osce--2020-07-27--OSCE launches project on increasing and supporting participation of women at all levels of policing

OSCE launches project on increasing and supporting participation of women at all levels of policing with pilot activities in Montenegro

The OSCE launched a new project on 24 July 2020 aimed at increasing and supporting the participation of women at all levels of policing , with the first pilot activities taking place in Montenegro .
The project was developed to raise awareness at policy and police levels about the under-representation of women in the police across the OSCE area .
The launch saw the first meeting of the Steering Group .
This online meeting brought together representatives of the OSCE Secretariat , the OSCE Mission to Montenegro , the Ministry for Human and Minority Rights , the Ministry of Interior @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and international partners from the Norway Center for Integrity in the Defence ( CIDS ) and the Geneva Centre for Security Sector Governance ( DCAF ) .
This Steering Group will ensure local ownership and co-ordination of activities at the national level with all relevant stakeholders and seek to avoid overlapping .
Arnar Jensson , the manager of the project , underlined the benefits of increasing the number of women police officers for effective policing and highlighted the role the OSCE could provide play in further enhancing women ’ s role in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a situational analysis and needs assessment are to be conducted over the course of the following months .
Based on the main findings of these analyses , a set of tailored , concrete recommendations will be proposed to the national authorities .
The project is led by the Strategic Police Matters Unit of the OSCE Secretariat ’ s Transnational Threats Department and implemented in co-operation with the OSCE Mission to Montenegro , with financial support from the Italian government .

The OSCE launched a new project on 24 July 2020 aimed at increasing and supporting the participation of women at all levels of policing, with the first pilot activities taking place in Montenegro. The project was developed to raise awareness at policy and police levels about the under-representation of women in the police across the OSCE area.
The launch saw the first meeting of the Steering Group. This online meeting brought together representatives of the OSCE Secretariat, the OSCE Mission to Montenegro, the Ministry for Human and Minority Rights, the Ministry of Interior, the Police Directorate, civil society and international partners from the Norway Center for Integrity in the Defence (CIDS) and the Geneva Centre for Security Sector Governance (DCAF). This Steering Group will ensure local ownership and co-ordination of activities at the national level with all relevant stakeholders and seek to avoid overlapping.
Arnar Jensson, the manager of the project, underlined the benefits of increasing the number of women police officers for effective policing and highlighted the role the OSCE could provide play in further enhancing women’s role in the Montenegrin Police.
Following this meeting, a situational analysis and needs assessment are to be conducted over the course of the following months. Based on the main findings of these analyses, a set of tailored, concrete recommendations will be proposed to the national authorities.
The project is led by the Strategic Police Matters Unit of the OSCE Secretariat’s Transnational Threats Department and implemented in co-operation with the OSCE Mission to Montenegro, with financial support from the Italian government.


osce--2020-08-04--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 184/2020 issued on 4 August 2020

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osce--2020-08-04--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 4 August 2020

KAMENSK-SHAKHTINSKIY , Russian Federation .
The Observer Mission ( OM ) continues to operate 24/7 at both Border Crossing Points ( BCPs ) .
The overall number of border crossings by persons increased at both BCPs compared to the previous week .
The OM is currently operating with 19 permanent international staff members , including the Chief Observer ( CO ) .
Three selected observers are waiting for their deployment , postponed according to the host country ` s recommendation .
The Mission is supported administratively by a staff member and the Chief of Fund Administration based in Vienna .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ able to continue to fulfil its mandate without any limitations in its observation and reporting activities .
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 .
• Families ( often including elderly persons and/or children ) travelling on foot or by car with a significant amount of luggage .
The average number of entries/exits increased from 8,556 to 9,330 per day at both BCPs compared to last week [ 1 ] @ @ @ @ @ @ @ majority of border crossings were to the Russian Federation , with an average net flow of 290 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 six , compared to seven last week .
One person crossed into the Russian Federation and another five crossed into Ukraine .
These individuals @ @ @ @ @ @ @ OTs continued to report on families , sometimes with elderly persons and/or children , crossing the border at both BCPs with a significant amount of luggage , or travelling in heavily loaded cars .
During this reporting week , one family was observed crossing into the Russian Federation while no families were observed crossing into Ukraine , compared to the previous reporting period when eight families were observed crossing to the Russian Federation , while another three families crossed into Ukraine .
Regular local and long-distance bus connections continued to operate between Ukraine @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the Russian Federation .
During the reporting period , the OTs observed significant increase in the overall number of buses crossing the border at both BCPs ( 298 compared to 137 observed during the previous week ) .
There were 160 buses bound for the Russian Federation and 138 bound for Ukraine .
Among the bus connections observed by the OTs , the following “ irregular ” routes or destinations were noted : Luhansk-Yalta and Luhansk-Simferopol .
During the reporting period , the OTs observed a slight decrease in the overall number @ @ @ @ @ @ @ BCPs ( 847 compared to 897 during the previous reporting week ) ; 429 at the Gukovo BCP and 418 at the Donetsk BCP , 474 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 , Lithuania , Belarus , Ukraine , and trucks with “ LPR ” plates .
The OTs also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ border in both directions .
During the reporting week , the number of tanker trucks decreased from 58 to 42 .
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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 .
No X-ray checks were observed .
The OM continued to observe passenger and cargo minivans [ 2 ] crossing the border in both directions at both BCPs .
The OTs observed minivans predominantly with Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region ; however , the OTs also saw minivans registered in the Russian Federation .
Compared to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ minivans increased from 122 to 141 vehicles , 73 crossed into the Russian Federation and another 68 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 17 occasions ; the OTs assessed that nine trains were travelling to the Russian Federation and the remaining eight trains were travelling to Ukraine ( more details are provided in the sections “ trends and figures at a glance ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 Poland , Kazakhstan and Georgia .
On 28 July at 20:50 , the OT at the Donetsk BCP observed two minivans @ @ @ @ @ @ @ BCP from the Russian Federation and parking at the customs control area .
The minivans had the sign `` LPR Post '' displayed on the sides ( in Russian ) .
After undergoing border control procedures , the minivans crossed into Ukraine .
On 30 July at 06:37 , the ninety-fifth [ 3 ] Russian convoy arrived at the Donetsk Border Crossing Point ( BCP ) .
A total of nine vehicles were checked by Russian Federation border guards and customs officers prior to their crossing into Ukraine .
All nine vehicles had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 11:47 on 30 July .
( See OM Spot Report of 30 July 2020 : https : //www.osce.org/observer-mission-at-russian-checkpoints-gukovo-and-donetsk/458479 ) .
For trends and figures at a glance covering the period from 30 June to 4 August 2020 , please see the attachment here .
[ 1 ] Based on data received from the Regional Representation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation .
[ 2 ] Cargo minivans : light commercial vehicles with a maximum authorized mass of more than 3.5 t and not more than 7.5 t ; with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mass of less than 750 kg ( small cargo vehicles which correspond to driving licence C1 ) .
[ 3 ] Based on the Observer Mission ’ s counting , this convoy is considered the ninety-fifth convoy that has crossed into Ukraine through the “ Donetsk ” or “ Gukovo ” BCPs .
However , so far all these convoys crossed through the “ Donetsk ” BCP .

SUMMARY
KAMENSK-SHAKHTINSKIY, Russian Federation. The Observer Mission (OM) continues to operate 24/7 at both Border Crossing Points (BCPs). The overall number of border crossings by persons increased at both BCPs compared to the previous week.
OPERATIONAL REMARKS
The OM is currently operating with 19 permanent international staff members, including the Chief Observer (CO). Three selected observers are waiting for their deployment, postponed according to the host country`s recommendation. The Mission is supported administratively by a staff member and the Chief of Fund Administration based in Vienna.
Update on COVID-19 measures
Activities have been impacted by COVID-19 and measures undertaken by the OM to ensure the safety and duty of care of its Mission members and compliance with measures set by the host country authorities. The Mission is continuing to keep the situation under review, in close contact with the OSCE Secretariat and the Chairmanship. Following the host country recommendations, the observers are applying a self-isolation regime between shifts at the border checkpoints and are adhering to social distancing. Due to the preventive measures taken by the central and regional authorities, the OM is faced with certain difficulties, but is still able to continue to fulfil its mandate without any limitations in its observation and reporting activities.
OBSERVATIONS AT THE BORDER CROSSING POINTS
Persons crossing the border
The profile of persons crossing the border can be categorized as follows:
Adults travelling on foot or by car with little or no luggage. Persons in military-style outfits. Families (often including elderly persons and/or children) travelling on foot or by car with a significant amount of luggage.
The average number of entries/exits increased from 8,556 to 9,330 per day at both BCPs compared to last week[1].
During the reporting period, the majority of border crossings were to the Russian Federation, with an average net flow of 290 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 six, compared to seven last week. One person crossed into the Russian Federation and another five crossed into Ukraine. These individuals crossed the border on foot.
Families with a significant amount of luggage
The OTs continued to report on families, sometimes with elderly persons and/or children, crossing the border at both BCPs with a significant amount of luggage, or travelling in heavily loaded cars. During this reporting week, one family was observed crossing into the Russian Federation while no families were observed crossing into Ukraine, compared to the previous reporting period when eight families were observed crossing to the Russian Federation, while another three families crossed into Ukraine.
Bus connections
Regular local and long-distance bus connections continued to operate between Ukraine (mostly from/to the Luhansk region) and the Russian Federation. During the reporting period, the OTs observed significant increase in the overall number of buses crossing the border at both BCPs (298 compared to 137 observed during the previous week). There were 160 buses bound for the Russian Federation and 138 bound for Ukraine.
Among the bus connections observed by the OTs, the following “irregular” routes or destinations were noted: Luhansk-Yalta and Luhansk-Simferopol.
Trucks
During the reporting period, the OTs observed a slight decrease in the overall number of trucks crossing the border at both BCPs (847 compared to 897 during the previous reporting week); 429 at the Gukovo BCP and 418 at the Donetsk BCP, 474 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, Lithuania, Belarus, Ukraine, and trucks with “LPR” plates.
The OTs also continued to observe tanker trucks crossing the border in both directions. During the reporting week, the number of tanker trucks decreased from 58 to 42. 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. No X-ray checks were observed.
Minivans
The OM continued to observe passenger and cargo minivans[2] crossing the border in both directions at both BCPs. The OTs observed minivans predominantly with Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region; however, the OTs also saw minivans registered in the Russian Federation. Compared to the previous week, the number of cargo minivans increased from 122 to 141 vehicles, 73 crossed into the Russian Federation and another 68 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 17 occasions; the OTs assessed that nine trains were travelling to the Russian Federation and the remaining eight trains were travelling to Ukraine (more details are provided in the sections “trends and figures at a glance” below).
Visual observation was not possible because of the line of trees located between the train tracks and the BCP.
Other observations
The majority of vehicles crossing the border had Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region or Russian Federation licence plates. A significant number of vehicles with “LPR” plates were also observed crossing the border in both directions on a daily basis. The OTs also observed cars with licence plates registered in Poland, Kazakhstan and Georgia.
On 28 July at 20:50, the OT at the Donetsk BCP observed two minivans with “LPR” plates entering the BCP from the Russian Federation and parking at the customs control area. The minivans had the sign "LPR Post" displayed on the sides (in Russian). After undergoing border control procedures, the minivans crossed into Ukraine.
On 30 July at 06:37, the ninety-fifth[3] Russian convoy arrived at the Donetsk Border Crossing Point (BCP). A total of nine vehicles were checked by Russian Federation border guards and customs officers prior to their crossing into Ukraine. All nine vehicles had crossed back into the Russian Federation by 11:47 on 30 July. (See OM Spot Report of 30 July 2020: https://www.osce.org/observer-mission-at-russian-checkpoints-gukovo-and-donetsk/458479).
For trends and figures at a glance covering the period from 30 June to 4 August 2020, please see the attachment here.
[1]Based on data received from the Regional Representation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation.
[2] Cargo minivans: light commercial vehicles with a maximum authorized mass of more than 3.5 t and not more than 7.5 t; with or without a trailer with a maximum mass of less than 750 kg (small cargo vehicles which correspond to driving licence C1).
[3] Based on the Observer Mission’s counting, this convoy is considered the ninety-fifth convoy that has crossed into Ukraine through the “Donetsk” or “Gukovo” BCPs. However, so far all these convoys crossed through the “Donetsk” BCP.


osce--2020-08-04--OSCE provides protective gear to its Tajik partners to fight COVID-19

The OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe provided practical assistance items worth of 50,000 euro to its partners in Tajik ministries , law enforcement agencies , local executive bodies and civil society in order to strengthen efforts to address the COVID-19 pandemic .
The Office delivered and handed the items over to its partners in the Dushanbe , Sughd , Rasht , Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous and Khatlon regions from 22 July to 4 August 2020 .
The assistance was in the form of protective gear and sanitizing supplies , and included non-contact infrared thermometers , medical face masks , medical examination gloves @ @ @ @ @ @ @ personal protective overalls and anti-bacterial soaps .
“ The OSCE stands ready to further support its Tajik partners to contain and prevent the spread of COVID-19 in Tajikistan through its tailored programmatic activities and donation of personal protective equipment .
We believe that by co-operating together we can fight the coronavirus in Tajikistan more effectively , save lives and mitigate the consequences of the pandemic in the country , ” said Ambassador Valeriu Chiveri , Head of the OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe .
It is the third round of COVID-19-related practical assistance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its partners in Tajikistan with overall donation worth of 200,000 euro .
In April , the Office provided medical equipment and disinfection supplies to Tajikistan ’ s Ministry of Health and Social Protection and the Committee of Emergency Situation and Civil Defence of Tajikistan .
In the beginning of July , the Office also assisted the local administrations of the Khatlon , Sughd , Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous and Rasht regions , as well as civil society partners by providing personal protective equipment .

The OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe provided practical assistance items worth of 50,000 euro to its partners in Tajik ministries, law enforcement agencies, local executive bodies and civil society in order to strengthen efforts to address the COVID-19 pandemic. The Office delivered and handed the items over to its partners in the Dushanbe, Sughd, Rasht, Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous and Khatlon regions from 22 July to 4 August 2020.
The assistance was in the form of protective gear and sanitizing supplies, and included non-contact infrared thermometers, medical face masks, medical examination gloves, sanitizing liquid, anti-bacterial wipes, personal protective overalls and anti-bacterial soaps.
“The OSCE stands ready to further support its Tajik partners to contain and prevent the spread of COVID-19 in Tajikistan through its tailored programmatic activities and donation of personal protective equipment. We believe that by co-operating together we can fight the coronavirus in Tajikistan more effectively, save lives and mitigate the consequences of the pandemic in the country,” said Ambassador Valeriu Chiveri, Head of the OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe.
It is the third round of COVID-19-related practical assistance provided by the OSCE Programme Office to its partners in Tajikistan with overall donation worth of 200,000 euro. In April, the Office provided medical equipment and disinfection supplies to Tajikistan’s Ministry of Health and Social Protection and the Committee of Emergency Situation and Civil Defence of Tajikistan. In the beginning of July, the Office also assisted the local administrations of the Khatlon, Sughd, Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous and Rasht regions, as well as civil society partners by providing personal protective equipment.


osce--2020-08-03--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 183/2020 issued on 3 August 2020


osce--2020-08-11--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 190/2020 issued on 11 August 2020


osce--2020-08-11--International Youth Day: Engage young people to enhance responses to global challenges, says OSCE Ch

International Youth Day: Engage young people to enhance responses to global challenges, says OSCE Chairperson’s Representative on Youth and Security

VIENNA / TIRANA , 11 August 2020 - Ahead of tomorrow ’ s International Youth Day , the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office Special Representative on Youth and Security , Keisi Seferi , said that amid the challenging times of the COVD-19 pandemic , this was an opportune moment to strengthen inclusive youth engagement for global action to the benefit of comprehensive security .
Underlining the need for concrete steps from governments , parliaments and international organizations to include youth as part of the response to the global challenges , Seferi said : “ This year ’ s International Youth Day theme highlights @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
It reaffirms that the role of young people in responding to global challenges has exceeded expectations .
Youth is playing a proactive role in these hard times in enabling rapid responses to emerging challenges ; contributing to community service ; providing humanitarian assistance ; enhancing human , social and economic development , and environmental sustainability.
” “ Youth ’ s already boosted role as agents of change should advance the impact of their actions in strengthening democracy , further respecting and promoting human rights and fundamental freedoms , protecting the environment , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and offering equal opportunities .
Their engagement is essential to a culture of dialogue , justice , peaceful co-existence , trust and reconciliation , thereby building stability , ” Seferi said .
She called on the participating States and the OSCE community as a whole to maximize efforts in promoting an inclusive spirit of decision-making whilst considering youth empowerment an investment in the next generation of leaders .
Seferi added : “ OSCE participating States should make good use of the Organization ’ s tools in addressing the needs of youth and should @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the OSCE three dimensions of security ” .
In this regard , she emphasized the work of OSCE field operations in making a difference on the ground and encouraged stronger co-operation between the OSCE and the UN in the field of youth , peace and security .

VIENNA / TIRANA, 11 August 2020 - Ahead of tomorrow’s International Youth Day, the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office Special Representative on Youth and Security, Keisi Seferi, said that amid the challenging times of the COVD-19 pandemic, this was an opportune moment to strengthen inclusive youth engagement for global action to the benefit of comprehensive security.
Underlining the need for concrete steps from governments, parliaments and international organizations to include youth as part of the response to the global challenges, Seferi said: “This year’s International Youth Day theme highlights ‘Youth Engagement for Global Action’. It reaffirms that the role of young people in responding to global challenges has exceeded expectations. Youth is playing a proactive role in these hard times in enabling rapid responses to emerging challenges; contributing to community service; providing humanitarian assistance; enhancing human, social and economic development, and environmental sustainability.”
“Youth’s already boosted role as agents of change should advance the impact of their actions in strengthening democracy, further respecting and promoting human rights and fundamental freedoms, protecting the environment, combating climate change, fighting poverty, and offering equal opportunities. Their engagement is essential to a culture of dialogue, justice, peaceful co-existence, trust and reconciliation, thereby building stability,” Seferi said.
She called on the participating States and the OSCE community as a whole to maximize efforts in promoting an inclusive spirit of decision-making whilst considering youth empowerment an investment in the next generation of leaders.
Seferi added: “OSCE participating States should make good use of the Organization’s tools in addressing the needs of youth and should recognize the positive role of young people in the OSCE three dimensions of security”. In this regard, she emphasized the work of OSCE field operations in making a difference on the ground and encouraged stronger co-operation between the OSCE and the UN in the field of youth, peace and security.


osce--2020-08-11--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 11 August 2020

Kamensk-Shakhtinskiy , Russian Federation .
The Observer Mission ( OM ) continues to operate 24/7 at both Border Crossing Points ( BCPs ) .
The overall number of border crossings by persons increased at both BCPs compared to the previous week .
The OM is currently operating with 19 permanent international staff members , including the Chief Observer ( CO ) .
Three selected observers are waiting for their deployment , postponed according to the host country ` s recommendation .
The Mission is supported administratively by a staff member and the Chief of Fund Administration based in Vienna .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 increased from 9,330 to 9,937 per day at both BCPs compared to last week [ 1 ] .
During the reporting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were to the Russian Federation , with an average net flow of 310 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
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 two , compared to six last week .
One person crossed into the Russian Federation and another one crossed into Ukraine .
These individuals crossed the border on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 , four families were observed crossing into the Russian Federation while another four families were observed crossing into Ukraine , compared to the previous reporting period when one family was observed crossing to the Russian Federation , while no family crossed into Ukraine .
Regular local and long-distance bus connections continued to operate between Ukraine ( mostly from/to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
During the reporting period , the OTs observed an increase in the overall number of buses crossing the border at both BCPs ( 363 compared to 298 observed during the previous week ) .
There were 180 buses bound for the Russian Federation and 183 bound for Ukraine .
During the reporting period , the OTs observed a slight increase in the overall number of trucks crossing the border at both BCPs ( 865 compared to 847 during the previous reporting week ) ; 455 at the Gukovo BCP and 410 at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trucks crossed into the Russian Federation and 399 crossed into Ukraine .
Most of the trucks observed by the OTs had Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region ; however , on a daily basis , the OTs also noted trucks registered in the Russian Federation , Lithuania , Belarus , Ukraine , and trucks with “ LPR ” plates .
The OTs also continued to observe tanker trucks crossing the border in both directions .
During the reporting week , the number of tanker trucks increased from 42 to 61 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 [ 2 ] crossing the border in both directions at both BCPs .
The OTs observed minivans predominantly with Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region ; however , the OTs also saw minivans registered in the Russian Federation .
Compared to the previous week , the number of cargo minivans increased from 141 to 163 vehicles , 80 crossed into the Russian Federation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 15 occasions ; the OTs assessed that six trains were travelling to the Russian Federation and the remaining nine 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the border had Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region or Russian Federation licence plates .
A significant number of vehicles with “ LPR ” plates were also observed crossing the border in both directions on a daily basis .
The OTs also observed cars with licence plates registered in Poland and Georgia .
During the reporting week , the OTs at the Donetsk BCP observed funeral minivans on two separate occasions : On 4 August at 19:50 , the OT observed a minivan with Ukrainian licence plates arriving at the BCP @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sign “ Cargo 200 ” ( in Russian ) on its windshield .
In addition to the driver , three passengers ( a man and two women ) were observed on board .
After undergoing the border control procedures , the minivan crossed into the Russian Federation .
On 9 August at 05:56 , the OT observed a funeral minivan with Russian Federation licence plates entering the BCP from the Russian Federation and parking at the customs control area .
The vehicle had the sign `` Ritual cortege '' ( in Russian ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ control procedures , the funeral minivan left the border for Ukraine at 06:08 .
During the reporting week , the OTs at the Donetsk BCP observed ambulances on two separate occasions : On 6 August at 13:24 , the OT observed an ambulance with Russian Federation licence plates and with two persons on board , entering the BCP from the Russian Federation and parking at the customs control area .
The vehicle had the inscription `` Urgent Medical Help '' ( in Russian ) on the sides .
After undergoing the border control @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at 13:33 .
The OT was not able to notice any other details from its position .
On 8 August at 04:37 , the OT observed an ambulance with Russian Federation licence plates and with two persons on board , entering the BCP from the Russian Federation and parking behind the main building .
The vehicle had the inscription `` Urgent Medical Help '' ( in Russian ) on the sides .
At 05:15 the ambulance drove back towards the Russian Federation .
The OT was not able to notice any other details @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at 11:45 , the OT at the Gukovo BCP observed a helicopter Mi8/Mi17 type , flying from north-east to easterly direction at an altitude of 200-300m and at a distance of approximately 1000m from the BCP .
The helicopter remained inside of the Russian Federation airspace the entire time it was visible to the OT .
On 6 August at 14:28 , the OT at the Donetsk BCP observed a police minivan , with Russian Federation licence plates entering the BCP from the Russian Federation and parking next to the main building .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ vehicle – two dressed in police uniform and one in civilian clothes .
At 15:55 the police vehicle drove back towards the Russian Federation with no extra individuals on board .
For trends and figures at a glance covering the period from 7 July to 11 August 2020 , please see the attachment here .
[ 1 ] Based on data received from the Regional Representation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation .
[ 2 ] Cargo minivans : light commercial vehicles with a maximum authorized mass of more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 7.5 t ; with or without a trailer with a maximum mass of less than 750 kg ( small cargo vehicles which correspond to driving licence C1 ) .

SUMMARY
Kamensk-Shakhtinskiy, Russian Federation. The Observer Mission (OM) continues to operate 24/7 at both Border Crossing Points (BCPs). The overall number of border crossings by persons increased at both BCPs compared to the previous week.
OPERATIONAL REMARKS
The OM is currently operating with 19 permanent international staff members, including the Chief Observer (CO). Three selected observers are waiting for their deployment, postponed according to the host country`s recommendation. The Mission is supported administratively by a staff member and the Chief of Fund Administration based in Vienna.
Update on COVID-19 measures
Activities have been impacted by COVID-19 and measures undertaken by the OM to ensure the safety and duty of care of its Mission members and compliance with measures set by the host country authorities. The Mission is continuing to keep the situation under review, in close contact with the OSCE Secretariat and the Chairmanship. Following the host country recommendations, the observers are applying a self-isolation regime between shifts at the border checkpoints and are adhering to social distancing. Due to the preventive measures taken by the central and regional authorities, the OM is faced with certain difficulties, but is still able to continue to fulfil its mandate without any limitations in its observation and reporting activities.
OBSERVATIONS AT THE BORDER CROSSING POINTS
Persons crossing the border
The profile of persons crossing the border can be categorized as follows:
Adults travelling on foot or by car with little or no luggage. Persons in military-style outfits. Families (often including elderly persons and/or children) travelling on foot or by car with a significant amount of luggage.
The average number of entries/exits increased from 9,330 to 9,937 per day at both BCPs compared to last week[1].
During the reporting period, the majority of border crossings were to the Russian Federation, with an average net flow of 310 per day for both BCPs. The Donetsk BCP continued to experience much more traffic than the Gukovo BCP.
Responding to the COVID-19 situation, the host country has closed its borders for the majority of foreigners starting from 18 March. Among the exceptions of persons allowed to cross the border (which entered into force on 19 March), are Ukrainian citizens and stateless persons holding passports or identification documents proving permanent residence in certain areas of Luhansk and Donetsk regions of Ukraine. In addition, reportedly, due to the threat of the spread of COVID-19, starting from 10 April, the organized passenger transport commuting between the non-government-controlled areas of Luhansk region of Ukraine and the Russian Federation was temporarily suspended and restored from 25 June.
Persons in military-style outfits
During the reporting period, the number of persons in military style outfits crossing the border was two, compared to six last week. One person crossed into the Russian Federation and another one 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, four families were observed crossing into the Russian Federation while another four families were observed crossing into Ukraine, compared to the previous reporting period when one family was observed crossing to the Russian Federation, while no family 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 (363 compared to 298 observed during the previous week). There were 180 buses bound for the Russian Federation and 183 bound for Ukraine.
Trucks
During the reporting period, the OTs observed a slight increase in the overall number of trucks crossing the border at both BCPs (865 compared to 847 during the previous reporting week); 455 at the Gukovo BCP and 410 at the Donetsk BCP, 466 of these trucks crossed into the Russian Federation and 399 crossed into Ukraine. Most of the trucks observed by the OTs had Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region; however, on a daily basis, the OTs also noted trucks registered in the Russian Federation, Lithuania, Belarus, Ukraine, and trucks with “LPR” plates.
The OTs also continued to observe tanker trucks crossing the border in both directions. During the reporting week, the number of tanker trucks increased from 42 to 61. 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[2] crossing the border in both directions at both BCPs. The OTs observed minivans predominantly with Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region; however, the OTs also saw minivans registered in the Russian Federation. Compared to the previous week, the number of cargo minivans increased from 141 to 163 vehicles, 80 crossed into the Russian Federation and another 83 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 15 occasions; the OTs assessed that six trains were travelling to the Russian Federation and the remaining nine trains were travelling to Ukraine (more details are provided in the sections “trends and figures at a glance” below).
Visual observation was not possible because of the line of trees located between the train tracks and the BCP.
Other observations
The majority of vehicles crossing the border had Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region or Russian Federation licence plates. A significant number of vehicles with “LPR” plates were also observed crossing the border in both directions on a daily basis. The OTs also observed cars with licence plates registered in Poland and Georgia.
During the reporting week, the OTs at the Donetsk BCP observed funeral minivans on two separate occasions:
On 4 August at 19:50, the OT observed a minivan with Ukrainian licence plates arriving at the BCP from Ukraine. The vehicle had the sign “Cargo 200” (in Russian) on its windshield. In addition to the driver, three passengers (a man and two women) were observed on board. After undergoing the border control procedures, the minivan crossed into the Russian Federation.
On 9 August at 05:56, the OT observed a funeral minivan with Russian Federation licence plates entering the BCP from the Russian Federation and parking at the customs control area. The vehicle had the sign "Ritual cortege" (in Russian) on the side. After undergoing border control procedures, the funeral minivan left the border for Ukraine at 06:08.
During the reporting week, the OTs at the Donetsk BCP observed ambulances on two separate occasions:
On 6 August at 13:24, the OT observed an ambulance with Russian Federation licence plates and with two persons on board, entering the BCP from the Russian Federation and parking at the customs control area. The vehicle had the inscription "Urgent Medical Help" (in Russian) on the sides. After undergoing the border control procedures, the ambulance left for Ukraine at 13:33. The OT was not able to notice any other details from its position.
On 8 August at 04:37, the OT observed an ambulance with Russian Federation licence plates and with two persons on board, entering the BCP from the Russian Federation and parking behind the main building. The vehicle had the inscription "Urgent Medical Help" (in Russian) on the sides. At 05:15 the ambulance drove back towards the Russian Federation. The OT was not able to notice any other details from its position.
On 5 August at 11:45, the OT at the Gukovo BCP observed a helicopter Mi8/Mi17 type, flying from north-east to easterly direction at an altitude of 200-300m and at a distance of approximately 1000m from the BCP. The helicopter remained inside of the Russian Federation airspace the entire time it was visible to the OT.
On 6 August at 14:28, the OT at the Donetsk BCP observed a police minivan, with Russian Federation licence plates entering the BCP from the Russian Federation and parking next to the main building. The OT observed three persons inside the vehicle – two dressed in police uniform and one in civilian clothes. At 15:55 the police vehicle drove back towards the Russian Federation with no extra individuals on board.
For trends and figures at a glance covering the period from 7 July to 11 August 2020, please see the attachment here.
[1]Based on data received from the Regional Representation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation.
[2] Cargo minivans: light commercial vehicles with a maximum authorized mass of more than 3.5 t and not more than 7.5 t; with or without a trailer with a maximum mass of less than 750 kg (small cargo vehicles which correspond to driving licence C1).


osce--2020-08-11--OSCE Programme Office in Nur-Sultan organizes series of webinars on environmental volunteering

The last in a series of three OSCE-supported webinars on promoting eco-volunteering and leadership in Kazakhstan concluded in Nur-Sultan on 7 August 2020 .
The webinars , organized by the Association of Kazakhstan ’ s Environmental Organizations , in co-operation with the OSCE Programme Office in Nur-Sultan , involved over 200 young environmental leaders and volunteers from all regions of Kazakhstan .
During half-day online webinars/presentations , the participants learned about significant environmental challenges , existing trends in minimizing carbon footprints and ways to promote environmental volunteering practices among the youth .
Both local and international experts in the area @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as social media platforms to promote sustainable development goals , factors influencing environmental volunteering and online programmes focussing on environmental volunteering programmes .
Follow-up cleaning events with the participation of environmental volunteers to reduce litter in nature and to give visibility to the issue will be held in several regions of Kazakhstan depending on the COVID-19 situation .
The event is a follow-up to the Programme Office ’ s long-standing efforts to promote green growth and sustainable development by strengthening the network of young environmental leaders in the Central Asian region and beyond @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Kazakhstan President ’ s initiative to declare 2020 as the Year of Volunteers .

The last in a series of three OSCE-supported webinars on promoting eco-volunteering and leadership in Kazakhstan concluded in Nur-Sultan on 7 August 2020.
The webinars, organized by the Association of Kazakhstan’s Environmental Organizations, in co-operation with the OSCE Programme Office in Nur-Sultan, involved over 200 young environmental leaders and volunteers from all regions of Kazakhstan.
During half-day online webinars/presentations, the participants learned about significant environmental challenges, existing trends in minimizing carbon footprints and ways to promote environmental volunteering practices among the youth.
Both local and international experts in the area of good environmental governance covered topics such as social media platforms to promote sustainable development goals, factors influencing environmental volunteering and online programmes focussing on environmental volunteering programmes.
Follow-up cleaning events with the participation of environmental volunteers to reduce litter in nature and to give visibility to the issue will be held in several regions of Kazakhstan depending on the COVID-19 situation.
The event is a follow-up to the Programme Office’s long-standing efforts to promote green growth and sustainable development by strengthening the network of young environmental leaders in the Central Asian region and beyond. It is in line with the Kazakhstan President’s initiative to declare 2020 as the Year of Volunteers.


osce--2020-08-10--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 189/2020 issued on 10 August 2020


osce--2020-08-10--ODIHR gravely concerned at situation in Belarus following presidential election

WARSAW , 10 August 2020 – Amidst intimidation and disproportionate police force against protesters in Belarus following reports of serious administrative misconduct during yesterday ’ s presidential election , the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights ( ODIHR ) calls for dialogue and urges the authorities to refrain from violence and to honestly report detailed election results from all polling stations .
There is evidence of excessive use of force by police across Belarus in the face of overwhelmingly peaceful protests , which has resulted in a large number of injured people and arrests , including of independent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ peaceful assembly as well as freedom of expression are basic human rights crucial for the development of democratic societies , and ODIHR calls for a prompt and effective investigation of any police brutality , as well as the release of all those detained for their participation in the ongoing protests .
ODIHR regrets that it was unable to observe yesterday ’ s presidential vote after the Belarusian authorities failed to issue a timely invitation to ODIHR to observe critical elements of the electoral process .
The clear intimidation of political activists in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ prospective candidates , was criticized by ODIHR and other international organizations , as was the apparent lack of inclusiveness of candidate registration and formation of election commissions for this election .
ODIHR noted accounts on election night of voters waiting for details of the results to be published at polling stations , recalling issues taken up in previous ODIHR election observation reports in Belarus over the accuracy of the reporting of election results .
Limitations to citizen election observation , including active prevention from observing and several reported cases of detentions on election @ @ @ @ @ @ @ contradict previous ODIHR recommendations .
All countries across the OSCE region have committed to hold genuinely democratic elections .
OSCE countries have also committed to upholding the right to freedom of peaceful assembly both in law and practice .
ODIHR continues to follow events in Belarus and appeals for dialogue , while standing firmly with civil society and all those defending human rights .
ODIHR is ready to assist the national authorities in undertaking the urgent reforms necessary to bring the country ’ s laws and practices in line with international democratic standards @ @ @ @ @

WARSAW, 10 August 2020 – Amidst intimidation and disproportionate police force against protesters in Belarus following reports of serious administrative misconduct during yesterday’s presidential election, the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) calls for dialogue and urges the authorities to refrain from violence and to honestly report detailed election results from all polling stations.
There is evidence of excessive use of force by police across Belarus in the face of overwhelmingly peaceful protests, which has resulted in a large number of injured people and arrests, including of independent election observers and journalists. Freedom of peaceful assembly as well as freedom of expression are basic human rights crucial for the development of democratic societies, and ODIHR calls for a prompt and effective investigation of any police brutality, as well as the release of all those detained for their participation in the ongoing protests.
ODIHR regrets that it was unable to observe yesterday’s presidential vote after the Belarusian authorities failed to issue a timely invitation to ODIHR to observe critical elements of the electoral process. The clear intimidation of political activists in the pre-election period, including the detention of prospective candidates, was criticized by ODIHR and other international organizations, as was the apparent lack of inclusiveness of candidate registration and formation of election commissions for this election.
ODIHR noted accounts on election night of voters waiting for details of the results to be published at polling stations, recalling issues taken up in previous ODIHR election observation reports in Belarus over the accuracy of the reporting of election results. Limitations to citizen election observation, including active prevention from observing and several reported cases of detentions on election day, raise serious concerns and directly contradict previous ODIHR recommendations.
All countries across the OSCE region have committed to hold genuinely democratic elections. OSCE countries have also committed to upholding the right to freedom of peaceful assembly both in law and practice.
ODIHR continues to follow events in Belarus and appeals for dialogue, while standing firmly with civil society and all those defending human rights. ODIHR is ready to assist the national authorities in undertaking the urgent reforms necessary to bring the country’s laws and practices in line with international democratic standards and human rights obligations.


osce--2020-08-10--OSCE Chairmanship calls for restraint and respect for OSCE commitments following Belarus presidentia

OSCE Chairmanship calls for restraint and respect for OSCE commitments following Belarus presidential elections

VIENNA / TIRANA , 10 August 2020 – Albania ’ s OSCE Chairmanship has expressed concern about developments in Belarus @ @ @ @ @ on 9 August , which the OSCE ’ s Office for Democratic Institutions and Human @ @ @ @ @ .
The Chairmanship has been following reports of protests and the use of force against @ @ @ @ @ and obstruction of the work of journalists and media .
The Albanian Chairmanship urges full @ @ @ @ @ including the right to peaceful assembly , and called for all sides to show restraint @ @ @ @ @ The Chairmanship will continue to follow developments closely .

VIENNA / TIRANA, 10 August 2020 – Albania’s OSCE Chairmanship has expressed concern about developments in Belarus following the presidential elections held on 9 August, which the OSCE’s Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights was unable to observe. The Chairmanship has been following reports of protests and the use of force against protesters as well as detentions and obstruction of the work of journalists and media.
The Albanian Chairmanship urges full respect for OSCE commitments, including the right to peaceful assembly, and called for all sides to show restraint at this critical time. The Chairmanship will continue to follow developments closely.


osce--2020-08-08--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 188/2020 issued on 8 August 2020


osce--2020-08-07--Parliamentary security committee leaders call for restoration of Georgia’s territorial integrity on

Parliamentary security committee leaders call for restoration of Georgia’s territorial integrity on 12th anniversary of conflict

COPENHAGEN , 7 August 2020 - On the somber occasion of the 12th anniversary of the conflict erupted in August 2008 , between Russian and Georgian forces , senior OSCE Parliamentary Assembly officials condemned the ongoing deterioration of the security , human rights and the humanitarian situation in the occupied territories of Georgia and reaffirmed its full support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Georgia within its internationally recognized borders .
Expressing deep concern that the aftermath of the conflict still affects health and lives of the conflict-affected population , in particular during the challenging time of the global @ @ @ @ @ @ @ United States ) , Costel Neculai Dunava ( MP , Romania ) , and Laurynas Kasciunas ( MP , Lithuania ) , the Chair , Vice-Chair and Rapporteur of the OSCE PA 's General Committee on Political Affairs and Security , released the following statement : “ We recognize the necessity of ending the Russian Federation ’ s occupation and peacefully restoring respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Georgia within its internationally recognized borders .
We once again underline the importance of reconciliation and confidence-building between the communities divided by war @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leaders recalled the 2019 Luxemburg Declaration Resolution on the Security and Human Rights Situation in Abkhazia , Georgia , And The Tskhinvali Region/South Ossetia , Georgia and urged the Russian Federation to uphold the fundamental norms and principles of international law and reverse its illegal decision on the recognition of the so-called independence of the occupied territories of Georgia .
The PA leaders also expressed deep concern that the EU Monitoring Mission , which remains the only international monitoring mechanism in Georgia since the closure of the relevant OSCE and UN missions , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ occupied regions .
“ We express our support for the EUMM as a critical tool for information exchange and following up on incidents that impact the communities ” .
In light of the 96th Incident Prevention and Response Mechanism ( IPRM ) , co-facilitated by Ambassador Marek Szczygieł , Head of the EU Monitoring Mission in Georgia ( EUMM ) and Ambassador Rudolf Michalka , Special Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office for the South Caucasus , which took place in Ergneti on the 30th of July , the PA leaders also welcomed the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dialogue in the IPRM format .
“ We also express our hope for the Geneva International Discussion to resume as soon possible , in order to continue the constructive and result-oriented discussions aimed at achieving tangible results in this format .
”

COPENHAGEN, 7 August 2020 - On the somber occasion of the 12th anniversary of the conflict erupted in August 2008, between Russian and Georgian forces, senior OSCE Parliamentary Assembly officials condemned the ongoing deterioration of the security, human rights and the humanitarian situation in the occupied territories of Georgia and reaffirmed its full support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Georgia within its internationally recognized borders.
Expressing deep concern that the aftermath of the conflict still affects health and lives of the conflict-affected population, in particular during the challenging time of the global COVID-19 pandemic, congressman Richard Hudson (United States), Costel Neculai Dunava (MP, Romania), and Laurynas Kasciunas (MP, Lithuania), the Chair, Vice-Chair and Rapporteur of the OSCE PA's General Committee on Political Affairs and Security, released the following statement:
“We recognize the necessity of ending the Russian Federation’s occupation and peacefully restoring respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Georgia within its internationally recognized borders. We once again underline the importance of reconciliation and confidence-building between the communities divided by war and the occupation line.”
The PA leaders recalled the 2019 Luxemburg Declaration Resolution on the Security and Human Rights Situation in Abkhazia, Georgia, And The Tskhinvali Region/South Ossetia, Georgia and urged the Russian Federation to uphold the fundamental norms and principles of international law and reverse its illegal decision on the recognition of the so-called independence of the occupied territories of Georgia.
The PA leaders also expressed deep concern that the EU Monitoring Mission, which remains the only international monitoring mechanism in Georgia since the closure of the relevant OSCE and UN missions, is continuously being denied access to the occupied regions. “We express our support for the EUMM as a critical tool for information exchange and following up on incidents that impact the communities”.
In light of the 96th Incident Prevention and Response Mechanism (IPRM), co-facilitated by Ambassador Marek Szczygieł, Head of the EU Monitoring Mission in Georgia (EUMM) and Ambassador Rudolf Michalka, Special Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office for the South Caucasus, which took place in Ergneti on the 30th of July, the PA leaders also welcomed the participants’ commitment to resume the regular dialogue in the IPRM format.
“We also express our hope for the Geneva International Discussion to resume as soon possible, in order to continue the constructive and result-oriented discussions aimed at achieving tangible results in this format.”


osce--2020-08-07--OSCE organizes online seminar on access to information and open data

An OSCE-supported online seminar on access to information and open data was organized by the OSCE Programme Office in Nur-Sultan @ @ @ @ @ The presentation focused on legislation on access to information , different categories of information , @ @ @ @ @ access to information and transparency and accountability issues , as well as search and use @ @ @ @ @ 30 representatives from the media community , academia , civil society and lawyers attended the @ @ @ @ @ part of the Programme Office ’ s activities aimed at promoting media development and freedom @ @ @ @ @ OSCE principles and commitments .

An OSCE-supported online seminar on access to information and open data was organized by the OSCE Programme Office in Nur-Sultan on 7 August 2020.
The presentation focused on legislation on access to information, different categories of information, protection of the right for access to information and transparency and accountability issues, as well as search and use of open data.
Some 30 representatives from the media community, academia, civil society and lawyers attended the event.
The event is part of the Programme Office’s activities aimed at promoting media development and freedom of expression in line with OSCE principles and commitments.


osce--2020-08-07--OSCE Programme Office donates thermal cameras to Tajik Border Troops

The OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe donated thermal cameras ( CCTV cameras ) to the Tajik Border Troops on 4 @ @ @ @ @ The donated equipment will increase the technical capacity of the Tajik Border Troops to better @ @ @ @ @ at the Tajik-Afghan green border and prevent illegal cross-border movements .
The provided assistance is @ @ @ @ @ authorities in tackling the challenges of migration and transnational organized crime in particular .
To @ @ @ @ @ the equipment , the Office plans to train Tajik border officers on the use of @ @ @ @ @ addition , the OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe handed over 25 travel kits to the @ @ @ @ @ Border Troops , which will help them in conducting effective field operation activities .

The OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe donated thermal cameras (CCTV cameras) to the Tajik Border Troops on 4 August 2020 in Dushanbe. The donated equipment will increase the technical capacity of the Tajik Border Troops to better detect and seize illicit items at the Tajik-Afghan green border and prevent illegal cross-border movements.
The provided assistance is also expected to assist Tajik authorities in tackling the challenges of migration and transnational organized crime in particular. To ensure the sustainable use of the equipment, the Office plans to train Tajik border officers on the use of the surveillance system.
In addition, the OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe handed over 25 travel kits to the Special Unit of the Tajik Border Troops, which will help them in conducting effective field operation activities.


osce--2020-08-07--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 187/2020 issued on 7 August 2020


osce--2020-08-06--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 186/2020 issued on 6 August 2020


osce--2020-08-06--OSCE Mission to Montenegro supports national public service broadcaster by donating mobile journalis

OSCE Mission to Montenegro supports national public service broadcaster by donating mobile journalism equipment

As part of the OSCE Mission to Montenegro ’ s technical support to the media , the Mission donated seven state-of-the-art mobile journalism sets to the public service broadcaster , Radio Television of Montenegro ( RTCG ) , on 6 August 2020 in Podgorica .
The donated equipment included smartphones with stands , mobile interview kits with microphones , tripod kits and accompanying technical add-ons for the efficient use of the equipment .
Maryse Daviet , Head of the OSCE Mission to Montenegro , said that the quality of reporting , proximity and speed has become essential for providing citizens @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Strong technical capacities of the media outlets are a prerequisite .
The Mission supports pluralistic , independent and professional media in their efforts to be competitive in a fast changing digital market and to play a constructive role in the exchange of opinions and ideas , ” she said .
The mobile journalism equipment will enable journalists to conduct interviews , film and edit material on one device .
Mobile journalism is an innovative approach to produce news stories quickly and efficiently , while maintaining production quality and meeting newsroom deadlines .
In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ desktop computers to the news outlet Vijesti and plans further assistance to other Montenegrin media outlets .
“ We will continue supporting Montenegrin media houses in line with OSCE commitments and principles , ” said Daviet .

As part of the OSCE Mission to Montenegro’s technical support to the media, the Mission donated seven state-of-the-art mobile journalism sets to the public service broadcaster, Radio Television of Montenegro (RTCG), on 6 August 2020 in Podgorica.
The donated equipment included smartphones with stands, mobile interview kits with microphones, tripod kits and accompanying technical add-ons for the efficient use of the equipment.
Maryse Daviet, Head of the OSCE Mission to Montenegro, said that the quality of reporting, proximity and speed has become essential for providing citizens with relevant news and information. “Strong technical capacities of the media outlets are a prerequisite. The Mission supports pluralistic, independent and professional media in their efforts to be competitive in a fast changing digital market and to play a constructive role in the exchange of opinions and ideas,” she said.
The mobile journalism equipment will enable journalists to conduct interviews, film and edit material on one device. Mobile journalism is an innovative approach to produce news stories quickly and efficiently, while maintaining production quality and meeting newsroom deadlines.
In May, the Mission delivered ten new desktop computers to the news outlet Vijesti and plans further assistance to other Montenegrin media outlets.
“We will continue supporting Montenegrin media houses in line with OSCE commitments and principles,” said Daviet.


osce--2020-08-05--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 185/2020 issued on 5 August 2020


osce--2020-08-05--ODIHR opens election observation mission in Montenegro

PODGORICA , 5 August 2020 – The OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights ( ODIHR ) today opened an observation mission for the 30 August parliamentary elections in Montenegro , following an invitation from the national authorities .
The mission is led by Tamás Meszerics and consists of a core team of 11 experts based in Podgorica and 10 long-term observers , who will be deployed throughout the country from 11 August .
The mission will assess the parliamentary elections for their compliance with OSCE commitments and other international obligations and standards for democratic elections , as well @ @ @ @ @ @ @ closely monitor the work of the election administration and relevant government bodies , campaign activities , election-related legislation and its implementation , and the resolution of election-related disputes .
They will also assess the implementation of previous ODIHR election recommendations .
In the course of its observation , the mission will meet representatives from state authorities and political parties , and with candidates , as well as with representatives from civil society , the media and the international community .
Due to the health emergency caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the related @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to deploy short-term observers ahead of the 30 August elections as originally planned .
The format of the observation activity has therefore been adjusted to a Limited Election Observation Mission ( LEOM ) , which will include long-term observers based around the country .
While mission members will visit a limited number of polling stations on election day , there will not be any systematic observation of voting , counting or tabulation of results .
An interim report will be published to update the public and media during the course of the observation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ODIHR ’ s preliminary findings and conclusions will be presented at a press conference .
ODIHR will issue a final report on the observation approximately eight weeks after the end of the electoral process .
The ODIHR LEOM and the OSCE Mission in Montenegro operate separately under their specific mandates .
For further information , please contact :

PODGORICA, 5 August 2020 – The OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) today opened an observation mission for the 30 August parliamentary elections in Montenegro, following an invitation from the national authorities.
The mission is led by Tamás Meszerics and consists of a core team of 11 experts based in Podgorica and 10 long-term observers, who will be deployed throughout the country from 11 August.
The mission will assess the parliamentary elections for their compliance with OSCE commitments and other international obligations and standards for democratic elections, as well as with national legislation. Observers will closely monitor the work of the election administration and relevant government bodies, campaign activities, election-related legislation and its implementation, and the resolution of election-related disputes. They will also assess the implementation of previous ODIHR election recommendations.
In the course of its observation, the mission will meet representatives from state authorities and political parties, and with candidates, as well as with representatives from civil society, the media and the international community.
Due to the health emergency caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the related travel restrictions, ODIHR is not able to deploy short-term observers ahead of the 30 August elections as originally planned. The format of the observation activity has therefore been adjusted to a Limited Election Observation Mission (LEOM), which will include long-term observers based around the country. While mission members will visit a limited number of polling stations on election day, there will not be any systematic observation of voting, counting or tabulation of results.
An interim report will be published to update the public and media during the course of the observation. The day after the elections, ODIHR’s preliminary findings and conclusions will be presented at a press conference. ODIHR will issue a final report on the observation approximately eight weeks after the end of the electoral process.
The ODIHR LEOM and the OSCE Mission in Montenegro operate separately under their specific mandates.
For further information, please contact:
Elma Šehalić, Media Analyst for Election Observation Mission: elma.sehalic@odihr.me or +382 68829413


osce--2020-08-05--Gender aspects of border and security management in focus of OSCE online meeting in Turkmenistan

The OSCE Centre in Ashgabat organized an online roundtable discussion on gender mainstreaming in border and security management from 3 to 5 August 2020 .
The event brought together representatives of the State Border , Customs and Migration Services of Turkmenistan , and was held as part of an extra-budgetary project on strengthening the capacities of the State Border Service of Turkmenistan .
The roundtable aimed to acquaint participants with best international practices in promoting gender aspects in law enforcement activities .
Opening the event , Natalya Drozd , Head of the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat , said : “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ National Action Plan of Turkmenistan on Gender Equality , the Centre regularly organizes events to provide an effective platform for the exchange of experiences on integrating a gender perspective in border management and other law enforcement bodies.
” “ Considering a multi-stakeholder approach to this National Action Plan , the Centre closely partners with various ministries and agencies of the host country , thereby promoting cross-sectoral gender mainstreaming .
The participation of the representatives of three law enforcement agencies and national experts from the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection of Population , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Democracy and the Women 's Union at this event is an example of multi-stakeholders ’ involvement in gender mainstreaming.
” OSCE and international experts on gender , as well as national experts , facilitated the event .
OSCE experts from the Secretariat , the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights and the Border Management Staff College presented the Organization ’ s Action Plan for the Promotion of Gender Equality and its integration into border management , international conventions relevant to gender mainstreaming as well as practical examples of a gender-sensitized approach in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ global trends in border management and organizational , structural and cultural levels of integrating a gender perspective in border management as well as a gender-sensitive employment policy in the security sector .
National experts acquainted the participants with the National Action Plan of Turkmenistan on Gender Equality , relevant national legislation , and the main priorities of the national employment policy pertaining to women .
The training was organized with financial support of the Government of Germany .

The OSCE Centre in Ashgabat organized an online roundtable discussion on gender mainstreaming in border and security management from 3 to 5 August 2020. The event brought together representatives of the State Border, Customs and Migration Services of Turkmenistan, and was held as part of an extra-budgetary project on strengthening the capacities of the State Border Service of Turkmenistan. The roundtable aimed to acquaint participants with best international practices in promoting gender aspects in law enforcement activities.
Opening the event, Natalya Drozd, Head of the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat, said: “In support of and alignment with the National Action Plan of Turkmenistan on Gender Equality, the Centre regularly organizes events to provide an effective platform for the exchange of experiences on integrating a gender perspective in border management and other law enforcement bodies.”
“Considering a multi-stakeholder approach to this National Action Plan, the Centre closely partners with various ministries and agencies of the host country, thereby promoting cross-sectoral gender mainstreaming. The participation of the representatives of three law enforcement agencies and national experts from the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection of Population, the Institute of State, Law and Democracy and the Women's Union at this event is an example of multi-stakeholders’ involvement in gender mainstreaming.”
OSCE and international experts on gender, as well as national experts, facilitated the event. OSCE experts from the Secretariat, the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights and the Border Management Staff College presented the Organization’s Action Plan for the Promotion of Gender Equality and its integration into border management, international conventions relevant to gender mainstreaming as well as practical examples of a gender-sensitized approach in border security education.
International experts discussed global trends in border management and organizational, structural and cultural levels of integrating a gender perspective in border management as well as a gender-sensitive employment policy in the security sector.
National experts acquainted the participants with the National Action Plan of Turkmenistan on Gender Equality, relevant national legislation, and the main priorities of the national employment policy pertaining to women.
The training was organized with financial support of the Government of Germany.


osce--2020-08-18--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 196/2020 issued on 18 August 2020


osce--2020-08-18--OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan trains media representatives on emerging trends in journalis

OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan trains media representatives on emerging trends in journalism

The OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan , in co-operation with the Public Foundation for Support and Development of National Mass Media and with the support of the Agency of Information and Mass Communications under the Administration of the President , is organizing an online training course from 18 to 20 August 2020 , to enhance the skills of journalists , press officers , bloggers and other media representatives in the country .
The course , entitled : `` The work of a journalist in a digital format : social networks and blogging , coronavirus and self-isolation , external and internal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ project to support media in Uzbekistan .
It aims at facilitating in the professional development of journalists and bloggers to improve the quality of news and information flows in Uzbekistan .
Over the course of three days , the participants will be able to share experiences , receive training and refresh their skills .
“ Free and independent media are the cornerstone of democratic societies .
The OSCE is engaged in media development through organizing trainings and by providing support for journalists , ” said OSCE Project Officer Richard Wheeler .
During the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ discuss changing trends in media consumption and the media landscape , look at various mass media and social networks , analyze where fake news comes from and why people believe it , effective storytelling , and editorial work in the digital era and during a pandemic , as well as other relevant topics .

The OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan, in co-operation with the Public Foundation for Support and Development of National Mass Media and with the support of the Agency of Information and Mass Communications under the Administration of the President, is organizing an online training course from 18 to 20 August 2020, to enhance the skills of journalists, press officers, bloggers and other media representatives in the country.
The course, entitled: "The work of a journalist in a digital format: social networks and blogging, coronavirus and self-isolation, external and internal pressure" is part of a joint project to support media in Uzbekistan. It aims at facilitating in the professional development of journalists and bloggers to improve the quality of news and information flows in Uzbekistan. Over the course of three days, the participants will be able to share experiences, receive training and refresh their skills.
“Free and independent media are the cornerstone of democratic societies. The OSCE is engaged in media development through organizing trainings and by providing support for journalists,” said OSCE Project Officer Richard Wheeler.
During the online training, participants will study and discuss changing trends in media consumption and the media landscape, look at various mass media and social networks, analyze where fake news comes from and why people believe it, effective storytelling, and editorial work in the digital era and during a pandemic, as well as other relevant topics.