osce--2020-08-25--Electoral participation of persons with disabilities in Kazakhstan focus of OSCE-supported online se

Electoral participation of persons with disabilities in Kazakhstan focus of OSCE-supported online seminar

An OSCE-supported six-day online training seminar on electoral rights of persons with disabilities started on 24 August 2020 .
The @ @ @ @ @ build their capacity to draw up an individual plan on running for elected office .
@ @ @ @ @ by the OSCE Programme Office in Nur-Sultan in partnership with the Association of Women with @ @ @ @ @ involves some 45 persons with disabilities from across Kazakhstan .
Participants will learn from national @ @ @ @ @ concepts , including the right to personal dignity and non-discrimination , national legislation and related @ @ @ @ @ active and passive electoral rights of persons with disabilities .
Particular attention will be paid @ @ @ @ @ election campaigns .
An expert from the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights @ @ @ @ @ the international principles and standards for political participation of people with disabilities and related best @ @ @ @ @ States .
The event is part of the Programme Office ’ s efforts to assist @ @ @ @ @ a more inclusive and participatory society .

An OSCE-supported six-day online training seminar on electoral rights of persons with disabilities started on 24 August 2020. The event aims to help participants build their capacity to draw up an individual plan on running for elected office.
The training seminar is organized by the OSCE Programme Office in Nur-Sultan in partnership with the Association of Women with Disabilities “Shyrak” and involves some 45 persons with disabilities from across Kazakhstan.
Participants will learn from national experts about basic human rights concepts, including the right to personal dignity and non-discrimination, national legislation and related mechanisms for implementation of the active and passive electoral rights of persons with disabilities. Particular attention will be paid to electoral technologies and conducting election campaigns.
An expert from the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights will present a session on the international principles and standards for political participation of people with disabilities and related best practices in the OSCE participating States. The event is part of the Programme Office’s efforts to assist the host country in promoting a more inclusive and participatory society.


osce--2020-08-24--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 201/2020 issued on 24 August 2020

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osce--2020-08-22--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 200/2020 issued on 22 August 2020


osce--2020-08-21--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 199/2020 issued on 21 August 2020


osce--2020-08-21--Ukraine introduces new Master of Law educational standard, developed with OSCE support

The Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine has approved new requirements for a Master ’ s degree programme in law , developed with the assistance of the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Ukraine .
The order issued by the Ministry , on 17 August 2020 , ( link ) enacts the use of the Standard of Higher Education for speciality no .
081 “ Law ” at Master ’ s degree level , making it applicable starting from the 2020/2021 academic year .
The document set the requirements to provide the due quality of Masters Programmes .
In particular , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Law should obtain and outlines criteria for evaluation of the results of the studies .
It establishes ways to assess and certify students ’ knowledge , inter alia , through the Unified State Qualification Exam .
The Standard will be used for evaluation of law faculties , notably in the process of certification of universities and their educational programmes .
On average , over 7,000 students graduate annually from Ukraine ’ s universities with a Master of Law diploma , so the Standard will contribute to improving the quality of education for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ thus strengthening rule of law and the protection of human rights in the country .
The OSCE Project Co-ordinator facilitated expert discussions for the elaboration of the Standard in 2019 and provided experts to finalize its text .

The Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine has approved new requirements for a Master’s degree programme in law, developed with the assistance of the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Ukraine. The order issued by the Ministry, on 17 August 2020, (link) enacts the use of the Standard of Higher Education for speciality no. 081 “Law” at Master’s degree level, making it applicable starting from the 2020/2021 academic year.
The document set the requirements to provide the due quality of Masters Programmes. In particular, it lists competencies the Master’s in Law should obtain and outlines criteria for evaluation of the results of the studies. It establishes ways to assess and certify students’ knowledge, inter alia, through the Unified State Qualification Exam. The Standard will be used for evaluation of law faculties, notably in the process of certification of universities and their educational programmes.
On average, over 7,000 students graduate annually from Ukraine’s universities with a Master of Law diploma, so the Standard will contribute to improving the quality of education for a new generation of legal professionals, thus strengthening rule of law and the protection of human rights in the country.
The OSCE Project Co-ordinator facilitated expert discussions for the elaboration of the Standard in 2019 and provided experts to finalize its text.


osce--2020-08-21--OSCE-supported online courses on reporting on violent extremism and terrorism concludes in Bosnia an

OSCE-supported online courses on reporting on violent extremism and terrorism concludes in Bosnia and Herzegovina

The OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina ( BiH ) concluded a series of online courses on reporting on terrorism , preventing terrorism and countering violent extremism that lead to terrorism ( P/C VERLT ) on 21 August 2020 .
The series was developed for representatives of electronic and print media in BiH .
Journalists and media professionals had the opportunity to engage in active discussions on the latest trends , challenges and standards in reporting on violent extremism and terrorism in the modern media landscape .
The online courses elaborated on the importance of the Guidelines for reporting on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ December 2019 as well as the compatibility with other existing journalistic standards .
Key terms and definitions , as well as the implementation of the Guidelines in practice , were discussed , along with examples of terrorism and violent extremism reporting in the region .
Participants also discussed the most common challenges faced by journalists in BiH when reporting on these sensitive issues , the significance of responsible and professional reporting , and other useful resources .
“ Journalists and editors certainly face significant challenges when reporting on terrorism and violent extremism , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to BiH National Chief of P/C VERLT .
“ On one side , they need to factually report about the events that have taken place , while on the other , they need to carefully consider if their report inadvertently contributes to the goal of the perpetrators – contributing to further polarization of society , as well as the spread of panic and fear.
” According to senior journalist and presenter Adnan Rondic , one of the courses ’ lecturers , the interest of BiH journalists in reporting on terrorism and violent extremism @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pandemic .
“ The Guidance , jointly prepared by the OSCE Mission and Press Council in BiH , has received the undivided attention of media professionals who , in addition to all challenges and objective impediments in reporting , fully understand how the global phenomena like terrorism and violent extremism affect both security circumstances and political relations in this part of the world , ” said Rondic .
The online courses served as a platform to share experiences , best practices and contribute to the professional development of journalists and media professionals , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ divisions .
This is important for the country ’ s stability and for the strengthening of the media .
This is part of several programmes implemented by the OSCE Mission to BiH aimed at promoting freedom of the media and countering violent extremism in BiH .

The OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) concluded a series of online courses on reporting on terrorism, preventing terrorism and countering violent extremism that lead to terrorism (P/C VERLT) on 21 August 2020. The series was developed for representatives of electronic and print media in BiH.
Journalists and media professionals had the opportunity to engage in active discussions on the latest trends, challenges and standards in reporting on violent extremism and terrorism in the modern media landscape.
The online courses elaborated on the importance of the Guidelines for reporting on violent extremism and terrorism that launched in December 2019 as well as the compatibility with other existing journalistic standards.
Key terms and definitions, as well as the implementation of the Guidelines in practice, were discussed, along with examples of terrorism and violent extremism reporting in the region. Participants also discussed the most common challenges faced by journalists in BiH when reporting on these sensitive issues, the significance of responsible and professional reporting, and other useful resources.
“Journalists and editors certainly face significant challenges when reporting on terrorism and violent extremism,” said Selma Zekovic, OSCE Mission to BiH National Chief of P/C VERLT. “On one side, they need to factually report about the events that have taken place, while on the other, they need to carefully consider if their report inadvertently contributes to the goal of the perpetrators – contributing to further polarization of society, as well as the spread of panic and fear.”
According to senior journalist and presenter Adnan Rondic, one of the courses’ lecturers, the interest of BiH journalists in reporting on terrorism and violent extremism has shown its significance even during the pandemic. “The Guidance, jointly prepared by the OSCE Mission and Press Council in BiH, has received the undivided attention of media professionals who, in addition to all challenges and objective impediments in reporting, fully understand how the global phenomena like terrorism and violent extremism affect both security circumstances and political relations in this part of the world,” said Rondic.
The online courses served as a platform to share experiences, best practices and contribute to the professional development of journalists and media professionals, thus helping to prevent intolerance and society divisions. This is important for the country’s stability and for the strengthening of the media. This is part of several programmes implemented by the OSCE Mission to BiH aimed at promoting freedom of the media and countering violent extremism in BiH.


osce--2020-08-21--OSCE Programme Office in Nur-Sultan organizes online seminar on protection of private life and perso

OSCE Programme Office in Nur-Sultan organizes online seminar on protection of private life and personal data

An OSCE-supported online seminar on protecting the private life and personal data was organized by the OSCE Programme Office in @ @ @ @ @ in Nur-Sultan .
The event focused on national legislation and international standards regulating the protection @ @ @ @ @ data , as well as international and national court practices in this field .
Discussions @ @ @ @ @ personal image and legal risks in the usage of video and images .
Some 60 @ @ @ @ @ , academia , civil society , diplomatic corps , as well as lawyers attended the @ @ @ @ @ to submit questions to the experts that were addressed in real time .
The event @ @ @ @ @ Office ’ s activities aimed at promoting media development and freedom of expression in line @ @ @ @ @ .

An OSCE-supported online seminar on protecting the private life and personal data was organized by the OSCE Programme Office in Nur-Sultan on 20 August 2020 in Nur-Sultan.
The event focused on national legislation and international standards regulating the protection of private life and personal data, as well as international and national court practices in this field. Discussions also covered the right to personal image and legal risks in the usage of video and images.
Some 60 participants from the media community, academia, civil society, diplomatic corps, as well as lawyers attended the event. They were able to submit questions to the experts that were addressed in real time.
The event is part of the Programme Office’s activities aimed at promoting media development and freedom of expression in line with OSCE principles and commitments.


osce--2020-08-21--OSCE supports Kyrgyzstan’s efforts to prepare and ensure safety and lawfulness during 2020 Parliamen

OSCE supports Kyrgyzstan’s efforts to prepare and ensure safety and lawfulness during 2020 Parliamentary Elections

More than 100 representatives of the Bishkek city 's law enforcement agencies took part in the OSCE-supported three-week online training course on 17 August 2020 in Bishkek .
The course focused on how to prepare and ensure safety and lawfulness during the upcoming 4 October parliamentary elections in Kyrgyzstan .
Kyrgyzstan ’ s Central Commission for Elections and Referenda ( CEC ) and the `` Civic Platform '' public foundation organized the course , entitled “ Elections to the National Parliament in 2020 : The Role of Law Enforcement Agencies in Developing Measures and Reacting to Electoral Legislation Violations ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Programme Office in Bishkek and UNDP .
In the coming weeks , a series of similar online training courses will be held throughout the country .
These courses aim to enhance efforts to ensure public security , especially in time of the COVID-19 pandemic .
Participants also gain a better understanding of the rule of law , and safe electoral processes , as well as the legislation changes recently made by the national parliament , Zhogorku Kenesh .
Nurzhan Shaildabekova , Chairperson of the CEC , said : `` The CEC has developed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and epidemiological safety to protect the health of citizens during the organization and conduct of the elections .
The course is also focused on countering the use of administrative resources and vote buying , ” added Shalbadekova .
Participants discussed the important role the Rapid Response Coordination Groups ( RRCG ) play in the electoral processes , the principles of lawfulness , publicity and openness , and in accordance with the international standards .
The RRCG consists of the central and territorial electoral commissions and representatives of law enforcement bodies .
It is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to co-ordinate efficient response to electoral legislation violations and to inform citizens on measures taken .
Lawfulness and security , and timely and effective response to violations are an inseparable part of democratic elections .
Therefore , the knowledge representatives of law enforcement agencies obtained at these courses will contribute towards creating and maintaining public order during the 2020 parliamentary and 2021 local council elections .

More than 100 representatives of the Bishkek city's law enforcement agencies took part in the OSCE-supported three-week online training course on 17 August 2020 in Bishkek. The course focused on how to prepare and ensure safety and lawfulness during the upcoming 4 October parliamentary elections in Kyrgyzstan.
Kyrgyzstan’s Central Commission for Elections and Referenda (CEC) and the "Civic Platform" public foundation organized the course, entitled “Elections to the National Parliament in 2020: The Role of Law Enforcement Agencies in Developing Measures and Reacting to Electoral Legislation Violations”, with the support of the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek and UNDP. In the coming weeks, a series of similar online training courses will be held throughout the country.
These courses aim to enhance efforts to ensure public security, especially in time of the COVID-19 pandemic. Participants also gain a better understanding of the rule of law, and safe electoral processes, as well as the legislation changes recently made by the national parliament, Zhogorku Kenesh.
Nurzhan Shaildabekova, Chairperson of the CEC, said: "The CEC has developed an algorithm of actions to ensure sanitary and epidemiological safety to protect the health of citizens during the organization and conduct of the elections. The course is also focused on countering the use of administrative resources and vote buying,” added Shalbadekova.
Participants discussed the important role the Rapid Response Coordination Groups (RRCG) play in the electoral processes, the principles of lawfulness, publicity and openness, and in accordance with the international standards.
The RRCG consists of the central and territorial electoral commissions and representatives of law enforcement bodies. It is formed during preparation and conduct of elections to co-ordinate efficient response to electoral legislation violations and to inform citizens on measures taken.
Lawfulness and security, and timely and effective response to violations are an inseparable part of democratic elections. Therefore, the knowledge representatives of law enforcement agencies obtained at these courses will contribute towards creating and maintaining public order during the 2020 parliamentary and 2021 local council elections.


osce--2020-08-21--The power of digital technologies must be harnessed to counter hatred based on religion or belief, O

The power of digital technologies must be harnessed to counter hatred based on religion or belief, ODIHR says

WARSAW , 21 August 2020 – On the eve of the International Day Commemorating the Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief , the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights ( ODIHR ) calls for better use to be made of the advantages that digital technologies can offer , as well as a greater emphasis on countering hatred online .
Digital technologies can play an integral role in celebrating and upholding freedom of religion or belief when harnessed for outreach and dialogue .
At the same time , the rise in intolerant discourse and hate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ during the Covid-19 pandemic demonstrates the risk of the digital space becoming a forum for incitement to discrimination , hostility or violence on grounds of religion or belief .
Governments , civil society and religious or belief communities can engage in the digital sphere to foster mutual respect , understanding and inclusion .
Increased digitalization can go a long way towards addressing systemic inequalities and barriers , while digital tools can also help those who have been fearful in the past of participating publicly in religious activities or admitting their membership of a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , civil society can tap into the potential of the digital space to streamline and synergize its efforts , which increasingly depend on new technologies when faced with limited resources , increased workload and decreased capacity , especially during the pandemic .
Freedom of religion or belief is a fundamental human right that stipulates every human being has the right to have or to adopt a religion or belief , manifest it , convert to another religion or belief , or not believe at all .
Cultural , religious and belief diversity are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ human right .
The primary responsibility for safeguarding human rights and combating intolerance and discrimination – both offline and online – rests with governments .
However , religious or belief communities , as well as civil society organizations and indeed the social media companies themselves , have an important role to play in supporting the promotion and protection of human rights .
Intolerance and hatred do not only undermine human rights , but generate mistrust and can eventually endanger social cohesion and security .
ODIHR integrates digital technologies into its work to assist @ @ @ @ @ @ @ commitments on freedom of religion or belief as well as tolerance and non-discrimination .
ODIHR ’ s work in this area centres on the needs of victims to ensure that all religious or belief communities receive targeted assistance , support and protection that helps them when and where it is required .

WARSAW, 21 August 2020 – On the eve of the International Day Commemorating the Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief, the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) calls for better use to be made of the advantages that digital technologies can offer, as well as a greater emphasis on countering hatred online.
Digital technologies can play an integral role in celebrating and upholding freedom of religion or belief when harnessed for outreach and dialogue. At the same time, the rise in intolerant discourse and hate speech directed at religious or belief communities during the Covid-19 pandemic demonstrates the risk of the digital space becoming a forum for incitement to discrimination, hostility or violence on grounds of religion or belief.
Governments, civil society and religious or belief communities can engage in the digital sphere to foster mutual respect, understanding and inclusion. Increased digitalization can go a long way towards addressing systemic inequalities and barriers, while digital tools can also help those who have been fearful in the past of participating publicly in religious activities or admitting their membership of a particular community. At the same time, civil society can tap into the potential of the digital space to streamline and synergize its efforts, which increasingly depend on new technologies when faced with limited resources, increased workload and decreased capacity, especially during the pandemic.
Freedom of religion or belief is a fundamental human right that stipulates every human being has the right to have or to adopt a religion or belief, manifest it, convert to another religion or belief, or not believe at all. Cultural, religious and belief diversity are therefore at the heart of this universal human right. The primary responsibility for safeguarding human rights and combating intolerance and discrimination – both offline and online – rests with governments. However, religious or belief communities, as well as civil society organizations and indeed the social media companies themselves, have an important role to play in supporting the promotion and protection of human rights. Intolerance and hatred do not only undermine human rights, but generate mistrust and can eventually endanger social cohesion and security.
ODIHR integrates digital technologies into its work to assist countries across the OSCE to uphold their commitments on freedom of religion or belief as well as tolerance and non-discrimination. ODIHR’s work in this area centres on the needs of victims to ensure that all religious or belief communities receive targeted assistance, support and protection that helps them when and where it is required.


osce--2020-08-20--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 198/2020 issued on 20 August 2020


osce--2020-08-20--OSCE Mission welcomes the launch of an online register of public sector in Brcko District of BiH

The OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina supported the Brcko District Government in developing an online register of public employees and appointees .
The register , launched on 20 August 2020 , is a further step towards ensuring the transparent use of public funds in the District and through it building the citizens ’ trust in Brcko District institutions .
The register , when fully updated , will , among other things , enable access to financial data on employees of the District ’ s public administration and institutions , persons appointed to conduct public functions along with appointments to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ working groups .
To ensure its accuracy and integrity , the register is expected to be regularly updated .
The Mission has been providing support to both legislative and executive structures in BiH to strengthen their anti-corruption efforts .
To that end , the Mission has maximized the potential of digital technologies to prevent corruption with Brčko District of BiH being the latest example .
The OSCE Mission to BiH remains committed to assisting the District to take additional steps to strengthen the transparent and responsible use of budget funds for the benefit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as a community .

The OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina supported the Brcko District Government in developing an online register of public employees and appointees.
The register, launched on 20 August 2020, is a further step towards ensuring the transparent use of public funds in the District and through it building the citizens’ trust in Brcko District institutions.
The register, when fully updated, will, among other things, enable access to financial data on employees of the District’s public administration and institutions, persons appointed to conduct public functions along with appointments to oversight and steering bodies, committees and working groups. To ensure its accuracy and integrity, the register is expected to be regularly updated.
The Mission has been providing support to both legislative and executive structures in BiH to strengthen their anti-corruption efforts. To that end, the Mission has maximized the potential of digital technologies to prevent corruption with Brčko District of BiH being the latest example.
The OSCE Mission to BiH remains committed to assisting the District to take additional steps to strengthen the transparent and responsible use of budget funds for the benefit of the citizens of the Brčko District as a community.


osce--2020-09-02--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 209/2020 issued on 2 September 2020


osce--2020-09-02--OSCE launches online preparatory training course for Certified Fraud Examiner and Anti-Money Launder

OSCE launches online preparatory training course for Certified Fraud Examiner and Anti-Money Laundering Specialist

The OSCE Transnational Threats Department and the Office of the Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities launched an online preparatory training course for certification as a Fraud Examiner and Anti-Money Laundering Specialist on 2 September 2020 .
Participants from law enforcement agencies and prosecution offices of Albania , Bosnia and Herzegovina , Montenegro and North Macedonia attended the launch .
The aim of the course , followed by a mentoring programme , is to prepare for professional certifications granted by the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners and the Association of Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialists and gain an in-depth expertise @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In his opening remarks , Ambassador James Gilmore , Permanent Representative of the United States Mission to the OSCE said : `` Preventing and combating corruption is , and should remain , a key goal of the OSCE .
We will continue to support efforts through the OSCE and elsewhere to build our partners ’ capacity to fight it . ''
Ambassador Alena Kupchyna , OSCE Co-ordinator of Activities to Address Transnational Threats , stressed that the OSCE is highly committed to support its participating States in the fight against organized crime .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ capacities of law enforcement agencies to conduct effective financial investigations and co-operate at a regional and international level , ” said Kupchyna .
This training course is organized in the framework of the OSCE extra-budgetary project “ Strengthening the fight against transnational crime in South-Eastern Europe through improved regional co-operation in asset seizure , confiscation , management and re-use ” , funded by the United States of America , Germany , and Italy .
The project adopts a comprehensive approach to asset recovery by providing support to the entire cycle of asset seizure @ @ @ @ @ @ @ areas of intervention : financial investigations , assets seizure and asset confiscation ; asset management and asset re-use .

The OSCE Transnational Threats Department and the Office of the Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities launched an online preparatory training course for certification as a Fraud Examiner and Anti-Money Laundering Specialist on 2 September 2020.
Participants from law enforcement agencies and prosecution offices of Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro and North Macedonia attended the launch.
The aim of the course, followed by a mentoring programme, is to prepare for professional certifications granted by the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners and the Association of Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialists and gain an in-depth expertise in anti-money laundering and fraud examination.
In his opening remarks, Ambassador James Gilmore, Permanent Representative of the United States Mission to the OSCE said: "Preventing and combating corruption is, and should remain, a key goal of the OSCE. We will continue to support efforts through the OSCE and elsewhere to build our partners’ capacity to fight it."
Ambassador Alena Kupchyna, OSCE Co-ordinator of Activities to Address Transnational Threats, stressed that the OSCE is highly committed to support its participating States in the fight against organized crime. “Our focus is in strengthening the capacities of law enforcement agencies to conduct effective financial investigations and co-operate at a regional and international level,” said Kupchyna.
This training course is organized in the framework of the OSCE extra-budgetary project “Strengthening the fight against transnational crime in South-Eastern Europe through improved regional co-operation in asset seizure, confiscation, management and re-use”, funded by the United States of America, Germany, and Italy.
The project adopts a comprehensive approach to asset recovery by providing support to the entire cycle of asset seizure and asset confiscation. It includes three areas of intervention: financial investigations, assets seizure and asset confiscation; asset management and asset re-use.


osce--2020-09-02--OSCE Center in Ashgabat hosts seminar on World Trade Organization membership, rights and obligations

Membership in the World Trade Organization as a balance of rights and obligations is the topic of an OSCE-organized online seminar that opened on 2 September 2020 in Ashgabat .
The three-day event aims to present best practices of OSCE participating States in going through the WTO negotiation process and will facilitate discussions on possible steps for further expansion of the national trade policy .
The seminar brings together representatives of a number of Turkmenistan ’ s ministries , including the Ministry of Trade and Foreign Economic Affairs and the Ministry of Finance and Economy .
Financial institutions and other @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Drozd , Head of the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat , opened the seminar by congratulating Turkmenistan on obtaining WTO observer status .
“ We initiated this seminar in support of consistent efforts undertaken by Turkmenistan in order to boost the development of the national economy and strengthen international co-operation as well as to intensify and optimize foreign trade and improve the investment climate.
” During the seminar , international experts from Georgia will share their country ’ s experiences establishing WTO membership and the implementation of Georgia ’ s commitments .
Experts will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s trade policy liberalization , its path to the EU market integration and the impact of the 20-year WTO membership on the country ’ s business environment , investment climate , and the role of a trade and transit corridor .
An expert from Montenegro will present the country ’ s experience of accession to the WTO and the negotiation process .
A representative of WTO will provide insights into the Organization ’ s structure , functions and principles of decision-making .
“ Our seminar today is an important example of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the regional dialogue and co-operation in the area of trade facilitation and we intend to continue our constructive partnership with the host Government aimed at promoting economic security and stability , ” said Drozd .

Membership in the World Trade Organization as a balance of rights and obligations is the topic of an OSCE-organized online seminar that opened on 2 September 2020 in Ashgabat.
The three-day event aims to present best practices of OSCE participating States in going through the WTO negotiation process and will facilitate discussions on possible steps for further expansion of the national trade policy.
The seminar brings together representatives of a number of Turkmenistan’s ministries, including the Ministry of Trade and Foreign Economic Affairs and the Ministry of Finance and Economy. Financial institutions and other relevant agencies are also participating.
Natalya Drozd, Head of the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat, opened the seminar by congratulating Turkmenistan on obtaining WTO observer status. “We initiated this seminar in support of consistent efforts undertaken by Turkmenistan in order to boost the development of the national economy and strengthen international co-operation as well as to intensify and optimize foreign trade and improve the investment climate.”
During the seminar, international experts from Georgia will share their country’s experiences establishing WTO membership and the implementation of Georgia’s commitments. Experts will elaborate on the three waves of Georgia’s trade policy liberalization, its path to the EU market integration and the impact of the 20-year WTO membership on the country’s business environment, investment climate, and the role of a trade and transit corridor.
An expert from Montenegro will present the country’s experience of accession to the WTO and the negotiation process. A representative of WTO will provide insights into the Organization’s structure, functions and principles of decision-making.
“Our seminar today is an important example of the Centre's comprehensive approach to the strengthening of the regional dialogue and co-operation in the area of trade facilitation and we intend to continue our constructive partnership with the host Government aimed at promoting economic security and stability,” said Drozd.


osce--2020-09-01--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 208/2020 issued on 1 September 2020


osce--2020-08-31--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 207/2020 issued on 31 August 2020


osce--2020-08-31--Montenegro’s parliamentary elections efficiently managed, but abuse of state resources gave ruling p

Montenegro’s parliamentary elections efficiently managed, but abuse of state resources gave ruling party unfair advantage, international observers say

PODGORICA , 31 August 2020 – While Montenegro ’ s parliamentary elections were managed transparently and efficiently , the widespread abuse of office and state resources gave the ruling party an undue advantage against the backdrop of an intensely polarized debate over issues of church and national identity , international observers to the parliamentary elections said in a statement today .
The observation mission , a joint undertaking of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights ( ODIHR ) and the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly ( OSCE PA ) , concluded that while the elections were competitive , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of misuse of office and state resources and dominant press coverage .
The president and other high-ranking officials were extensively involved in the campaign , blurring the line between the state and the ruling party .
“ This was a hard-fought campaign , but the ruling party benefited from an uneven playing field .
COVID 's impact on the campaign and yesterday on election day was undeniably strong , but even this took a back seat to the major debates related to church and national identity , ” said OSCE PA Vice-President Margareta @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leader of the OSCE short-term observers .
A total of 540,026 voters were registered to vote in yesterday ’ s early parliamentary elections .
The legal framework generally allows democratic elections to take place , but needs to be improved , as legislative gaps and ambiguities undermine legal certainty and make it easy to sidestep the rules .
Election day was orderly and the process was generally transparent and well administered , while health protocols were not implemented consistently. The campaign was peaceful despite a frequently confrontational tone , and in the face @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to reach out to the voters and convey their messages via online and social media , campaign busses and small gatherings .
At the same time , the fact that campaign coverage footage was overwhelmingly produced by the candidates themselves , together with the lack of independent editorial coverage , lowered the quality of information available to voters .
More generally , dependence of the media on politically affiliated business interests limits editorial autonomy and media pluralism .
Yesterday ’ s elections took place amid concerns over patchy compliance with the constitution .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ without shortening the parliament ’ s mandate , but the pandemic-related restrictions on fundamental freedoms , including a ban on public gatherings and political rallies , were introduced without the declaration of a state of emergency by parliament .
Since the last elections there were criminal proceedings and arrests of several MPs although their parliamentary immunity had not been removed , contrary to both national legislation and international standards .
“ It is most regrettable that the gaps in the legislation and lack of independent media scrutiny make the misuse of office and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Meszerics , head of ODIHR ’ s limited election observation mission .
“ Strong political will is needed across the political spectrum to improve the law and practice of elections through an inclusive reform process.
” The international election observation mission for the parliamentary elections in Montenegro totalled 30 observers from 19 countries , composed of 25 ODIHR-deployed experts and long-term observers , and 5 parliamentarians and staff from the OSCE PA. For more information , please contact :

PODGORICA, 31 August 2020 – While Montenegro’s parliamentary elections were managed transparently and efficiently, the widespread abuse of office and state resources gave the ruling party an undue advantage against the backdrop of an intensely polarized debate over issues of church and national identity, international observers to the parliamentary elections said in a statement today.
The observation mission, a joint undertaking of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) and the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly (OSCE PA), concluded that while the elections were competitive, the ruling party profited unjustifiably through various forms of misuse of office and state resources and dominant press coverage. The president and other high-ranking officials were extensively involved in the campaign, blurring the line between the state and the ruling party.
“This was a hard-fought campaign, but the ruling party benefited from an uneven playing field. COVID's impact on the campaign and yesterday on election day was undeniably strong, but even this took a back seat to the major debates related to church and national identity,” said OSCE PA Vice-President Margareta Cederfelt, who is special co-ordinator and leader of the OSCE short-term observers.
A total of 540,026 voters were registered to vote in yesterday’s early parliamentary elections. The legal framework generally allows democratic elections to take place, but needs to be improved, as legislative gaps and ambiguities undermine legal certainty and make it easy to sidestep the rules. Election day was orderly and the process was generally transparent and well administered, while health protocols were not implemented consistently.
The campaign was peaceful despite a frequently confrontational tone, and in the face of health restrictions candidates were still able to reach out to the voters and convey their messages via online and social media, campaign busses and small gatherings. At the same time, the fact that campaign coverage footage was overwhelmingly produced by the candidates themselves, together with the lack of independent editorial coverage, lowered the quality of information available to voters. More generally, dependence of the media on politically affiliated business interests limits editorial autonomy and media pluralism.
Yesterday’s elections took place amid concerns over patchy compliance with the constitution. Not only were the elections called early without shortening the parliament’s mandate, but the pandemic-related restrictions on fundamental freedoms, including a ban on public gatherings and political rallies, were introduced without the declaration of a state of emergency by parliament. Since the last elections there were criminal proceedings and arrests of several MPs although their parliamentary immunity had not been removed, contrary to both national legislation and international standards.
“It is most regrettable that the gaps in the legislation and lack of independent media scrutiny make the misuse of office and state resources possible,” said Tamás Meszerics, head of ODIHR’s limited election observation mission. “Strong political will is needed across the political spectrum to improve the law and practice of elections through an inclusive reform process.”
The international election observation mission for the parliamentary elections in Montenegro totalled 30 observers from 19 countries, composed of 25 ODIHR-deployed experts and long-term observers, and 5 parliamentarians and staff from the OSCE PA.
For more information, please contact:
Katya Andrusz, ODIHR: +48 609 522 266 or katya.andrusz@odihr.pl
Andreas Baker, OSCE PA: +45 601 08126 or andreas@oscepa.dk


osce--2020-08-29--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 206/2020 issued on 29 August 2020


osce--2020-08-28--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 205/2020 issued on 28 August 2020


osce--2020-08-28--OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan commemorates the 45th anniversary of the signing of the Hels

OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan commemorates the 45th anniversary of the signing of the Helsinki Final Act

The OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan held an online event to mark 45 years since the signing of the Helsinki Final Act and the creation of what is now the OSCE on 28 August 2020 .
The online meeting attracted high-level participation from OSCE institutions and project partners in Uzbekistan as well as the diplomatic community in Tashkent .
The discussions focused on the continued relevance of OSCE commitments to all OSCE ’ s 57 participating States and recognized the role of the OSCE presence in Central Asia and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Central Asia and , later , offices in capitals of all Central Asian countries , that allowed for strong co-operation between the field missions and the Secretariat .
The event allowed sharing perspectives on the development of the current and further co-operation between the OSCE and the Republic of Uzbekistan Tanzila Narbaeva , Chairperson of the Senate of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan , Tuula Yrjölä , Officer-in-Charge/OSCE Secretary General as well as representatives from the current and upcoming OSCE Chairpersonships opened the event and shared their reflections of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ OSCE and its presence in Uzbekistan .
OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan John MacGregor said : “ I recall the major event in Helsinki , Finland , attended by the then Canadian Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau , the US President at that time , European leaders and the head of the Soviet Union , in August 1975 .
Somehow , they all managed to achieve a consensus , and that made the Helsinki Final Act a very powerful political statement.
” MacGregor noted the particular relevance of OSCE commitments in Uzbekistan adding that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for 2017-2021 is almost fully consistent with them .

The OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan held an online event to mark 45 years since the signing of the Helsinki Final Act and the creation of what is now the OSCE on 28 August 2020.
The online meeting attracted high-level participation from OSCE institutions and project partners in Uzbekistan as well as the diplomatic community in Tashkent. The discussions focused on the continued relevance of OSCE commitments to all OSCE’s 57 participating States and recognized the role of the OSCE presence in Central Asia and Uzbekistan, with the OSCE Liason Office in Central Asia and, later, offices in capitals of all Central Asian countries, that allowed for strong co-operation between the field missions and the Secretariat. The event allowed sharing perspectives on the development of the current and further co-operation between the OSCE and the Republic of Uzbekistan
Tanzila Narbaeva, Chairperson of the Senate of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Tuula Yrjölä, Officer-in-Charge/OSCE Secretary General as well as representatives from the current and upcoming OSCE Chairpersonships opened the event and shared their reflections of the current challenges and opportunities for the OSCE and its presence in Uzbekistan.
OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan John MacGregor said: “I recall the major event in Helsinki, Finland, attended by the then Canadian Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau, the US President at that time, European leaders and the head of the Soviet Union, in August 1975. Somehow, they all managed to achieve a consensus, and that made the Helsinki Final Act a very powerful political statement.”
MacGregor noted the particular relevance of OSCE commitments in Uzbekistan adding that the Government’s National Action Strategy for 2017-2021 is almost fully consistent with them.


osce--2020-08-28--OSCE co-organizes online training seminar on cybercrime in Kazakhstan

A three-day training seminar on countering cybercrime concluded on 28 August 2020 in Nur-Sultan .
The event was organized by the OSCE Programme Office in Nur-Sultan in co-operation with the Strategic Police Matters Unit of the OSCE Transnational Threats Department and the Law Enforcement Academy under the Prosecutor General ’ s office/Hub to Counter Global Threats .
Over 50 law enforcement officials from across Kazakhstan focused on current problems with cyber criminality in Kazakhstan .
They discussed the challenges faced by law enforcement in investigating and prosecuting crimes , facilitated by the use of information and communication technologies .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Belarus and Estonia , as well as a representative of the OSCE Transnational Threats Department along with national experts .
They familiarized participants with best international practices and case studies in investigation of cybercrimes and the use of digital forensics techniques to obtain relevant evidence .
“ Criminals use information and communication technologies at an increased rate .
However , the detection rate of these crimes and the corresponding court cases are relatively low .
In efforts to address this gap , a Center for Countering Cybercrimes was established within the Law Enforcement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ platform to exchange experiences and provide learning opportunities between law enforcement officers and private sector representatives .
This seminar is one such example , ” said Magomed Akayev , Director of the Institute of the Law Enforcement Academy affiliated with the Office of the Prosecutor General of Kazakhstan .
Alexander Malyshau , Technical Focal Point for Cybercrime Issues in the OSCE Secretariat ’ s Transnational Threats Department said : “ Despite the current limitations on travel and in-person meetings , a series of online training seminars organized by the OSCE is a timely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ identify the exact challenges and optimize its resources for delivering more targeted training and assistance to law enforcement agencies of Kazakhstan after the health crisis is over.
” This training event is part of the Programme Office ’ s multiyear efforts to build the capacity of the competent law enforcement officers on countering cybercrimes in Kazakhstan .

A three-day training seminar on countering cybercrime concluded on 28 August 2020 in Nur-Sultan. The event was organized by the OSCE Programme Office in Nur-Sultan in co-operation with the Strategic Police Matters Unit and the support from the Action against Terrorism Unit of the OSCE Transnational Threats Department and the Law Enforcement Academy under the Prosecutor General’s office/Hub to Counter Global Threats.
Over 50 law enforcement officials from across Kazakhstan focused on current problems with cyber criminality in Kazakhstan. They discussed the challenges faced by law enforcement in investigating and prosecuting crimes, facilitated by the use of information and communication technologies. The seminar was conducted by international experts from Belarus and Estonia, as well as representatives of the OSCE Transnational Threats Department along with national experts. They familiarized participants with best international practices and case studies in investigation of cybercrimes and the use of digital forensics techniques to obtain relevant evidence, and the importance of upholding human rights during cybercrime related investigations.
“Criminals use information and communication technologies at an increased rate. However, the detection rate of these crimes and the corresponding court cases are relatively low. In efforts to address this gap, a Center for Countering Cybercrimes was established within the Law Enforcement Academy. The Centre serves as a platform to exchange experiences and provide learning opportunities between law enforcement officers and private sector representatives. This seminar is one such example,” said Magomed Akayev, Director of the Institute of the Law Enforcement Academy affiliated with the Office of the Prosecutor General of Kazakhstan.
Alexander Malyshau, Technical Focal Point for Cybercrime Issues in the OSCE Secretariat’s Transnational Threats Department said: “Despite the current limitations on travel and in-person meetings, a series of online training seminars organized by the OSCE is a timely initiative. The seminars will allow to identify the exact challenges and optimize its resources for delivering more targeted training and assistance to law enforcement agencies of Kazakhstan after the health crisis is over.”
This training event is part of the Programme Office’s multiyear efforts to build the capacity of the competent law enforcement officers on countering cybercrimes in Kazakhstan.


osce--2020-08-28--OSCE Chairperson-in-Office Edi Rama offers to facilitate dialogue in Belarus

VIENNA , 28 August 2020 – “ To move forward will require mutual understanding and co-operation , ” said OSCE Chairperson-in-Office , Prime Minister and Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of Albania , Edi Rama , addressing the OSCE Permanent Council ’ s special meeting today in Vienna on the situation in Belarus following the Presidential election on 9 August 2020 .
“ I am proposing that the OSCE becomes a facilitator of the necessary dialogue , to help Belarus out of this situation , ” said Rama , noting also the support of the incoming OSCE Chair , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Ann Linde .
“ We truly hope that there is a positive response to this offer from the Government of Belarus .
I am ready to make it work - to engage , to listen , to understand and to support , in every possible way I can.
” “ The Chairmanship will work tirelessly and patiently to create conditions conducive to a helpful process , ” Rama said .
“ But there has to be an immediate and significant improvement in the national human rights situation .
Not sometime in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ no ‘ ifs or buts ’ .
It is inconceivable to believe there can be a credible process of dialogue if one side appears keen to undo the very essence of a pluralistic society.
” Rama underlined that the OSCE would not impose itself , take sides , nor interfere in the internal affairs of Belarus .
“ The situation must be resolved in Minsk and among the people of Belarus , in full respect for their sovereignty , their independence and their human rights , ” he said , adding that the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , its good offices and its goodwill for Belarus to make use of.
” Rama also highlighted that the OSCE is uniquely placed to support Belarus - an Organization which has a well-established mandate relevant to democracy , human rights and conflict prevention , which prides itself on being inclusive , which bridges east and west , and which values Belarus as an active , sovereign and equal member .
Rama ended his address with a dual appeal : “ To the Belarus authorities : please , give this offer a chance .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to move from confrontation and strife to dialogue and reconciliation .
To all OSCE members , let us try to make this work , hard though we know this will be .
We owe it to the men , women and children of Belarus , to have their voices heard , so that they , through dialogue not violence , can determine their own future .
”

VIENNA, 28 August 2020 – “To move forward will require mutual understanding and co-operation,” said OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, Prime Minister and Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of Albania, Edi Rama, addressing the OSCE Permanent Council’s special meeting today in Vienna on the situation in Belarus following the Presidential election on 9 August 2020.
“I am proposing that the OSCE becomes a facilitator of the necessary dialogue, to help Belarus out of this situation,” said Rama, noting also the support of the incoming OSCE Chair, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Sweden, Ann Linde. “We truly hope that there is a positive response to this offer from the Government of Belarus. I am ready to make it work - to engage, to listen, to understand and to support, in every possible way I can.”
“The Chairmanship will work tirelessly and patiently to create conditions conducive to a helpful process,” Rama said. “But there has to be an immediate and significant improvement in the national human rights situation. Not sometime in the future, but right now, with no ‘ifs or buts’. It is inconceivable to believe there can be a credible process of dialogue if one side appears keen to undo the very essence of a pluralistic society.”
Rama underlined that the OSCE would not impose itself, take sides, nor interfere in the internal affairs of Belarus. “The situation must be resolved in Minsk and among the people of Belarus, in full respect for their sovereignty, their independence and their human rights,” he said, adding that the proposal is “the OSCE volunteering itself, its good offices and its goodwill for Belarus to make use of.”
Rama also highlighted that the OSCE is uniquely placed to support Belarus - an Organization which has a well-established mandate relevant to democracy, human rights and conflict prevention, which prides itself on being inclusive, which bridges east and west, and which values Belarus as an active, sovereign and equal member.
Rama ended his address with a dual appeal: “To the Belarus authorities: please, give this offer a chance. Seize this moment of opportunity for Belarus to move from confrontation and strife to dialogue and reconciliation. To all OSCE members, let us try to make this work, hard though we know this will be. We owe it to the men, women and children of Belarus, to have their voices heard, so that they, through dialogue not violence, can determine their own future.”


osce--2020-08-27--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 204/2020 issued on 27 August 2020


osce--2020-08-27--Spot Report by OSCE Observer Mission: 96th Russian convoy of six vehicles crossed into Ukraine and r

Spot Report by OSCE Observer Mission: 96th Russian convoy of six vehicles crossed into Ukraine and returned through the Donetsk Border Crossing Point

On 27 August at 06:23 ( Moscow time ) , the ninety-sixth [ 1 ] Russian convoy arrived at the Donetsk Border Crossing Point ( BCP ) .
A total of six vehicles were checked by Russian Federation border guards and customs officers prior to their crossing into Ukraine .
All six vehicles had crossed back into the Russian Federation by 11:19 on 27 August .
On 27 August at 06:23 , the Observer Mission observed the arrival of a Russian convoy at the gate of the Donetsk BCP .
The convoy consisted of six vehicles : one escort car @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were civilian and one belonged to Russian Ministry of Emergency Situations ( MES ) .
All five cargo trucks bore the inscription “ Humanitarian aid from the Russian Federation ” ( in Russian ) .
At 06:23 , the vehicles entered the customs control area .
Once the convoy arrived , the vehicles were visually checked from the outside by Russian Federation border guards and customs officers .
The truck drivers rolled up/opened the tarpaulins of the trucks and the border guards and customs officials performed a visual observation from the outside .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Russian Federation border guards to check the vehicles from the outside .
One Russian Federation border guard took photos and another one videoed the convoy crossing .
Three Ukrainian border guards and two customs officers were observed accompanying their Russian counterparts ; they also performed a visual observation of the vehicles from the outside ( without entering the trucks ’ cargo space ) .
By 06:36 , all of the vehicles had left the BCP towards Ukraine .
At 11:19 , the convoy returned and queued in the customs area .
The Russian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ checked the returning convoy from the outside .
Ukrainian representatives – three border guards and two customs officers – were present during this check .
The Ukrainian officials also performed visual checks of the trucks from the outside .
One dog was present and used by Russian Federation border guards to check the vehicles from the outside .
By 11:32 , all six vehicles had crossed back into the Russian Federation .
[ 1 ] Based on the Observer Mission ’ s counting , this convoy is considered the ninety-sixth convoy that has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” or “ Gukovo ” BCPs .
However , so far all these convoys crossed through the “ Donetsk ” BCP .

SUMMARY
On 27 August at 06:23 (Moscow time), the ninety-sixth[1] Russian convoy arrived at the Donetsk Border Crossing Point (BCP). A total of six vehicles were checked by Russian Federation border guards and customs officers prior to their crossing into Ukraine. All six vehicles had crossed back into the Russian Federation by 11:19 on 27 August.
DETAIL
Leaving the Russian Federation
On 27 August at 06:23, the Observer Mission observed the arrival of a Russian convoy at the gate of the Donetsk BCP. The convoy consisted of six vehicles: one escort car and five cargo trucks. Four trucks were civilian and one belonged to Russian Ministry of Emergency Situations (MES). All five cargo trucks bore the inscription “Humanitarian aid from the Russian Federation” (in Russian). At 06:23, the vehicles entered the customs control area. Once the convoy arrived, the vehicles were visually checked from the outside by Russian Federation border guards and customs officers. The truck drivers rolled up/opened the tarpaulins of the trucks and the border guards and customs officials performed a visual observation from the outside. Three dogs were present and used by Russian Federation border guards to check the vehicles from the outside. One Russian Federation border guard took photos and another one videoed the convoy crossing.
Three Ukrainian border guards and two customs officers were observed accompanying their Russian counterparts; they also performed a visual observation of the vehicles from the outside (without entering the trucks’ cargo space). By 06:36, all of the vehicles had left the BCP towards Ukraine.
Returning to the Russian Federation
At 11:19, the convoy returned and queued in the customs area. The Russian Federation border guards and customs officers visually checked the returning convoy from the outside. Ukrainian representatives – three border guards and two customs officers – were present during this check. The Ukrainian officials also performed visual checks of the trucks from the outside. One dog was present and used by Russian Federation border guards to check the vehicles from the outside. By 11:32, all six vehicles had crossed back into the Russian Federation.
[1]Based on the Observer Mission’s counting, this convoy is considered the ninety-sixth convoy that has crossed into Ukraine through the “Donetsk” or “Gukovo” BCPs. However, so far all these convoys crossed through the “Donetsk” BCP.


osce--2020-09-09--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 215/2020 issued on 9 September 2020


osce--2020-09-09--OSCE Forum for Security Co-operation under Germany’s Chairmanship will focus on dialogue, transparen

OSCE Forum for Security Co-operation under Germany’s Chairmanship will focus on dialogue, transparency and confidence-building

VIENNA , 9 September 2020 – Only a real dialogue will help promote politico-military co-operation and regain lost confidence and rebuild trust , said Germany ’ s Deputy Foreign Minister Niels Annen as he opened Germany ’ s Chairmanship of the OSCE Forum for Security Co-operation ( FSC ) today .
Addressing representatives of the OSCE participating States from Berlin via video teleconference , Annen said : “ The noticeable erosion of the European security order through a series of conflicts - I say this not least with a view to the annexation of Crimea by Russia and the conflict @ @ @ @ @ @ @ impact on the work of the FSC .
Trust is the most important asset in the OSCE - but it is disappearing day by day.
” Recalling the 45th anniversary of the OSCE ’ s landmark document , the Helsinki Final Act marked last month , Deputy Minister Annen noted : “ 45 years ago in Helsinki we were brought together by the shared knowledge that co-operation is better than confrontation .
That co-operation means more security for us all.
” Referring to the German FSC Chair ’ s work programme he said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ small arms and light weapons ( SALW ) , UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women , Peace and Security , the modernization of the Vienna Document and new technologies such as artificial intelligence .
The first security dialogue will be devoted to the fight against illegal use of small arms and light weapons , said Deputy Foreign Minister Annen recalling that the OSCE Document on Small Arms and Light Weapons celebrates its twentieth anniversary this year .
“ With its normative specifications for the handling of illegal small arms and light weapons @ @ @ @ @ @ @ OSCE is doing real pioneering work ” , he said reminding that the illegal use of small arms kills nearly a million people and injures an even greater number worldwide each year .
The security dialogue on new technologies and their military applications will focus on discussions about new threat perceptions generated by them .
Making the link between the current state of the implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women , Peace and Security and how it is being put into practice at the national level in the OSCE participating @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Germany ’ s FSC Chair , as the resolution marks its 20th year anniversary .
Deputy Foreign Minister Annen also noted the importance of continuing the Structured Dialogue saying that for a number of countries , including Germany , a revitalization of arms control and confidence-building measures is a particular focus .
“ In the context of the Structured Dialogue , we spoke in ten meetings about measures for more transparency , risk reduction and prevention of military incidents , about threat perceptions , stability and its politico-military requirements .
We want to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all participating States to understand the Structured Dialogue as a valuable and unique forum for exchange , ” he concluded .
The Chairmanship of the Forum for Security Co-operation rotates three times a year .
It takes the lead in setting the agenda for each meeting of the Forum and brings attention to issues concerning the implementation of commitments adopted by the Forum .

VIENNA, 9 September 2020 – Only a real dialogue will help promote politico-military co-operation and regain lost confidence and rebuild trust, said Germany’s Deputy Foreign Minister Niels Annen as he opened Germany’s Chairmanship of the OSCE Forum for Security Co-operation (FSC) today.
Addressing representatives of the OSCE participating States from Berlin via video teleconference, Annen said: “The noticeable erosion of the European security order through a series of conflicts - I say this not least with a view to the annexation of Crimea by Russia and the conflict in eastern Ukraine - have a direct impact on the work of the FSC. Trust is the most important asset in the OSCE - but it is disappearing day by day.”
Recalling the 45th anniversary of the OSCE’s landmark document, the Helsinki Final Act marked last month, Deputy Minister Annen noted: “45 years ago in Helsinki we were brought together by the shared knowledge that co-operation is better than confrontation. That co-operation means more security for us all.”
Referring to the German FSC Chair’s work programme he said that topics for security dialogues will include small arms and light weapons (SALW), UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security, the modernization of the Vienna Document and new technologies such as artificial intelligence.
The first security dialogue will be devoted to the fight against illegal use of small arms and light weapons, said Deputy Foreign Minister Annen recalling that the OSCE Document on Small Arms and Light Weapons celebrates its twentieth anniversary this year.
“With its normative specifications for the handling of illegal small arms and light weapons and stocks of conventional ammunition, the OSCE is doing real pioneering work”, he said reminding that the illegal use of small arms kills nearly a million people and injures an even greater number worldwide each year.
The security dialogue on new technologies and their military applications will focus on discussions about new threat perceptions generated by them.
Making the link between the current state of the implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security and how it is being put into practice at the national level in the OSCE participating States will be another important topic for Germany’s FSC Chair, as the resolution marks its 20th year anniversary.
Deputy Foreign Minister Annen also noted the importance of continuing the Structured Dialogue saying that for a number of countries, including Germany, a revitalization of arms control and confidence-building measures is a particular focus.
“In the context of the Structured Dialogue, we spoke in ten meetings about measures for more transparency, risk reduction and prevention of military incidents, about threat perceptions, stability and its politico-military requirements. We want to continue this dialogue. We appeal to all participating States to understand the Structured Dialogue as a valuable and unique forum for exchange,” he concluded.
The Chairmanship of the Forum for Security Co-operation rotates three times a year. It takes the lead in setting the agenda for each meeting of the Forum and brings attention to issues concerning the implementation of commitments adopted by the Forum.


osce--2020-09-09--Press Statement of Special Representative Grau after the extraordinary Meeting of Trilateral Contact

Press Statement of Special Representative Grau after the extraordinary Meeting of Trilateral Contact Group on 9 September 2020

KYIV , 9 September 2020 – The Special Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office in Ukraine and in the Trilateral Contact @ @ @ @ @ Ambassador Heidi Grau , made the following statement to the press after the extraordinary meeting @ @ @ @ @ video conferencing : “ Today 's extraordinary meeting of the Trilateral Contact Group was devoted @ @ @ @ @ with the ceasefire in the conflict zone , in particular , to discussing the situation @ @ @ @ @ , of which the participants of the meeting have diverging assessments .
The participants of @ @ @ @ @ a visit of the discussed area would be useful .
The visit is scheduled for @ @ @ @ @ urge the sides to continue doing all it takes to ensure an effective and sustainable @ @ @ @ @ in the interest of the civilian population .
”

KYIV, 9 September 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 extraordinary meeting of the TCG held through video conferencing:
“Today's extraordinary meeting of the Trilateral Contact Group was devoted to security issues and compliance with the ceasefire in the conflict zone, in particular, to discussing the situation in the area of Shumy, of which the participants of the meeting have diverging assessments.
The participants of the TCG meeting agreed that a visit of the discussed area would be useful. The visit is scheduled for 10 September 2020.
I urge the sides to continue doing all it takes to ensure an effective and sustainable ceasefire, first and foremost in the interest of the civilian population.”


osce--2020-09-09--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 8 September 2020

Kamensk-Shakhtinskiy , Russian Federation .
The Observer Mission ( OM ) continues to operate 24/7 at both Border Crossing Points ( BCPs ) .
The overall number of border crossings by persons decreased at both BCPs compared to the previous week .
The OM is currently operating with 22 permanent international Mission members , including the Chief Observer ( CO ) and one first responder [ 1 ] .
The newly selected border observers have finally arrived to the Mission between 28 August and 3 September , in line with the host country ’ s approval .
The Mission is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 .
The profile of persons crossing the border can be categorized as follows : • Adults travelling on foot or by car with little or no luggage .
• Families ( often including elderly persons and/or children ) travelling on foot or by car with a significant amount of luggage .
The average number of entries/exits decreased from 11,216 to 9,544 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ last week [ 2 ] .
During the reporting period , the majority of border crossings were to the Russian Federation , with an average net flow of 478 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 .
During the reporting period , the number of persons in military style outfits crossing the border was ten , compared to four last week .
Eight persons crossed into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ukraine .
These individuals crossed the border on foot .
The OTs continued to report on families , sometimes with elderly persons and/or children , crossing the border at both BCPs with a 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 two families were observed crossing into Ukraine , compared to the previous reporting period when 11 families were observed crossing to the Russian Federation , while another four families crossed into Ukraine @ @ @ @ @ @ @ continued to operate between Ukraine ( mostly from/to the Luhansk region ) and the Russian Federation .
During the reporting period , the OTs observed an increase in the overall number of buses crossing the border at both BCPs ( 353 compared to 316 observed during the previous week ) .
There were 177 buses bound for the Russian Federation and 176 bound for Ukraine .
On some occasions , the OTs noticed the bus drivers removing the itinerary signs from the windshields of their buses , while some buses did not display @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of long-distance buses commuting between the Luhansk region and cities in the Russian Federation had Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region .
Among the bus connections observed by the OTs , the following “ irregular ” routes or destinations were noted : Luhansk-Kyiv-Moscow , Luhansk-Sevastopol and Luhansk-Yalta .
During the reporting period , the OTs observed a slight decrease in the overall number of trucks crossing the border at both BCPs ( 842 compared to 884 during the previous reporting week ) ; 439 at the Gukovo BCP and 403 at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trucks crossed into the Russian Federation and 373 crossed into Ukraine .
Most of the trucks observed by the OTs had Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region ; however , on a daily basis , the OTs also noted trucks registered in the Russian Federation , Belarus , Lithuania , Armenia Ukraine , and trucks with “ LPR ” plates .
The OTs also continued to observe tanker trucks crossing the border in both directions .
During the reporting period , the OTs observed a slight decrease in the overall number @ @ @ @ @ @ @ both BCPs ( 54 compared to 60 during the previous reporting week ) ; .
These trucks were observed crossing the border at both BCPs .
The trucks had the words “ Propane ” and “ Flammable ” written across the tanks in either Russian or Ukrainian .
The majority of tanker trucks had hazard signs , indicating that they were transporting propane or a mix of propane and butane .
All trucks underwent systematic inspection by the Russian Federation officials , which could include an X-ray check .
Due to the unfavourable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the OTs continued to be unable to observe any X-ray checks .
During the reporting period , the X-ray vehicle at the Donetsk BCP was not operating due to the ongoing ground construction activities and no X-ray checks were observed .
The OM continued to observe passenger and cargo minivans [ 3 ] crossing the border in both directions at both BCPs .
The OTs observed minivans predominantly with Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region ; however , the OTs also saw minivans registered in the Russian Federation .
During the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ slight decrease in the overall number of minivans crossing the border at both BCPs ( 128 compared to 137 observed during the previous week ) ; 73 crossed into the Russian Federation and another 55 into Ukraine .
The OTs continued to pick up the sound of trains on the railway tracks located approximately 150m south-west of the Gukovo BCP .
During the reporting week , the OTs heard trains on 35 occasions ; the OTs assessed that 14 trains were travelling to the Russian Federation and the remaining 21 trains were travelling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the sections “ trends and figures at a glance ” below ) .
Visual observation was not possible because of the line of trees located between the train tracks and the BCP .
The majority of vehicles crossing the border had Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region or Russian Federation licence plates .
A significant number of vehicles with “ 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 Belarus , Georgia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 13:40 , the OT at the Donetsk BCP observed a police van with Russian Federation licence plates entering the BCP area from the Russian Federation .
The vehicle drove behind the main building without stopping .
At 13:45 , the same van left the BCP to the Russian Federation with only the driver on board .
On 7 September at 09:06 , the OT at Donetsk BCP observed a green helicopter type Mi-17 flying from the north-east in a north-westerly direction .
The helicopter remained inside the Russian Federation airspace during the entire @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
For trends and figures at a glance covering the period from 4 August to 8 September 2020 , please see the attachment here [ 1 ] First responders are OSCE staff or Mission members deployed for a short period of time .
[ 2 ] Based on data received from the Regional Representation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation .
[ 3 ] Cargo minivans : light commercial vehicles with a maximum authorized mass of more than 3.5 t and not more than 7.5 t ; with or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of less than 750 kg ( small cargo vehicles which correspond to driving licence C1 ) .

SUMMARY
Kamensk-Shakhtinskiy, Russian Federation. The Observer Mission (OM) continues to operate 24/7 at both Border Crossing Points (BCPs). The overall number of border crossings by persons decreased at both BCPs compared to the previous week.
OPERATIONAL REMARKS
The OM is currently operating with 22 permanent international Mission members, including the Chief Observer (CO) and one first responder[1]. The newly selected border observers have finally arrived to the Mission between 28 August and 3 September, in line with the host country’s approval. 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 decreased from 11,216 to 9,544 per day at both BCPs compared to last week[2].
During the reporting period, the majority of border crossings were to the Russian Federation, with an average net flow of 478 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 ten, compared to four last week. Eight persons crossed into the Russian Federation while two crossed into Ukraine. These individuals crossed the border on foot.
Families with a significant amount of luggage
The OTs continued to report on families, sometimes with elderly persons and/or children, crossing the border at both BCPs with a significant amount of luggage, or travelling in heavily loaded cars. During this reporting week, six families were observed crossing into the Russian Federation while another two families were observed crossing into Ukraine, compared to the previous reporting period when 11 families were observed crossing to the Russian Federation, while another four families crossed into Ukraine.
Bus connections
Regular local and long-distance bus connections continued to operate between Ukraine (mostly from/to the Luhansk region) and the Russian Federation. During the reporting period, the OTs observed an increase in the overall number of buses crossing the border at both BCPs (353 compared to 316 observed during the previous week). There were 177 buses bound for the Russian Federation and 176 bound for Ukraine.
On some occasions, the OTs noticed the bus drivers removing the itinerary signs from the windshields of their buses, while some buses did not display their route at all. The majority of long-distance buses commuting between the Luhansk region and cities in the Russian Federation had Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region. Among the bus connections observed by the OTs, the following “irregular” routes or destinations were noted: Luhansk-Kyiv-Moscow, Luhansk-Sevastopol and Luhansk-Yalta.
Trucks
During the reporting period, the OTs observed a slight decrease in the overall number of trucks crossing the border at both BCPs (842 compared to 884 during the previous reporting week); 439 at the Gukovo BCP and 403 at the Donetsk BCP, 469 of these trucks crossed into the Russian Federation and 373 crossed into Ukraine. Most of the trucks observed by the OTs had Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region; however, on a daily basis, the OTs also noted trucks registered in the Russian Federation, Belarus, Lithuania, Armenia Ukraine, and trucks with “LPR” plates.
The OTs also continued to observe tanker trucks crossing the border in both directions. During the reporting period, the OTs observed a slight decrease in the overall number of tanker trucks crossing the border at both BCPs (54 compared to 60 during the previous reporting week);. These trucks were observed crossing the border at both BCPs. The trucks had the words “Propane” and “Flammable” written across the tanks in either Russian or Ukrainian. The majority of tanker trucks had hazard signs, indicating that they were transporting propane or a mix of propane and butane. All trucks underwent systematic inspection by the Russian Federation officials, which could include an X-ray check. Due to the unfavourable observation position at the Gukovo BCP, the OTs continued to be unable to observe any X-ray checks.
During the reporting period, the X-ray vehicle at the Donetsk BCP was not operating due to the ongoing ground construction activities and no X-ray checks were observed.
Minivans
The OM continued to observe passenger and cargo minivans[3] crossing the border in both directions at both BCPs. The OTs observed minivans predominantly with Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region; however, the OTs also saw minivans registered in the Russian Federation. During the reporting period, the OTs observed a slight decrease in the overall number of minivans crossing the border at both BCPs (128 compared to 137 observed during the previous week); 73 crossed into the Russian Federation and another 55 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 35 occasions; the OTs assessed that 14 trains were travelling to the Russian Federation and the remaining 21 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 Belarus, Georgia, and Lithuania
On 6 September at 13:40, the OT at the Donetsk BCP observed a police van with Russian Federation licence plates entering the BCP area from the Russian Federation. The vehicle drove behind the main building without stopping. At 13:45, the same van left the BCP to the Russian Federation with only the driver on board.
On 7 September at 09:06, the OT at Donetsk BCP observed a green helicopter type Mi-17 flying from the north-east in a north-westerly direction. The helicopter remained inside the Russian Federation airspace during the entire time it was visible to the OT.
For trends and figures at a glance covering the period from 4 August to 8 September 2020, please see the attachment here
[1] First responders are OSCE staff or Mission members deployed for a short period of time.
[2]Based on data received from the Regional Representation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation.
[3] Cargo minivans: light commercial vehicles with a maximum authorized mass of more than 3.5 t and not more than 7.5 t; with or without a trailer with a maximum mass of less than 750 kg (small cargo vehicles which correspond to driving licence C1).


osce--2020-09-08--Increasing resilience of the cyber/ICT environment requires fostering international co-operation, sa

Increasing resilience of the cyber/ICT environment requires fostering international co-operation, say participants at OSCE high-level conference

VIENNA , 8 September 2020 – International co-operation and multilateral approaches are needed to maintain resilience and stability of the cyber-ICT environment , concluded participants of the high-level conference of the OSCE Albanian Chairmanship that ended today in Vienna .
Agron Tare , Deputy Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of Albania said that securing the cyber ecosystem requires “ engagement , collaboration and co-ordination amongst all relevant stakeholders to preserve a functioning and stable ICT environment.
” Deputy Minister Tare also stressed the role the OSCE plays in regional efforts to develop new ideas on establishing a stable cyber/ICT @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , thus contributing to global efforts .
“ The OSCE – through its sixteen existing confidence-building measures - has provided us with a platform to build trust and capacities , enhance co-operation and reduce tensions that may stem from the use of ICTs , ” Tare said , noting that it is important to make them work for all OSCE participating States .
Referring to the OSCE Informal Working Group , which set an example for how to drive co-operation forward in the field of cyber/ICT security , the Deputy Minister noted its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in 2018 by the Hungarian Chair of the Informal Working Group established by Permanent Council Decision 1039 .
He noted that the initiative is “ the most promising way ahead regarding the implementation of the confidence-building measures.
” Péter Sztáray , Minister of State for Security Policy , Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Hungary , said that the pandemic added a new threat to existing global challenges and , more than anything showed that all countries rely heavily on cyber/ICT technologies to maintain daily business , enable most critical infrastructure systems @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ In the future there will be an even heavier reliance on digital infrastructure .
That is why international co-operation , a multilateral approach on both global and regional level is needed more than ever , ” Sztáray said .
More than 200 high-level representatives from OSCE participating States , Partners for Co-operation , the United Nations , and other international organizations , academia and civil society participated in the conference , which took place in person at the Hofburg conference centre in Vienna and via videoconferencing .

VIENNA, 8 September 2020 – International co-operation and multilateral approaches are needed to maintain resilience and stability of the cyber-ICT environment, concluded participants of the high-level conference of the OSCE Albanian Chairmanship that ended today in Vienna.
Agron Tare, Deputy Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of Albania said that securing the cyber ecosystem requires “engagement, collaboration and co-ordination amongst all relevant stakeholders to preserve a functioning and stable ICT environment.”
Deputy Minister Tare also stressed the role the OSCE plays in regional efforts to develop new ideas on establishing a stable cyber/ICT environment and putting those ideas into practice, thus contributing to global efforts.
“The OSCE – through its sixteen existing confidence-building measures - has provided us with a platform to build trust and capacities, enhance co-operation and reduce tensions that may stem from the use of ICTs,” Tare said, noting that it is important to make them work for all OSCE participating States.
Referring to the OSCE Informal Working Group, which set an example for how to drive co-operation forward in the field of cyber/ICT security, the Deputy Minister noted its flagship “Adopt-a-CBM” initiative, inaugurated in 2018 by the Hungarian Chair of the Informal Working Group established by Permanent Council Decision 1039. He noted that the initiative is “the most promising way ahead regarding the implementation of the confidence-building measures.”
Péter Sztáray, Minister of State for Security Policy, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Hungary, said that the pandemic added a new threat to existing global challenges and, more than anything showed that all countries rely heavily on cyber/ICT technologies to maintain daily business, enable most critical infrastructure systems and drive economic and social growth. “In the future there will be an even heavier reliance on digital infrastructure. That is why international co-operation, a multilateral approach on both global and regional level is needed more than ever,” Sztáray said.
More than 200 high-level representatives from OSCE participating States, Partners for Co-operation, the United Nations, and other international organizations, academia and civil society participated in the conference, which took place in person at the Hofburg conference centre in Vienna and via videoconferencing.


osce--2020-09-08--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 214/2020 issued on 8 September 2020

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osce--2020-09-08--OSCE and UNECE join forces in enhancing cyber resilience of intelligent transport systems

The OSCE and the UN Economic Commission for Europe ( UNECE ) held a roundtable discussion on enhancing cyber resilience of intelligent transport systems for both private and public sectors on 8 September 2020 in Geneva .
Discussions focused on the various types of cyber threats posed to intelligent transport systems , and methodologies available to governments to address critical security risks .
“ Given the complexity and vulnerability of intelligent transport systems to cyberattacks , it is important to develop a coherent security approach involving co-operative efforts of the international community as well as both the public and private @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Economic Advisor in the Office of the Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities .
Over 100 representatives of ministries of transport and other relevant agencies , cyber security experts from the automotive , IT and telecommunication sectors from the Euro-Asian region participated .
Participants took stock of the various types of emerging risks and threats to intelligent transport systems in view of digitalization processes , enhanced inter-connectivity of vehicle and transport infrastructure IT systems and automation .
François E. Guichard , Secretary of the Working Party on Automated/Autonomous and Connected Vehicles , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the security of intelligent transport systems would benefit from the recently adopted UN Regulation on cyber security , which introduces stringent requirements that manufacturers of different types of vehicles ( cars , vans , trucks , buses , trailers , etc . )
will have to comply .
“ We are pleased to observe that the adoption of this Regulation is already stimulating the development of the cyber security ecosystem that is needed to address those risks , given the increased connectivity and complexity of vehicles and of the technologies delivering ITS , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the benefits of new technologies without compromising the safety and other progresses achieved during the last decade in the inland transport systems were also discussed .
Because of this expert roundtable , recommendations were put forward as to how the cyber resilience of intelligent transport systems can be further enhanced and the role UNECE , OSCE and other relevant partners could play in this regard .
The roundtable is part of a series of events co-organized by the UNECE Sustainable Transport Division , in the framework of its annual Inland Transport Security Discussion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities ( OCEEA ) .

The OSCE and the UN Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) held a roundtable discussion on enhancing cyber resilience of intelligent transport systems for both private and public sectors on 8 September 2020 in Geneva.
Discussions focused on the various types of cyber threats posed to intelligent transport systems, and methodologies available to governments to address critical security risks.
“Given the complexity and vulnerability of intelligent transport systems to cyberattacks, it is important to develop a coherent security approach involving co-operative efforts of the international community as well as both the public and private sectors,” said Eni Gjergji, Economic Advisor in the Office of the Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities.
Over 100 representatives of ministries of transport and other relevant agencies, cyber security experts from the automotive, IT and telecommunication sectors from the Euro-Asian region participated. Participants took stock of the various types of emerging risks and threats to intelligent transport systems in view of digitalization processes, enhanced inter-connectivity of vehicle and transport infrastructure IT systems and automation.
François E. Guichard, Secretary of the Working Party on Automated/Autonomous and Connected Vehicles, UNECE Sustainable Transport Division, said that the security of intelligent transport systems would benefit from the recently adopted UN Regulation on cyber security, which introduces stringent requirements that manufacturers of different types of vehicles (cars, vans, trucks, buses, trailers, etc.) will have to comply.
“We are pleased to observe that the adoption of this Regulation is already stimulating the development of the cyber security ecosystem that is needed to address those risks, given the increased connectivity and complexity of vehicles and of the technologies delivering ITS,” said Guichard.
Ways of capturing the benefits of new technologies without compromising the safety and other progresses achieved during the last decade in the inland transport systems were also discussed.
Because of this expert roundtable, recommendations were put forward as to how the cyber resilience of intelligent transport systems can be further enhanced and the role UNECE, OSCE and other relevant partners could play in this regard.
The roundtable is part of a series of events co-organized by the UNECE Sustainable Transport Division, in the framework of its annual Inland Transport Security Discussion Forum, and the Office of the Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities (OCEEA).