and the United States of America @

The role of open data and digital tools in enhancing good governance and anti-corruption mechanisms in the context of current economic challenges was the focus of a virtual webinar organized by the Office of the Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities (OCEEA) on 9 October 2020.
More than one hundred representatives of civil society organizations, businesses, chambers of commerce and business associations from the OSCE region as well as other international organizations discussed the potential of open data in enhancing good governance measures and economic recovery post-COVID-19.
Ambassador James S. Gilmore, Permanent Representative of the United States to the OSCE said during the opening remarks: ‘Preventing and combating corruption is, and should remain, a key pillar of the OSCE. I welcome the Albanian Chairmanship’s strong commitment to addressing the challenge of corruption, promoting accountability and transparency in governance. Rooting out corruption improves the business environment and reinforces the trust of citizens in their government. We all seek sustained economic growth, prosperity, and security across the region. These are all key ingredients in an economic recovery.”
“Connectivity is the key to create sustainable long-term benefits for consumers, citizens and the environment. Powerful digital networks can generate jobs and give people access to workplaces, schools and health care, thus helping to close the digital divide,“ said the Director for Technology, Trade, Finance, Policies and Investment Promotion at the German Federal Foreign Office, Ambassador Alexander Schoenfelder.
“Without effective prevention of corruption, sustainable investments in projects to strengthen trade, transport and connectivity are doomed to failure,” said the Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities Vuk Žugić. Transparency is essential for the foreign direct investments and for societies, he said, to be able to look to the future with confidence. “In today’s interconnected world, this is essential.”
The sessions provided an overview of the challenges and needs of economies in Central Asia, Eastern and South-Eastern Europe, the policy response measures and the role of open data in these processes and how open data and digital platforms can support good governance and economic recovery. Participants looked into trends and opportunities in the fields of digitalization and open procurement, trade, supply chains, beneficial ownership, etc. The webinar served as a kick-off discussion for a series of capacity building seminars on open data and digital platforms aimed at strengthening good governance measures and improving the business climate.
The kick-off webinar and the series of subsequent capacity building seminars are organized within the framework of the extra-budgetary project “Promoting Good Governance and Enhancing Anti-Corruption Efforts in the OSCE Area through the Use of Open Data and New Digital Technologies”, funded by Germany and the United States of America.


osce--2020-10-12--Central Asian and European youth learn about the OSCE through Model OSCE workshop

More than 20 young professionals and university students took part in the online Model OSCE simulation workshop from 6 to 9 October .
Participants included young people from Central Asian countries : Afghanistan , Kazakhstan , Kyrgyzstan , Tajikistan , Uzbekistan , as well as students from Austria , Croatia , Russia and Italy .
The event aimed to enhance participants ’ knowledge about the OSCE , its comprehensive model of security , and its consensus-based decision-making process .
The workshop also aimed to improve participants ’ negotiation and conflict resolution skills .
The Model OSCE was organized by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the State Agency for Youth , Physical Culture and Sports of the Kyrgyz Republic and with support from the OSCE Academy in Bishkek .
“ The Model OSCE workshop aims to bring young leaders across the region together and let them feel firsthand what the OSCE is like , ” noted Alexander Eliseev , Head of the Politico-Military Department of the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek .
The workshop featured a series of briefings , sessions and practical exercises based on the Helsinki Final Act .
The interactive sessions , delivered by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ thinking and developed skills in the area of international negotiations and crisis resolution .
Participants engaged in simulation exercises , stepping into the shoes of diplomats , resolving a crisis scenario through dialogue and eventually reaching a consensus .
They also gained a deeper understanding of the OSCE ’ s practical work through meeting with representatives of the OSCE Secretariat and the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek .
Participants noted that the workshop was a unique experience for them .
“ Especially in the time of a pandemic , it was very interesting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with other young prospective leaders from other countries and to participate in a common workshop together with them , ” said Yulia Glotova , a Model OSCE participant from Russia .
She added that this experience has given participants “ valuable information on the work of the OSCE as a regional platform for dialogue ” and an opportunity to network .
The Model OSCE simulation workshop is part of the Organization ’ s efforts to build capacity and promote participation of young people in efforts to strengthen peace and security in the Central @ @ @

More than 20 young professionals and university students took part in the online Model OSCE simulation workshop from 6 to 9 October. Participants included young people from Central Asian countries: Afghanistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, as well as students from Austria, Croatia, Russia and Italy.
The event aimed to enhance participants’ knowledge about the OSCE, its comprehensive model of security, and its consensus-based decision-making process. The workshop also aimed to improve participants’ negotiation and conflict resolution skills.
The Model OSCE was organized by the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek in co-operation with the State Agency for Youth, Physical Culture and Sports of the Kyrgyz Republic and with support from the OSCE Academy in Bishkek.
“The Model OSCE workshop aims to bring young leaders across the region together and let them feel firsthand what the OSCE is like,” noted Alexander Eliseev, Head of the Politico-Military Department of the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek.
The workshop featured a series of briefings, sessions and practical exercises based on the Helsinki Final Act. The interactive sessions, delivered by Kyrgyzstani and international experts, stimulated critical thinking and developed skills in the area of international negotiations and crisis resolution. Participants engaged in simulation exercises, stepping into the shoes of diplomats, resolving a crisis scenario through dialogue and eventually reaching a consensus. They also gained a deeper understanding of the OSCE’s practical work through meeting with representatives of the OSCE Secretariat and the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek.
Participants noted that the workshop was a unique experience for them. “Especially in the time of a pandemic, it was very interesting to have a chance to exchange opinions with other young prospective leaders from other countries and to participate in a common workshop together with them,” said Yulia Glotova, a Model OSCE participant from Russia. She added that this experience has given participants “valuable information on the work of the OSCE as a regional platform for dialogue” and an opportunity to network.
The Model OSCE simulation workshop is part of the Organization’s efforts to build capacity and promote participation of young people in efforts to strengthen peace and security in the Central Asian region.


osce--2020-10-12--OSCE webinar promotes use of digital technologies in combating corruption in Turkmenistan

Representatives of law enforcement bodies , the Mejlis ( parliament ) , financial institutions and other relevant agencies of Turkmenistan discussed the role of digital technologies in investigating and reducing the risks of corruption at an OSCE-organized webinar that opened on 12 October 2020 in Ashgabat .
The OSCE Centre in Ashgabat organized the three-day event to share best practices of OSCE participating States in the use of digital technologies in preventing and combating corruption .
International experts briefed participants about the scope and sphere of applying IT in the fight against corruption with a focus on transparency , accountability @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ As sophisticated methods and modern technologies are increasingly employed in criminal activities , such as corruption , it is important to make active use of digital instruments to optimize efforts aimed at strengthening transparency of the activities of state institutions and ensuring prompt information exchange among relevant institutions , as well as studying and tracking links in criminal chains , ” said Natalya Drozd , Head of the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat .
Participants examined the specifics of introducing information technologies in anti-corruption practices and their role in the implementation of anti-corruption @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the webinar will contribute to the efforts of the host government aimed at introducing digital technologies in national anti-corruption activities as well as the development of relevant institutional and legislative mechanisms , ” added Drozd .
The webinar also addressed methods of investigation and digital tracking of corruption cases .
Additionally participants explored artificial intelligence as one of the most efficient instruments in the prevention of corruption .

Representatives of law enforcement bodies, the Mejlis (parliament), financial institutions and other relevant agencies of Turkmenistan discussed the role of digital technologies in investigating and reducing the risks of corruption at an OSCE-organized webinar that opened on 12 October 2020 in Ashgabat.
The OSCE Centre in Ashgabat organized the three-day event to share best practices of OSCE participating States in the use of digital technologies in preventing and combating corruption.
International experts briefed participants about the scope and sphere of applying IT in the fight against corruption with a focus on transparency, accountability, preventative detection and ethical behavior.
“As sophisticated methods and modern technologies are increasingly employed in criminal activities, such as corruption, it is important to make active use of digital instruments to optimize efforts aimed at strengthening transparency of the activities of state institutions and ensuring prompt information exchange among relevant institutions, as well as studying and tracking links in criminal chains,” said Natalya Drozd, Head of the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat.
Participants examined the specifics of introducing information technologies in anti-corruption practices and their role in the implementation of anti-corruption strategies.
“It is our hope that the webinar will contribute to the efforts of the host government aimed at introducing digital technologies in national anti-corruption activities as well as the development of relevant institutional and legislative mechanisms,” added Drozd.
The webinar also addressed methods of investigation and digital tracking of corruption cases. Additionally participants explored artificial intelligence as one of the most efficient instruments in the prevention of corruption.


osce--2020-10-12--More than 100 OSCE observers to deploy to the U.S. for the 3 November elections

COPENHAGEN , 12 October 2020 – Some 100 election observers from the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly will deploy later this month to the United States for the 3 November general elections .
They will work with about 40 long-term observers and experts from the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights who are already in the country and deliver a joint assessment following election day .
The mission will mark the eighth time the PA has observed the vote in the U.S. since 2004 .
German parliamentarian Michael Georg Link has been appointed to lead the OSCE short-term observer mission @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and conclusions at a press conference in Washington on 4 November .
Norwegian parliamentarian Kari Henriksen will lead the OSCE PA mission , which includes some 80 members of parliament from 30 countries .
They will work closely with ODIHR ’ s Head of Mission , Ambassador Urszula Gacek ( Poland ) , and its core team of 11 experts based in Washington , DC , and 30 long-term observers around the country .
“ As international observers , we do not bring any pre-conceived notions to our work , ” said Link @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and methodology that we do in all countries where we observe elections , evaluating them on the basis of their adherence to a set of democratic standards that the United States and all OSCE countries have agreed to .
We look forward to returning to the United States this year to observe this historic election and offer our honest assessment.
” Link is a former Director of ODIHR who now serves as Vice-Chair of the PA ’ s Committee on Democracy , Human Rights and Humanitarian Questions .
Henriksen , who serves as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Rapporteur of the human rights committee , noted that the COVID-19 pandemic poses great challenges but stressed that the PA is taking every necessary precaution to protect the health of observers , voters , and election officials .
“ Safety is our top priority , ” Henriksen said .
“ All of our observers will take COVID tests before deploying to the United States and will follow all relevant guidelines and requirements to ensure our safety as well as the safety of those we come in contact with .
Although the pandemic presents @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can conduct a full and robust observation mission.
” Observers will pay particular attention to the campaign environment , the legal framework , election administration , new voting technologies , mail-in voting , election day procedures , and media coverage .
Following the 2016 elections , observers concluded that the elections were highly competitive and fundamental freedoms were respected , but that the campaign was characterized by personal attacks and intolerant rhetoric .
The OSCE PA observers will participate in two days of briefings in Washington before deploying to a number of states @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
For previous OSCE PA assessments of U.S. elections , please click here .

COPENHAGEN, 12 October 2020 – Some 100 election observers from the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly will deploy later this month to the United States for the 3 November general elections. They will work with about 40 long-term observers and experts from the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights who are already in the country and deliver a joint assessment following election day. The mission will mark the eighth time the PA has observed the vote in the U.S. since 2004.
German parliamentarian Michael Georg Link has been appointed to lead the OSCE short-term observer mission and deliver the statement of preliminary findings and conclusions at a press conference in Washington on 4 November. Norwegian parliamentarian Kari Henriksen will lead the OSCE PA mission, which includes some 80 members of parliament from 30 countries. They will work closely with ODIHR’s Head of Mission, Ambassador Urszula Gacek (Poland), and its core team of 11 experts based in Washington, DC, and 30 long-term observers around the country.
“As international observers, we do not bring any pre-conceived notions to our work,” said Link. “We apply the same standards and methodology that we do in all countries where we observe elections, evaluating them on the basis of their adherence to a set of democratic standards that the United States and all OSCE countries have agreed to. We look forward to returning to the United States this year to observe this historic election and offer our honest assessment.”
Link is a former Director of ODIHR who now serves as Vice-Chair of the PA’s Committee on Democracy, Human Rights and Humanitarian Questions. Henriksen, who serves as Vice-President of the OSCE PA and as Rapporteur of the human rights committee, noted that the COVID-19 pandemic poses great challenges but stressed that the PA is taking every necessary precaution to protect the health of observers, voters, and election officials.
“Safety is our top priority,” Henriksen said. “All of our observers will take COVID tests before deploying to the United States and will follow all relevant guidelines and requirements to ensure our safety as well as the safety of those we come in contact with. Although the pandemic presents some obstacles, I am confident we can conduct a full and robust observation mission.”
Observers will pay particular attention to the campaign environment, the legal framework, election administration, new voting technologies, mail-in voting, election day procedures, and media coverage. Following the 2016 elections, observers concluded that the elections were highly competitive and fundamental freedoms were respected, but that the campaign was characterized by personal attacks and intolerant rhetoric.
The OSCE PA observers will participate in two days of briefings in Washington before deploying to a number of states around the country for election day observation.
For previous OSCE PA assessments of U.S. elections, please click here.
Watch a video on OSCE PA election observation here.


osce--2020-10-10--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 242/2020 issued on 10 October 2020


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

Moscow , 10 October 2020 - The Minsk Group Co-Chairs ( Igor Popov of the Russian Federation , Stéphane Visconti @ @ @ @ @ Schofer of the United States of America ) welcome the joint announcement by Azerbaijani Foreign @ @ @ @ @ Foreign Minister Zorab Mnatsakanyan , and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on a humanitarian ceasefire @ @ @ @ @ to execute their commitments in full .
The Co-Chairs and the Personal Representative of the @ @ @ @ @ , are in intensive discussions with the International Committee of the Red Cross on the @ @ @ @ @ return of remains and detainees as soon as possible .
We call on the sides @ @ @ @ @ security and logistical assurances on an urgent basis .
The Co-Chairs remain actively engaged with @ @ @ @ @ efforts to reach agreement on concrete parameters of the ceasefire and to conclude intensive substantive @ @ @ @ @ on the basis of the agreed upon principles and format .

Moscow, 10 October 2020 - The Minsk Group Co-Chairs (Igor Popov of the Russian Federation, Stéphane Visconti of France, and Andrew Schofer of the United States of America) welcome the joint announcement by Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov, Armenian Foreign Minister Zorab Mnatsakanyan, and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on a humanitarian ceasefire and call on the sides to execute their commitments in full.
The Co-Chairs and the Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, Andrzej Kasprzyk, are in intensive discussions with the International Committee of the Red Cross on the modalities and logistics of the return of remains and detainees as soon as possible. We call on the sides to provide all the necessary security and logistical assurances on an urgent basis.
The Co-Chairs remain actively engaged with the parties to facilitate their efforts to reach agreement on concrete parameters of the ceasefire and to conclude intensive substantive negotiations to reach a settlement on the basis of the agreed upon principles and format.


osce--2020-10-10--OSCE Chairperson-in-Office welcomes humanitarian ceasefire in Nagorno-Karabakh conflict context, sup

OSCE Chairperson-in-Office welcomes humanitarian ceasefire in Nagorno-Karabakh conflict context, supports resumption of substantive negotiations

VIENNA/TIRANA , 10 October 2020 – OSCE Chairperson-in-Office , Albania ’ s Prime Minister and Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs , Edi Rama , welcomed news of a humanitarian ceasefire in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict context .
“ We need stability , both on the ground and in the process led by the Minsk Group Co-Chairs , ” Rama said .
“ The agreement reached in Moscow overnight by Armenia and Azerbaijan puts us on the path towards the resumption of substantive negotiations in the agreed format , ” Rama added .
The increasing human toll of the fighting had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and in this regard , the humanitarian pause to exchange prisoners of war , other detainees , and the remains of those killed in the hostilities is an important step .
This development came in response to the appeal by Russian President Putin and in accordance with the agreement of Azerbaijani President Aliyev and Armenian Prime Minister Pashinyan .
Rama welcomed Russia ’ s role in convening the talks , which were held together with the presence of the Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group and the Personal Representative of the Chairperson-in-Office @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Co-Chairs and my Personal Representative remain fully engaged with the sides , and are ready to ensure every effort is focused on achieving a peaceful negotiated solution of the conflict , ” Rama said .

VIENNA/TIRANA, 10 October 2020 – OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, Albania’s Prime Minister and Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Edi Rama, welcomed news of a humanitarian ceasefire in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict context. “We need stability, both on the ground and in the process led by the Minsk Group Co-Chairs,” Rama said. “The agreement reached in Moscow overnight by Armenia and Azerbaijan puts us on the path towards the resumption of substantive negotiations in the agreed format,” Rama added.
The increasing human toll of the fighting had been of particular concern, Rama noted, and in this regard, the humanitarian pause to exchange prisoners of war, other detainees, and the remains of those killed in the hostilities is an important step.
This development came in response to the appeal by Russian President Putin and in accordance with the agreement of Azerbaijani President Aliyev and Armenian Prime Minister Pashinyan.
Rama welcomed Russia’s role in convening the talks, which were held together with the presence of the Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group and the Personal Representative of the Chairperson-in-Office, Ambassador Andrzej Kasprzyk. “The Co-Chairs and my Personal Representative remain fully engaged with the sides, and are ready to ensure every effort is focused on achieving a peaceful negotiated solution of the conflict,” Rama said.