osce--2020-07-16--North Macedonia’s early parliamentary elections well managed despite pandemic but legal instability

North Macedonia’s early parliamentary elections well managed despite pandemic but legal instability remains a concern, international observers say

SKOPJE , 16 July 2020 – The early parliamentary elections in North Macedonia were generally well run and candidates could campaign freely , but legal stability was undermined by significant revisions to the legal framework and subsequent government decrees , international observers from the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights ( ODIHR ) said in a statement today .
“ This is a very challenging time to be holding elections , and we recognize the authorities ’ efforts to adapt to the new circumstances , ” said Laima Andrikienė , head of ODIHR ’ s Special Election Assessment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unsolved issues with the electoral law and process that often led to last-minute political agreements .
This needs to be given serious attention by the authorities well ahead of the next elections.
” Some 1.8 million people were eligible to vote in yesterday ’ s early parliamentary elections , which were postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic .
The election administration completed its work within all the legal deadlines , despite complications caused after the electoral process was suspended .
Election day itself went smoothly despite some technical challenges with the reporting of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in compiling the voter register remain unaddressed .
The legal framework was changed substantially shortly before the elections were announced , which goes against international good practice .
Continuing inconsistencies and ambiguous formulations undermine legal certainty , and still need substantial revision .
Candidates had the opportunity to genuinely compete and deliver their messages , although the campaign was characterized by negative rhetoric at the expense of policy discussions on content .
Media coverage of the elections generally lacked a critical assessment of platforms , and rules on paid political advertisements favoured the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Special Election Assessment Mission ( SEAM ) to North Macedonia took up its work on 19 June and will end on 23 July .
The SEAM focused on issues identified by ODIHR ’ s needs assessment mission in order to assess 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

SKOPJE, 16 July 2020 – The early parliamentary elections in North Macedonia were generally well run and candidates could campaign freely, but legal stability was undermined by significant revisions to the legal framework and subsequent government decrees, international observers from the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) said in a statement today.
“This is a very challenging time to be holding elections, and we recognize the authorities’ efforts to adapt to the new circumstances,” said Laima Andrikienė, head of ODIHR’s Special Election Assessment Mission. “However, there are unsolved issues with the electoral law and process that often led to last-minute political agreements. This needs to be given serious attention by the authorities well ahead of the next elections.”
Some 1.8 million people were eligible to vote in yesterday’s early parliamentary elections, which were postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The election administration completed its work within all the legal deadlines, despite complications caused after the electoral process was suspended. Election day itself went smoothly despite some technical challenges with the reporting of results. However, longstanding structural issues in compiling the voter register remain unaddressed.
The legal framework was changed substantially shortly before the elections were announced, which goes against international good practice. Continuing inconsistencies and ambiguous formulations undermine legal certainty, and still need substantial revision.
Candidates had the opportunity to genuinely compete and deliver their messages, although the campaign was characterized by negative rhetoric at the expense of policy discussions on content. Media coverage of the elections generally lacked a critical assessment of platforms, and rules on paid political advertisements favoured the three largest parties.
ODIHR’s Special Election Assessment Mission (SEAM) to North Macedonia took up its work on 19 June and will end on 23 July. The SEAM focused on issues identified by ODIHR’s needs assessment mission in order to assess 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--2020-07-16--OSCE PA leaders criticize Belarus’s failure to extend timely invitation to observe election and to p

OSCE PA leaders criticize Belarus’s failure to extend timely invitation to observe election and to provide a level playing field for all stakeholders

COPENHAGEN , 16 July 2020 – The leaders of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly ’ s Committee on Democracy , Human Rights and Humanitarian Questions expressed concern today that Belarus had failed to extend a timely invitation to the OSCE to observe its upcoming presidential election .
The OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights ( ODIHR ) announced yesterday that the lack of an invitation has prevented ODIHR from observing the election process .
Kyriakos Hadjiyianni ( Cyprus ) , Michael Link ( Germany ) , and Kari Henriksen ( Norway ) , the Chair , Vice-Chair and Rapporteur @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s human rights committee stressed that the failure to extend a timely invitation is not in line with OSCE commitments .
“ All OSCE participating States are obliged under the 1990 OSCE Copenhagen Document to facilitate election observation by other participating States , ” Hadjiyianni , Link and Henriksen said today in a joint statement .
“ The fact that Belarus failed until now to invite the OSCE to observe its 9 August presidential election has effectively prevented observation of key parts of the electoral process , such as the formation of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Although the Parliamentary Assembly was not planning to deploy observers due to the COVID-19 pandemic , we deeply regret that the lack of an invitation to our partners in ODIHR has prevented them from performing any election observation activities .
The people and institutions of Belarus would have benefited from the added transparency brought by OSCE election observation.
” Hadjiyianni , Link and Henriksen also expressed concern over reports that prospective presidential candidates had been intimidated in Belarus and opposition activists arrested , reiterating their statement on 2 June that the authorities in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ enable a thorough and open campaign environment .
OSCE PA President George Tsereteli and Secretary General Roberto Montella discussed the upcoming election with Head of the Belarusian OSCE PA Delegation Anderei Savinykh in an informal online meeting on 26 June .
The PA leaders informed the Belarusian side that the PA had decided that it would not observe any elections until the autumn , at the earliest , due to the COVID-19 pandemic , but made clear to the Belarusian Delegation that an invitation would be appropriate nonetheless , in line with Belarus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
To date , however , the PA has also failed to receive a formal invitation .
In the 1990 OSCE Copenhagen Document , the signatories affirmed their commitment to invite observers from any other OSCE participating State to observe the course of their national election proceedings and to facilitate similar access for election proceedings held below the national level .
The OSCE Parliamentary Assembly is comprised of 323 parliamentarians from 57 countries spanning Europe , Central Asia and North America .
The Assembly provides a forum for parliamentary diplomacy , monitors elections @ @ @ @ @ @ @ commitments on political , security , economic , environmental and human rights issues .

COPENHAGEN, 16 July 2020 – The leaders of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly’s Committee on Democracy, Human Rights and Humanitarian Questions expressed concern today that Belarus had failed to extend a timely invitation to the OSCE to observe its upcoming presidential election. The OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) announced yesterday that the lack of an invitation has prevented ODIHR from observing the election process.
Kyriakos Hadjiyianni (Cyprus), Michael Link (Germany), and Kari Henriksen (Norway), the Chair, Vice-Chair and Rapporteur, respectively, of the OSCE PA’s human rights committee stressed that the failure to extend a timely invitation is not in line with OSCE commitments.
“All OSCE participating States are obliged under the 1990 OSCE Copenhagen Document to facilitate election observation by other participating States,” Hadjiyianni, Link and Henriksen said today in a joint statement. “The fact that Belarus failed until now to invite the OSCE to observe its 9 August presidential election has effectively prevented observation of key parts of the electoral process, such as the formation of election commissions and registration of candidates. Although the Parliamentary Assembly was not planning to deploy observers due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we deeply regret that the lack of an invitation to our partners in ODIHR has prevented them from performing any election observation activities. The people and institutions of Belarus would have benefited from the added transparency brought by OSCE election observation.”
Hadjiyianni, Link and Henriksen also expressed concern over reports that prospective presidential candidates had been intimidated in Belarus and opposition activists arrested, reiterating their statement on 2 June that the authorities in Belarus must do all they can to enable a thorough and open campaign environment.
OSCE PA President George Tsereteli and Secretary General Roberto Montella discussed the upcoming election with Head of the Belarusian OSCE PA Delegation Anderei Savinykh in an informal online meeting on 26 June. The PA leaders informed the Belarusian side that the PA had decided that it would not observe any elections until the autumn, at the earliest, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but made clear to the Belarusian Delegation that an invitation would be appropriate nonetheless, in line with Belarus’s commitments under the Copenhagen Document.
To date, however, the PA has also failed to receive a formal invitation.
In the 1990 OSCE Copenhagen Document, the signatories affirmed their commitment to invite observers from any other OSCE participating State to observe the course of their national election proceedings and to facilitate similar access for election proceedings held below the national level.
The OSCE Parliamentary Assembly is comprised of 323 parliamentarians from 57 countries spanning Europe, Central Asia and North America. The Assembly provides a forum for parliamentary diplomacy, monitors elections, and strengthens international co-operation to uphold commitments on political, security, economic, environmental and human rights issues.


osce--2020-07-15--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 167/2020 issued on 15 July 2020

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osce--2020-07-15--Press Statement by the Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group and Personal Representative of the OSCE Cha

Press Statement by the Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group and Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office

VIENNA , 15 July 2020 - After the meeting of the OSCE Minsk Group today , its Co-Chairs ( Igor @ @ @ @ @ , Stéphane Visconti of France , and Andrew Schofer of the United States of America @ @ @ @ @ of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office ( PRCIO ) Andrzej Kasprzyk , released the following statement : @ @ @ @ @ available , the situation on the Azerbaijani-Armenian border remains relatively calm as of early morning @ @ @ @ @ and the PRCIO welcome the decrease in hostilities and appeal to the sides to make @ @ @ @ @ .
The Co-Chairs urge the sides to refrain from inflammatory rhetoric and attempts to change @ @ @ @ @ .
The Co-Chairs continue to stress the necessity of building up an atmosphere conducive to @ @ @ @ @ process .
The Co-Chairs welcomed the confirmation of the Foreign Ministers of Armenia and Azerbaijan @ @ @ @ @ crucial aspects of a Nagorno-Karabakh settlement as soon as possible and emphasized the importance of @ @ @ @ @ region as soon as circumstances allow .

VIENNA, 15 July 2020 - After the meeting of the OSCE Minsk Group today, its Co-Chairs (Igor Popov of the Russian Federation, Stéphane Visconti of France, and Andrew Schofer of the United States of America) and Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office (PRCIO) Andrzej Kasprzyk, released the following statement:
In accordance with the information available, the situation on the Azerbaijani-Armenian border remains relatively calm as of early morning 15 July. The Co-Chairs and the PRCIO welcome the decrease in hostilities and appeal to the sides to make every effort to continue de-escalation.
The Co-Chairs urge the sides to refrain from inflammatory rhetoric and attempts to change the situation on the ground. The Co-Chairs continue to stress the necessity of building up an atmosphere conducive to the restoration of the peace process.
The Co-Chairs welcomed the confirmation of the Foreign Ministers of Armenia and Azerbaijan to hold substantive negotiations on crucial aspects of a Nagorno-Karabakh settlement as soon as possible and emphasized the importance of returning OSCE monitors to the region as soon as circumstances allow.


osce--2020-07-21--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 172/2020 issued on 21 July 2020


osce--2020-07-21--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 21 July 2020

KAMENSK-SHAKHTINSKIY , Russian Federation .
The Observer Mission ( OM ) continues to operate 24/7 at both Border Crossing Points ( BCPs ) .
The overall number of border crossings by persons increased at both BCPs compared to the previous week .
The OM is currently operating with 18 permanent international staff members , including the Chief Observer ( CO ) .
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 to ensure the safety and duty of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 applying a self-isolation regime between shifts at the border checkpoints and 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of persons crossing the border can be categorized as follows : • Adults travelling on foot or by car with little or no luggage .
• Families ( often including elderly persons and/or children ) travelling on foot or by car with a significant amount of luggage .
The average number of entries/exits increased from 8,055 to 8,853 per day at both BCPs compared to last week [ 1 ] .
During the reporting period , the majority of border crossings were to the Russian Federation , with an average net flow of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ April , the organized passenger transport commuting between the non-government-controlled areas of Luhansk region of Ukraine and the Russian Federation was temporarily suspended and restored from 25 June .
During the reporting period , the number of persons in military style outfits crossing the border was 13 , compared to eight last week .
Nine crossed into the Russian Federation and four 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ luggage , or travelling in heavily loaded cars .
During this reporting week , six families were observed crossing into the Russian Federation while another six families were observed crossing into Ukraine , compared to the previous reporting period when four families were observed crossing to the Russian Federation , while another eight 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 decrease in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at both BCPs ( 176 compared to 215 observed during the previous week ) .
There were 87 buses bound for the Russian Federation and 89 bound for Ukraine .
During the reporting period , the OTs observed a decrease in the overall number of trucks crossing the border at both BCPs ( 896 compared to 996 during the previous reporting week ) ; 468 at the Gukovo BCP and 428 at the Donetsk BCP , 496 of these trucks crossed into the Russian Federation and 400 crossed into Ukraine .
Most of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region ; however , on a daily basis , the OTs also noted trucks registered in the Russian Federation , Lithuania , Belarus , Ukraine , and trucks with “ LPR ” plates .
The OTs also continued to observe tanker trucks crossing the border in both directions .
During the reporting week , the number of tanker trucks slightly decreased from 63 to 53 .
These trucks were observed crossing the border at both BCPs .
The trucks had the words “ Propane ” and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in either Russian or Ukrainian .
The majority of tanker trucks had hazard signs , indicating that they were transporting propane or a mix of propane and butane .
All trucks underwent systematic inspection by the Russian Federation officials , which could include an X-ray check .
Due to the unfavourable observation position at the Gukovo BCP , the OTs continued to be unable to observe any X-ray checks .
Compared to the previous week , the total number of X-ray checks at the Donetsk BCP significantly decreased from 156 to 25 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ cent ) were bound for Ukraine .
The OM continued to observe passenger and cargo minivans [ 2 ] 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 .
Compared to the previous week , the number of cargo minivans increased from 159 to 187 vehicles ; 84 crossed into the Russian Federation and another 103 into Ukraine .
The OTs continued to pick up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tracks located approximately 150m south-west of the Gukovo BCP .
During the reporting week , the OTs heard trains on 22 occasions ; the OTs assessed that nine trains were travelling to the Russian Federation and the remaining 13 trains were travelling to Ukraine ( more details are provided in the sections “ trends and figures at a glance ” below ) .
Visual observation was not possible because of the line of trees located between the train tracks and the BCP .
The majority of vehicles crossing the border had Ukrainian licence @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Russian Federation licence plates .
A significant number of vehicles with “ LPR ” plates were also observed crossing the border in both directions on a daily basis .
The OTs also observed cars with licence plates registered in Poland , Lithuania , and Georgia .
During the reporting week , the OTs at both BCPs noticed helicopters flying along the border on two separate occasions : On 16 July at 13:35 , the OT at the Donetsk BCP observed a green helicopter type Mi-8/Mi-17 with a red star on the side , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a north-westerly direction at an altitude of about 150m .
The helicopter remained inside the airspace of the Russian Federation the entire time it was visible to the OT .
On the same day at 13:19 , the OT at the Gukovo BCP observed a helicopter type Mi-8/Mi-17 flying from east to north-east , at an altitude of approximately 150-200m .
The helicopter remained inside the airspace of the Russian Federation the entire time it was visible to the OT .
For trends and figures at a glance covering the period from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ please see the attachment here .
[ 1 ] Based on data received from the Regional Representation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation .
[ 2 ] Cargo minivans : light commercial vehicles with a maximum authorized mass of more than 3.5 t and not more than 7.5 t ; with or without a trailer with a maximum mass of less than 750 kg ( small cargo vehicles which correspond to driving licence C1 ) .

SUMMARY
KAMENSK-SHAKHTINSKIY, Russian Federation. The Observer Mission (OM) continues to operate 24/7 at both Border Crossing Points (BCPs). The overall number of border crossings by persons increased at both BCPs compared to the previous week.
OPERATIONAL REMARKS
The OM is currently operating with 18 permanent international staff members, including the Chief Observer (CO). 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 applying a self-isolation regime between shifts at the border checkpoints and are adhering to social distancing. Due to the preventive measures taken by the central and regional authorities, the OM is faced with certain difficulties, but is still able to continue to fulfil its mandate without any limitations in its observation and reporting activities.
OBSERVATIONS AT THE BORDER CROSSING POINTS
Persons crossing the border
The profile of persons crossing the border can be categorized as follows:
Adults travelling on foot or by car with little or no luggage. Persons in military-style outfits. Families (often including elderly persons and/or children) travelling on foot or by car with a significant amount of luggage.
The average number of entries/exits increased from 8,055 to 8,853 per day at both BCPs compared to last week[1].
During the reporting period, the majority of border crossings were to the Russian Federation, with an average net flow of 582 per day for both BCPs. The Donetsk BCP continued to experience much more traffic than the Gukovo BCP.
Responding to the COVID-19 situation, the host country has closed its borders for the majority of foreigners starting from 18 March. Among the exceptions of persons allowed to cross the border (which entered into force on 19 March), are Ukrainian citizens and stateless persons holding passports or identification documents proving permanent residence in certain areas of Luhansk and Donetsk regions of Ukraine. In addition, reportedly, due to the threat of the spread of COVID-19, starting from 10 April, the organized passenger transport commuting between the non-government-controlled areas of Luhansk region of Ukraine and the Russian Federation was temporarily suspended and restored from 25 June.
Persons in military-style outfits
During the reporting period, the number of persons in military style outfits crossing the border was 13, compared to eight last week. Nine crossed into the Russian Federation and four 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, six families were observed crossing into the Russian Federation while another six families were observed crossing into Ukraine, compared to the previous reporting period when four families were observed crossing to the Russian Federation, while another eight 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 decrease in the overall number of buses crossing the border at both BCPs (176 compared to 215 observed during the previous week). There were 87 buses bound for the Russian Federation and 89 bound for Ukraine.
Trucks
During the reporting period, the OTs observed a decrease in the overall number of trucks crossing the border at both BCPs (896 compared to 996 during the previous reporting week); 468 at the Gukovo BCP and 428 at the Donetsk BCP, 496 of these trucks crossed into the Russian Federation and 400 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, Lithuania, Belarus, Ukraine, and trucks with “LPR” plates.
The OTs also continued to observe tanker trucks crossing the border in both directions. During the reporting week, the number of tanker trucks slightly decreased from 63 to 53. These trucks were observed crossing the border at both BCPs. The trucks had the words “Propane” and “Flammable” written across the tanks in either Russian or Ukrainian. The majority of tanker trucks had hazard signs, indicating that they were transporting propane or a mix of propane and butane. All trucks underwent systematic inspection by the Russian Federation officials, which could include an X-ray check. Due to the unfavourable observation position at the Gukovo BCP, the OTs continued to be unable to observe any X-ray checks.
Compared to the previous week, the total number of X-ray checks at the Donetsk BCP significantly decreased from 156 to 25. All 25 scanned trucks (100 per cent) were bound for Ukraine.
Minivans
The OM continued to observe passenger and cargo minivans[2] 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. Compared to the previous week, the number of cargo minivans increased from 159 to 187 vehicles; 84 crossed into the Russian Federation and another 103 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 22 occasions; the OTs assessed that nine trains were travelling to the Russian Federation and the remaining 13 trains were travelling to Ukraine (more details are provided in the sections “trends and figures at a glance” below).
Visual observation was not possible because of the line of trees located between the train tracks and the BCP.
Other observations
The majority of vehicles crossing the border had Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region or Russian Federation licence plates. A significant number of vehicles with “LPR” plates were also observed crossing the border in both directions on a daily basis. The OTs also observed cars with licence plates registered in Poland, Lithuania, and Georgia.
During the reporting week, the OTs at both BCPs noticed helicopters flying along the border on two separate occasions:
On 16 July at 13:35, the OT at the Donetsk BCP observed a green helicopter type Mi-8/Mi-17 with a red star on the side, flying from north to east, turning in a north-westerly direction at an altitude of about 150m. The helicopter remained inside the airspace of the Russian Federation the entire time it was visible to the OT.
On the same day at 13:19, the OT at the Gukovo BCP observed a helicopter type Mi-8/Mi-17 flying from east to north-east, at an altitude of approximately 150-200m. The helicopter remained inside the airspace of the Russian Federation the entire time it was visible to the OT.
For trends and figures at a glance covering the period from 16 June to 21 July 2020, please see the attachment here.
[1]Based on data received from the Regional Representation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation.
[2] 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--2020-07-21--Joint statement of Co-facilitators of Ergneti Incident Prevention and Response Mechanism

VIENNA / TBILISI , 21 July , 2020 - The co-facilitators of the Ergneti Incident Prevention and Response Mechanism ( @ @ @ @ @ of the European Union Monitoring Mission in Georgia Ambassador Marek Szczygieł and the Special Representative @ @ @ @ @ the South Caucasus Ambassador Rudolf Michalka underline the importance of dialogue for reducing tensions and @ @ @ @ @ Ossetian Administrative Boundary Line .
During the past weeks , the co-facilitators conducted intensive consultations @ @ @ @ @ possibility of restarting meetings in the Ergneti IPRM format .
In this context , the @ @ @ @ @ made by the IPRM participants regarding their willingness to resume dialogue in this format .
@ @ @ @ @ the participants ’ active use of the EUMM-managed Hotline .
The co-facilitators have therefore initiated @ @ @ @ @ IPRM meeting planned for 30 July 2020 .

VIENNA / TBILISI, 21 July, 2020 - The co-facilitators of the Ergneti Incident Prevention and Response Mechanism (IPRM), the Head of the European Union Monitoring Mission in Georgia Ambassador Marek Szczygieł and the Special Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office for the South Caucasus Ambassador Rudolf Michalka underline the importance of dialogue for reducing tensions and preventing incidents along the South Ossetian Administrative Boundary Line.
During the past weeks, the co-facilitators conducted intensive consultations in order to explore the possibility of restarting meetings in the Ergneti IPRM format.
In this context, the co-facilitators welcome the recent statements made by the IPRM participants regarding their willingness to resume dialogue in this format. They also take note of the participants’ active use of the EUMM-managed Hotline.
The co-facilitators have therefore initiated preparations for the 96th Ergneti IPRM meeting planned for 30 July 2020.


osce--2020-07-20--Spot Report 38/2020: Explosion close to SMM patrol near Zalizne, Donetsk region

On 20 July , an SMM patrol comprising four members and two vehicles was positioned on the south-western edge of @ @ @ @ @ government-controlled , 42km north-east of Donetsk ) to monitor adherence to a localised ceasefire to @ @ @ @ @ of the phenol sludge reservoir .
At 12:25 , the patrol members , of whom @ @ @ @ @ inside the vehicles , heard an undetermined explosion and saw brown smoke at an assessed @ @ @ @ @ their position .
The patrol was unable to assess the weapon used and the direction @ @ @ @ @ immediately left the area and returned safely to its base in Kramatorsk ( government-controlled , @ @ @ @ @ .

On 20 July, an SMM patrol comprising four members and two vehicles was positioned on the south-western edge of Zalizne (formerly Artemove, government-controlled, 42km north-east of Donetsk) to monitor adherence to a localised ceasefire to enable an assessment and maintenance of the phenol sludge reservoir.
At 12:25, the patrol members, of whom two were outside and two inside the vehicles, heard an undetermined explosion and saw brown smoke at an assessed distance of 300m south-west of their position. The patrol was unable to assess the weapon used and the direction of fire.
The patrol immediately left the area and returned safely to its base in Kramatorsk (government-controlled, 83km north of Donetsk).


osce--2020-07-20--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 171/2020 issued on 20 July 2020


osce--2020-07-20--Prosecute human traffickers and deliver justice to victims: OSCE Alliance Conference against Traffic

Prosecute human traffickers and deliver justice to victims: OSCE Alliance Conference against Trafficking in Persons calls for an end to impunity

VIENNA , 20 July 2020 – Identifying effective ways to improve the prosecution of human traffickers is the focus of the 20th high-level OSCE Alliance Conference against Trafficking in Persons , which opened today in Vienna .
The conference ’ s theme acknowledges that while many countries have legislation and action plans to combat human trafficking , impunity remains widespread across the world and in the OSCE region .
It is estimated that there are about 25 million victims of human trafficking globally .
According to the latest reports , in 2019 only a little more than 11,000 traffickers were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2,154 victims .
Against this backdrop of declining rates of prosecution in recent years , officials opening the conference called for action and investment in the area of prosecution .
“ It is a drop in the ocean ” , said OSCE Special Representative and Co-ordinator for Combatting Trafficking in Human Beings Valiant Richey , commenting on the number of prosecutions compared to the estimated number of victims .
“ The current rate of prosecution means most traffickers never spend a day in a courthouse , let alone a prison cell .
This @ @ @ @ @ @ @ establishing a strong rule of law must be a fundamental cornerstone in the fight against trafficking in human beings.
” The meeting opened with a video message from Coco Berthmann , a survivor of human trafficking , and Founder and President of the Coco Berthmann Scholarship Fund , who said that “ perpetrators need to understand that their actions and crimes will be punished to the full extent of the law.
” She urged Conference participants to take action .
Sandër Lleshaj , Minister of Interior of Albania , addressing the conference remotely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that “ confiscation of property , revenue and assets generated by or used for criminal activities remains a crucial strategy .
Confiscation directly discourages criminals and can be instrumental to compensate victims and support their rehabilitation ” .
Executive Director of the UN Office on Drugs and Crime Ghada Waly reminded participants that “ rising poverty and fewer opportunities in the COVID-19 economic downturn threaten to leave many more people at the mercy of human traffickers .
Governments need to step up action to prevent exploitation in the COVID-19 crisis , to identify @ @ @ @ @ @ @ perpetrators to justice.
” Katarzyna Gardapkhadze , First Deputy Director at the OSCE Office of the Democratic Institutions and Human Rights , described human trafficking as a “ highly-gendered crime , with low rates of identifications , and even lower of prosecutions and convictions ” , and urged participants “ to systematically include survivors ’ voices into policy discussions and development.
” In a video message , Tanzila Narbaeva , Chairperson of the Senate of the Parliament of Uzbekistan , addressed participants on the role of the judiciary : `` The role of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ consistency in jurisprudence and the correct understanding and interpretation of anti-trafficking legislation by first instance and appellate judges .
Special attention should be paid to training the judiciary and law enforcement officials.
” Joining from Brussels , Olivier Onidi , Deputy Director General for Migration and Home Affairs at the European Commission and acting EU Anti-trafficking Co-ordinator said : “ To counter impunity towards the eradication of this crime and to protect people from becoming victims , we must use all available means to hold perpetrators accountable : from following the money to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , to making best use of technology and implementing our laws.
” For three days , judges , investigators , prosecutors , law and policy-makers , experts and NGO representatives from across the OSCE region will discuss challenges and opportunities to enhance the investigation and prosecution of human trafficking and discuss linkages between the prosecution of offenders and the protection of victims before , during and after criminal proceedings .
The conference will culminate in recommendations from across the OSCE region on how to make prosecution a more utilized and effective tool in @ @ @ @

VIENNA, 20 July 2020 – Identifying effective ways to improve the prosecution of human traffickers is the focus of the 20th high-level OSCE Alliance Conference against Trafficking in Persons, which opened today in Vienna.
The conference’s theme acknowledges that while many countries have legislation and action plans to combat human trafficking, impunity remains widespread across the world and in the OSCE region. It is estimated that there are about 25 million victims of human trafficking globally. According to the latest reports, in 2019 only a little more than 11,000 traffickers were prosecuted - roughly one prosecution for every 2,154 victims.
Against this backdrop of declining rates of prosecution in recent years, officials opening the conference called for action and investment in the area of prosecution.
“It is a drop in the ocean”, said OSCE Special Representative and Co-ordinator for Combatting Trafficking in Human Beings Valiant Richey, commenting on the number of prosecutions compared to the estimated number of victims. “The current rate of prosecution means most traffickers never spend a day in a courthouse, let alone a prison cell. This needs to change. Countering impunity and establishing a strong rule of law must be a fundamental cornerstone in the fight against trafficking in human beings.”
The meeting opened with a video message from Coco Berthmann, a survivor of human trafficking, and Founder and President of the Coco Berthmann Scholarship Fund, who said that “perpetrators need to understand that their actions and crimes will be punished to the full extent of the law.” She urged Conference participants to take action.
Sandër Lleshaj, Minister of Interior of Albania, addressing the conference remotely from Tirana, urged participants to recognize that “confiscation of property, revenue and assets generated by or used for criminal activities remains a crucial strategy. Confiscation directly discourages criminals and can be instrumental to compensate victims and support their rehabilitation”.
Executive Director of the UN Office on Drugs and Crime Ghada Waly reminded participants that “rising poverty and fewer opportunities in the COVID-19 economic downturn threaten to leave many more people at the mercy of human traffickers. Governments need to step up action to prevent exploitation in the COVID-19 crisis, to identify and support trafficking victims, and bring perpetrators to justice.”
Katarzyna Gardapkhadze, First Deputy Director at the OSCE Office of the Democratic Institutions and Human Rights, described human trafficking as a “highly-gendered crime, with low rates of identifications, and even lower of prosecutions and convictions”, and urged participants “to systematically include survivors’ voices into policy discussions and development.”
In a video message, Tanzila Narbaeva, Chairperson of the Senate of the Parliament of Uzbekistan, addressed participants on the role of the judiciary: "The role of the Supreme Courts is key to ensure consistency in jurisprudence and the correct understanding and interpretation of anti-trafficking legislation by first instance and appellate judges. Special attention should be paid to training the judiciary and law enforcement officials.”
Joining from Brussels, Olivier Onidi, Deputy Director General for Migration and Home Affairs at the European Commission and acting EU Anti-trafficking Co-ordinator said: “To counter impunity towards the eradication of this crime and to protect people from becoming victims, we must use all available means to hold perpetrators accountable: from following the money to ensure that the crime does not pay, to making best use of technology and implementing our laws.”
For three days, judges, investigators, prosecutors, law and policy-makers, experts and NGO representatives from across the OSCE region will discuss challenges and opportunities to enhance the investigation and prosecution of human trafficking and discuss linkages between the prosecution of offenders and the protection of victims before, during and after criminal proceedings. The conference will culminate in recommendations from across the OSCE region on how to make prosecution a more utilized and effective tool in combating human trafficking.


osce--2020-07-25--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 176/2020 issued on 25 July 2020


osce--2020-07-25--ODIHR deeply saddened by death of human rights defender Azimjan Askarov

WARSAW , 25 July 2020 – The OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights ( ODIHR ) expresses profound sadness following the death of the human rights defender Azimjan Askarov in prison earlier today .
Askarov , a long-standing partner of ODIHR , spent many years prior to his arrest in 2010 documenting police abuse and brutality in his native Kyrgyzstan .
ODIHR has been calling for Askarov ’ s release since he was first arrested .
Together with many other observers of Askarov ’ s trials in 2010 and 2011 , the Office repeatedly noted serious violations of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the authorities to address the intimidation of defence witnesses and lawyers or follow up on visible signs of torture .
Just two months ago , ODIHR voiced regret over the decision of Kyrgyzstan ’ s Supreme Court to uphold the life sentence imposed on Askarov in 2010 .
It is unfortunate that the Kyrgyz authorities did not use the opportunity open to them to restore justice .
All 57 countries of the OSCE have recognized the vital role played by human rights defenders in ensuring full respect for human rights , democracy and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to stand firmly with human rights defenders across the OSCE region .
Today , we grieve together with Azimjan ’ s family and all who knew him .

WARSAW, 25 July 2020 – The OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) expresses profound sadness following the death of the human rights defender Azimjan Askarov in prison earlier today. Askarov, a long-standing partner of ODIHR, spent many years prior to his arrest in 2010 documenting police abuse and brutality in his native Kyrgyzstan.
ODIHR has been calling for Askarov’s release since he was first arrested. Together with many other observers of Askarov’s trials in 2010 and 2011, the Office repeatedly noted serious violations of fair trial standards and the failure of the authorities to address the intimidation of defence witnesses and lawyers or follow up on visible signs of torture. Just two months ago, ODIHR voiced regret over the decision of Kyrgyzstan’s Supreme Court to uphold the life sentence imposed on Askarov in 2010. It is unfortunate that the Kyrgyz authorities did not use the opportunity open to them to restore justice.
All 57 countries of the OSCE have recognized the vital role played by human rights defenders in ensuring full respect for human rights, democracy and the rule of law. ODIHR continues to stand firmly with human rights defenders across the OSCE region.
Today, we grieve together with Azimjan’s family and all who knew him.


osce--2020-07-24--Press Statement by the Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group and Personal Representative of the OSCE Cha

MOSCOW / PARIS / WASHINGTON , DC , 24 July 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 ) and Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office ( PRCIO ) Andrzej Kasprzyk released the following statement today : The Co-Chairs and PRCIO welcome the relative stability along the Azerbaijan-Armenia border since 16 July .
The Co-Chairs appeal to the sides to take advantage of the current reduction in active hostilities to prepare for serious substantive negotiations to find @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Co-Chairs stress once more that refraining from provocative statements and actions , including threats or perceived threats to civilians or to critical infrastructure , is essential during this delicate period .
The Co-Chairs note that recent public statements criticizing the joint efforts of the co-chairing countries , and/or seeking unilaterally to establish new “ conditions ” or changes to the settlement process format are not conducive to resuming a constructive dialogue .
The Co-Chairs reiterate that political will to achieve a lasting peaceful settlement is best demonstrated by refraining from maximalist positions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and abstaining from provocative statements and actions .
The Co-Chairs and PRCIO express appreciation for the strong engagement by leaders of international organizations including the United Nations , OSCE , and European Union , whose calls for strict adherence to the ceasefire and renewed dialogue under the auspices of the Co-Chairs have aligned with and supported the Co-Chairs ’ own intensive mediation efforts .
We note as especially positive the impartiality of such interventions , which have urged the sides to focus on reducing tensions rather than on assigning to others the sole @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Co-Chairs welcome the growing international consensus calling for de-escalation and a swift return to negotiations in good faith without conditions .
The Co-Chairs reaffirm that the principles and elements as laid out in their statement of 9 March 2019 continue to form the basis of their mediation efforts .
The Co-Chairs are prepared to meet with the leaders or their designees at any time .
The Co-Chairs also emphasize that OSCE monitors should return to the region as soon as possible .

MOSCOW / PARIS / WASHINGTON, DC, 24 July 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) and Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office (PRCIO) Andrzej Kasprzyk released the following statement today:
The Co-Chairs and PRCIO welcome the relative stability along the Azerbaijan-Armenia border since 16 July. The Co-Chairs appeal to the sides to take advantage of the current reduction in active hostilities to prepare for serious substantive negotiations to find a comprehensive solution to the conflict. The Co-Chairs stress once more that refraining from provocative statements and actions, including threats or perceived threats to civilians or to critical infrastructure, is essential during this delicate period.
The Co-Chairs note that recent public statements criticizing the joint efforts of the co-chairing countries, and/or seeking unilaterally to establish new “conditions” or changes to the settlement process format are not conducive to resuming a constructive dialogue. The Co-Chairs reiterate that political will to achieve a lasting peaceful settlement is best demonstrated by refraining from maximalist positions, adhering strictly to the ceasefire, and abstaining from provocative statements and actions.
The Co-Chairs and PRCIO express appreciation for the strong engagement by leaders of international organizations including the United Nations, OSCE, and European Union, whose calls for strict adherence to the ceasefire and renewed dialogue under the auspices of the Co-Chairs have aligned with and supported the Co-Chairs’ own intensive mediation efforts. We note as especially positive the impartiality of such interventions, which have urged the sides to focus on reducing tensions rather than on assigning to others the sole responsibility of causing the recent escalation. The Co-Chairs welcome the growing international consensus calling for de-escalation and a swift return to negotiations in good faith without conditions.
The Co-Chairs reaffirm that the principles and elements as laid out in their statement of 9 March 2019 continue to form the basis of their mediation efforts. The Co-Chairs are prepared to meet with the leaders or their designees at any time. The Co-Chairs also emphasize that OSCE monitors should return to the region as soon as possible.


osce--2020-07-24--OSCE Project Co-Ordinator in Uzbekistan organizes discussion on strengthening of national Parliament

OSCE Project Co-Ordinator in Uzbekistan organizes discussion on strengthening of national Parliament, role of political parties, reforming state and public governance

As part of its ongoing series to discuss Uzbekistan ’ s State Programme for the year 2020 , the OSCE Project Co-Ordinator in Uzbekistan on 23 July 2020 co-organized a third online discussion , this time focused on strengthening the national Parliament , increasing the role of political parties , and reforming state and public governance .
The event brought together more than 65 participants , including senior officials from the Senate and Legislative Chamber of Oliy Majlis ( parliament ) of the Republic of Uzbekistan .
They reported on the progress in implementing the State Programme for the first @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and foreign experts also attended , and the meeting explored the way ahead for the work of the state and public sector in Uzbekistan .
All of the parties expressed their interest in further enhancing their co-operation in this area .
Marcin Walecki , the Head of the Democratization Department at the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights ( ODIHR ) , pointed out that Uzbekistan is one of the few countries seeing positive developments in the rule of law and human rights , with speedy implementation of reforms .
With @ @ @ @ @ @ @ COVID-19 , there was a focus on creating an E-Parliament .
Walecki noted ODIHR ’ s willingness to contribute to this process .
The OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan , Ambassador John MacGregor , said : “ We have entered into a large-scale co-operation with both Chambers of Oliy Majlis – Legislative Chamber and Senate .
In addition , the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan is ready and willing to continue co-operation with the Central Election Comission .
I also expressed my willingness to further support the Constitutional Court in their reforms related @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” The event was co-hosted with the Konrad Adenauer Foundation for Central Asia , the Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Development Strategy Centre .
The meeting allowed for sharing best practices as well as expertise from German representatives on Germany ’ s parliamentary system .

As part of its ongoing series to discuss Uzbekistan’s State Programme for the year 2020, the OSCE Project Co-Ordinator in Uzbekistan on 23 July 2020 co-organized a third online discussion, this time focused on strengthening the national Parliament, increasing the role of political parties, and reforming state and public governance.
The event brought together more than 65 participants, including senior officials from the Senate and Legislative Chamber of Oliy Majlis (parliament) of the Republic of Uzbekistan. They reported on the progress in implementing the State Programme for the first half of 2020.
Representatives from NGOs and foreign experts also attended, and the meeting explored the way ahead for the work of the state and public sector in Uzbekistan. All of the parties expressed their interest in further enhancing their co-operation in this area.
Marcin Walecki, the Head of the Democratization Department at the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR), pointed out that Uzbekistan is one of the few countries seeing positive developments in the rule of law and human rights, with speedy implementation of reforms. With the country currently facing the threat of COVID-19, there was a focus on creating an E-Parliament. Walecki noted ODIHR’s willingness to contribute to this process.
The OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan, Ambassador John MacGregor, said: “We have entered into a large-scale co-operation with both Chambers of Oliy Majlis – Legislative Chamber and Senate. In addition, the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan is ready and willing to continue co-operation with the Central Election Comission. I also expressed my willingness to further support the Constitutional Court in their reforms related to justice and the rule of law.”
The event was co-hosted with the Konrad Adenauer Foundation for Central Asia, the Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Development Strategy Centre. The meeting allowed for sharing best practices as well as expertise from German representatives on Germany’s parliamentary system.


osce--2020-07-24--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 175/2020 issued on 24 July 2020


osce--2020-07-24--Parliamentary leaders call on Foreign Ministers to rectify institutional crisis facing OSCE

COPENHAGEN , 24 July 2020 – Members of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly ’ s elected Bureau today urged the personal attention of the Foreign Ministers of OSCE participating States to address the institutional crisis currently impacting the organization .
In an open letter to the ministers , the parliamentarians noted that the inability to reach agreement earlier this month on the OSCE Secretary General , the Director of the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights , the Representative on Freedom of the Media and the High Commissioner on National Minorities , and the subsequent failure to find an interim @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a leadership vacuum that damages the collective security of North America , Europe and Central Asia .
The PA leaders highlighted a series of initiatives the Assembly is launching to address the institutional crisis and stressed the need to address key issues in the context of an inclusive and open dialogue needed to revitalize the OSCE .
All members of the OSCE PA Bureau – consisting of the President , Vice-Presidents , General Committee Officers , Treasurer , and the President Emeritus – as well as the Secretary General , signed the letter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now constrained in its operations by the absence of the heads of all four executive structures that make up the organization .
“ As the elected leadership of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly , and as parliamentarians who know and care deeply about the OSCE , we hereby call for your dedicated attention to this serious situation , ” the letter states .
The Bureau members noted that the process for filling the positions must now move forward without delay .
“ We firmly believe that this is a time requiring more multilateral leadership @ @ @ @ @ @ @ OSCE parliamentarians wrote .
“ You and your fellow members of the OSCE Ministerial Council are in a position to rectify this problem , and we urge you to take immediate steps to this end.
” The letter points out that the PA has long advocated for greater dialogue at the political level on OSCE matters , and this remains more important now than ever .
“ As parliamentarians , we remain committed to contributing an important political perspective to the work of the OSCE , but it is the governments of OSCE @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crisis in the organization , ” the letter states .
This is important to revive the OSCE , address key current security challenges , resolve armed conflicts in the OSCE area , promote co-operation in the economic and environmental field , and strengthen democratic practices and the rule of law .
The letter stresses that the Parliamentary Assembly will engage and support efforts to restoring the ability of the OSCE to serve as a key platform for common engagement in overcoming our differences and advancing co-operative security , based solidly on a renewed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the ten principles of the Helsinki Final Act , at this critical juncture .
• Ms. Kari Henriksen , Norway , Vice-President and Rapporteur of the General Committee on Democracy , Human Rights and Humanitarian Questions • Mr. Richard Hudson , United States , Chair of the General Committee on Political Affairs and Security • Mr. Costel Neculai Dunava , Romania , Vice-Chair of the General Committee on Political Affairs and Security • Mr. Laurynas Kasciunas , Lithuania , Rapporteur of the General Committee on Political Affairs and Security • Ms. Doris Barnett @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Committee on Economic Affairs , Science , Technology and Environment • Mr. Artur Gerasymov , Ukraine , Vice-Chair of the General Committee on Economic Affairs , Science , Technology and Environment • Ms. Elona Gjebrea Hoxha , Albania , Rapporteur of the General Committee on Economic Affairs , Science , Technology and Environment • Mr. Kyriakos Hadjiyianni , Cyprus , Chair of the General Committee on Democracy , Human Rights and Humanitarian Questions • Mr. Michael Georg Link , Germany , Vice-Chair of the General Committee on Democracy , Human Rights and Humanitarian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ statement issued on Wednesday by a group of current and former PA Presidents and leaders of the Committee on Democracy , Human Rights and Humanitarian Questions calling for urgent action to ensure that the organization can continue to function , particularly in fulfilling its duties in the human dimension .
In the run up to the Tirana Ministerial Council , the PA is planning on strengthening its policy and political support to the organization in a spirit of collective responsibility and with the intention of lending its contribution towards safeguarding and optimizing the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ read the Bureau 's open letter to OSCE Foreign Ministers , please click here .

COPENHAGEN, 24 July 2020 – Members of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly’s elected Bureau today urged the personal attention of the Foreign Ministers of OSCE participating States to address the institutional crisis currently impacting the organization.
In an open letter to the ministers, the parliamentarians noted that the inability to reach agreement earlier this month on the OSCE Secretary General, the Director of the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights, the Representative on Freedom of the Media and the High Commissioner on National Minorities, and the subsequent failure to find an interim solution with the incumbents, has left a leadership vacuum that damages the collective security of North America, Europe and Central Asia. The PA leaders highlighted a series of initiatives the Assembly is launching to address the institutional crisis and stressed the need to address key issues in the context of an inclusive and open dialogue needed to revitalize the OSCE.
All members of the OSCE PA Bureau – consisting of the President, Vice-Presidents, General Committee Officers, Treasurer, and the President Emeritus – as well as the Secretary General, signed the letter, which noted that the OSCE is now constrained in its operations by the absence of the heads of all four executive structures that make up the organization. “As the elected leadership of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly, and as parliamentarians who know and care deeply about the OSCE, we hereby call for your dedicated attention to this serious situation,” the letter states.
The Bureau members noted that the process for filling the positions must now move forward without delay. “We firmly believe that this is a time requiring more multilateral leadership, not empty chairs,” the OSCE parliamentarians wrote. “You and your fellow members of the OSCE Ministerial Council are in a position to rectify this problem, and we urge you to take immediate steps to this end.”
The letter points out that the PA has long advocated for greater dialogue at the political level on OSCE matters, and this remains more important now than ever. “As parliamentarians, we remain committed to contributing an important political perspective to the work of the OSCE, but it is the governments of OSCE participating States that must address the institutional crisis in the organization,” the letter states. This is important to revive the OSCE, address key current security challenges, resolve armed conflicts in the OSCE area, promote co-operation in the economic and environmental field, and strengthen democratic practices and the rule of law.
The letter stresses that the Parliamentary Assembly will engage and support efforts to restoring the ability of the OSCE to serve as a key platform for common engagement in overcoming our differences and advancing co-operative security, based solidly on a renewed commitment of the participating States to respect the ten principles of the Helsinki Final Act, at this critical juncture.
The letter’s signatories include:
Mr. George Tsereteli, Georgia, President
Peter Lord Bowness, United Kingdom, Vice-President
Mr. Azay Guliyev, Azerbaijan, Vice-President
Mr. Victor Paul Dobre, Romania, Vice-President
Mr. Roger Wicker, United States, Vice-President
Ms. Margareta Cederfelt, Sweden, Vice-President
Ms. Kari Henriksen, Norway, Vice-President and Rapporteur of the General Committee on Democracy, Human Rights and Humanitarian Questions
Mr. Kristian Vigenin, Bulgaria, Vice-President
Mr. Pascal Allizard, France, Vice-President
Mr. Peter Juel-Jensen, Denmark, Treasurer
Mr. Ilkka Kanerva, Finland, President Emeritus
Mr. Richard Hudson, United States, Chair of the General Committee on Political Affairs and Security
Mr. Costel Neculai Dunava, Romania, Vice-Chair of the General Committee on Political Affairs and Security
Mr. Laurynas Kasciunas, Lithuania, Rapporteur of the General Committee on Political Affairs and Security
Ms. Doris Barnett, Germany, Chair of the General Committee on Economic Affairs, Science, Technology and Environment
Mr. Artur Gerasymov, Ukraine, Vice-Chair of the General Committee on Economic Affairs, Science, Technology and Environment
Ms. Elona Gjebrea Hoxha, Albania, Rapporteur of the General Committee on Economic Affairs, Science, Technology and Environment
Mr. Kyriakos Hadjiyianni, Cyprus, Chair of the General Committee on Democracy, Human Rights and Humanitarian Questions
Mr. Michael Georg Link, Germany, Vice-Chair of the General Committee on Democracy, Human Rights and Humanitarian Questions
Mr. Roberto Montella, Secretary General of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly
Today’s letter follows a statement issued on Wednesday by a group of current and former PA Presidents and leaders of the Committee on Democracy, Human Rights and Humanitarian Questions calling for urgent action to ensure that the organization can continue to function, particularly in fulfilling its duties in the human dimension.
In the run up to the Tirana Ministerial Council, the PA is planning on strengthening its policy and political support to the organization in a spirit of collective responsibility and with the intention of lending its contribution towards safeguarding and optimizing the crucial work of the OSCE.
To read the Bureau's open letter to OSCE Foreign Ministers, please click here.


osce--2020-07-23--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 174/2020 issued on 23 July 2020


osce--2020-07-23--OSCE Chairperson-in-Office Rama welcomes agreement on additional measures to strengthen ceasefire in

OSCE Chairperson-in-Office Rama welcomes agreement on additional measures to strengthen ceasefire in eastern Ukraine, urges further positive steps

TIRANA , 23 July 2020 – The OSCE Chairperson-in-Office , Prime Minister and Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of Albania , Edi Rama , welcomed the agreement reached yesterday by the Trilateral Contact Group , with the participation of representatives of certain areas of Donetsk and Luhansk regions of Ukraine , regarding additional measures to strengthen the ceasefire , aiming to ensure compliance with a comprehensive , sustainable and unlimited ceasefire .
The agreement is due to come into force from 27 July 2020 until the comprehensive settlement of the conflict .
“ This agreement is an important step @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ceasefire , as well as the fulfilment of one of the main conclusions of the Paris Normandy Summit .
A much-awaited real cessation of fire would surely ease also the hardship of the civilian population in the conflict zone , ” Rama said .
Expressing support to the efforts in the Trilateral Contact Group and the Normandy Four format , he stressed the need now to build on the political will demonstrated and strongly encouraged the full implementation of the Minsk agreements and outstanding conclusions reached at the Paris Normandy Summit in December @ @ @ @ @ @ @ role of the Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine ( SMM ) in monitoring and supporting the implementation of the Minsk agreements .
“ I reiterate my full backing to the work of the SMM .
The dedicated women and men of the Mission must be ensured the necessary conditions to fully implement the Mission ’ s mandate throughout the country , including free movement and safety and security for themselves and their equipment , ” Rama added .
Contributing to the peaceful resolution of the crisis in and around Ukraine and making a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ priority of the 2020 Albanian OSCE Chairmanship .
“ We will continue supporting the improvement of the security situation and easing of the hardship of civilians affected by the conflict in eastern Ukraine , ” the Chairperson-in-Office concluded .

TIRANA, 23 July 2020 – The OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, Prime Minister and Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of Albania, Edi Rama, welcomed the agreement reached yesterday by the Trilateral Contact Group, with the participation of representatives of certain areas of Donetsk and Luhansk regions of Ukraine, regarding additional measures to strengthen the ceasefire, aiming to ensure compliance with a comprehensive, sustainable and unlimited ceasefire. The agreement is due to come into force from 27 July 2020 until the comprehensive settlement of the conflict.
“This agreement is an important step toward a full, sustainable and comprehensive ceasefire, as well as the fulfilment of one of the main conclusions of the Paris Normandy Summit. A much-awaited real cessation of fire would surely ease also the hardship of the civilian population in the conflict zone,” Rama said. Expressing support to the efforts in the Trilateral Contact Group and the Normandy Four format, he stressed the need now to build on the political will demonstrated and strongly encouraged the full implementation of the Minsk agreements and outstanding conclusions reached at the Paris Normandy Summit in December 2019.
The Chairperson-in-Office underlined the key role of the Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) in monitoring and supporting the implementation of the Minsk agreements. “I reiterate my full backing to the work of the SMM. The dedicated women and men of the Mission must be ensured the necessary conditions to fully implement the Mission’s mandate throughout the country, including free movement and safety and security for themselves and their equipment,” Rama added.
Contributing to the peaceful resolution of the crisis in and around Ukraine and making a difference on the ground is a top priority of the 2020 Albanian OSCE Chairmanship. “We will continue supporting the improvement of the security situation and easing of the hardship of civilians affected by the conflict in eastern Ukraine,” the Chairperson-in-Office concluded.


osce--2020-07-23--Press Statement of Special Representative Grau after the regular Meeting of Trilateral Contact Group

Press Statement of Special Representative Grau after the regular Meeting of Trilateral Contact Group on 22 July 2020

KYIV , 23 July 2020 – The Special Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office in Ukraine and in the Trilateral Contact Group ( TCG ) , Ambassador Heidi Grau , made the following statement to the press after the regular meetings of the TCG and its Working Groups held through video conferencing : “ I am pleased to announce that today the Trilateral Contact Group , with the participation of representatives of certain areas of Donetsk and Luhansk regions ( CADLR ) of Ukraine , reached agreement regarding additional measures to strengthen the ceasefire , aiming to ensure compliance with a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Issuance and enactment from 00:01hrs ( Kyiv time ) on 27 July 2020 by the leadership of the Ukrainian Armed Forces and the leadership of the armed formations of certain areas of Donetsk and Luhansk regions of , and compliance with , for the whole period until full comprehensive settlement of the conflict , the respective ceasefire orders containing the following ceasefire support measures : • ban on offensive , reconnaissance and sabotage operations , as well as ban on operation of any types of aerial vehicles of the sides ; • ban @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and around settlements , primarily at civilian infrastructure , including schools , kindergartens , hospitals and public premises ; • the effective use of disciplinary actions for ceasefire violations and notification of them to the TCG Coordinator who shall inform all of its participants about it ; • creation and involvement of a coordination mechanism for responding to ceasefire violations through the facilitation of the JCCC in its current setting ; • retaliatory fire responding to an offensive operation* is only permissible if it occurs at the order made by the respective leadership @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leadership of CADLR armed formations after an unsuccessful attempt to make use of the above-mentioned coordination mechanism .
The TCG shall be notified of the issuance of such orders .
• the above-mentioned measures may not be , fully or in part , disavowed by any other orders , including secret ones .
*Offensive operation shall have the following meaning : any attempts to change the positioning of the troops which exists as of the date of this statement , including any additional engineering improvement of positions , and/or any forward movement and/or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , including for the purposes of reconnaissance and sabotage operations ” .
The leaderships of the Ukrainian Armed Forces and CADLR armed formations will make public statements about the issuance of the orders listing all the above measures and confirm that these ceasefire orders comply with such measures .
The OSCE SMM will contribute and support the sides in the implementation of these measures , as agreed by them , without prejudice to the established procedures of reporting or any other aspect of full implementation of its mandate ” .
I hope that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the conflict zone and more peace to the civilian population .
The above-mentioned issue , as well as the overall security situation in the conflict zone , was discussed on the eve of the meeting in the Security Working Group .
In addition , the Working Group continued to address demining issues .
The Working Group on Humanitarian Issues agreed to further exchange information regarding conflict-related detainees .
I call upon the sides , in fulfilment of their obligations , to demonstrate goodwill and reach an early agreement for a new stage @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , which has long been awaited by the detainees themselves , as well as by their families , their relatives and friends .
In addition , the participants of the Working Group reconfirmed their readiness for the simultaneous opening of two additional entry-exit crossing points in Zolote and Shchastia of the Luhansk region , no later than 10 November 2020 .
While welcoming this , I urge the sides not to delay the commencement of the preparatory and construction works , so that they can be completed before the cold season .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in certain areas of Donetsk and Luhansk regions of Ukraine .
Current issues of water supplies across the contact line were also duly considered .
The meeting participants of the Political Working Group discussed legal preconditions for ensuring CADLR 's special status after the local elections , as foreseen by the Minsk Agreements .
”

KYIV, 23 July 2020 – The Special Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office in Ukraine and in the Trilateral Contact Group (TCG), Ambassador Heidi Grau, made the following statement to the press after the regular meetings of the TCG and its Working Groups held through video conferencing:
“I am pleased to announce that today the Trilateral Contact Group, with the participation of representatives of certain areas of Donetsk and Luhansk regions (CADLR) of Ukraine, reached agreement regarding additional measures to strengthen the ceasefire, aiming to ensure compliance with a comprehensive, sustainable and unlimited ceasefire:
“Measures to strengthen the ceasefire
Issuance and enactment from 00:01hrs (Kyiv time) on 27 July 2020 by the leadership of the Ukrainian Armed Forces and the leadership of the armed formations of certain areas of Donetsk and Luhansk regions of, and compliance with, for the whole period until full comprehensive settlement of the conflict, the respective ceasefire orders containing the following ceasefire support measures:
ban on offensive, reconnaissance and sabotage operations, as well as ban on operation of any types of aerial vehicles of the sides; ban on firing, including sniper fire; ban on the deployment of heavy weapons in and around settlements, primarily at civilian infrastructure, including schools, kindergartens, hospitals and public premises; the effective use of disciplinary actions for ceasefire violations and notification of them to the TCG Coordinator who shall inform all of its participants about it; creation and involvement of a coordination mechanism for responding to ceasefire violations through the facilitation of the JCCC in its current setting; retaliatory fire responding to an offensive operation* is only permissible if it occurs at the order made by the respective leadership of the Ukrainian Armed Forces and the leadership of CADLR armed formations after an unsuccessful attempt to make use of the above-mentioned coordination mechanism. The TCG shall be notified of the issuance of such orders. the above-mentioned measures may not be, fully or in part, disavowed by any other orders, including secret ones.
*Offensive operation shall have the following meaning: any attempts to change the positioning of the troops which exists as of the date of this statement, including any additional engineering improvement of positions, and/or any forward movement and/or relocation of armed persons towards the adversary, including for the purposes of reconnaissance and sabotage operations”.
The leaderships of the Ukrainian Armed Forces and CADLR armed formations will make public statements about the issuance of the orders listing all the above measures and confirm that these ceasefire orders comply with such measures.
The OSCE SMM will contribute and support the sides in the implementation of these measures, as agreed by them, without prejudice to the established procedures of reporting or any other aspect of full implementation of its mandate”.
I hope that the confirmed measures will bring long-awaited silence in the conflict zone and more peace to the civilian population.
The above-mentioned issue, as well as the overall security situation in the conflict zone, was discussed on the eve of the meeting in the Security Working Group.
In addition, the Working Group continued to address demining issues.
The Working Group on Humanitarian Issues agreed to further exchange information regarding conflict-related detainees.
I call upon the sides, in fulfilment of their obligations, to demonstrate goodwill and reach an early agreement for a new stage of mutual release and exchange of detainees, which has long been awaited by the detainees themselves, as well as by their families, their relatives and friends.
In addition, the participants of the Working Group reconfirmed their readiness for the simultaneous opening of two additional entry-exit crossing points in Zolote and Shchastia of the Luhansk region, no later than 10 November 2020. While welcoming this, I urge the sides not to delay the commencement of the preparatory and construction works, so that they can be completed before the cold season.
The Economic Working Group focused on environmental issues in certain areas of Donetsk and Luhansk regions of Ukraine. Current issues of water supplies across the contact line were also duly considered.
The meeting participants of the Political Working Group discussed legal preconditions for ensuring CADLR's special status after the local elections, as foreseen by the Minsk Agreements.”


osce--2020-07-22--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 173/2020 issued on 22 July 2020


osce--2020-07-22--Alliance Conference: OSCE high-level officials urge States to triple number of prosecutions against

Alliance Conference: OSCE high-level officials urge States to triple number of prosecutions against human traffickers within the next three years

VIENNA , 22 July 2020 – To reverse the alarming fall in the number of prosecutions for human trafficking in recent years , Chairperson of the OSCE Permanent Council Ambassador Igli Hasani and the OSCE Special Representative and Co-ordinator on Combatting Trafficking in Human Beings Valiant Richey today called on the Organization ’ s 57 participating States to triple the number of prosecutions for this crime within the next three years .
They made their call at the close of the three-day 20th Alliance Conference against Trafficking in Persons .
With over 700 registered participants from almost every OSCE participating @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , it was the largest Alliance Conference ever .
“ Too many victims go without any kind of justice , while traffickers revel in their profits , ” said Special Representative Richey in his closing remarks .
Urging OSCE participating States to reverse the declining number of human trafficking prosecutions , he said : “ Prosecuting traffickers alone is not the end of human trafficking , but it is a crucial step toward ending it .
We need to replace the current culture of impunity with a culture of justice.
” He called @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a concrete goal of tripling the number of prosecutions within the next three years.
” To achieve that , Richey reiterated that his office was ready to support anti-trafficking authorities in designing and implementing effective strategies to prosecute traffickers and deliver justice to more victims .
Ambassador Hasani described impunity as an “ an open wound in our society ” and hoped that “ conversations like the one we have had these three days can help us move in the right direction and work to close that wound.
” He then launched a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and improve the quality of prosecutions and to implement the existing commitments we have.
” In closing , he endorsed the Special representative ’ s “ strong call to change the current state of affairs , end impunity and reinvigorate our effort to eradicate human trafficking.
” In recalling the main highlights and recommendations emerging from the Conference , Ambassador Hasani and Special Representative Richey underlined that “ none of those policies will be effective without political will .
We must want to improve .
We must carry with us the voices of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their courage in coming forward , and take action today.
” During the three-day discussion involving State representatives , victims of trafficking , international and non-governmental organizations and academia , persistent challenges as well as a number of good policies and promising practices were highlighted .
These included the importance of specialized anti-trafficking units and multi-agency co-operation to build better cases , as well as financial investigations to seize traffickers ’ profits and provide compensation to victims .
Moreover , the use of a victim-centered and trauma-informed approach by the criminal justice system @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ rights throughout the recovery and reintegration process , and crucial to achieving effective prosecutions .

VIENNA, 22 July 2020 – To reverse the alarming fall in the number of prosecutions for human trafficking in recent years, Chairperson of the OSCE Permanent Council Ambassador Igli Hasani and the OSCE Special Representative and Co-ordinator on Combatting Trafficking in Human Beings Valiant Richey today called on the Organization’s 57 participating States to triple the number of prosecutions for this crime within the next three years.
They made their call at the close of the three-day 20th Alliance Conference against Trafficking in Persons. With over 700 registered participants from almost every OSCE participating State and record numbers of online viewers, it was the largest Alliance Conference ever.
“Too many victims go without any kind of justice, while traffickers revel in their profits,” said Special Representative Richey in his closing remarks. Urging OSCE participating States to reverse the declining number of human trafficking prosecutions, he said: “Prosecuting traffickers alone is not the end of human trafficking, but it is a crucial step toward ending it. We need to replace the current culture of impunity with a culture of justice.” He called on OSCE participating States “to set a concrete goal of tripling the number of prosecutions within the next three years.” To achieve that, Richey reiterated that his office was ready to support anti-trafficking authorities in designing and implementing effective strategies to prosecute traffickers and deliver justice to more victims.
Ambassador Hasani described impunity as an “an open wound in our society” and hoped that “conversations like the one we have had these three days can help us move in the right direction and work to close that wound.” He then launched a “renewed push to increase the number and improve the quality of prosecutions and to implement the existing commitments we have.” In closing, he endorsed the Special representative’s “strong call to change the current state of affairs, end impunity and reinvigorate our effort to eradicate human trafficking.”
In recalling the main highlights and recommendations emerging from the Conference, Ambassador Hasani and Special Representative Richey underlined that “none of those policies will be effective without political will. We must want to improve. We must carry with us the voices of those who endured human trafficking, honour their courage in coming forward, and take action today.”
During the three-day discussion involving State representatives, victims of trafficking, international and non-governmental organizations and academia, persistent challenges as well as a number of good policies and promising practices were highlighted. These included the importance of specialized anti-trafficking units and multi-agency co-operation to build better cases, as well as financial investigations to seize traffickers’ profits and provide compensation to victims. Moreover, the use of a victim-centered and trauma-informed approach by the criminal justice system was underlined as fundamental in ensuring victims’ rights throughout the recovery and reintegration process, and crucial to achieving effective prosecutions.


osce--2020-07-22--Defence Minister Andrii Taran addresses last Forum for Security Co-operation meeting under Ukraine’s

Defence Minister Andrii Taran addresses last Forum for Security Co-operation meeting under Ukraine’s Chair

VIENNA / KYIV , 22 July 2020 – Ukraine ’ s Defence Minister Andrii Taran today addressed the last meeting of the OSCE Forum for Security Co-operation ( FSC ) under the country ’ s Chair .
Addressing the meeting remotely from Kyiv , he said Ukraine had chaired this decision-making body during “ unprecedented circumstances ” of the COVID-19 pandemic crisis and “ ongoing aggression on its territorial integrity and sovereignty.
” He spoke of the negative developments that continue to “ further erode trust and confidence , decrease predictability and transparency , and undermine security in the whole @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that urged us to open a frank discussion over the issues that might not be comfortable for all .
However , the OSCE and its participating States should stand for its founding principles and seek solutions for a strong and coherent response , when these principles are severely infringed upon.
” “ By shying away from these discussions , we will not be able to restore peace and security in Europe , ” he added .
“ We put forward , for consideration of the Forum , those topics that reflect the root @ @ @ @ @ @ @ consequences for the entire OSCE community.
” Minister Taran provided an overview of the topics over the last three months , highlighting the Chair ’ s assessments of the discussions .
Turning to the impact of COVID-19 on politico-military security in the region , he pointed to misinformation and the effect of the pandemic on ongoing conflicts as serious concerns .
“ We believe that extra attention should be paid to this topic due to its unpredictability and in view of the need to renew the verification activities under the politico-military instruments , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ structures and field missions , ” he said .
On the ongoing conflicts in the OSCE region , he said that , “ we assess that more attention and involvement of the OSCE in processes ” to improve the security situations are needed .
“ The enhanced monitoring of the situation by the Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine ( SMM ) is important in order to provide an objective picture , even in a limited scope , due to ongoing restrictions of its freedom of movement , ” he added .
Reflecting on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to small arms and light weapons ( SALW ) and stockpiles of conventional ammunition ( SCA ) , Minister Taran welcomed the consensus on adopting the decision to hold the second Biennial meeting to assess the implementation of the OSCE documents on SALW and SCA .
Noting how illicit SALW and SCA contribute to instability , he emphasized the root causes of illicit trafficking of SALW and conventional ammunition , including across national borders in the conflict zones , and ongoing contamination of the territories with mines , landmines and unexploded ordnance .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ importance of the full state border control by the Government of Ukraine to prevent the illicit trafficking of SALW and conventional ammunition , and to carry out humanitarian demining activities .
Moving to the Ukrainian FSC Chair ’ s next priority , he acknowledged “ diverging views on the topic of hybrid threats and hybrid warfare ” but added that “ this should not discourage us from considerations on the challenges that are at the top of the list of security concerns in many participating States .
A coherent international response to these @ @ @ @ @ @ @ participating States underlined the role that the OSCE can play through its various tools to respond to this cross-dimensional challenge.
” Coming to the implementation and modernization of the Vienna Document 2011 on Confidence- and Security-Building Measures , Minister Taran said “ the overwhelming majority of the OSCE participating States support the process of modernization of the Vienna Document in order to more effectively meet the current challenges to the European security system through enhanced military transparency and predictability.
” Minister Taran wrapped up his address by noting that the Ukrainian Chair had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ UN Security Council Resolution 1540 on the non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction , and the Organization ’ s possible contribution to the Resolution 1540 Comprehensive Review process in 2021 .
The Chair had also focused on the activities and regulation of private military and security companies , and , together with Albania ’ s OSCE Chair , commemorated the 20th Anniversary of the UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women , Peace and Security , he said .
“ Chairing the FSC for the first time in more than 20 years was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ country , ” said Minister Taran .
“ Let me conclude by thanking all parties who assisted us during this journey .
”

VIENNA / KYIV, 22 July 2020 – Ukraine’s Defence Minister Andrii Taran today addressed the last meeting of the OSCE Forum for Security Co-operation (FSC) under the country’s Chair. Addressing the meeting remotely from Kyiv, he said Ukraine had chaired this decision-making body during “unprecedented circumstances” of the COVID-19 pandemic crisis and “ongoing aggression on its territorial integrity and sovereignty.”
He spoke of the negative developments that continue to “further erode trust and confidence, decrease predictability and transparency, and undermine security in the whole OSCE area. These are the signs that urged us to open a frank discussion over the issues that might not be comfortable for all. However, the OSCE and its participating States should stand for its founding principles and seek solutions for a strong and coherent response, when these principles are severely infringed upon.”
“By shying away from these discussions, we will not be able to restore peace and security in Europe,” he added. “We put forward, for consideration of the Forum, those topics that reflect the root causes of these negative developments and its consequences for the entire OSCE community.”
Minister Taran provided an overview of the topics over the last three months, highlighting the Chair’s assessments of the discussions.
Turning to the impact of COVID-19 on politico-military security in the region, he pointed to misinformation and the effect of the pandemic on ongoing conflicts as serious concerns.
“We believe that extra attention should be paid to this topic due to its unpredictability and in view of the need to renew the verification activities under the politico-military instruments, and to improve adaptive measures within OSCE structures and field missions,” he said.
On the ongoing conflicts in the OSCE region, he said that, “we assess that more attention and involvement of the OSCE in processes” to improve the security situations are needed. “The enhanced monitoring of the situation by the Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) is important in order to provide an objective picture, even in a limited scope, due to ongoing restrictions of its freedom of movement,” he added.
Reflecting on the Chair’s priority with regard to small arms and light weapons (SALW) and stockpiles of conventional ammunition (SCA), Minister Taran welcomed the consensus on adopting the decision to hold the second Biennial meeting to assess the implementation of the OSCE documents on SALW and SCA.
Noting how illicit SALW and SCA contribute to instability, he emphasized the root causes of illicit trafficking of SALW and conventional ammunition, including across national borders in the conflict zones, and ongoing contamination of the territories with mines, landmines and unexploded ordnance. In this context, he stressed the importance of the full state border control by the Government of Ukraine to prevent the illicit trafficking of SALW and conventional ammunition, and to carry out humanitarian demining activities.
Moving to the Ukrainian FSC Chair’s next priority, he acknowledged “diverging views on the topic of hybrid threats and hybrid warfare” but added that “this should not discourage us from considerations on the challenges that are at the top of the list of security concerns in many participating States. A coherent international response to these threats is of paramount importance. Many participating States underlined the role that the OSCE can play through its various tools to respond to this cross-dimensional challenge.”
Coming to the implementation and modernization of the Vienna Document 2011 on Confidence- and Security-Building Measures, Minister Taran said “the overwhelming majority of the OSCE participating States support the process of modernization of the Vienna Document in order to more effectively meet the current challenges to the European security system through enhanced military transparency and predictability.”
Minister Taran wrapped up his address by noting that the Ukrainian Chair had also explored the OSCE role in implementing UN Security Council Resolution 1540 on the non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, and the Organization’s possible contribution to the Resolution 1540 Comprehensive Review process in 2021. The Chair had also focused on the activities and regulation of private military and security companies, and, together with Albania’s OSCE Chair, commemorated the 20th Anniversary of the UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security, he said.
“Chairing the FSC for the first time in more than 20 years was an invaluable experience and honour for my country,” said Minister Taran. “Let me conclude by thanking all parties who assisted us during this journey.”
Germany assumes the FSC Chair on 31 August 2020.