osce--2020-07-02--Threats to media freedom and to work of journalists on the rise, said OSCE Media Freedom Representat

Threats to media freedom and to work of journalists on the rise, said OSCE Media Freedom Representative Désir at Permanent Council meeting in Vienna

VIENNA , 2 July 2020 – The press is in danger in too many places in the OSCE region , said OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media , Harlem Désir , as he presented his biannual report to the OSCE Permanent Council in Vienna today .
The COVID-19 pandemic has only aggravated this situation , as it amplified existing trends and added a new layer of problems to the existing ones , including the dire economic situation many media are currently facing .
“ Threats to media freedom and the work of journalists are on the rise .
It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ better protection for journalistic work , to combat impunity of crimes committed against journalists , to respect the independence of the press and freedom of expression , and to support pluralism and not to stifle it , ” said Désir .
Désir noted that in the past seven-and-a-half months of this reporting period ( 21 November 2019 – 2 July 2020 ) he intervened on 132 individual cases related to the physical safety of journalists .
Among those were eight arson attacks against the premises of media outlets , cars or houses of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shots fired at a media outlet .
He also intervened on over 200 individual cases related to the legal situation of journalists , their legal safety , including 104 detentions and 20 new court proceedings or developments in trials against journalists .
“ The fact that so many journalists are facing prosecution , condemnation and detention for just reporting on issues of public interest , expressing critical views , or ensuring a plurality of opinions remains one of the greatest challenges for the OSCE region , ” said Désir .
The Representative called @ @ @ @ @ @ @ legislation to protect journalists .
“ I continued to assist participating States in shaping their policies and legislation in line with international standards and OSCE commitments .
Several of the legal reviews that I provided to the participating States were partially , or entirely , taken into account by the authorities , ” he added .
Désir also called upon participating States to come up with strong economic support to the media .
“ Across the OSCE region , media are suffering major economic losses , which are mainly happening through drastic drops @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , print media have faced additional income losses whenever the various degrees of lockdown have hindered their sales and postal distribution .
Media that were already financially struggling before the pandemic are reaching the edge , some of them facing liquidation and closure , ” he said .
“ Thousands of journalists and media workers have already lost their jobs and many media outlets across the OSCE region have temporarily suspended their activities , decreased their periodicity or reduced their circulation .
This crisis is a direct threat to media pluralism and will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ public , exactly at a time when the public needs accurate , local , relevant and reliable information the most .
This is a democratic emergency.
” The Representative ’ s full report is available here : https : //www.osce.org/files/f/documents/4/9/456130.pdf The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media observes media developments in all 57 OSCE participating States .
He provides early warning on violations of freedom of expression and media freedom and promotes full compliance with OSCE media freedom commitments .
Learn more at www.osce.org/fom , Twitter : @ OSCE_RFoM and on www.facebook.com/osce.rfom @

VIENNA, 2 July 2020 – The press is in danger in too many places in the OSCE region, said OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, Harlem Désir, as he presented his biannual report to the OSCE Permanent Council in Vienna today. The COVID-19 pandemic has only aggravated this situation, as it amplified existing trends and added a new layer of problems to the existing ones, including the dire economic situation many media are currently facing.
“Threats to media freedom and the work of journalists are on the rise. It is the responsibility of States to ensure better protection for journalistic work, to combat impunity of crimes committed against journalists, to respect the independence of the press and freedom of expression, and to support pluralism and not to stifle it,” said Désir.
Désir noted that in the past seven-and-a-half months of this reporting period (21 November 2019 – 2 July 2020) he intervened on 132 individual cases related to the physical safety of journalists. Among those were eight arson attacks against the premises of media outlets, cars or houses of journalists, one bomb attack, and shots fired at a media outlet. He also intervened on over 200 individual cases related to the legal situation of journalists, their legal safety, including 104 detentions and 20 new court proceedings or developments in trials against journalists.
“The fact that so many journalists are facing prosecution, condemnation and detention for just reporting on issues of public interest, expressing critical views, or ensuring a plurality of opinions remains one of the greatest challenges for the OSCE region,” said Désir.
The Representative called on participating States to improve their national legislation to protect journalists. “I continued to assist participating States in shaping their policies and legislation in line with international standards and OSCE commitments. Several of the legal reviews that I provided to the participating States were partially, or entirely, taken into account by the authorities,” he added.
Désir also called upon participating States to come up with strong economic support to the media. “Across the OSCE region, media are suffering major economic losses, which are mainly happening through drastic drops in their advertising revenues. In addition, print media have faced additional income losses whenever the various degrees of lockdown have hindered their sales and postal distribution. Media that were already financially struggling before the pandemic are reaching the edge, some of them facing liquidation and closure,” he said. “Thousands of journalists and media workers have already lost their jobs and many media outlets across the OSCE region have temporarily suspended their activities, decreased their periodicity or reduced their circulation. This crisis is a direct threat to media pluralism and will restrict the sources of information for the public, exactly at a time when the public needs accurate, local, relevant and reliable information the most. This is a democratic emergency.”
The Representative’s full report is available here: https://www.osce.org/files/f/documents/4/9/456130.pdf
The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media observes media developments in all 57 OSCE participating States. He provides early warning on violations of freedom of expression and media freedom and promotes full compliance with OSCE media freedom commitments. Learn more at www.osce.org/fom, Twitter: @OSCE_RFoM and on www.facebook.com/osce.rfom.


osce--2020-07-02--Bringing together global agenda on women peace and security and local efforts for its implementation

Collecting and making available sex-disaggregated data and analyses , ensuring financial resources for making the women , peace and security agenda a reality on the ground , as well as building knowledge and skills of local decision-makers and civil society actors are ways for international organizations and donors to contribute to the implementation of women , peace and security ( WPS ) resolutions beyond national capitals .
These were the conclusions reached during the online event held on 1 July 2020 .
The event aimed to publicize the findings of the study on Implementing Women , Peace and Security Agenda @ @ @ @ @ @ @ conducted jointly with the London School of Economics and Political Science ( LSE ) and the OSCE .
The webinar was co-hosted by the LSE Centre on Women , Peace and Security , the OSCE Programme for Gender Issues and UN Women .
Around 150 participants attended .
The event focused on one of the key research areas : localizing national action plans ( NAPs ) aimed at implementing UN Security Council resolutions on women , peace and security .
Participants debated on the benefits and drawbacks of the six avenues of localization @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the development of local action plans , including locally implementable activities in NAPs , and including WPS activities in local gender equality implementation plans .
“ It is good to see that in recent years in many countries , security sector institutions have developed a strong and genuine ownership of women , peace and security action plans , and started to work more closely with civil society groups .
This is particularly important in the OSCE region given the OSCE ’ s role as a regional organization that focuses on comprehensive security , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ OSCE Conflict Prevention Centre , in her opening remarks .
The study provides information on progress and trends , as well as challenges in the implementation of the ten United Nations Security Council resolutions on women , peace and security .
It examines the national action plans of OSCE participating States , and offers more in-depth information on how these action plans have been put into practice in the countries researched .
Five countries were covered : Bosnia and Herzegovina , Kyrgyzstan , Moldova , Serbia , and Ukraine .
Henri Myrttinen , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the study , highlighted that `` the countries covered by the study , but also others in the OSCE region , have been global fore-runners in developing different approaches to the localization of NAPs . ''
Many speakers pointed to the importance of ensuring that local and national-level action plans are well connected and working towards shared goals .
Local action plans can better address the specific security issues in their own context , but issues requiring amendments in legislation can only be addressed at the national level .
“ In implementing women @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Herzegovina , we have used a ‘ sandwich strategy model ’ that takes into consideration both local and national level actors , ” said Samra Filipović Hadžiabdić from the Agency for Gender Equality .
This online event also noted that COVID-19 has provided us an opportunity to underline the need to position human security approach and principles to the core of our work on peace and security issues at all levels .
The joint LSE and OSCE study was published earlier this year .
It is also available in Russian and Ukrainian .

Collecting and making available sex-disaggregated data and analyses, ensuring financial resources for making the women, peace and security agenda a reality on the ground, as well as building knowledge and skills of local decision-makers and civil society actors are ways for international organizations and donors to contribute to the implementation of women, peace and security (WPS) resolutions beyond national capitals. These were the conclusions reached during the online event held on 1 July 2020.
The event aimed to publicize the findings of the study on Implementing Women, Peace and Security Agenda in the OSCE Region, which was conducted jointly with the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) and the OSCE. The webinar was co-hosted by the LSE Centre on Women, Peace and Security, the OSCE Programme for Gender Issues and UN Women. Around 150 participants attended.
The event focused on one of the key research areas: localizing national action plans (NAPs) aimed at implementing UN Security Council resolutions on women, peace and security. Participants debated on the benefits and drawbacks of the six avenues of localization identified in the study. These include the development of local action plans, including locally implementable activities in NAPs, and including WPS activities in local gender equality implementation plans.
“It is good to see that in recent years in many countries, security sector institutions have developed a strong and genuine ownership of women, peace and security action plans, and started to work more closely with civil society groups. This is particularly important in the OSCE region given the OSCE’s role as a regional organization that focuses on comprehensive security,” said Tuula Yrjölä, Director of OSCE Conflict Prevention Centre, in her opening remarks.
The study provides information on progress and trends, as well as challenges in the implementation of the ten United Nations Security Council resolutions on women, peace and security. It examines the national action plans of OSCE participating States, and offers more in-depth information on how these action plans have been put into practice in the countries researched. Five countries were covered: Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, Serbia, and Ukraine.
Henri Myrttinen, one of the three researchers who conducted the study, highlighted that "the countries covered by the study, but also others in the OSCE region, have been global fore-runners in developing different approaches to the localization of NAPs."
Many speakers pointed to the importance of ensuring that local and national-level action plans are well connected and working towards shared goals. Local action plans can better address the specific security issues in their own context, but issues requiring amendments in legislation can only be addressed at the national level. “In implementing women, peace and security in Bosnia and Herzegovina, we have used a ‘sandwich strategy model’ that takes into consideration both local and national level actors,” said Samra Filipović Hadžiabdić from the Agency for Gender Equality.
This online event also noted that COVID-19 has provided us an opportunity to underline the need to position human security approach and principles to the core of our work on peace and security issues at all levels.
The joint LSE and OSCE study was published earlier this year. It is also available in Russian and Ukrainian.


osce--2020-07-01--Spot Report 35/2020: SMM cameras damaged at the Oktiabr mine near non-government-controlled Vesele

At 19:10 on 30 June , the SMM lost video feeds from its two daylight cameras , located on top of one of two 50m concrete towers at the Oktiabr mine , about 1km east of the contact line , in a non-government-controlled area , about 1km south-west of Vesele ( non-government-controlled , 9km north-west of Donetsk ) .
Footage from both cameras showed an impact of an undetermined weapon occurring in the immediate vicinity of the cameras at 19:08 on 30 June .
At the time of the impact , one camera was facing north , and the other @ @ @ @ @ @ @ July , an SMM patrol dispatched to assess saw that the base of the 4m camera mast on top of the concrete roof of the tower remained standing , while its upper portion , with the two cameras still attached to it , was detached , and standing in an upright position next to it .
The Mission saw that a third portion of the mast was lying on the ground , about 4m north-east of the base .
The SMM patrol also noted that sections of two camera power cables and one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ marks on it ) were lying on the ground about 2m north-east , and 4m north-north-east , respectively of the base portion .
The SMM saw that the second camera had no visible signs of damage .
The SMM assessed the damage to the mast , cables and camera dome as caused by the detonation of an undetermined projectile fired from a south-westerly direction in the immediate proximity of the camera site .
During its presence in the area , the SMM patrol heard two undetermined explosions at an assessed distance of 3km @ @ @ @ @ @ @ follow up on this incident .

At 19:10 on 30 June, the SMM lost video feeds from its two daylight cameras, located on top of one of two 50m concrete towers at the Oktiabr mine, about 1km east of the contact line, in a non-government-controlled area, about 1km south-west of Vesele (non-government-controlled, 9km north-west of Donetsk).
Footage from both cameras showed an impact of an undetermined weapon occurring in the immediate vicinity of the cameras at 19:08 on 30 June. At the time of the impact, one camera was facing north, and the other camera was facing north-east.
On 1 July, an SMM patrol dispatched to assess saw that the base of the 4m camera mast on top of the concrete roof of the tower remained standing, while its upper portion, with the two cameras still attached to it, was detached, and standing in an upright position next to it. The Mission saw that a third portion of the mast was lying on the ground, about 4m north-east of the base.
The SMM patrol also noted that sections of two camera power cables and one of the camera domes (with shrapnel marks on it) were lying on the ground about 2m north-east, and 4m north-north-east, respectively of the base portion. The SMM saw that the second camera had no visible signs of damage.
The SMM assessed the damage to the mast, cables and camera dome as caused by the detonation of an undetermined projectile fired from a south-westerly direction in the immediate proximity of the camera site.
During its presence in the area, the SMM patrol heard two undetermined explosions at an assessed distance of 3km west.
The SMM will continue to follow up on this incident.


osce--2020-07-01--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 155/2020 issued on 1 July 2020

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osce--2020-07-01--OSCE Mission to Montenegro supports State Election Commission and Association of Blind discussion on

OSCE Mission to Montenegro supports State Election Commission and Association of Blind discussion on polling station accessibility

Ensuring accessibility for all voters at polling stations is essential and the responsibility of election commissions .
This was the conclusion of representatives of the Montenegrin State Election Commission at a workshop organized by the Association of the Blind of Montenegro on 30 June in Podgorica .
Katarina Bigović , Project Co-ordinator in the Association of the Blind , explained that this workshop is part of the project “ Choose accessibility ” supported by the European Association of the Blind .
The project examines the practice , solutions , and opportunities for improving participation of persons with disabilities in political @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ivanović , Chair of the State Election Commission , said , in his consultations with municipal election commissions , that he reviewed the legal framework and emphasized their responsibility to ensure all persons with disabilities can vote independently and in secret .
Ivanović encouraged the Association for the Blind to work directly with municipal election commissions to jointly identify polling stations that could be made accessible .
Marina Vujačić , Executive Director of the Association of Youth with Disabilities , expressed hope that through workshops like this , persons with disabilities can freely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and also actively participate in political life .
Lia Magnaguagno , the Mission ’ s Democratization Programme Manager said : “ The right to vote independently , and in secret , is a cornerstone of every democracy.
” The Mission supported the State Election Commission in developing a Strategy for Persons with Disabilities , as well as initiated consultations with municipal election commissions to ensure polling stations are accessible .
The OSCE Mission to Montenegro remains committed to promoting the rights of people with disabilities and strives to help remove barriers that hamper @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

Ensuring accessibility for all voters at polling stations is essential and the responsibility of election commissions. This was the conclusion of representatives of the Montenegrin State Election Commission at a workshop organized by the Association of the Blind of Montenegro on 30 June in Podgorica.
Katarina Bigović, Project Co-ordinator in the Association of the Blind, explained that this workshop is part of the project “Choose accessibility” supported by the European Association of the Blind. The project examines the practice, solutions, and opportunities for improving participation of persons with disabilities in political and public life in Montenegro.
Aleksa Ivanović, Chair of the State Election Commission, said, in his consultations with municipal election commissions, that he reviewed the legal framework and emphasized their responsibility to ensure all persons with disabilities can vote independently and in secret. Ivanović encouraged the Association for the Blind to work directly with municipal election commissions to jointly identify polling stations that could be made accessible.
Marina Vujačić, Executive Director of the Association of Youth with Disabilities, expressed hope that through workshops like this, persons with disabilities can freely and independently exercise their right to vote and also actively participate in political life.
Lia Magnaguagno, the Mission’s Democratization Programme Manager said: “The right to vote independently, and in secret, is a cornerstone of every democracy.” The Mission supported the State Election Commission in developing a Strategy for Persons with Disabilities, as well as initiated consultations with municipal election commissions to ensure polling stations are accessible.
The OSCE Mission to Montenegro remains committed to promoting the rights of people with disabilities and strives to help remove barriers that hamper their full participation as voters and candidates.


osce--2020-07-01--Taking stock of latest terrorism trends, joint OSCE PA-PAM-UNOCT event builds regional and internati

Taking stock of latest terrorism trends, joint OSCE PA-PAM-UNOCT event builds regional and international co-operation against violent extremism

COPENHAGEN/NAPLES/NEW YORK , 30 June 2020 – On the occasion of the International Day of Parliamentarism the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism ( UNOCT ) , the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly and the Parliamentary Assembly of the Mediterranean ( PAM ) co-organized an online event on the role of parliamentarians in countering terrorism in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic .
The objective of the event was to deepen co-operation in response to the ongoing threat posed by terrorism and violent extremism in the midst of the unprecedented crisis all nations face .
Participants concurred that it is vital to assess @ @ @ @ @ @ @ extremism and carefully monitor terrorism trends throughout the Mediterranean region , the Sahel , as well as the OSCE region spanning 57 countries in North America , Europe and Central Asia .
Policymakers must adapt to dangerous new trends , speakers stressed , and implement timely countermeasures to protect lives .
Co-ordinated policy and legislative efforts are needed to counter the evolving threat of violent extremists , some of whom are exploiting the pandemic to advance extremist narratives , it was emphasized .
Speakers at the webinar included Hon .
Gennaro Migliore , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Committee on Counterterrorism ; Hon .
Reinhold Lopatka , Chair of the OSCE PA ’ s Ad Hoc Committee on Countering Terrorism ( CCT ) ; Mauro Miedico , Deputy Director and Chief of Special Projects and Innovation Branch ( SPIB ) – UNOCT ; Amb .
Mohamed El-Amine Ould Ikek , Assistant Secretary General for Legal Affairs at the League of Arab States ; Amb .
Alena Kupchyna , Director of the Transnational Threats Department at the OSCE ; Dr. Andrea Margelletti , President of the International Studies Centre and Advisor to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and OSCE PA President George Tsereteli.The webinar also played a video message by UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres on the occasion of the International Day of Parliamentarism who spoke about the important role of parliaments amidst the COVID-19 pandemic .
“ COVID-19 has been keeping authorities all over the world highly occupied , shifting their attention towards fighting the pandemic , ” said CCT Chair Lopatka .
He noted that terrorist groups nevertheless remain active and that the crisis has provided a fertile ground for them to boost their online propaganda , call @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , stigmatize minorities , and disseminate false and discriminatory information .
“ Against this background , it is paramount that we all stand united on this symbolic day marking the International Day of Parliamentarism to counter terrorism and violent extremism throughout our vast regions , ” he said .
“ In recent months , our attention focused on the many implications of COVID-19 on our lives , while remaining vigilant on the evolving threat of terrorism has been a challenge for all of us , ” said Hon .
Migliore .
He highlighted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Gulf regions , with a particular look at North African and Middle Eastern countries , in which the already precarious political and humanitarian conditions have worsened due to COVID-19 pandemic .
He stressed the political consensus achieved among the 34 PAM Member Parliaments now addressing the issue of ISIL detainees and their families in Iraq and northeast Syria and took note of the present status of ISIL terrorists held in European prisons .
“ We must examine the effectiveness of de-radicalization programs , post-prison monitoring , and halting the automatic release of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” Migliore said .
Parliaments are critical in counterterrorism efforts by sharing legislative practices and their determination to fight it , he stressed .
UNOCT Deputy Director Miedico congratulated all parliamentarians on the International Day of Parliamentarism recognizing the significant contribution which Members of Parliament make to facilitate the implementation of the UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy and relevant resolutions of the United Nations Security Council .
“ The COVID-19 pandemic will continue to significantly impact international peace and security and related policymaking in the long term , ” he said .
Parliaments have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the phenomenon of hate speech , including COVID-19-related hate speech , which is used by terrorist groups and their supporters to further their nefarious objectives and undermine government actions.
” The OSCE PA-PAM-UNOCT Parliamentary Web Dialogue provided a forum for representatives of more than 65 parliaments to exchange views on how to keep counter-terrorism efforts high on the international agenda during and after the COVID-19 pandemic .
Parliamentarians discussed how crisis situations such as the COVID-19 pandemic may aggravate terrorist threats by offering new opportunities for terrorist groups to advance their agendas , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shifted , and resources may be refocused to fighting the pandemic and its consequences .
The unprecedented global crisis and economic disruption caused by COVID-19 could exacerbate existing grievances and protracted conflicts , potentially leading to the emergence of new terrorist trends and threats , they noted .
Participants welcomed the partnership between the UNOCT , PAM and the OSCE PA , and the active participation of parliamentarians from countries throughout Europe , North America , North Africa , the Middle East and the Sahel .
Speakers underlined a strong sense of solidarity @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to counter the terrorist threat that still impacts countries around the world .
Moderating the event , OSCE PA Secretary General Roberto Montella emphasized that the fight against terrorism and violent extremism should be an area of the international security agenda that brings together all States , even in cases where hostility or divergence mark their relations , to join forces in bona fide co-operation .
It is a confidence-building topic , he added , which makes today ’ s joint event even more crucial for our parliamentary diplomacy efforts .
Photos of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The OSCE Parliamentary Assembly is comprised of 323 parliamentarians from 57 countries spanning Europe , Central Asia and North America .
The Assembly provides a forum for parliamentary diplomacy , monitors elections , and strengthens international co-operation to uphold commitments on political , security , economic , environmental and human rights issues .

COPENHAGEN/NAPLES/NEW YORK, 30 June 2020 – On the occasion of the International Day of Parliamentarism the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT), the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly and the Parliamentary Assembly of the Mediterranean (PAM) co-organized an online event on the role of parliamentarians in countering terrorism in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. The objective of the event was to deepen co-operation in response to the ongoing threat posed by terrorism and violent extremism in the midst of the unprecedented crisis all nations face.
Participants concurred that it is vital to assess the impact of the pandemic on violent extremism and carefully monitor terrorism trends throughout the Mediterranean region, the Sahel, as well as the OSCE region spanning 57 countries in North America, Europe and Central Asia.
Policymakers must adapt to dangerous new trends, speakers stressed, and implement timely countermeasures to protect lives. Co-ordinated policy and legislative efforts are needed to counter the evolving threat of violent extremists, some of whom are exploiting the pandemic to advance extremist narratives, it was emphasized.
Speakers at the webinar included Hon. Gennaro Migliore, Chair of PAM’s Special Parliamentary Committee on Counterterrorism; Hon. Reinhold Lopatka, Chair of the OSCE PA’s Ad Hoc Committee on Countering Terrorism (CCT); Mauro Miedico, Deputy Director and Chief of Special Projects and Innovation Branch (SPIB) – UNOCT; Amb. Mohamed El-Amine Ould Ikek, Assistant Secretary General for Legal Affairs at the League of Arab States; Amb. Alena Kupchyna, Director of the Transnational Threats Department at the OSCE; Dr. Andrea Margelletti, President of the International Studies Centre and Advisor to the Ministry of Defense of Italy, and OSCE PA President George Tsereteli.The webinar also played a video message by UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres on the occasion of the International Day of Parliamentarism who spoke about the important role of parliaments amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.
“COVID-19 has been keeping authorities all over the world highly occupied, shifting their attention towards fighting the pandemic,” said CCT Chair Lopatka. He noted that terrorist groups nevertheless remain active and that the crisis has provided a fertile ground for them to boost their online propaganda, call for new attacks, increase recruitment operations, stigmatize minorities, and disseminate false and discriminatory information. “Against this background, it is paramount that we all stand united on this symbolic day marking the International Day of Parliamentarism to counter terrorism and violent extremism throughout our vast regions,” he said.
“In recent months, our attention focused on the many implications of COVID-19 on our lives, while remaining vigilant on the evolving threat of terrorism has been a challenge for all of us,” said Hon. Migliore. He highlighted the current security situation in the Euro-Mediterranean and Gulf regions, with a particular look at North African and Middle Eastern countries, in which the already precarious political and humanitarian conditions have worsened due to COVID-19 pandemic. He stressed the political consensus achieved among the 34 PAM Member Parliaments now addressing the issue of ISIL detainees and their families in Iraq and northeast Syria and took note of the present status of ISIL terrorists held in European prisons. “We must examine the effectiveness of de-radicalization programs, post-prison monitoring, and halting the automatic release of prisoners, without a thorough clearance,” Migliore said. Parliaments are critical in counterterrorism efforts by sharing legislative practices and their determination to fight it, he stressed.
UNOCT Deputy Director Miedico congratulated all parliamentarians on the International Day of Parliamentarism recognizing the significant contribution which Members of Parliament make to facilitate the implementation of the UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy and relevant resolutions of the United Nations Security Council. “The COVID-19 pandemic will continue to significantly impact international peace and security and related policymaking in the long term,” he said. Parliaments have powerful tools in their hands to counter the phenomenon of hate speech, including COVID-19-related hate speech, which is used by terrorist groups and their supporters to further their nefarious objectives and undermine government actions.”
The OSCE PA-PAM-UNOCT Parliamentary Web Dialogue provided a forum for representatives of more than 65 parliaments to exchange views on how to keep counter-terrorism efforts high on the international agenda during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.
Parliamentarians discussed how crisis situations such as the COVID-19 pandemic may aggravate terrorist threats by offering new opportunities for terrorist groups to advance their agendas, as the attention of the world has shifted, and resources may be refocused to fighting the pandemic and its consequences. The unprecedented global crisis and economic disruption caused by COVID-19 could exacerbate existing grievances and protracted conflicts, potentially leading to the emergence of new terrorist trends and threats, they noted.
Participants welcomed the partnership between the UNOCT, PAM and the OSCE PA, and the active participation of parliamentarians from countries throughout Europe, North America, North Africa, the Middle East and the Sahel. Speakers underlined a strong sense of solidarity and common purpose in developing effective strategies to counter the terrorist threat that still impacts countries around the world.
Moderating the event, OSCE PA Secretary General Roberto Montella emphasized that the fight against terrorism and violent extremism should be an area of the international security agenda that brings together all States, even in cases where hostility or divergence mark their relations, to join forces in bona fide co-operation. It is a confidence-building topic, he added, which makes today’s joint event even more crucial for our parliamentary diplomacy efforts.
Photos of the event are available on Flickr.
###
The OSCE Parliamentary Assembly is comprised of 323 parliamentarians from 57 countries spanning Europe, Central Asia and North America. The Assembly provides a forum for parliamentary diplomacy, monitors elections, and strengthens international co-operation to uphold commitments on political, security, economic, environmental and human rights issues.


osce--2020-06-30--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 154/2020 issued on 30 June 2020


osce--2020-06-30--Press Statement by the Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group

MOSCOW / PARIS / WASHINGTON , DC , 30 June 2020 - The Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group ( Igor Popov of the Russian Federation , Stéphane Visconti of France , and Andrew Schofer of the United States of America )  met separately and jointly via video conference on 29-30 June with Armenian Foreign Minister Zohrab Mnatsakanyan and Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Elmar Mammadyarov to discuss the public health situation in the region , current dynamics in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict , and next steps in the peace process .
Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office ( PRCIO ) Andrzej @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Co-Chairs emphasized the importance of promoting and maintaining an atmosphere conducive to peace and favorable to substantive negotiations .
They assessed positively the relative stability on the ground and expressed satisfaction that the sides continue to use existing direct communication links to avoid escalation .
Recalling their statement of 9 March , 2019 , however , the Co‑Chairs noted with concern that recent provocative statements , inflammatory rhetoric , and possible steps intended to change the situation on the ground in tangible ways could undermine the settlement process .
The Co‑Chairs stressed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the conflict .
They urged the sides to take additional steps to strengthen the ceasefire and to prepare the populations for peace .
The Co-Chairs also stressed the urgency of resuming monitoring exercises under the leadership of the PRCIO as soon as conditions allow .
The Co‑Chairs and Foreign Ministers agreed to hold another joint video conference in July and to meet in person as soon as possible .

MOSCOW / PARIS / WASHINGTON, DC, 30 June 2020 - The Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group (Igor Popov of the Russian Federation, Stéphane Visconti of France, and Andrew Schofer of the United States of America) met separately and jointly via video conference on 29-30 June with Armenian Foreign Minister Zohrab Mnatsakanyan and Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Elmar Mammadyarov to discuss the public health situation in the region, current dynamics in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, and next steps in the peace process. Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office (PRCIO) Andrzej Kasprzyk also participated in these discussions.
The Co-Chairs emphasized the importance of promoting and maintaining an atmosphere conducive to peace and favorable to substantive negotiations. They assessed positively the relative stability on the ground and expressed satisfaction that the sides continue to use existing direct communication links to avoid escalation. Recalling their statement of 9 March, 2019, however, the Co‑Chairs noted with concern that recent provocative statements, inflammatory rhetoric, and possible steps intended to change the situation on the ground in tangible ways could undermine the settlement process.
The Co‑Chairs stressed that there is no military solution to the conflict. They urged the sides to take additional steps to strengthen the ceasefire and to prepare the populations for peace. The Co-Chairs also stressed the urgency of resuming monitoring exercises under the leadership of the PRCIO as soon as conditions allow.
The Co‑Chairs and Foreign Ministers agreed to hold another joint video conference in July and to meet in person as soon as possible.


osce--2020-06-30--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 30 June 2020

Kamensk-Shakhtinskiy , Russian Federation .
The Observer Mission ( OM ) continues to operate 24/7 at both Border Crossing Points ( BCPs ) .
The overall number of border crossings by persons increased at both BCPs compared to the previous week .
The OM is currently operating with 20 permanent international staff members , including the Chief Observer ( CO ) .
The Mission is supported administratively by a staff member and the Chief of Fund Administration based in Vienna .
Activities have been impacted by COVID-19 and measures undertaken by the OM to ensure the safety and duty of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with measures set by the host country authorities .
The Mission is continuing to keep the situation under review , in close contact with the OSCE Secretariat and the Chairmanship .
Following the host country recommendations , the observers are applying a self-isolation regime between the shifts at the border checkpoints and adherence to social distancing .
Due to the preventive measures taken by the central and regional authorities , the OM is faced with certain difficulties , but is still able to continue to fulfil its mandate without any limitations in its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of persons crossing the border can be categorized as follows : • Adults travelling on foot or by car with little or no luggage .
• Families ( often including elderly persons and/or children ) travelling on foot or by car with a significant amount of luggage .
The average number of entries/exits significantly increased from 1,547 to 4,395 per day at both BCPs compared to last week [ 1 ] .
During the reporting period , the majority of border crossings were to the Russian Federation , with an average net flow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 10 April , the organized passenger transport commuting between the non-government-controlled areas of Luhansk region of Ukraine and the Russian Federation was temporarily suspended and restored from 25 June .
During the reporting period , the number of persons in military style outfits crossing the border was six compared to four last week , three of them crossed into the Russian Federation and another three into Ukraine .
These individuals crossed the border on foot .
The OTs continued to report on families , sometimes with elderly persons and/or children , crossing the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ amount of luggage , or travelling in heavily loaded cars .
During this reporting week , four families were observed crossing into the Russian Federation while another four families were observed crossing into Ukraine , compared to the previous reporting period when no families were observed crossing to the Russian Federation , while two families crossed into Ukraine .
Regular local and long-distance bus connections between Ukraine ( mostly from/to the Luhansk region ) and the Russian Federation were restored from 25 June .
During the reporting period , the overall number of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was 118 .
There were 55 buses bound for the Russian Federation and 63 bound for Ukraine .
During the reporting period , the OTs observed a slight decrease in the overall number of trucks crossing the border at both BCPs ( 1,040 compared to 1,078 during the previous reporting week ) ; 596 at the Gukovo BCP and 444 at the Donetsk BCP , 615 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on a daily basis , the OTs also noted trucks registered in the Russian Federation , Belarus , Ukraine , Armenia and trucks with “ LPR ” plates .
The OTs also continued to observe tanker trucks crossing the border in both directions .
During the reporting week , the number of tanker trucks slightly increased from 55 to 58 .
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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hazard signs , indicating that they were transporting propane or a mix of propane and butane .
All trucks underwent systematic inspection by the Russian Federation officials , which could include an X-ray check .
Due to the unfavourable observation position at the Gukovo BCP , the OTs continued to be unable to observe any X-ray checks .
Compared to the previous week , the total number of X-ray checks at the Donetsk BCP decreased from 201 to 168 .
Of the total number of trucks scanned , 153 trucks ( 91 per @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the remaining 15 trucks ( 9 per cent ) crossed into the Russian Federation .
The OM continued to observe passenger and cargo minivans [ 2 ] crossing the border in both directions at both BCPs .
The OTs observed minivans predominantly with Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region ; however , the OTs also saw minivans registered in the Russian Federation .
Compared to the previous week , the number of cargo minivans significantly increased from 73 to 151 vehicles ; 80 crossed into the Russian Federation and another 71 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pick up the sound of trains on the railway tracks located approximately 150m south-west of the Gukovo BCP .
During the reporting week , the OTs heard trains on 22 occasions ; the OTs assessed that ten trains were travelling to the Russian Federation and the remaining 12 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region or Russian Federation licence plates .
A significant number of vehicles with “ LPR ” plates were also observed crossing the border in both directions on a daily basis .
The OTs also observed cars with licence plates registered in Poland and Georgia .
During the reporting week , the OTs at both BCPs noticed helicopters flying along the border on two separate occasions : • On 25 June at 10:15 , the OT at the Donetsk BCP observed a green helicopter type Mi-8 flying @ @ @ @ @ @ @ north-easterly direction at an altitude of approximately 150m .
The helicopter remained inside the airspace of the Russian Federation the entire time it was visible to the OT .
• The same day at 10:32 , the OT at the Gukovo BCP observed a helicopter type Mi-8/Mi-17 flying from the north to a north-easterly direction at approximately 150-200m distance from the BCP .
The helicopter remained inside the airspace of the Russian Federation the entire time it was visible to the OT .
On 27 June at 07:34 , the OT at Donetsk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Federation licence plates with two passengers on board , entering the BCP from the Russian Federation .
The vehicle had a sign “ City Ritual Service ” ( in Russian ) on its side .
After undergoing border control procedures , the minivan left for Ukraine .
For trends and figures at a glance covering the period from 26 May to 30 June 2020 , please see the attachment here .
[ 1 ] Based on data received from the Regional Representation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ commercial vehicles with a maximum authorized mass of more than 3.5 t and not more than 7.5 t ; with or without a trailer with a maximum mass of less than 750 kg ( small cargo vehicles which correspond to driving licence C1 ) .

SUMMARY
Kamensk-Shakhtinskiy, Russian Federation. The Observer Mission (OM) continues to operate 24/7 at both Border Crossing Points (BCPs). The overall number of border crossings by persons increased at both BCPs compared to the previous week.
OPERATIONAL REMARKS
The OM is currently operating with 20 permanent international staff members, including the Chief Observer (CO). The Mission is supported administratively by a staff member and the Chief of Fund Administration based in Vienna.
Update on COVID-19 measures
Activities have been impacted by COVID-19 and measures undertaken by the OM to ensure the safety and duty of care of its Mission members and compliance with measures set by the host country authorities. The Mission is continuing to keep the situation under review, in close contact with the OSCE Secretariat and the Chairmanship. Following the host country recommendations, the observers are applying a self-isolation regime between the shifts at the border checkpoints and adherence 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 increased from 1,547 to 4,395 per day at both BCPs compared to last week[1].
During the reporting period, the majority of border crossings were to the Russian Federation, with an average net flow of 428 per day for both BCPs. The Donetsk BCP continued to experience much more traffic than the Gukovo BCP.
Responding to the COVID-19 situation, the host country has closed its borders for the majority of foreigners starting from 18 March. Among the exceptions of persons allowed to cross the border (which entered into force on 19 March), are Ukrainian citizens and stateless persons holding passports or identification documents proving permanent residence in certain areas of Luhansk and Donetsk regions of Ukraine. In addition, reportedly, due to the threat of the spread of COVID-19, starting from 10 April, the organized passenger transport commuting between the non-government-controlled areas of Luhansk region of Ukraine and the Russian Federation was temporarily suspended and restored from 25 June.
Persons in military-style outfits
During the reporting period, the number of persons in military style outfits crossing the border was six compared to four last week, three of them crossed into the Russian Federation and another three into Ukraine. These individuals crossed the border on foot.
Families with a significant amount of luggage
The OTs continued to report on families, sometimes with elderly persons and/or children, crossing the border at both BCPs with a significant amount of luggage, or travelling in heavily loaded cars. During this reporting week, four families were observed crossing into the Russian Federation while another four families were observed crossing into Ukraine, compared to the previous reporting period when no families were observed crossing to the Russian Federation, while two families crossed into Ukraine.
Bus connections
Regular local and long-distance bus connections between Ukraine (mostly from/to the Luhansk region) and the Russian Federation were restored from 25 June. During the reporting period, the overall number of buses crossing the border at both BCPs was 118. There were 55 buses bound for the Russian Federation and 63 bound for Ukraine.
Trucks
During the reporting period, the OTs observed a slight decrease in the overall number of trucks crossing the border at both BCPs (1,040 compared to 1,078 during the previous reporting week); 596 at the Gukovo BCP and 444 at the Donetsk BCP, 615 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, Armenia and trucks with “LPR” plates.
The OTs also continued to observe tanker trucks crossing the border in both directions. During the reporting week, the number of tanker trucks slightly increased from 55 to 58. These trucks were observed crossing the border at both BCPs. The trucks had the words “Propane” and “Flammable” written across the tanks in either Russian or Ukrainian. The majority of tanker trucks had hazard signs, indicating that they were transporting propane or a mix of propane and butane. All trucks underwent systematic inspection by the Russian Federation officials, which could include an X-ray check. Due to the unfavourable observation position at the Gukovo BCP, the OTs continued to be unable to observe any X-ray checks.
Compared to the previous week, the total number of X-ray checks at the Donetsk BCP decreased from 201 to 168. Of the total number of trucks scanned, 153 trucks (91 per cent) were bound for Ukraine: the remaining 15 trucks (9 per cent) crossed into the Russian Federation.
Minivans
The OM continued to observe passenger and cargo minivans[2] crossing the border in both directions at both BCPs. The OTs observed minivans predominantly with Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region; however, the OTs also saw minivans registered in the Russian Federation. Compared to the previous week, the number of cargo minivans significantly increased from 73 to 151 vehicles; 80 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 22 occasions; the OTs assessed that ten trains were travelling to the Russian Federation and the remaining 12 trains were travelling to Ukraine (more details are provided in the sections “trends and figures at a glance” below).
Visual observation was not possible because of the line of trees located between the train tracks and the BCP.
Other observations
The majority of vehicles crossing the border had Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region or Russian Federation licence plates. A significant number of vehicles with “LPR” plates were also observed crossing the border in both directions on a daily basis. The OTs also observed cars with licence plates registered in Poland and Georgia.
During the reporting week, the OTs at both BCPs noticed helicopters flying along the border on two separate occasions:
On 25 June at 10:15, the OT at the Donetsk BCP observed a green helicopter type Mi-8 flying from the north-north-west, turning in a north-easterly direction at an altitude of approximately 150m. The helicopter remained inside the airspace of the Russian Federation the entire time it was visible to the OT.
The same day at 10:32, the OT at the Gukovo BCP observed a helicopter type Mi-8/Mi-17 flying from the north to a north-easterly direction at approximately 150-200m distance from the BCP. The helicopter remained inside the airspace of the Russian Federation the entire time it was visible to the OT.
On 27 June at 07:34, the OT at Donetsk BCP observed a white minivan with Russian Federation licence plates with two passengers on board, entering the BCP from the Russian Federation. The vehicle had a sign “City Ritual Service” (in Russian) on its side. After undergoing border control procedures, the minivan left for Ukraine.
For trends and figures at a glance covering the period from 26 May to 30 June 2020, please see the attachment here.
[1]Based on data received from the Regional Representation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation.
[2] Cargo minivans: light commercial vehicles with a maximum authorized mass of more than 3.5 t and not more than 7.5 t; with or without a trailer with a maximum mass of less than 750 kg (small cargo vehicles which correspond to driving licence C1).


osce--2020-06-29--OSCE media representative concerned by restriction to media freedom in the law on Manipulation of In

OSCE media representative concerned by restriction to media freedom in the law on Manipulation of Information in Kyrgyzstan

Vienna , 29 June 2020 – The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media , Harlem Désir , expressed his concern today about the recently passed law on the Manipulation of Information in Kyrgyzstan .
” I am concerned that the law on the Manipulation of Information , which the Jogorku Kenesh ( the Parliament ) passed on 25 June , may result in undue restrictions to freedom of media , ” Désir said .
“ I share the concern of the authorities to combat the dissemination of false information related to the current health crisis .
However , vague @ @ @ @ @ @ @ social media users with the necessary legal certainty in order to foresee the consequences of their activities .
Furthermore the regulation of online content by an ‘ authorized state body ’ may , in the absence of a clear mechanism and due process , seriously restrict freedom of expression .
My Office is therefore preparing a review of the law , which I will make available to the authorities , ” Désir added .
The Representative recalled the joint statement , published on 19 March , together with David Kaye , UN Special @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the right to freedom of opinion and expression , and Edison Lanza , IACHR Special Rapporteur for Freedom of Expression , on the COVID-19 related legislations affecting freedom of expression , which emphasized that : “ Human health depends not only on readily accessible health care .
It also depends on access to accurate information about the nature of the threats and the means to protect oneself , one ’ s family , and one ’ s community ” .
The Representative and the two Special Rapporteurs also stated that : “ The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ governments must be making exceptional efforts to protect the work of journalists .
Journalism serves a crucial function at a moment of public health emergency , particularly when it aims to inform the public of critical information and monitors government actions.
” The draft Law on Manipulation of Information was passed by the Parliament of Kyrgyzstan on 25 June .
Upon its adoption , national media rights organizations called upon the authorities to repeal the law .
The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media observes media developments in all 57 OSCE participating @ @ @ @ @ @ @ violations of freedom of expression and media freedom and promotes full compliance with OSCE media freedom commitments .
Learn more at www.osce.org/fom , Twitter : @ OSCE_RFoM and on www.facebook.com/

Vienna, 29 June 2020 – The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, Harlem Désir, expressed his concern today about the recently passed law on the Manipulation of Information in Kyrgyzstan.
”I am concerned that the law on the Manipulation of Information, which the Jogorku Kenesh (the Parliament) passed on 25 June, may result in undue restrictions to freedom of media,” Désir said. “I share the concern of the authorities to combat the dissemination of false information related to the current health crisis. However, vague legal definitions will not provide media and social media users with the necessary legal certainty in order to foresee the consequences of their activities. Furthermore the regulation of online content by an ‘authorized state body’ may, in the absence of a clear mechanism and due process, seriously restrict freedom of expression. My Office is therefore preparing a review of the law, which I will make available to the authorities,” Désir added.
The Representative recalled the joint statement, published on 19 March, together with David Kaye, UN Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, and Edison Lanza, IACHR Special Rapporteur for Freedom of Expression, on the COVID-19 related legislations affecting freedom of expression, which emphasized that: “Human health depends not only on readily accessible health care. It also depends on access to accurate information about the nature of the threats and the means to protect oneself, one’s family, and one’s community”. The Representative and the two Special Rapporteurs also stated that: “The right of access to information means that governments must be making exceptional efforts to protect the work of journalists. Journalism serves a crucial function at a moment of public health emergency, particularly when it aims to inform the public of critical information and monitors government actions.”
The draft Law on Manipulation of Information was passed by the Parliament of Kyrgyzstan on 25 June. Upon its adoption, national media rights organizations called upon the authorities to repeal the law.
The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media observes media developments in all 57 OSCE participating States. He provides early warning on violations of freedom of expression and media freedom and promotes full compliance with OSCE media freedom commitments. Learn more at www.osce.org/fom , Twitter: @OSCE_RFoM and on www.facebook.com/


osce--2020-06-30--Well-governed migration pivotal to ensure positive development outcomes for post-pandemic recovery,

Well-governed migration pivotal to ensure positive development outcomes for post-pandemic recovery, say participants at OSCE-hosted discussion

The disruption of labour mobility during the COVID-19 crisis and possible ways forward to address the post-pandemic recovery were the focus of an OSCE webinar held on 26 June 2020 .
“ The protracted lockdown , necessary to save lives , has also had an impact on the migration process , disrupted human connectivity and prospects for development .
“ ” said Vuk Žugić the Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities .
“ Yet , the crisis is offering the opportunity to harness OSCE ’ s strengths : multilateral dialogue , trans-national co-operation , and core values ” .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ and UN ones provide a long-term vision that well-governed migration is needed to ensure positive development outcomes.
” Experts , practitioners and academicians helped to shed light on the situation of migrant workers , including key lessons learned that can support an inclusive and equitable post-pandemic recovery .
“ Migrant workers effectively complement national labour force .
Current demographic trends and persistent labour shortages call for sectorial employment policies addressing foreign and national workers .
Contrary to popular wisdom , migrant workers create jobs for all , ” said Markus Pilgrim , Regional @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ILO ) .
“ Exclusion is costly .
But inclusion pays off , ” was a key message from Dyane Epstein , a.i .
Regional Director of the International Organization for Migration ( IOM ) .
The discussion highlighted the need for collecting accurate data and information – both quantitative and qualitative – so to identify suitable responses .
Research carried out by the Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration ( RANEPA ) , provided relevant grounds to discuss coping strategies of migrants during the pandemic and key areas for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ resilience .
A glimpse in the complex range of legal challenges the pandemic brought about in the European Union was complemented by positive experiences and creative solutions triggered by the lockdown , particularly in dealing with time-consuming bureaucracy .
A concise summary of the full series of webinars will soon be available on www.osce.org/the Office of OSCE Co-ordinator of Economic and Environmental Activities , together with “ Summary and Recommendations ” reflecting the discussion .

The disruption of labour mobility during the COVID-19 crisis and possible ways forward to address the post-pandemic recovery were the focus of an OSCE webinar held on 26 June 2020.
“The protracted lockdown, necessary to save lives, has also had an impact on the migration process, disrupted human connectivity and prospects for development. “” said Vuk Žugić the Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities. “Yet, the crisis is offering the opportunity to harness OSCE’s strengths: multilateral dialogue, trans-national co-operation, and core values”. The international commitments, including the OSCE and UN ones provide a long-term vision that well-governed migration is needed to ensure positive development outcomes.”
Experts, practitioners and academicians helped to shed light on the situation of migrant workers, including key lessons learned that can support an inclusive and equitable post-pandemic recovery.
“Migrant workers effectively complement national labour force. Current demographic trends and persistent labour shortages call for sectorial employment policies addressing foreign and national workers. Contrary to popular wisdom, migrant workers create jobs for all,” said Markus Pilgrim, Regional Director of the International Labour Organization (ILO).
“Exclusion is costly. But inclusion pays off,” was a key message from Dyane Epstein, a.i. Regional Director of the International Organization for Migration (IOM).
The discussion highlighted the need for collecting accurate data and information – both quantitative and qualitative – so to identify suitable responses. Research carried out by the Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration (RANEPA), provided relevant grounds to discuss coping strategies of migrants during the pandemic and key areas for action to prevent negative repercussions and boost resilience.
A glimpse in the complex range of legal challenges the pandemic brought about in the European Union was complemented by positive experiences and creative solutions triggered by the lockdown, particularly in dealing with time-consuming bureaucracy.
A concise summary of the full series of webinars will soon be available on www.osce.org/the Office of OSCE Co-ordinator of Economic and Environmental Activities, together with “Summary and Recommendations” reflecting the discussion.


osce--2020-07-12--Albania’s OSCE Chairmanship opens procedure for selecting OSCE Secretary General and Heads of Instit

Albania’s OSCE Chairmanship opens procedure for selecting OSCE Secretary General and Heads of Institutions

VIENNA / TIRANA , 12 July 2020 – Albania ’ s OSCE Chairmanship has announced the opening of procedures for the selection of candidates to the positions of OSCE Secretary General , the Director of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights ( ODIHR ) , the High Commissioner on National Minorities , and the Representative on Freedom of the Media .
The Chairmanship expresses regret that the 57 participating States could not reach consensus on the reappointment of the four officials currently holding these positions .
The Chairmanship nonetheless respects the views of the participating States , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had been discussing reappointing the incumbents to a second three-year term .
Their current terms expire on 18 July 2020 .
The reappointment of candidates would , inter alia , allow for smooth business continuity for the Organization amidst the COVID-19 pandemic .
A declining commitment to sustainable institutions would pose significant challenges to efficient multilateralism , the Chairmanship said .
Participating States are encouraged to maintain a co-operative and constructive approach in the appointment process as we move forward , it added .
With a view to reaching consensus on filling these @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Tirana in December , the Chairmanship asks the participating States to nominate candidates for the four positions by 18 September 2020 .

VIENNA / TIRANA, 12 July 2020 – Albania’s OSCE Chairmanship has announced the opening of procedures for the selection of candidates to the positions of OSCE Secretary General, the Director of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR), the High Commissioner on National Minorities, and the Representative on Freedom of the Media. The Chairmanship expresses regret that the 57 participating States could not reach consensus on the reappointment of the four officials currently holding these positions.
The Chairmanship nonetheless respects the views of the participating States, whose delegations in Vienna in recent weeks had been discussing reappointing the incumbents to a second three-year term. Their current terms expire on 18 July 2020.
The reappointment of candidates would, inter alia, allow for smooth business continuity for the Organization amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. A declining commitment to sustainable institutions would pose significant challenges to efficient multilateralism, the Chairmanship said. Participating States are encouraged to maintain a co-operative and constructive approach in the appointment process as we move forward, it added.
With a view to reaching consensus on filling these positions by the OSCE Ministerial Council in Tirana in December, the Chairmanship asks the participating States to nominate candidates for the four positions by 18 September 2020.


osce--2020-07-11--In remembering Srebrenica, we must go beyond commemoration and words and actively learn the lessons,

In remembering Srebrenica, we must go beyond commemoration and words and actively learn the lessons, says OSCE Chairperson-in-Office Edi Rama

TIRANA/VIENNA , 11 July 2020 – Paying his respects to the Bosnian victims of the Srebrenica genocide in 1995 , OSCE Chairperson-in-Office , Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama said today that in remembering this atrocious crime , we must go beyond commemoration and words , and actively learn the lessons .
“ The scale and depravity of this genocide is a tragedy that burdens our souls today , twenty-five years later , ” he said .
“ I pay respect to the victims who were mercilessly killed and offer my deepest condolences to the families of those who perished.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and concerned by a growing trend to rewrite the history of the crimes that unfolded in Srebrenica and the surrounding areas in the summer of 1995 .
“ The malicious revisionism of history can lead to the same mistakes and crimes being committed again .
Local and international judiciaries have documented what happened in Srebrenica and its vicinity in 1995 .
This underscores the necessity of justice being served .
Impunity is not an option , ” he said .
“ We always say that Srebrenica must never be repeated but just a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ conflict in Kosovo.
” He concluded : “ Responsibility for the crimes rests with the perpetrators .
But societies are also culpable if they do not remember and learn from the lessons of what happened in Srebrenica .
”

TIRANA/VIENNA, 11 July 2020 – Paying his respects to the Bosnian victims of the Srebrenica genocide in 1995, OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama said today that in remembering this atrocious crime, we must go beyond commemoration and words, and actively learn the lessons.
“The scale and depravity of this genocide is a tragedy that burdens our souls today, twenty-five years later,” he said. “I pay respect to the victims who were mercilessly killed and offer my deepest condolences to the families of those who perished.”
The Prime Minister said he was appalled and concerned by a growing trend to rewrite the history of the crimes that unfolded in Srebrenica and the surrounding areas in the summer of 1995.
“The malicious revisionism of history can lead to the same mistakes and crimes being committed again. Local and international judiciaries have documented what happened in Srebrenica and its vicinity in 1995. This underscores the necessity of justice being served. Impunity is not an option,” he said.
“We always say that Srebrenica must never be repeated but just a few years later there was a devastating conflict in Kosovo.”
He concluded: “Responsibility for the crimes rests with the perpetrators. But societies are also culpable if they do not remember and learn from the lessons of what happened in Srebrenica.”


osce--2020-07-11--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 164/2020 issued on 11 July 2020


osce--2020-07-11--Education vital to prevent escalation of violence that can lead to genocide, OSCE human rights head

Education vital to prevent escalation of violence that can lead to genocide, OSCE human rights head says on Srebrenica anniversary

WARSAW , 11 July 2020 – The importance of education and commemoration to promote tolerance and prevent the escalation of violence can not be underestimated , the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights ( ODIHR ) said on the anniversary of the Srebrenica genocide in 1995 .
“ Today is a day to mourn the victims and stand in solidarity with the survivors , ” said ODIHR Director Ingibjörg Sólrún Gísladóttir .
“ But in the face of such a horrific crime , every one of us needs to ask ourselves honestly whether we are doing all we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and what action we can take to foster greater tolerance.
” Twenty-five years ago today , thousands of mostly Bosnian Muslim men and boys were systematically and brutally murdered in Srebrenica , while more than 30,000 people were forced to flee to escape ethnic cleansing .
The massacres in Srebrenica and the surrounding area were the culmination of more than three years of conflict , fuelled by toxic narratives and intolerance that eventually allowed the unthinkable to happen .
Perpetrators of hate-motivated violence in the OSCE region and beyond have intentionally drawn on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ perpetrators .
Education has a crucial role to play in improving understanding of these events , which in turn makes it possible to build a common and inclusive future based on mutual respect , understanding and co-operation .
Governments and national authorities must do more to support programmes and activities that can help equip their citizens with the knowledge and resilience needed to resist polarizing and nationalist rhetoric .
In the long term , only societies built on a solid foundation of respect for rule of law , open dialogue and accountable institutions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ citizens .

WARSAW, 11 July 2020 – The importance of education and commemoration to promote tolerance and prevent the escalation of violence cannot be underestimated, the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) said on the anniversary of the Srebrenica genocide in 1995.
“Today is a day to mourn the victims and stand in solidarity with the survivors,” said ODIHR Director Ingibjörg Sólrún Gísladóttir. “But in the face of such a horrific crime, every one of us needs to ask ourselves honestly whether we are doing all we can to fight prejudice and exclusion, and what action we can take to foster greater tolerance.”
Twenty-five years ago today, thousands of mostly Bosnian Muslim men and boys were systematically and brutally murdered in Srebrenica, while more than 30,000 people were forced to flee to escape ethnic cleansing. The massacres in Srebrenica and the surrounding area were the culmination of more than three years of conflict, fuelled by toxic narratives and intolerance that eventually allowed the unthinkable to happen.
Perpetrators of hate-motivated violence in the OSCE region and beyond have intentionally drawn on symbols glorifying the Srebrenica genocide and its perpetrators. Education has a crucial role to play in improving understanding of these events, which in turn makes it possible to build a common and inclusive future based on mutual respect, understanding and co-operation.
Governments and national authorities must do more to support programmes and activities that can help equip their citizens with the knowledge and resilience needed to resist polarizing and nationalist rhetoric. In the long term, only societies built on a solid foundation of respect for rule of law, open dialogue and accountable institutions can be stable and safe for all citizens.


osce--2020-07-10--Spot Report 37/2020: Members of the armed formations continued to deny SMM patrols passage at checkp

Spot Report 37/2020: Members of the armed formations continued to deny SMM patrols passage at checkpoints in Donetsk and Luhansk regions

From 4 to 10 July , members of the armed formations again denied the SMM attempts to cross into non-government-controlled areas along official crossing routes : five times in Donetsk region and six times in Luhansk region , while one attempt to cross into government-controlled areas of Luhansk region was also denied .
On 4 , 5 , 6 , 7 , 8 , 9 and 10 July , at a checkpoint south of the Stanytsia Luhanska bridge ( 15km north-east of Luhansk ) , members of the armed formations continued to deny the SMM passage towards non-government-controlled areas on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ areas on one occasion , referring to restrictions due to COVID-19 .
On 10 July , at a checkpoint near Horlivka ( non-government-controlled , 39km north-east of Donetsk ) , a member of the armed formations denied the SMM passage towards non-government-controlled areas , referring to restrictions due to COVID-19 .
The Mission continued to observe the presence of a metal barrier and spikes laid across the road , and of a mine hazard sign .
On 6 July , at a checkpoint west of Verkhnoshyrokivske ( formerly Oktiabr , non-government-controlled , 85km @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was unable to proceed towards non-government-controlled areas due to the presence of static anti-vehicle obstacles laid across the road .
In addition , on 10 July , an armed member of the armed formations denied the SMM passage towards non-government-controlled areas , referring to restrictions due to COVID-19 .
On 7 and 9 July , at a checkpoint near Oleksandrivka ( non-government-controlled , 20km south-west of Donetsk ) , members of the armed formations denied the SMM passage towards non-government-controlled areas , once referring to a “ lack of permission from those in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ closure of the checkpoint .
The Mission began facing repeated denials when attempting to cross into non-government-controlled areas at checkpoints of the armed formations in Donetsk region on 21 March and Luhansk region on 23 March ( see previous SMM Spot Reports ) .
They restrict the SMM ’ s freedom of movement across the contact line , thus impeding the implementation of its mandate throughout the country .
On 9 July , the SMM received information indicating that restrictions by the armed formations for the SMM attempts to cross into non-government-controlled areas @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
With regard to COVID-19 , the SMM has introduced a number of stringent mitigation measures into its operational procedures .
These include strict adherence to social distancing rules both internally and with external interlocutors , daily temperature checks , use of PPE and minimizing the number of personnel in vehicles .

From 4 to 10 July, members of the armed formations again denied the SMM attempts to cross into non-government-controlled areas along official crossing routes: five times in Donetsk region and six times in Luhansk region, while one attempt to cross into government-controlled areas of Luhansk region was also denied.
On 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10 July, at a checkpoint south of the Stanytsia Luhanska bridge (15km north-east of Luhansk), members of the armed formations continued to deny the SMM passage towards non-government-controlled areas on six occasions, and passage towards government-controlled areas on one occasion, referring to restrictions due to COVID-19.
On 10 July, at a checkpoint near Horlivka (non-government-controlled, 39km north-east of Donetsk), a member of the armed formations denied the SMM passage towards non-government-controlled areas, referring to restrictions due to COVID-19. The Mission continued to observe the presence of a metal barrier and spikes laid across the road, and of a mine hazard sign.
On 6 July, at a checkpoint west of Verkhnoshyrokivske (formerly Oktiabr, non-government-controlled, 85km south of Donetsk), the Mission was unable to proceed towards non-government-controlled areas due to the presence of static anti-vehicle obstacles laid across the road. In addition, on 10 July, an armed member of the armed formations denied the SMM passage towards non-government-controlled areas, referring to restrictions due to COVID-19.
On 7 and 9 July, at a checkpoint near Oleksandrivka (non-government-controlled, 20km south-west of Donetsk), members of the armed formations denied the SMM passage towards non-government-controlled areas, once referring to a “lack of permission from those in control” and once referring to the closure of the checkpoint.
The Mission began facing repeated denials when attempting to cross into non-government-controlled areas at checkpoints of the armed formations in Donetsk region on 21 March and Luhansk region on 23 March (see previous SMM Spot Reports). They restrict the SMM’s freedom of movement across the contact line, thus impeding the implementation of its mandate throughout the country.
On 9 July, the SMM received information indicating that restrictions by the armed formations for the SMM attempts to cross into non-government-controlled areas would be eased in the coming days.
***
With regard to COVID-19, the SMM has introduced a number of stringent mitigation measures into its operational procedures. These include strict adherence to social distancing rules both internally and with external interlocutors, daily temperature checks, use of PPE and minimizing the number of personnel in vehicles.


osce--2020-07-10--Srebrenica today is an example of resilience, truth and justice, say Chair of OSCE Permanent Council

Srebrenica today is an example of resilience, truth and justice, say Chair of OSCE Permanent Council Hasani and Secretary General Greminger

VIENNA , 10 July 2020 – “ Srebrenica today is an example of resilience , truth and justice for the world .
We all stand with you , the survivors and families of the victims , in solidarity and in sorrow , and we humbly pay our respects to your loved ones , ” said Chair of the OSCE Permanent Council Igli Hasani and OSCE Secretary General Thomas Greminger today , honouring the victims of the Srebrenica genocide in 1995 .
“ On behalf of the OSCE , I express our deepest condolences , ” said Ambassador Hasani .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all innocent civilian victims of the war , must be recognized .
Because it is only through respect for the victims , open dialogue and education that reconciliation can succeed .
We need this cohesion and mutual understanding to confront and overcome tragedy in our past and ensure that history does not repeat itself.
” “ Your memories are still painful and we are not blind to persistent problems and divisions in Srebrenica , and in Bosnia and Herzegovina at large .
We also see that relations in the community can be mended @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other war crimes is possible .
Every action does matter , ” said Greminger .
“ The findings and sentences of international and domestic courts must be respected .
The denial of genocide and other war crimes , the glorification of war criminals , and historical revisionism have no place in any OSCE participating State , ” he said .

VIENNA, 10 July 2020 – “Srebrenica today is an example of resilience, truth and justice for the world. We all stand with you, the survivors and families of the victims, in solidarity and in sorrow, and we humbly pay our respects to your loved ones,” said Chair of the OSCE Permanent Council Igli Hasani and OSCE Secretary General Thomas Greminger today, honouring the victims of the Srebrenica genocide in 1995.
“On behalf of the OSCE, I express our deepest condolences,” said Ambassador Hasani. “Your suffering, and the suffering of all innocent civilian victims of the war, must be recognized. Because it is only through respect for the victims, open dialogue and education that reconciliation can succeed. We need this cohesion and mutual understanding to confront and overcome tragedy in our past and ensure that history does not repeat itself.”
“Your memories are still painful and we are not blind to persistent problems and divisions in Srebrenica, and in Bosnia and Herzegovina at large. We also see that relations in the community can be mended, and that accountability for genocide and other war crimes is possible. Every action does matter,” said Greminger. “The findings and sentences of international and domestic courts must be respected. The denial of genocide and other war crimes, the glorification of war criminals, and historical revisionism have no place in any OSCE participating State,” he said.


osce--2020-07-10--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 163/2020 issued on 10 July 2020


osce--2020-07-10--OSCE donates supplies to various government and civil society partners across Tajikistan to prevent

OSCE donates supplies to various government and civil society partners across Tajikistan to prevent the spread of COVID-19

The OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe on 8 and 9 July 2020 donated various items and supplies to partners in @ @ @ @ @ as a number of civil society representatives in all regions of the country to prevent @ @ @ @ @ .
The recipients included the Ministry of Internal Affairs , the Supreme Court , the @ @ @ @ @ Trade , regional Administrations of four regions ( Khatlon , Sughd , Gorno-Badakhshan and Garm @ @ @ @ @ Network , the Human Rights Centre as well as hospitals servicing border troops personnel .
@ @ @ @ @ wide range of protective gear , including antiseptics , gloves for medical examinations and surgery @ @ @ @ @ items will help hospitals , medical staff and emergency response teams to carry out their @ @ @ @

The OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe on 8 and 9 July 2020 donated various items and supplies to partners in the Tajik government as well as a number of civil society representatives in all regions of the country to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.
The recipients included the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the Supreme Court, the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade, regional Administrations of four regions (Khatlon, Sughd, Gorno-Badakhshan and Garm), the Aarhus Centers Network, the Human Rights Centre as well as hospitals servicing border troops personnel.
The donated items included a wide range of protective gear, including antiseptics, gloves for medical examinations and surgery, and masks. The items will help hospitals, medical staff and emergency response teams to carry out their daily duties safely.


osce--2020-07-10--OSCE organizes Kazakh-language seminar on cybersecurity at home

An OSCE-supported online seminar on staying safe in cyberspace , conducted in the Kazakh language , was organized by the OSCE Programme Office in Nur-Sultan on 9 July 2020 .
The presentation focused on steps people can take to protect themselves and their data online and how to avoid fraud in online transactions .
Some 20 representatives from the private sector , academia and civil society attended the event .
“ Cybersecurity , deservedly , is considered a complex section of IT , which is why many do not even try to understand its foundations .
Therefore , it is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the public in an accessible language , because only a few simple rules can significantly protect everyone and increase the price of an attack by a thousand times , ” said Arman Abdrassilov , Co-Founder of the Center for Analysis and Investigation of Cyberattacks , who led the event .
The online presentation was organized to help raise the awareness of threats in cyberspace , including financial crimes and leaks of personal information .
It addressed the fact that more people are now spending more time online to socialize and work because @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the spread of COVID-19 .
The event is part of the Programme Office ’ s efforts to promote awareness of transnational threats , including those in cyberspace , to the general public .

An OSCE-supported online seminar on staying safe in cyberspace, conducted in the Kazakh language, was organized by the OSCE Programme Office in Nur-Sultan on 9 July 2020.
The presentation focused on steps people can take to protect themselves and their data online and how to avoid fraud in online transactions. Some 20 representatives from the private sector, academia and civil society attended the event.
“Cybersecurity, deservedly, is considered a complex section of IT, which is why many do not even try to understand its foundations. Therefore, it is important to bring knowledge about information security to the public in an accessible language, because only a few simple rules can significantly protect everyone and increase the price of an attack by a thousand times,” said Arman Abdrassilov, Co-Founder of the Center for Analysis and Investigation of Cyberattacks, who led the event.
The online presentation was organized to help raise the awareness of threats in cyberspace, including financial crimes and leaks of personal information. It addressed the fact that more people are now spending more time online to socialize and work because of public health measures related to stemming the spread of COVID-19.
The event is part of the Programme Office’s efforts to promote awareness of transnational threats, including those in cyberspace, to the general public.


osce--2020-07-10--Online events supported by OSCE Project Co-Ordinator in Uzbekistan discussed rule of law and foreign

Online events supported by OSCE Project Co-Ordinator in Uzbekistan discussed rule of law and foreign policy

The OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan co-hosted two online roundtable discussions on the main priority areas of the State Programme for the year 2020 , which is part of the 2017-2021 National Action Strategy .
The two events focused on the fields of rule of law and foreign policy , on 7 and 9 July respectively and were organized in co-operation with the Development Strategy Centre .
The first event concerned the rule of law and the judiciary in Uzbekistan ’ s State Programme for 2020 and was attended by high-level representatives from the Supreme Court , the General Prosecutor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Internal Affairs of Uzbekistan .
They presented recent and future policy reforms and also discussed areas that need further improvement .
Ola Quarnstrom , Rule of Law Officer at the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights ( ODIHR ) , said during the event : “ The overall goal of these reforms is to achieve increased compliance with OSCE human dimension commitments and other international standards.
” The second online discussion focused on the implementation of a balanced , mutually beneficial and constructive foreign policy by Uzbekistan .
The event @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the country ’ s Oliy Majlis ( parliament ) , the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the National Human Rights Centre , as well as representation from bilateral missions in the country .
Attention was paid to the progress Uzbekistan has made in recent years in implementing changes and reforms which foster stronger co-operation with other OSCE participating States and beyond , and increased political confidence in Uzbekistan on the international scene .
OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan John MacGregor reminded the attendees that the 2017-2021 National Action Strategy is almost fully @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that there have been significant achievements related to its implementation .
“ It is important to measure progress towards national goals .
Events such as this with participants from many OSCE participating States also create dialogue , increase mutual understanding , and promote sharing of best practices , all of which is so critical to the fullest implementation of OSCE commitments.
” The online events were part of the Media Week on the five priority areas of the 2017-2021 National Action Strategy of the Republic of Uzbekistan that took place from 7 to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the rule of law and constructing foreign policy other priority areas include Improving the system of state and social construction , further reform of the judicial system , economic development and liberalization , social development and security as well as inter-ethnic harmony and religious tolerance .

The OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan co-hosted two online roundtable discussions on the main priority areas of the State Programme for the year 2020, which is part of the 2017-2021 National Action Strategy. The two events focused on the fields of rule of law and foreign policy, on 7 and 9 July respectively and were organized in co-operation with the Development Strategy Centre.
The first event concerned the rule of law and the judiciary in Uzbekistan’s State Programme for 2020 and was attended by high-level representatives from the Supreme Court, the General Prosecutor General’s Office and the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Uzbekistan. They presented recent and future policy reforms and also discussed areas that need further improvement.
Ola Quarnstrom, Rule of Law Officer at the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR), said during the event: “The overall goal of these reforms is to achieve increased compliance with OSCE human dimension commitments and other international standards.”
The second online discussion focused on the implementation of a balanced, mutually beneficial and constructive foreign policy by Uzbekistan. The event gathered experts and representatives from the Senate of the country’s Oliy Majlis (parliament), the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the National Human Rights Centre, as well as representation from bilateral missions in the country. Attention was paid to the progress Uzbekistan has made in recent years in implementing changes and reforms which foster stronger co-operation with other OSCE participating States and beyond, and increased political confidence in Uzbekistan on the international scene.
OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan John MacGregor reminded the attendees that the 2017-2021 National Action Strategy is almost fully consistent with OSCE commitments, and said that there have been significant achievements related to its implementation. “It is important to measure progress towards national goals. Events such as this with participants from many OSCE participating States also create dialogue, increase mutual understanding, and promote sharing of best practices, all of which is so critical to the fullest implementation of OSCE commitments.”
The online events were part of the Media Week on the five priority areas of the 2017-2021 National Action Strategy of the Republic of Uzbekistan that took place from 7 to 10 July. In addition to ensuring the rule of law and constructing foreign policy other priority areas include Improving the system of state and social construction, further reform of the judicial system, economic development and liberalization, social development and security as well as inter-ethnic harmony and religious tolerance.


osce--2020-07-10--OSCE Chief Monitor in Ukraine calls for the sides to put their political commitments into deeds

KYIV , 10 July 2020 – With more than 1,300 ceasefire violations involving the use of weapons that should have been withdrawn in accordance with the Minsk agreements recorded between 4 April and 20 June , the Chief Monitor of the OSCE Special Monitorinig Mission to Ukraine ( SMM ) , Yaşar Halit Çevik , noted that it is the time for the sides to take the appropriate measures to turn their political commitments into deeds .
Addressing yesterday ’ s meeting of the OSCE Permanent Council remotely from Kyiv , Çevik stated : “ The Mission observed a five-fold @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the contact line , including in and near residential areas .
Periods of heightened tensions were accompanied by spikes of violence , leading to a rise in civilian casualties .
In the reporting period , the Mission corroborated 26 civilian casualties , 21 of them as a result of shelling.
” In the same period , 40 public and private properties , such as essential civilian infrastructure objects , schools , churches , houses were also confirmed damaged as a result of kinetic activities , the Chief Monitor said .
He called on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ located in and near residential areas on both sides of the contact line .
In addition to the hardship while living in a conflict area , civilians in eastern Ukraine are facing other challenges in recent months , adding to their difficult situation .
“ The situation of civilians is additionally complicated because entry-exit checkpoints are closed , due to measures taken in relation to the Covid-19 pandemic .
As a result , people are not able to collect their pensions or receive medical treatment , ” said Çevik .
The Chief Monitor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ freedom of movement in non-government-controlled areas had been increasingly restricted in the past few months , preventing the Mission Members from being able to enter them .
He underlined the importance for the SMM to operate with the same procedures throughout the country .
Çevik finally expressed his concerns related to the targeting of the Mission staff and assets .
“ I deplore that the Mission members and assets continued to face serious incidents .
In June , three SMM camera systems were destroyed and our unmanned aerial vehicles continue to be targeted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” Çevik emphasized that “ ensuring the safety and security of the Mission members has been and remains my first priority .
”

KYIV, 10 July 2020 – With more than 1,300 ceasefire violations involving the use of weapons that should have been withdrawn in accordance with the Minsk agreements recorded between 4 April and 20 June, the Chief Monitor of the OSCE Special Monitorinig Mission to Ukraine (SMM), Yaşar Halit Çevik, noted that it is the time for the sides to take the appropriate measures to turn their political commitments into deeds.
Addressing yesterday’s meeting of the OSCE Permanent Council remotely from Kyiv, Çevik stated: “The Mission observed a five-fold increase of military hardware located close to the contact line, including in and near residential areas. Periods of heightened tensions were accompanied by spikes of violence, leading to a rise in civilian casualties. In the reporting period, the Mission corroborated 26 civilian casualties, 21 of them as a result of shelling.” In the same period, 40 public and private properties, such as essential civilian infrastructure objects, schools, churches, houses were also confirmed damaged as a result of kinetic activities, the Chief Monitor said. He called on the sides to remove weapons and positions located in and near residential areas on both sides of the contact line.
In addition to the hardship while living in a conflict area, civilians in eastern Ukraine are facing other challenges in recent months, adding to their difficult situation.
“The situation of civilians is additionally complicated because entry-exit checkpoints are closed, due to measures taken in relation to the Covid-19 pandemic. As a result, people are not able to collect their pensions or receive medical treatment,” said Çevik.
The Chief Monitor also noted that the Mission’s freedom of movement in non-government-controlled areas had been increasingly restricted in the past few months, preventing the Mission Members from being able to enter them. He underlined the importance for the SMM to operate with the same procedures throughout the country.
Çevik finally expressed his concerns related to the targeting of the Mission staff and assets. “I deplore that the Mission members and assets continued to face serious incidents. In June, three SMM camera systems were destroyed and our unmanned aerial vehicles continue to be targeted daily by small-arm fire and electronic interferences.” Çevik emphasized that “ensuring the safety and security of the Mission members has been and remains my first priority.”


osce--2020-07-09--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 162/2020 issued on 9 July 2020