osce--2020-09-18--Stronger collective efforts needed to protect journalists against growing threats, concludes seventh

Stronger collective efforts needed to protect journalists against growing threats, concludes seventh OSCE South-East Europe Media Conference

VIENNA/BELGRADE , 18 September 2020 – The seventh South-East Europe Media Conference entitled “ The New Frontline : Working together to Foster Media Freedom ” , organized jointly by the Office of the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media ( RFoM ) and the OSCE Mission to Serbia , in collaboration with OSCE field operations from South-East Europe , concluded today .
The two-day online event gathered over 200 participants , including journalists and media experts from the region and abroad , civil society organizations and representatives from law enforcement and the judiciary .
Participants discussed the most pressing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Special attention was paid to the safety of journalists and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on journalists ’ ability to perform their professional activities .
“ The safety of journalists and the fight against impunity for attacks against journalists are paramount to safeguarding freedom of expression and ensuring a safe and enabling media environment , ” said Jürgen Heissel , Director of the Office of the OSCE RFoM .
“ This is a commitment that all 57 OSCE participating States jointly pledged to uphold in the landmark OSCE Ministerial Council Decision on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Participants also discussed the overarching impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on media freedom .
“ Over the past months , the media witnessed a heightened public demand for information and were faced with COVID-19 related restrictions and lockdowns , including an ever more impeded access to reliable data retained by public authorities , ” added Heissel .
In addition , the event provided all participants with an opportunity to exchange experience and best practices in the area of establishing effective national mechanisms for co-ordinated responses to threats and violence against journalists .
In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ role of law enforcement agencies and the judiciary in protecting and ensuring a safe and conducive media environment , both online and offline , and in combating impunity for crimes against journalists and other media professionals .
Andrea Orizio , Head of the OSCE Mission to Serbia , highlighted the opportunities and challenges in establishing national mechanisms to ensure the safety of journalists .
“ The OSCE Mission ’ s partnership with Serbia ’ s Permanent Working Group for the Safety of Journalists can serve as a model of professional and fruitful co-operation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the international community .
This is illustrated by the fact that the law enforcement authorities , the media and journalists ’ associations have successfully taken ownership of the process that we jointly initiated .
Only together can we achieve more in terms of growth of media freedom in the region , ” said Orizio .
Heissel underscored the need for stronger efforts to tackle the specific challenges to the safety of women journalists online , who face additional threats of sexual violence , intimidation and gender discrimination , especially in the online @ @ @ @ @ @ @ preview of the OSCE RFoM ’ s newly developed Resource Guide on safety of female journalists online was presented at the conference , outlining important points of action for different stakeholders to reinforce the safety of women journalists online through gender-responsive approaches .
More information about the conference can be found here : https : //www.osce.org/representative-on-freedom-of-media/462792 .

VIENNA/BELGRADE, 18 September 2020 – The seventh South-East Europe Media Conference entitled “The New Frontline: Working together to Foster Media Freedom”, organized jointly by the Office of the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media (RFoM) and the OSCE Mission to Serbia, in collaboration with OSCE field operations from South-East Europe, concluded today.
The two-day online event gathered over 200 participants, including journalists and media experts from the region and abroad, civil society organizations and representatives from law enforcement and the judiciary. Participants discussed the most pressing media freedom challenges in the region. Special attention was paid to the safety of journalists and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on journalists’ ability to perform their professional activities.
“The safety of journalists and the fight against impunity for attacks against journalists are paramount to safeguarding freedom of expression and ensuring a safe and enabling media environment,” said Jürgen Heissel, Director of the Office of the OSCE RFoM. “This is a commitment that all 57 OSCE participating States jointly pledged to uphold in the landmark OSCE Ministerial Council Decision on Safety of Journalists adopted in 2018.”
Participants also discussed the overarching impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on media freedom. “Over the past months, the media witnessed a heightened public demand for information and were faced with COVID-19 related restrictions and lockdowns, including an ever more impeded access to reliable data retained by public authorities,” added Heissel.
In addition, the event provided all participants with an opportunity to exchange experience and best practices in the area of establishing effective national mechanisms for co-ordinated responses to threats and violence against journalists. In this light, Heissel underlined the crucial role of law enforcement agencies and the judiciary in protecting and ensuring a safe and conducive media environment, both online and offline, and in combating impunity for crimes against journalists and other media professionals.
Andrea Orizio, Head of the OSCE Mission to Serbia, highlighted the opportunities and challenges in establishing national mechanisms to ensure the safety of journalists. “The OSCE Mission’s partnership with Serbia’s Permanent Working Group for the Safety of Journalists can serve as a model of professional and fruitful co-operation between the State institutions, civil society and the international community. This is illustrated by the fact that the law enforcement authorities, the media and journalists’ associations have successfully taken ownership of the process that we jointly initiated. Only together can we achieve more in terms of growth of media freedom in the region,” said Orizio.
Heissel underscored the need for stronger efforts to tackle the specific challenges to the safety of women journalists online, who face additional threats of sexual violence, intimidation and gender discrimination, especially in the online sphere. In this light, a preview of the OSCE RFoM’s newly developed Resource Guide on safety of female journalists online was presented at the conference, outlining important points of action for different stakeholders to reinforce the safety of women journalists online through gender-responsive approaches.
More information about the conference can be found here: https://www.osce.org/representative-on-freedom-of-media/462792.


osce--2020-09-18--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 223/2020 issued on 18 September 2020

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osce--2020-09-18--OSCE supports training webinar on countering financial pyramids and increasing financial literacy of

OSCE supports training webinar on countering financial pyramids and increasing financial literacy of population

An OSCE-supported one-day training webinar on fighting financial pyramids and practical aspects of improving the financial literacy of the general @ @ @ @ @ 2020 .
The OSCE Programme Office in Nur-Sultan organized the online event in partnership with @ @ @ @ @ Development Agency ( Agency ) .
Some 20 representatives of the Agency attended the webinar @ @ @ @ @ practices of combating financial fraud schemes .
An international expert from the Russian Federation covered @ @ @ @ @ elimination of deficiencies in the regulation of the financial markets , oversight aspects to counter @ @ @ @ @ of enhancing financial literacy of the population .
The expert paid special attention to underlying @ @ @ @ @ and financial pyramids .
The training webinar is part of the Programme Office ’ s @ @ @ @ @ governance by focussing on anti-money laundering/combating the financing of terrorism in Kazakhstan .

An OSCE-supported one-day training webinar on fighting financial pyramids and practical aspects of improving the financial literacy of the general population concluded on 18 September 2020.
The OSCE Programme Office in Nur-Sultan organized the online event in partnership with the Financial Market Regulation and Development Agency (Agency).
Some 20 representatives of the Agency attended the webinar, which focussed on current practices of combating financial fraud schemes. An international expert from the Russian Federation covered topics such as, the elimination of deficiencies in the regulation of the financial markets, oversight aspects to counter fraud schemes and practical aspects of enhancing financial literacy of the population. The expert paid special attention to underlying aspects of combatting Ponzi schemes and financial pyramids.
The training webinar is part of the Programme Office’s multi-year efforts to promote good governance by focussing on anti-money laundering/combating the financing of terrorism in Kazakhstan.


osce--2020-09-18--OSCE’s Moscow Mechanism invoked to examine alleged human rights violations in Belarus

Seventeen OSCE participating States invoked the OSCE ’ s Moscow Mechanism on 17 September 2020 to examine alleged human rights @ @ @ @ @ Moscow Mechanism , last invoked in 2018 in relation to the Russian Federation , provides @ @ @ @ @ to send missions of experts to assist in the resolution of a particular question or @ @ @ @ @ dimension .
Further information is available here .
Any information relevant to the work of @ @ @ @ @ sent to the following email address : moscowmechanism2020 @ odihr.pl .
The information will then @ @ @ @ @ mission , once established .
The 17 countries that have invoked the Moscow Mechanism in @ @ @ @ @ , Canada , Czech Republic , Denmark , Estonia , Finland , France , Iceland @ @ @ @ @ the Netherlands , Norway , Poland , Romania , Slovakia , the United Kingdom and @ @ @ @

Seventeen OSCE participating States invoked the OSCE’s Moscow Mechanism on 17 September 2020 to examine alleged human rights violations in Belarus.
The Moscow Mechanism, last invoked in 2018 in relation to the Russian Federation, provides the opportunity for participating States to send missions of experts to assist in the resolution of a particular question or problem relating to the human dimension. Further information is available here.
Any information relevant to the work of the Moscow Mechanism can be sent to the following email address: moscowmechanism2020@odihr.pl. The information will then be forwarded to the expert mission, once established.
The 17 countries that have invoked the Moscow Mechanism in this case are: Belgium, Canada, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, the United Kingdom and the United States.


osce--2020-09-18--Infodemic toolkit to fight disinformation on COVID-19 launched by OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbek

Infodemic toolkit to fight disinformation on COVID-19 launched by OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan

TASHKENT , 18 September 2020 - The OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan ( PCUz ) launches an infodemic toolkit for media professionals to counter myths and fake information related to COVID-19 .
It is available in Uzbek , Russian and English .
The toolkit was developed in co-operation with the Public Fund for the Support and Development of National Mass Media and the Radio Nederland Training Centre .
The toolkit assists journalists and bloggers in Uzbekistan covering the COVID-19 crisis by providing them with the tools to identify and counter false information and report correctly on the pandemic .
As @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , there has been an enormous international push for scientific information and understanding of the novel coronavirus .
At the same time , there has been an increase in inaccurate and fake news spread on social media networks and in the media .
This alarming and dangerous trend creates fear and has a damaging effect on public health efforts .
The Infodemic toolkit offers five units containing videos , links and resources that help journalists to identify and misinformation and to better communicate with their audience .
The toolkit ’ s “ Debunkers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ exposed fake news .
The PCUz hopes that by using the information and resources available in the toolkit , media representatives in Uzbekistan will be able to use factual and accurate information concerning COVID-19 , and assist in preventing the further spread of disinformation .

TASHKENT, 18 September 2020 - The OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan (PCUz) launches an infodemic toolkit for media professionals to counter myths and fake information related to COVID-19. It is available in Uzbek, Russian and English.
The toolkit was developed in co-operation with the Public Fund for the Support and Development of National Mass Media and the Radio Nederland Training Centre. The toolkit assists journalists and bloggers in Uzbekistan covering the COVID-19 crisis by providing them with the tools to identify and counter false information and report correctly on the pandemic.
As a result of the widespread COVID-19 pandemic, there has been an enormous international push for scientific information and understanding of the novel coronavirus. At the same time, there has been an increase in inaccurate and fake news spread on social media networks and in the media. This alarming and dangerous trend creates fear and has a damaging effect on public health efforts.
The Infodemic toolkit offers five units containing videos, links and resources that help journalists to identify and misinformation and to better communicate with their audience. The toolkit’s “Debunkers Database” enables media professionals to share exposed fake news.
The PCUz hopes that by using the information and resources available in the toolkit, media representatives in Uzbekistan will be able to use factual and accurate information concerning COVID-19, and assist in preventing the further spread of disinformation.


osce--2020-09-17--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 222/2020 issued on 17 September 2020


osce--2020-09-17--Press Statement of Special Representative Grau after the regular Meeting of Trilateral Contact Group

Press Statement of Special Representative Grau after the regular Meeting of Trilateral Contact Group on 16 September 2020

KYIV , 17 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 regular meetings of the TCG and its Working Groups held through video conferencing : “ The ceasefire continues overall to be effective .
The civilian population feels safer .
Participants of the TCG meeting agreed that , almost two months after the `` Measures to strengthen the ceasefire '' took effect , a thorough stocktaking of various aspects of their operation should @ @ @ @ @ @ @ say that the ongoing discussion on the Resolution of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine № 795-IX `` On the appointment of regular local elections in 2020 '' did not allow the TCG to come to solutions on other issues .
Today , assessment of the general security situation in the conflict zone and compliance with the ceasefire were in the focus of discussions of the Security Working Group .
The Humanitarian Working Group , with the participation of the International Committee of the Red Cross , discussed ICRC access to conflict-related detainees , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and exchange of the latter .
The meeting participants also provided information on the progress of preparations for the simultaneous opening of additional entry-exit crossing points in Zolote and Shchastya in the Luhansk region .
The Economic Working Group considered issues related to the return of freight cars that are located in the non-government controlled areas of Ukraine to `` Ukrainian Railways '' .
In addition , water supply matters in certain areas of Donetsk and Luhansk regions , as well as environmental issues associated with the situation in flooded coalmines along the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , were duly considered .
The discussion of the Political Working Group was mainly devoted to the Resolution of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine № 795-IX , what again did not allow to address the issues on the agenda , aimed at the implementation of the Minsk Agreements ” .

KYIV, 17 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 regular meetings of the TCG and its Working Groups held through video conferencing:
“The ceasefire continues overall to be effective. The civilian population feels safer.
Participants of the TCG meeting agreed that, almost two months after the "Measures to strengthen the ceasefire" took effect, a thorough stocktaking of various aspects of their operation should be carried out.
I regret to say that the ongoing discussion on the Resolution of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine № 795-IX "On the appointment of regular local elections in 2020" did not allow the TCG to come to solutions on other issues.
Today, assessment of the general security situation in the conflict zone and compliance with the ceasefire were in the focus of discussions of the Security Working Group.
The Humanitarian Working Group, with the participation of the International Committee of the Red Cross, discussed ICRC access to conflict-related detainees, as well as issues of mutual release and exchange of the latter.
The meeting participants also provided information on the progress of preparations for the simultaneous opening of additional entry-exit crossing points in Zolote and Shchastya in the Luhansk region.
The Economic Working Group considered issues related to the return of freight cars that are located in the non-government controlled areas of Ukraine to "Ukrainian Railways".
In addition, water supply matters in certain areas of Donetsk and Luhansk regions, as well as environmental issues associated with the situation in flooded coalmines along the line of contact on its both sides, were duly considered.
The discussion of the Political Working Group was mainly devoted to the Resolution of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine № 795-IX, what again did not allow to address the issues on the agenda, aimed at the implementation of the Minsk Agreements”.


osce--2020-09-17--Parliamentary input, greater urgency from governments needed to address climate crisis, say OSCE par

Parliamentary input, greater urgency from governments needed to address climate crisis, say OSCE parliamentarians at webinar

COPENHAGEN , 16 September 2020 – The OSCE Parliamentary Assembly ’ s webinar today , entitled “ From the Arctic to Global : The Political Role in addressing Climate Change , ” featured the participation of some 50 parliamentarians and experts for a discussion on the effects of climate change in the Arctic and beyond .
The PA ’ s Special Representative on Arctic Issues , Norwegian parliamentarian Torill Eidsheim , opened the event , followed by keynote addresses by the Arctic Council ’ s Adalheidur Thorsteinsdottir , the UN ’ s Daniele Violetti , and Prof. Tore Furevik , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Research .
“ Climate change is a global issue , and , as such , it requires decisive – and urgent – global answers , ” said Eidsheim in her introductory remarks .
“ Alone , we are not able to solve it , not in the Arctic and not anywhere else .
We need a spirit of co-operation , solidarity , and joint responsibility for the future of our planet.
” She added that parliamentarians can contribute to this process by proposing legislation , holding governments accountable for their commitments , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Furevik noted that the Arctic is heating faster than the rest of the planet , and that rapidly melting sea ice is having dramatic global consequences .
He talked about tipping points and how warming in the Arctic is impacting the jet stream , which has effects on weather patterns all over the world .
In addressing climate change , he stressed the importance of improving collaboration between international organizations , governments and the scientific community .
Thorsteinsdottir , representing the Icelandic Chairmanship of the Arctic Council , discussed the heightened regional co-operation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that this is essential in combating climate change .
Working groups of the Arctic Council develop science-based policy recommendations for informed decision making , she said , noting that current projects are related to reducing harm related to Arctic shipping and addressing the growing concern of wildfires in the Arctic .
Violetti , Director of Means of Implementation Division of the UNFCCC , noted the urgency of addressing the climate crisis and stressed the need to raise ambition among governments towards increasing efforts towards mitigation and adaptation .
The national action plans in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this urgency , he said .
Financing is another issue that needs greater attention , Violetti underlined , as well as considering climate action as part of the broader sustainable development agenda .
“ The role of parliamentarians is one of the critical ones , ” he said .
In the discussion , OSCE PA members raised questions about how to best prioritize the work of parliaments and governments , as well as promoting understanding of the most effective way forward to de-carbonize societies .
Parliamentarians highlighted work that is being done in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other countries to also live up to their responsibilities .
Other topics raised by participants included how to fully involve the youth in decision-making on environmental issues , considering that young people will be those most affected by climate change , as well as how to ensure that the Arctic region remains a space free of geopolitical conflict and aggressive economic competition .
Elona Gjebrea Hoxha ( Albania ) , Rapporteur of the PA ’ s Committee on Economic Affairs , Science , Technology and Environment , noted that political collaboration is needed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she pointed out exacerbates the security threat in multiple dimensions .
She also noted that while the drastic effects of climate change are being experienced worldwide , there are also concerns about general air quality that must be prioritized .
It is the role of parliaments to promote sustainable development , she said , and parliamentarians have a crucial role to play in enhancing commitments from governments .
Moderated by the OSCE PA International Secretariat , the Parliamentary Web Dialogue was aimed to enhance the knowledge on climate change and its impact on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ better understand how to work towards addressing global warming as a full-fledged human security threat .
Photos of the event are available on Flickr .

COPENHAGEN, 16 September 2020 – The OSCE Parliamentary Assembly’s webinar today, entitled “From the Arctic to Global: The Political Role in addressing Climate Change,” featured the participation of some 50 parliamentarians and experts for a discussion on the effects of climate change in the Arctic and beyond. The PA’s Special Representative on Arctic Issues, Norwegian parliamentarian Torill Eidsheim, opened the event, followed by keynote addresses by the Arctic Council’s Adalheidur Thorsteinsdottir, the UN’s Daniele Violetti, and Prof. Tore Furevik, Director of the Bjerknes Centre for Climate Research.
“Climate change is a global issue, and, as such, it requires decisive – and urgent – global answers,” said Eidsheim in her introductory remarks. “Alone, we are not able to solve it, not in the Arctic and not anywhere else. We need a spirit of co-operation, solidarity, and joint responsibility for the future of our planet.” She added that parliamentarians can contribute to this process by proposing legislation, holding governments accountable for their commitments, and raising awareness and engaging citizens.
Prof. Furevik noted that the Arctic is heating faster than the rest of the planet, and that rapidly melting sea ice is having dramatic global consequences. He talked about tipping points and how warming in the Arctic is impacting the jet stream, which has effects on weather patterns all over the world. In addressing climate change, he stressed the importance of improving collaboration between international organizations, governments and the scientific community.
Thorsteinsdottir, representing the Icelandic Chairmanship of the Arctic Council, discussed the heightened regional co-operation promoted by the Arctic Council, noting that this is essential in combating climate change. Working groups of the Arctic Council develop science-based policy recommendations for informed decision making, she said, noting that current projects are related to reducing harm related to Arctic shipping and addressing the growing concern of wildfires in the Arctic.
Violetti, Director of Means of Implementation Division of the UNFCCC, noted the urgency of addressing the climate crisis and stressed the need to raise ambition among governments towards increasing efforts towards mitigation and adaptation. The national action plans in response to the Paris Agreement must reflect this urgency, he said. Financing is another issue that needs greater attention, Violetti underlined, as well as considering climate action as part of the broader sustainable development agenda. “The role of parliamentarians is one of the critical ones,” he said.
In the discussion, OSCE PA members raised questions about how to best prioritize the work of parliaments and governments, as well as promoting understanding of the most effective way forward to de-carbonize societies. Parliamentarians highlighted work that is being done in their countries while underscoring the need for other countries to also live up to their responsibilities.
Other topics raised by participants included how to fully involve the youth in decision-making on environmental issues, considering that young people will be those most affected by climate change, as well as how to ensure that the Arctic region remains a space free of geopolitical conflict and aggressive economic competition.
Elona Gjebrea Hoxha (Albania), Rapporteur of the PA’s Committee on Economic Affairs, Science, Technology and Environment, noted that political collaboration is needed to address the climate crisis, which she pointed out exacerbates the security threat in multiple dimensions. She also noted that while the drastic effects of climate change are being experienced worldwide, there are also concerns about general air quality that must be prioritized. It is the role of parliaments to promote sustainable development, she said, and parliamentarians have a crucial role to play in enhancing commitments from governments.
Moderated by the OSCE PA International Secretariat, the Parliamentary Web Dialogue was aimed to enhance the knowledge on climate change and its impact on people’s lives, and thus better understand how to work towards addressing global warming as a full-fledged human security threat.
Watch the full webinar here.
Photos of the event are available on Flickr.


osce--2020-09-30--Press Statement of Special Representative Grau after the regular Meeting of Trilateral Contact Group

Press Statement of Special Representative Grau after the regular Meeting of Trilateral Contact Group on 30 September 2020

KYIV , 30 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 regular meetings of the TCG and its Working Groups held through video conferencing .
“ The ceasefire in the conflict zone in the east of Ukraine continues to be effective .
This has a beneficial impact on the living conditions of the civilian population .
However , this has not yet had a positive effect on the activity of the TCG ; @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spent today on procedural issues .
The Security Working Group , in addition to the overall situation in the conflict zone and the provision of local security guarantees for the repair of civilian infrastructure , discussed the `` Measures to strengthen the ceasefire '' and , in particular , the functioning of the co-ordination mechanism for responding to ceasefire violations .
Discussions on this issue will continue at the next meeting .
The Humanitarian working group considered issues related to the mutual release and exchange of conflict-related detainees .
The discussion did not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ political considerations are preconditions for resolving humanitarian issues .
As regards preparations for the simultaneous opening of two new entry-exit checkpoints ( EECPs ) near the settlements of Zolote and Shchastia in the Luhansk region , the meeting participants confirmed that the work is proceeding as planned and that the EECPs will be opened as planned by 10 November 2020 .
The focus of the Economic Working Group was on environmental problems and water supply issues across the line of contact in the Donetsk and Luhansk regions .
Discussions in the Political Working @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
795-IX `` On the appointment of regular local elections in 2020 '' did not allow to hold consultations on the agenda of the working group , in particular , the peculiarities of self-government in certain districts of Donetsk and Luhansk regions of Ukraine ( ORDLO ) , amnesty and the modalities of local elections in ORDLO .
”

KYIV, 30 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 regular meetings of the TCG and its Working Groups held through video conferencing.
“The ceasefire in the conflict zone in the east of Ukraine continues to be effective. This has a beneficial impact on the living conditions of the civilian population.
However, this has not yet had a positive effect on the activity of the TCG; moreover, a lot of time was spent today on procedural issues.
The Security Working Group, in addition to the overall situation in the conflict zone and the provision of local security guarantees for the repair of civilian infrastructure, discussed the "Measures to strengthen the ceasefire" and, in particular, the functioning of the co-ordination mechanism for responding to ceasefire violations. Discussions on this issue will continue at the next meeting.
The Humanitarian working group considered issues related to the mutual release and exchange of conflict-related detainees. The discussion did not bring results. It is unacceptable that political considerations are preconditions for resolving humanitarian issues.
As regards preparations for the simultaneous opening of two new entry-exit checkpoints (EECPs) near the settlements of Zolote and Shchastia in the Luhansk region, the meeting participants confirmed that the work is proceeding as planned and that the EECPs will be opened as planned by 10 November 2020.
The focus of the Economic Working Group was on environmental problems and water supply issues across the line of contact in the Donetsk and Luhansk regions.
Discussions in the Political Working Group on the Verkhovna Rada Resolution No. 795-IX "On the appointment of regular local elections in 2020" did not allow to hold consultations on the agenda of the working group, in particular, the peculiarities of self-government in certain districts of Donetsk and Luhansk regions of Ukraine (ORDLO), amnesty and the modalities of local elections in ORDLO.”


osce--2020-09-30--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 233/2020 issued on 30 September 2020


osce--2020-09-30--OSCE and UNODC deliver online train-the-trainer course to enhance capacities of Bosnia and Herzegovi

OSCE and UNODC deliver online train-the-trainer course to enhance capacities of Bosnia and Herzegovina to investigate terrorist financing

The OSCE ’ s Transnational Threats Department held an online train-the-trainer course from 28 to 30 September 2020 .
The event was organized in co-operation with the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina and the UN Office on Drugs and Crime ( UNODC ) .
The course was aimed at highlighting national and regional terrorist threats , introducing participants to financial investigation and terrorist network analysis techniques , in order to more effectively disrupt terrorist networks .
Participants were senior experts and practitioners from the Ministry of Security of Bosnia and Herzegovina , the Prosecutor ’ s Office of Bosnia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at all levels of government in Bosnia and Herzegovina .
The training programme on countering terrorist financing aims to increase the capacity of Bosnia and Herzegovina to enhance the terrorist financing aspects of its National AML/CFT Risk Assessment , and to detect and combat terrorist financing and strengthen compliance with international standards in this area .
In particular , UN Security Council Resolution 2462 ( 2019 ) , the Financial Action Task Force on Money Laundering ( FATF ) ’ s standards , UN norms and OSCE commitments to promote human rights-based approaches @ @ @ @ @ @ @ course emphasized the key role of inter-agency and international co-operation and of multi-stakeholder approaches in countering terrorist financing .

The OSCE’s Transnational Threats Department held an online train-the-trainer course from 28 to 30 September 2020. The event was organized in co-operation with the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina and the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). The course was aimed at highlighting national and regional terrorist threats, introducing participants to financial investigation and terrorist network analysis techniques, in order to more effectively disrupt terrorist networks.
Participants were senior experts and practitioners from the Ministry of Security of Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Prosecutor’s Office of Bosnia and Herzegovina and other security sector bodies at all levels of government in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The training programme on countering terrorist financing aims to increase the capacity of Bosnia and Herzegovina to enhance the terrorist financing aspects of its National AML/CFT Risk Assessment, and to detect and combat terrorist financing and strengthen compliance with international standards in this area. In particular, UN Security Council Resolution 2462 (2019), the Financial Action Task Force on Money Laundering (FATF)’s standards, UN norms and OSCE commitments to promote human rights-based approaches in countering terrorist financing.
The train-the-trainer course emphasized the key role of inter-agency and international co-operation and of multi-stakeholder approaches in countering terrorist financing.


osce--2020-09-29--ODIHR opens election observation mission in the United States

WASHINGTON D.C. , 29 September 2020 – The OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights ( ODIHR ) today opened an election observation mission for the 3 November general elections in the United States , following an invitation from the national authorities .
As one of the OSCE ’ s 57 participating States , the United States has committed itself to conducting elections in line with OSCE standards and inviting international election observers , and ODIHR has assessed elections in the country since 2002 .
This Limited Election Observation Mission is led by Ambassador Urszula Gacek and consists of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and 30 long-term observers from 13 OSCE countries , who will be deployed throughout the country .
The mission will assess to what extent the elections are held in line with international obligations and standards for democratic elections , including the commitments agreed to by all OSCE countries , as well as with national legislation .
Observers will look closely at the legal framework and its implementation , and will follow campaign activities , the work of the election administration and relevant government bodies , including voter registration , and the resolution of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ form an integral part of the observation .
Meetings with representatives of federal and state authorities , political parties , as well as with representatives from the judiciary , civil society and the media will take place throughout the observation .
On election day itself , the mission will join efforts with a delegation from the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly ( OSCE PA ) .
The mission will publish an interim report during the course of its work .
The day after the elections , a statement of preliminary findings and conclusions will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ final report summing up the observation of the entire electoral process will be published approximately two months after the election process has ended .
For further information , please contact Ivan Godarsky , media analyst : ivan.godarsky @ odihr.us and +1 310 303 4496 or Katya Andrusz , ODIHR Spokesperson , at katya.andrusz @ odihr.pl and +1 310 303 2902 Further information on ODIHR ’ s election observation activities in the United States is available here : https : //www.osce.org/odihr/elections/USA

WASHINGTON D.C., 29 September 2020 – The OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) today opened an election observation mission for the 3 November general elections in the United States, following an invitation from the national authorities.
As one of the OSCE’s 57 participating States, the United States has committed itself to conducting elections in line with OSCE standards and inviting international election observers, and ODIHR has assessed elections in the country since 2002. This Limited Election Observation Mission is led by Ambassador Urszula Gacek and consists of 11 international experts based in Washington D.C. and 30 long-term observers from 13 OSCE countries, who will be deployed throughout the country.
The mission will assess to what extent the elections are held in line with international obligations and standards for democratic elections, including the commitments agreed to by all OSCE countries, as well as with national legislation. Observers will look closely at the legal framework and its implementation, and will follow campaign activities, the work of the election administration and relevant government bodies, including voter registration, and the resolution of election disputes. Media monitoring will also form an integral part of the observation.
Meetings with representatives of federal and state authorities, political parties, as well as with representatives from the judiciary, civil society and the media will take place throughout the observation. On election day itself, the mission will join efforts with a delegation from the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly (OSCE PA).
The mission will publish an interim report during the course of its work. The day after the elections, a statement of preliminary findings and conclusions will be presented at a press conference. A final report summing up the observation of the entire electoral process will be published approximately two months after the election process has ended.
For further information, please contact Ivan Godarsky, media analyst: ivan.godarsky@odihr.us and +1 310 303 4496 or Katya Andrusz, ODIHR Spokesperson, at katya.andrusz@odihr.pl and +1 310 303 2902
Further information on ODIHR’s election observation activities in the United States is available here: https://www.osce.org/odihr/elections/USA


osce--2020-09-29--Special meeting of OSCE Permanent Council held on situation in Nagorno-Karabakh context

VIENNA , 29 September 2020 – A special meeting of the OSCE Permanent Council on developments in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict context was convened at 17:00 local time in Vienna today by Albania ’ s 2020 OSCE Chairmanship .
The meeting was attended by representatives of the OSCE ’ s 57 participating States .
Opening the meeting , Ambassador Igli Hasani , Chair of the Permanent Council , reiterated the Chairmanship ’ s alarm at the ongoing clashes and deterioration of the situation on the ground .
Dismayed by the rising number of casualties , he repeated the OSCE Chairmanship ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ offered condolences to the families and loved ones of those killed and injured .
Briefing the Permanent Council , Personal Representative of the Chairperson-in-Office , Ambassador Andrzej Kasprzyk , said he was receiving information directly from the ground and local interlocutors at the highest level .
Ambassador Kasprzyk said he was in constant communication with the sides , and said his team were ready to resume monitoring on the ground as soon as the situation permits .
Representatives of the Minsk Group Co-Chair countries – France , Russian Federation and the United States @ @ @ @ @ @ @ appeal to all sides to cease hostilities immediately and to resume negotiations to find a sustainable resolution to the conflict .
The Albanian OSCE Chairmanship repeated the importance of a negotiated solution and its support for the work of the Minsk Group Co-Chairs and Ambassador Kasprzyk in their efforts to stabilize the situation on the ground .

VIENNA, 29 September 2020 – A special meeting of the OSCE Permanent Council on developments in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict context was convened at 17:00 local time in Vienna today by Albania’s 2020 OSCE Chairmanship. The meeting was attended by representatives of the OSCE’s 57 participating States.
Opening the meeting, Ambassador Igli Hasani, Chair of the Permanent Council, reiterated the Chairmanship’s alarm at the ongoing clashes and deterioration of the situation on the ground. Dismayed by the rising number of casualties, he repeated the OSCE Chairmanship’s call for an immediate de-escalation and offered condolences to the families and loved ones of those killed and injured.
Briefing the Permanent Council, Personal Representative of the Chairperson-in-Office, Ambassador Andrzej Kasprzyk, said he was receiving information directly from the ground and local interlocutors at the highest level. Ambassador Kasprzyk said he was in constant communication with the sides, and said his team were ready to resume monitoring on the ground as soon as the situation permits.
Representatives of the Minsk Group Co-Chair countries – France, Russian Federation and the United States of America – reiterated the Co-Chairs’ appeal to all sides to cease hostilities immediately and to resume negotiations to find a sustainable resolution to the conflict.
The Albanian OSCE Chairmanship repeated the importance of a negotiated solution and its support for the work of the Minsk Group Co-Chairs and Ambassador Kasprzyk in their efforts to stabilize the situation on the ground.


osce--2020-09-29--OSCE parliamentarians share national experiences on questions of autonomy at high-level forum

COPENHAGEN , 29 September 2020 – Balanced integration policies , supported by carefully negotiated forms of territorial autonomy , are key to preventing the risks , crises and conflicts possibly resulting from the increasing diversity within our societies , participants heard today at an online forum initiated and hosted by the Office of the OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities .
Focused specifically on the Moldovan experience with regional autonomy , the event was co-hosted with the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly and the Moldovan Parliament , and was addressed by PA President George Tsereteli ( Georgia ) .
The high-level dialogue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Strategy for Inclusive Governance : International Practice and Moldovan Experience , ” also featured participation by OSCE PA Treasurer and Head of the Danish Delegation Peter Juel-Jensen , who spoke about Greenland ’ s model of working autonomy , as well as other members of parliament .
Emphasizing the importance of well-equipped local institutions , President Tsereteli said in his opening remarks that decentralization in itself is not the solution to build more resilient regions .
“ While it is important to leave room for local initiatives , the key is to promote @ @ @ @ @ @ @ authorities to ensure better coordination and effective responses , ” Tsereteli said .
He underlined the need to use all available tools to prevent , mediate , and peacefully resolve conflicts .
“ The High Commissioner on National Minorities is one of these instruments , ” Tsereteli said .
“ Over the past quarter century , the High Commissioner ’ s tireless efforts have prevented more than one conflict from boiling over by assisting participating States to de-escalate inter-ethnic tensions.
” Juel-Jensen noted that questions of autonomy are always complicated and stressed that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ based on mutual respect and understanding .
He provided an overview of the relationship between Greenland and Denmark , noting that after centuries as a colony , Greenland has had self-government since 1979 .
Greenlanders control local administration , including questions of taxation , environmental protection and management of natural resources .
Denmark consults Greenland closely on military and security policy , and provides vital economic support , he said .
Also offering a parliamentary perspective at the event were MP Mats Löfström , who represents the autonomous Aaland Islands in the Finnish @ @ @ @ @ @ @ including Speaker Zinaida Greceanii and Deputy Speaker Vlad Batrîncea , as well as members of the Moldovan PA delegation .
Former OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities and current OSCE PA consultant Lamberto Zannier addressed the opening session and moderated session two , focused on creating political conditions for functioning Gagauz autonomy in Moldova .
Ambassador Zannier highlighted in his remarks the importance of investing in education to create conditions to facilitate integration while preserving cultural identity .
The event was moderated by Christophe Kamp , Director and Officer-in-Charge , Office of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Other speakers included Gianni Buquicchio , President of the Venice Commission , Council of Europe ; and Claus Neukirch , Head of the OSCE Mission to Moldova .

COPENHAGEN, 29 September 2020 – Balanced integration policies, supported by carefully negotiated forms of territorial autonomy, are key to preventing the risks, crises and conflicts possibly resulting from the increasing diversity within our societies, participants heard today at an online forum initiated and hosted by the Office of the OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities. Focused specifically on the Moldovan experience with regional autonomy, the event was co-hosted with the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly and the Moldovan Parliament, and was addressed by PA President George Tsereteli (Georgia).
The high-level dialogue, entitled “Functioning Autonomy as a Strategy for Inclusive Governance: International Practice and Moldovan Experience,” also featured participation by OSCE PA Treasurer and Head of the Danish Delegation Peter Juel-Jensen, who spoke about Greenland’s model of working autonomy, as well as other members of parliament.
Emphasizing the importance of well-equipped local institutions, President Tsereteli said in his opening remarks that decentralization in itself is not the solution to build more resilient regions. “While it is important to leave room for local initiatives, the key is to promote a continuous dialogue between national and subnational authorities to ensure better coordination and effective responses,” Tsereteli said.
He underlined the need to use all available tools to prevent, mediate, and peacefully resolve conflicts. “The High Commissioner on National Minorities is one of these instruments,” Tsereteli said. “Over the past quarter century, the High Commissioner’s tireless efforts have prevented more than one conflict from boiling over by assisting participating States to de-escalate inter-ethnic tensions.”
Juel-Jensen noted that questions of autonomy are always complicated and stressed that to be successful, autonomy must be based on mutual respect and understanding. He provided an overview of the relationship between Greenland and Denmark, noting that after centuries as a colony, Greenland has had self-government since 1979. Greenlanders control local administration, including questions of taxation, environmental protection and management of natural resources. Denmark consults Greenland closely on military and security policy, and provides vital economic support, he said.
Also offering a parliamentary perspective at the event were MP Mats Löfström, who represents the autonomous Aaland Islands in the Finnish Parliament, and several Moldovan parliamentarians, including Speaker Zinaida Greceanii and Deputy Speaker Vlad Batrîncea, as well as members of the Moldovan PA delegation.
Former OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities and current OSCE PA consultant Lamberto Zannier addressed the opening session and moderated session two, focused on creating political conditions for functioning Gagauz autonomy in Moldova. Ambassador Zannier highlighted in his remarks the importance of investing in education to create conditions to facilitate integration while preserving cultural identity.
The event was moderated by Christophe Kamp, Director and Officer-in-Charge, Office of the OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities. Other speakers included Gianni Buquicchio, President of the Venice Commission, Council of Europe; and Claus Neukirch, Head of the OSCE Mission to Moldova.


osce--2020-09-29--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 232/2020 issued on 29 September 2020


osce--2020-09-29--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 29 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 Mission is supported administratively by a staff member and the Chief of Fund Administration based in Vienna .
Activities have been impacted by COVID-19 and measures undertaken by the OM @ @ @ @ @ @ @ care of its Mission members and compliance with measures set by the host country authorities .
The Mission is continuing to keep the situation under review , in close contact with the OSCE Secretariat and the Chairmanship .
Following the host country recommendations , the observers are adhering to social distancing .
Due to the preventive measures taken by the central and regional authorities , the OM is faced with certain difficulties , but is still able to continue to fulfil its mandate without any limitations in its observation and reporting activities .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ can be categorized as follows : • Adults travelling on foot or by car with little or no luggage .
• Families ( often including elderly persons and/or children ) travelling on foot or by car with a significant amount of luggage .
The average number of entries/exits significantly decreased from 10,270 to 8,353 per day at both BCPs compared to last week [ 2 ] .
During the reporting period , the majority of border crossings were to Ukraine , with an average net flow of 167 per day for both BCPs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ much more traffic than the Gukovo BCP .
Responding to the COVID-19 situation , the host country has closed its borders for the majority of foreigners starting from 18 March .
Among the exceptions of persons allowed to cross the border ( which entered into force on 19 March ) , are Ukrainian citizens and stateless persons holding passports or identification documents proving permanent residence in certain areas of Luhansk and Donetsk regions of Ukraine .
In addition , reportedly , due to the threat of the spread of COVID-19 , starting from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ commuting between the non-government-controlled areas of Luhansk region of Ukraine and the Russian Federation was temporarily suspended and restored from 25 June .
During the reporting period , the number of persons in military style outfits crossing the border was one , compared to one last week .
No persons crossed into the Russian Federation while one crossed into Ukraine .
This individual crossed the border on foot .
The OTs continued to report on families , sometimes with elderly persons and/or children , crossing the border at both BCPs with a significant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ heavily loaded cars .
During this reporting week , seven families were observed crossing into the Russian Federation while another two families were observed crossing into Ukraine , compared to the previous reporting period when five families were observed crossing to the Russian Federation , while another three families crossed into Ukraine .
Regular local and long-distance bus connections continued to operate between Ukraine ( mostly from/to the Luhansk region ) and the Russian Federation .
During the reporting period , the OTs observed a decrease in the overall number of buses crossing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ compared to 364 observed during the previous week ) .
There were 151 buses bound for the Russian Federation and 153 bound for Ukraine .
On some occasions , the OTs noticed the bus drivers removing the itinerary signs from the windshields of their buses , while some buses did not display their route at all .
The majority of long-distance buses commuting between the Luhansk region and cities in the Russian Federation had Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region .
During the reporting period , the OTs observed an increase @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the border at both BCPs ( 1,047 compared to 988 during the previous reporting week ) ; 654 at the Gukovo BCP and 393 at the Donetsk BCP , 622 of these trucks crossed into the Russian Federation and 425 crossed into Ukraine .
Most of the trucks observed by the OTs had Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region ; however , on a daily basis , the OTs also noted trucks registered in the Russian Federation , Belarus , Ukraine and trucks with “ LPR ” plates .
The OTs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the border in both directions .
During the reporting period , the OTs observed just a slight increase in the overall number of tanker trucks crossing the border at both BCPs ( 53 compared to 52 during the previous reporting week ) .
These trucks were observed crossing the border at both BCPs .
The trucks had the words “ Propane ” and “ Flammable ” written across the tanks in either Russian or Ukrainian .
The majority of tanker trucks had hazard signs , indicating that they were transporting propane or a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trucks underwent systematic inspection by the Russian Federation officials , which could include an X-ray check .
Due to the unfavourable observation position at the Gukovo BCP , the OTs continued to be unable to observe any X-ray checks .
During the reporting period , the X-ray vehicle at the Donetsk BCP was not operating due to the ongoing construction activities ; consequently , no X-ray checks were observed by the OTs .
The OM continued to observe passenger and cargo minivans [ 3 ] crossing the border in both directions at both @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region ; however , the OTs also saw minivans registered in the Russian Federation .
During the reporting period , the OTs observed a decrease in the overall number of minivans crossing the border at both BCPs ( 138 compared to 160 observed during the previous week ) ; 67 crossed into the Russian Federation and another 71 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trains on 40 occasions ; the OTs assessed that 19 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 .
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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crossing the border in both directions on a daily basis .
The OTs also observed cars with licence plates registered in Georgia , Lithuania and Poland .
During the reporting week , the OTs at the Donetsk BCP observed ambulances on two separate occasions : On 26 October at 21:13 , the OT observed an ambulance with Russian Federation licence plates , entering the BCP from the Russian Federation and parking next to the main building .
At 21:23 , the ambulance drove back to the Russian Federation with one patient on board @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the OT observed an ambulance with Russian Federation licence plates , bearing the inscription `` Children Reanimation - Urgent Medical Help 148 '' ( in Russian ) on the side and a red cross on the front and rear of the vehicle , entering the BCP from Ukraine .
The OT noticed two individuals on board with no uniforms .
After undergoing border control procedures , the ambulance crossed into the Russian Federation at 06:59 .
For trends and figures at a glance covering the period from 25 August to 29 September 2020 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 ) .

SUMMARY
Kamensk-Shakhtinskiy, Russian Federation. The Observer Mission (OM) continues to operate 24/7 at both Border Crossing Points (BCPs). The overall number of border crossings by persons decreased at both BCPs compared to the previous week.
OPERATIONAL REMARKS
The OM is currently operating with 22 permanent international Mission members, including the Chief Observer (CO) and one first responder[1]. The Mission is supported administratively by a staff member and the Chief of Fund Administration based in Vienna.
Update on COVID-19 measures
Activities have been impacted by COVID-19 and measures undertaken by the OM to ensure the safety and duty of care of its Mission members and compliance with measures set by the host country authorities. The Mission is continuing to keep the situation under review, in close contact with the OSCE Secretariat and the Chairmanship. Following the host country recommendations, the observers are adhering to social distancing. Due to the preventive measures taken by the central and regional authorities, the OM is faced with certain difficulties, but is still able to continue to fulfil its mandate without any limitations in its observation and reporting activities.
OBSERVATIONS AT THE BORDER CROSSING POINTS
Persons crossing the border
The profile of persons crossing the border can be categorized as follows:
Adults travelling on foot or by car with little or no luggage. Persons in military-style outfits. Families (often including elderly persons and/or children) travelling on foot or by car with a significant amount of luggage.
The average number of entries/exits significantly decreased from 10,270 to 8,353 per day at both BCPs compared to last week[2].
During the reporting period, the majority of border crossings were to Ukraine, with an average net flow of 167 per day for both BCPs. The Donetsk BCP continued to experience much more traffic than the Gukovo BCP.
Responding to the COVID-19 situation, the host country has closed its borders for the majority of foreigners starting from 18 March. Among the exceptions of persons allowed to cross the border (which entered into force on 19 March), are Ukrainian citizens and stateless persons holding passports or identification documents proving permanent residence in certain areas of Luhansk and Donetsk regions of Ukraine. In addition, reportedly, due to the threat of the spread of COVID-19, starting from 10 April, the organized passenger transport commuting between the non-government-controlled areas of Luhansk region of Ukraine and the Russian Federation was temporarily suspended and restored from 25 June.
Persons in military-style outfits
During the reporting period, the number of persons in military style outfits crossing the border was one, compared to one last week. No persons crossed into the Russian Federation while one crossed into Ukraine. This individual crossed the border on foot.
Families with a significant amount of luggage
The OTs continued to report on families, sometimes with elderly persons and/or children, crossing the border at both BCPs with a significant amount of luggage, or travelling in heavily loaded cars. During this reporting week, seven families were observed crossing into the Russian Federation while another two families were observed crossing into Ukraine, compared to the previous reporting period when five 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 a decrease in the overall number of buses crossing the border at both BCPs (304 compared to 364 observed during the previous week). There were 151 buses bound for the Russian Federation and 153 bound for Ukraine.
On some occasions, the OTs noticed the bus drivers removing the itinerary signs from the windshields of their buses, while some buses did not display their route at all. The majority of long-distance buses commuting between the Luhansk region and cities in the Russian Federation had Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region.
Trucks
During the reporting period, the OTs observed an increase in the overall number of trucks crossing the border at both BCPs (1,047 compared to 988 during the previous reporting week); 654 at the Gukovo BCP and 393 at the Donetsk BCP, 622 of these trucks crossed into the Russian Federation and 425 crossed into Ukraine. Most of the trucks observed by the OTs had Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region; however, on a daily basis, the OTs also noted trucks registered in the Russian Federation, Belarus, Ukraine and trucks with “LPR” plates.
The OTs also continued to observe tanker trucks crossing the border in both directions. During the reporting period, the OTs observed just a slight increase in the overall number of tanker trucks crossing the border at both BCPs (53 compared to 52 during the previous reporting week). These trucks were observed crossing the border at both BCPs. The trucks had the words “Propane” and “Flammable” written across the tanks in either Russian or Ukrainian. The majority of tanker trucks had hazard signs, indicating that they were transporting propane or a mix of propane and butane. All trucks underwent systematic inspection by the Russian Federation officials, which could include an X-ray check. Due to the unfavourable observation position at the Gukovo BCP, the OTs continued to be unable to observe any X-ray checks.
During the reporting period, the X-ray vehicle at the Donetsk BCP was not operating due to the ongoing construction activities; consequently, no X-ray checks were observed by the OTs.
Minivans
The OM continued to observe passenger and cargo minivans[3] crossing the border in both directions at both BCPs. The OTs observed minivans predominantly with Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region; however, the OTs also saw minivans registered in the Russian Federation. During the reporting period, the OTs observed a decrease in the overall number of minivans crossing the border at both BCPs (138 compared to 160 observed during the previous week); 67 crossed into the Russian Federation and another 71 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 40 occasions; the OTs assessed that 19 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 Georgia, Lithuania and Poland.
During the reporting week, the OTs at the Donetsk BCP observed ambulances on two separate occasions:
On 26 October at 21:13, the OT observed an ambulance with Russian Federation licence plates, entering the BCP from the Russian Federation and parking next to the main building. At 21:23, the ambulance drove back to the Russian Federation with one patient on board.
On 29 October at 06:51, the OT observed an ambulance with Russian Federation licence plates, bearing the inscription "Children Reanimation - Urgent Medical Help 148" (in Russian) on the side and a red cross on the front and rear of the vehicle, entering the BCP from Ukraine. The OT noticed two individuals on board with no uniforms. After undergoing border control procedures, the ambulance crossed into the Russian Federation at 06:59.
For trends and figures at a glance covering the period from 25 August to 29 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--2020-09-29--OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan hosts high-level event on the occasion of International Day

OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan hosts high-level event on the occasion of International Day on Universal Access to Information

On 28 September 2020 , the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan ( PCUz ) organized a high-level conference to mark International Day on Universal Access to Information ( IDUAI ) .
The event was organized in co-operation with the Public Foundation for Support and Development of National Mass Media .
The event recognized the significance of access to information , after the 74th UN General Assembly proclaimed 28 September as International Day for Universal Access to Information ( IDUAI ) in October 2019 .
This year , IDUAI will be focused on the right to information in times of crisis @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , statutory and/or policy guarantees for public access to information to save lives , build trust and help the formulation of sustainable policies through and beyond the COVID-19 crisis .
Over 200 participants attended the event where they discussed the importance and methods to reach universal access to information .
Participants were invited from Uzbekistan , the OSCE area and beyond .
Representatives from Asia and the Middle East , working in the field of media , access to information , broadcasting companies , research centres specialized in Central Asia , in non-governmental @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Key speakers included Tuula Yrjölä , Officer-in-Charge/OSCE Secretary General , Jürgen Heissel , Director of the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media , Ambassador Ulrika Funered , Permanent Representative of Sweden to the OSCE and Chairperson of the OSCE Permanent Council in 2021 , Melissa Fleming , United Nations Under-Secretary for Global Communications , Helena Fraser , United Nations Resident Coordinator in Uzbekistan , Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of the Foundation , Komil Allamjonov and Saida Mirziyoyeva , respectively .
They focused on the importance of universal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and media reforms compliant with international commitments .
“ There are multiple OSCE commitments that relate to the public ’ s right to access information , ” said John MacGregor , OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan .
“ Noting that the public ’ s ‘ need to know ’ is particularly acute in light of the worldwide pandemic , I am very pleased to co-operate and collaborate with the Public Foundation for Support and Development of National Mass Media , an Uzbek NGO , to mark International Day for Universal Access to Information @ @ @ @ @ @ @

On 28 September 2020, the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan (PCUz) organized a high-level conference to mark International Day on Universal Access to Information (IDUAI). The event was organized in co-operation with the Public Foundation for Support and Development of National Mass Media.
The event recognized the significance of access to information, after the 74th UN General Assembly proclaimed 28 September as International Day for Universal Access to Information (IDUAI) in October 2019. This year, IDUAI will be focused on the right to information in times of crisis and on the advantages of having constitutional, statutory and/or policy guarantees for public access to information to save lives, build trust and help the formulation of sustainable policies through and beyond the COVID-19 crisis.
Over 200 participants attended the event where they discussed the importance and methods to reach universal access to information. Participants were invited from Uzbekistan, the OSCE area and beyond. Representatives from Asia and the Middle East, working in the field of media, access to information, broadcasting companies, research centres specialized in Central Asia, in non-governmental organizations, and think tanks attended.
Key speakers included Tuula Yrjölä, Officer-in-Charge/OSCE Secretary General, Jürgen Heissel, Director of the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, Ambassador Ulrika Funered, Permanent Representative of Sweden to the OSCE and Chairperson of the OSCE Permanent Council in 2021, Melissa Fleming, United Nations Under-Secretary for Global Communications, Helena Fraser, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Uzbekistan, Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of the Foundation, Komil Allamjonov and Saida Mirziyoyeva, respectively. They focused on the importance of universal access to information, open data policies and media reforms compliant with international commitments.
“There are multiple OSCE commitments that relate to the public’s right to access information,” said John MacGregor, OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan. “Noting that the public’s ‘need to know’ is particularly acute in light of the worldwide pandemic, I am very pleased to co-operate and collaborate with the Public Foundation for Support and Development of National Mass Media, an Uzbek NGO, to mark International Day for Universal Access to Information with such a high-level event.”


osce--2020-09-29--Croatia parliamentary elections 2020: ODIHR Election Assessment Mission Final Report

This year ’ s parliamentary elections in Croatia were professionally managed , competitive and pluralistic despite challenges arising from the COVID-19 pandemic .
These are some of the main conclusions from the final report on the 5 July 2020 Croatian parliamentary elections , as published by the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights ( ODIHR ) .
Voters were provided with a wide range of political alternatives and adequate information about candidates .
The COVID-19 pandemic constituted a clear challenge for all electoral stakeholders .
Nevertheless , the election administration ensured a well-managed process , despite the fact @ @ @ @ @ @ @ before election day .
However , the principle of equality of the vote was undermined by the absence of regular review of constituency boundaries together with deviations in the size of in-country constituencies .
The report offers 21 recommendations to improve the conduct of elections in Croatia and to support efforts in aligning them with OSCE commitments , as well as other international obligations and standards for democratic elections .
• Ensuring the equality of the vote through a periodic review of constituency boundaries accounting for changes in voter and population numbers • @ @ @ @ @ @ @ harmonization of applicable provisions • Decriminalizing defamation and insult , and reviewing civil remedies designed to restore the reputation by taking into consideration the level of harm caused • Defining more clearly the scope of jurisdiction of institutions responsible for oversight and the availability of enforcement mechanisms .

This year’s parliamentary elections in Croatia were professionally managed, competitive and pluralistic despite challenges arising from the COVID-19 pandemic. These are some of the main conclusions from the final report on the 5 July 2020 Croatian parliamentary elections, as published by the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR).
Voters were provided with a wide range of political alternatives and adequate information about candidates. The COVID-19 pandemic constituted a clear challenge for all electoral stakeholders. Nevertheless, the election administration ensured a well-managed process, despite the fact that some procedures were only adopted shortly before election day.
However, the principle of equality of the vote was undermined by the absence of regular review of constituency boundaries together with deviations in the size of in-country constituencies.
The report offers 21 recommendations to improve the conduct of elections in Croatia and to support efforts in aligning them with OSCE commitments, as well as other international obligations and standards for democratic elections.
Key recommendations include:


osce--2020-09-28--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 231/2020 issued on 28 September 2020


osce--2020-09-28--OSCE Annual Police Experts Meeting: Good relations between police and media can raise public confide

OSCE Annual Police Experts Meeting: Good relations between police and media can raise public confidence, help solve crimes, keep communities safe

VIENNA , 28 September 2020 – A healthy relationship between the police and the media can increase public confidence in law enforcement , help solve crimes and ultimately keep communities safe , said opening speakers of the 2020 OSCE Annual Police Experts Meeting ( APEM ) , held in Vienna and online today .
This year ’ s APEM , entitled “ Police and the Media : Co-operation in the Public Interest ” , brought together over 200 law enforcement practitioners ; government officials ; representatives of OSCE delegations , regional and international organizations ; researchers , journalists and media @ @ @ @ @ @ @ participating States and Partners for Co-operation .
Participants acknowledged that direct communication with citizens via diverse media platforms have become an integral part of modern policing .
In their efforts to share information and increase public confidence as well as prevent and reduce crime , police agencies are increasingly establishing specialized public relations and media units .
Opening the meeting on behalf of Albania ’ s 2020 OSCE Chairmanship , the country ’ s Deputy Minister of Interior , Romina Kuko , said : “ Contemporary developments in the field of communication , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ revolutionized the approach to events , news or communication style .
Media already has access to almost unlimited information , meanwhile , the police , or any law enforcement organization , have an open field to collect first-hand evidence directly from the media .
This situation requires for both parties ( with opposing interests at first sight ) to accept an indefinite co-operation contract , for the benefit of their work , but essentially for the benefit of the public.
” Considering widespread public access to social media , these platforms are increasingly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for directly communicating information to the public , and can help to detect crime , said Ambassador Luca Fratini , Director of the Office of the OSCE Secretary General .
“ On the one hand , social media platforms have provided new tools for the police to directly engage the public , ” he said .
“ On the other hand , targeted disinformation channelled through social media can inflict harm to public order , as well as lead to distrust towards law enforcement and feelings of insecurity among the public .
… @ @ @ @ @ @ @ respect for human rights , including freedom of expression and freedom of assembly , is a principal way to counteract false and misleading messages , and avoid their actual and/or potential harm to society.
” As the media play an important watchdog role in democratic societies , journalists should enjoy safe access to report on public events at all times , including when covering demonstrations , unrest , catastrophic events and other public security incidents , noted Jürgen Heissel , Director of the OSCE Office of the Representative on Freedom of the Media @ @ @ @ @ @ @ enforcement officials are first in line when it comes to the protection of journalists .
Together with the judiciary , they play a crucial role in protecting journalists and safeguarding a conducive media environment , both online and offline , and in combating impunity for crimes against media workers.
” Participants discussed good practices and lessons learned over the course of the one-day event .
The meeting ’ s first session discussed organizational changes and developments of skills and competencies within police agencies in public relations and media communications .
Later , participants @ @ @ @ @ @ @ challenges for the police with the expansion and advancement of social media .
The final session was dedicated to the relationship and communication between the police and the media in crises and during high-risk events .
Freedom of the media , journalists ’ access to information and the safety of journalists were also covered .
Albania ’ s 2020 OSCE Chairmanship and the Strategic Police Matters Unit of the OSCE Secretariat ’ s Transnational Threats Department organized the event .
The main findings and outcomes of the meeting will be compiled in a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ basis for further discussions on its topics at the national , regional and international level , and as guidance for the OSCE when developing and providing capacity-building and technical assistance to the participating States and Partners for Co-operation .

VIENNA, 28 September 2020 – A healthy relationship between the police and the media can increase public confidence in law enforcement, help solve crimes and ultimately keep communities safe, said opening speakers of the 2020 OSCE Annual Police Experts Meeting (APEM), held in Vienna and online today.
This year’s APEM, entitled “Police and the Media: Co-operation in the Public Interest”, brought together over 200 law enforcement practitioners; government officials; representatives of OSCE delegations, regional and international organizations; researchers, journalists and media experts, and civil society from OSCE participating States and Partners for Co-operation.
Participants acknowledged that direct communication with citizens via diverse media platforms have become an integral part of modern policing. In their efforts to share information and increase public confidence as well as prevent and reduce crime, police agencies are increasingly establishing specialized public relations and media units.
Opening the meeting on behalf of Albania’s 2020 OSCE Chairmanship, the country’s Deputy Minister of Interior, Romina Kuko, said: “Contemporary developments in the field of communication, digital technology and social media, have revolutionized the approach to events, news or communication style. Media already has access to almost unlimited information, meanwhile, the police, or any law enforcement organization, have an open field to collect first-hand evidence directly from the media. This situation requires for both parties (with opposing interests at first sight) to accept an indefinite co-operation contract, for the benefit of their work, but essentially for the benefit of the public.”
Considering widespread public access to social media, these platforms are increasingly becoming the preferred strategy of the police for directly communicating information to the public, and can help to detect crime, said Ambassador Luca Fratini, Director of the Office of the OSCE Secretary General.
“On the one hand, social media platforms have provided new tools for the police to directly engage the public,” he said. “On the other hand, targeted disinformation channelled through social media can inflict harm to public order, as well as lead to distrust towards law enforcement and feelings of insecurity among the public. … Transparency of the police work and its respect for human rights, including freedom of expression and freedom of assembly, is a principal way to counteract false and misleading messages, and avoid their actual and/or potential harm to society.”
As the media play an important watchdog role in democratic societies, journalists should enjoy safe access to report on public events at all times, including when covering demonstrations, unrest, catastrophic events and other public security incidents, noted Jürgen Heissel, Director of the OSCE Office of the Representative on Freedom of the Media.
He added: “Oftentimes law enforcement officials are first in line when it comes to the protection of journalists. Together with the judiciary, they play a crucial role in protecting journalists and safeguarding a conducive media environment, both online and offline, and in combating impunity for crimes against media workers.”
Participants discussed good practices and lessons learned over the course of the one-day event.
The meeting’s first session discussed organizational changes and developments of skills and competencies within police agencies in public relations and media communications. Later, participants focused on new opportunities as well as challenges for the police with the expansion and advancement of social media. The final session was dedicated to the relationship and communication between the police and the media in crises and during high-risk events. Freedom of the media, journalists’ access to information and the safety of journalists were also covered.
Albania’s 2020 OSCE Chairmanship and the Strategic Police Matters Unit of the OSCE Secretariat’s Transnational Threats Department organized the event.
The main findings and outcomes of the meeting will be compiled in a report, which will serve as a basis for further discussions on its topics at the national, regional and international level, and as guidance for the OSCE when developing and providing capacity-building and technical assistance to the participating States and Partners for Co-operation.


osce--2020-09-28--OSCE Presence in Albania empowers youth to address security challenges in their communities

Ninety young women and men from several regions of Albania participated in a series of workshops on youth empowerment organized by the OSCE Presence from 3 to 25 September 2020 .
Throughout the events that took place in Shkodra , Mirdita , Përmet , Pogradec and Korça , the Presence aimed at helping young people become among the key players in identifying and addressing the security challenges in their communities .
It also aimed at strengthening co-operation between community and institutions .
Among the topics discussed at these events were new security challenges facing young people , the prevention of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Local Safety Councils , the role and responsibilities of school security officers , mediation and conflict resolution skills , and domestic violence and gender-based violence in Albania .
“ The energy and engagement of the young people on security matters makes us optimistic that they will be among the most active voices to boost co-operation and co-ordination between institutions and the community to improve community safety , ” said Brunilda Halili , National Community Safety Officer at the OSCE Presence in Albania .
The Presence will also continue supporting young people from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their awareness and empowering them to address security challenges in their communities .

Ninety young women and men from several regions of Albania participated in a series of workshops on youth empowerment organized by the OSCE Presence from 3 to 25 September 2020. Throughout the events that took place in Shkodra, Mirdita, Përmet, Pogradec and Korça, the Presence aimed at helping young people become among the key players in identifying and addressing the security challenges in their communities. It also aimed at strengthening co-operation between community and institutions.
Among the topics discussed at these events were new security challenges facing young people, the prevention of radicalization and violent extremism, youth engagement in Local Safety Councils, the role and responsibilities of school security officers, mediation and conflict resolution skills, and domestic violence and gender-based violence in Albania.
“The energy and engagement of the young people on security matters makes us optimistic that they will be among the most active voices to boost co-operation and co-ordination between institutions and the community to improve community safety,” said Brunilda Halili, National Community Safety Officer at the OSCE Presence in Albania.
The Presence will also continue supporting young people from across the country in 2021 by raising their awareness and empowering them to address security challenges in their communities.


osce--2020-09-28--Progress and challenges over three decades of safeguarding democracy and human rights: OSCE webinar

Progress and challenges over three decades of safeguarding democracy and human rights: OSCE webinar series begins today

WARSAW/VIENNA , 28 September 2020 – The increasing challenges to the rights and freedoms at the heart of the OSCE commitments to human rights and democracy made 30 years ago , as well as the need for a greater understanding that only a dialogue based on mutual respect will enable us to overcome our common challenges , form the backdrop for a month-long series of webinars beginning today .
The webinars , organized by the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights ( ODIHR ) in co-operation with the office of the Representative on Freedom of the Media ( RFoM @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Commissioner on National Minorities ( HCNM ) , and with the support of Albania ’ s 2020 OSCE Chairmanship , will focus on topical issues of human rights , democracy and the rule of law that are critical for maintaining and strengthening security throughout the OSCE region .
“ OSCE countries recognized 30 years ago that the security of citizens is only possible when their human rights are fully respected , ” said Katarzyna Gardapkhadze on behalf of ODIHR .
“ The times we are living through are difficult , but they offer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with both hands .
We look forward to seeing governments and civil society come together at these webinars to discuss how to turn these opportunities into reality for all.
” It was 30 years ago in Copenhagen and Paris that the participating States of the OSCE committed themselves to further protect and promote the human rights and fundamental freedoms of all citizens , as well as strengthen democracy and the rule of law .
The 1990 Copenhagen Document and the Paris Charter for a New Europe were milestones in the history of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the entire region , an area of more than one billion citizens .
They cemented the Organization ’ s unique concept of security in which only pluralistic democracies , based on the rule of law and respect for human rights , can bring lasting security to the region .
“ These webinars on some of the most urgent challenges for democracy and human rights are particularly important in this exceptional year , which has been overshadowed by the COVID-19 pandemic and its aftermath , ” said Inid Milo , Head of Albania ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ OSCE states and civil society will come together for what we hope are frank and open discussions , leading to real solutions that benefit citizens across the OSCE region.
” The series will open today with reflections from former Finnish President Tarja Halonen , the first woman to hold the country ’ s highest post , on the situation of human rights and democracy 30 years after Copenhagen .
She said : “ We must keep in mind the optimism and inspiration we had 30 years ago when making the Copenhagen and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ever more important to continue to defend the rules-based international order , promote and protect human rights and work to achieve sustainable development.
” The webinars will also discuss the importance of building and nurturing diverse and inclusive societies , which are able to learn more quickly from different ideas and traditions , and at the same time are more resilient during periods of crisis .
“ The basic logic of integrating diversity is that everybody ’ s opinion matters and that all members of society are equal , ” said Christophe Kamp @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vital that we strike a balance between majority and minority interests that allow everyone to maintain their individual identities , while at the same time realizing and valuing our shared interests .
Thirty years on , the Copenhagen Document continues to provide a clear compass for achieving this.
” The ever-increasing role of technology in our lives , as well as a decline in government transparency in some places , have brought new challenges to freedom of expression and freedom of the media , as well as access to information .
Not only @ @ @ @ @ @ @ commitments to human rights and democracy , but they are vital tools for countering disinformation and ensuring a well-informed public debate .
“ For our democracies to be both stable and vibrant , we need to encourage , facilitate and support the sharing of information , ideas and expertise , ” said Jürgen Heissel of RFoM .
“ OSCE countries recognized the important role of journalism , an independent media , and a lively cultural environment 30 years ago to achieve these goals , and this remains just as true today.
” In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pandemic and its impact on our lives and societies , this series of webinars does not aim to cover the entire spectrum of the activities of ODIHR , RFoM or HCNM .
At the same time , they will provide a much-needed opportunity to discuss tolerance and non-discrimination ; the situation of Roma and Sinti ; the rule of law ; freedom of the media and access to information ; multilingual education ; and , finally , the role of human rights defenders and civil society in promoting and protecting human rights .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ put their questions or make recommendations via Zoom .
For more information and programme updates , please see the dedicated webpage with links to the individual events .
Interested media and members of the public can watch the discussions live on ODIHR ’ s Facebook page .

WARSAW/VIENNA, 28 September 2020 – The increasing challenges to the rights and freedoms at the heart of the OSCE commitments to human rights and democracy made 30 years ago, as well as the need for a greater understanding that only a dialogue based on mutual respect will enable us to overcome our common challenges, form the backdrop for a month-long series of webinars beginning today.
The webinars, organized by the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) in co-operation with the office of the Representative on Freedom of the Media (RFoM) and the office of the High Commissioner on National Minorities (HCNM), and with the support of Albania’s 2020 OSCE Chairmanship, will focus on topical issues of human rights, democracy and the rule of law that are critical for maintaining and strengthening security throughout the OSCE region.
“OSCE countries recognized 30 years ago that the security of citizens is only possible when their human rights are fully respected,” said Katarzyna Gardapkhadze on behalf of ODIHR. “The times we are living through are difficult, but they offer opportunities for progress that we must grasp with both hands. We look forward to seeing governments and civil society come together at these webinars to discuss how to turn these opportunities into reality for all.”
It was 30 years ago in Copenhagen and Paris that the participating States of the OSCE committed themselves to further protect and promote the human rights and fundamental freedoms of all citizens, as well as strengthen democracy and the rule of law. The 1990 Copenhagen Document and the Paris Charter for a New Europe were milestones in the history of the OSCE and represented landmark political agreements for the entire region, an area of more than one billion citizens. They cemented the Organization’s unique concept of security in which only pluralistic democracies, based on the rule of law and respect for human rights, can bring lasting security to the region.
“These webinars on some of the most urgent challenges for democracy and human rights are particularly important in this exceptional year, which has been overshadowed by the COVID-19 pandemic and its aftermath,” said Inid Milo, Head of Albania’s 2020 OSCE Chairmanship Task Force. “OSCE states and civil society will come together for what we hope are frank and open discussions, leading to real solutions that benefit citizens across the OSCE region.”
The series will open today with reflections from former Finnish President Tarja Halonen, the first woman to hold the country’s highest post, on the situation of human rights and democracy 30 years after Copenhagen. She said:
“We must keep in mind the optimism and inspiration we had 30 years ago when making the Copenhagen and Paris commitments. Today, it is ever more important to continue to defend the rules-based international order, promote and protect human rights and work to achieve sustainable development.”
The webinars will also discuss the importance of building and nurturing diverse and inclusive societies, which are able to learn more quickly from different ideas and traditions, and at the same time are more resilient during periods of crisis.
“The basic logic of integrating diversity is that everybody’s opinion matters and that all members of society are equal,” said Christophe Kamp of the HCNM. “It is vital that we strike a balance between majority and minority interests that allow everyone to maintain their individual identities, while at the same time realizing and valuing our shared interests. Thirty years on, the Copenhagen Document continues to provide a clear compass for achieving this.”
The ever-increasing role of technology in our lives, as well as a decline in government transparency in some places, have brought new challenges to freedom of expression and freedom of the media, as well as access to information. Not only are these freedoms cornerstones of the OSCE commitments to human rights and democracy, but they are vital tools for countering disinformation and ensuring a well-informed public debate.
“For our democracies to be both stable and vibrant, we need to encourage, facilitate and support the sharing of information, ideas and expertise,” said Jürgen Heissel of RFoM. “OSCE countries recognized the important role of journalism, an independent media, and a lively cultural environment 30 years ago to achieve these goals, and this remains just as true today.”
In a year affected overwhelmingly by the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on our lives and societies, this series of webinars does not aim to cover the entire spectrum of the activities of ODIHR, RFoM or HCNM. At the same time, they will provide a much-needed opportunity to discuss tolerance and non-discrimination; the situation of Roma and Sinti; the rule of law; freedom of the media and access to information; multilingual education; and, finally, the role of human rights defenders and civil society in promoting and protecting human rights. Participants will be given an opportunity to put their questions or make recommendations via Zoom.
For more information and programme updates, please see the dedicated webpage with links to the individual events. Interested media and members of the public can watch the discussions live on ODIHR’s Facebook page.