osce--2020-03-23--OSCE Media Freedom Representative Désir and Head of Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina Kavalec concer

OSCE Media Freedom Representative Désir and Head of Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina Kavalec concerned about measures against coronavirus “fake news”

VIENNA / SARAJEVO , 23 March 2020 – The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media , Harlem Désir , and the Head of the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina ( BiH ) , Kathleen Kavalec , expressed their concern today following the announcement of the introduction of new measures against spreading panic and “ fake news ” regarding the coronavirus in the country .
The entity of Republika Srpska issued a decree last Thursday that during the state of emergency , it introduced punitive measures , including fines , for spreading “ fake news ” about the virus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , causing panic .
According to media reports , similar measures have also been adopted in the Brčko District , while the Interior Minister of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina proposed that the Federal Government should introduce a prohibition related to reporting “ fake news ” or claims .
“ I fully understand the aim of tackling the dissemination of false information which creates panic and disorder during this health crisis , but the concerned legislation should not impede the free work of journalists or their ability to report on the pandemic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ public .
The press is an indispensable ally in the provision of important information to citizens and in the fight against ‘ fake news ’ , ” Désir said .
`` The OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina is not familiar with the details of the new measures .
The best response to concerns about the spread of ‘ fake news ’ is for authorities to communicate frequently with its citizens so that reliable information is provided to them about the measures taken , the rights and obligations of persons and businesses , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ times .
Censorship and limiting freedom of expression are not helpful and can undermine trust in institutions.
” Désir and Kavalec referred to the joint statement published last week by the Representative 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 , which stresses that : “ It is essential that governments and internet companies address disinformation in the first instance by themselves providing reliable information .
That may @ @ @ @ @ @ @ messaging , support for public service announcements , and emergency support for public broadcasting and local journalism ( for instance , through government health advertisements ) .
” 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 / SARAJEVO, 23 March 2020 – The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, Harlem Désir, and the Head of the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH), Kathleen Kavalec, expressed their concern today following the announcement of the introduction of new measures against spreading panic and “fake news” regarding the coronavirus in the country.
The entity of Republika Srpska issued a decree last Thursday that during the state of emergency, it introduced punitive measures, including fines, for spreading “fake news” about the virus in the media and on social networks, causing panic. According to media reports, similar measures have also been adopted in the Brčko District, while the Interior Minister of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina proposed that the Federal Government should introduce a prohibition related to reporting “fake news” or claims.
“I fully understand the aim of tackling the dissemination of false information which creates panic and disorder during this health crisis, but the concerned legislation should not impede the free work of journalists or their ability to report on the pandemic and to provide information necessary to the public. The press is an indispensable ally in the provision of important information to citizens and in the fight against ‘fake news’,” Désir said.
"The OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina is not familiar with the details of the new measures. The best response to concerns about the spread of ‘fake news’ is for authorities to communicate frequently with its citizens so that reliable information is provided to them about the measures taken, the rights and obligations of persons and businesses, and how to behave during these challenging times. Censorship and limiting freedom of expression are not helpful and can undermine trust in institutions.”
Désir and Kavalec referred to the joint statement published last week by the Representative 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, which stresses that: “It is essential that governments and internet companies address disinformation in the first instance by themselves providing reliable information. That may come in the form of robust public messaging, support for public service announcements, and emergency support for public broadcasting and local journalism (for instance, through government health advertisements).”
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--2020-03-23--OSCE Media Freedom Representative concerned about detention of several journalists following their r

OSCE Media Freedom Representative concerned about detention of several journalists following their reports on coronavirus crisis in Turkey

VIENNA , 23 March 2020 – The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media , Harlem Désir , expressed his concern today over the detention of several journalists in Turkey after they published reports on the coronavirus crisis .
According to media reports , seven journalists , including Mustafa Ahmet Oktay , owner of Halk and Pusula Newspapers ; Eren Sarıkaya , managing editor at Pusula Newspaper ; and İsmet Çiğit , editor-in-chief of SES Kocaeli Newspaper , were briefly detained last week in Turkey .
All of the journalists were subsequently released .
“ I am concerned by several @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Turkey for reporting on the COVID-19 pandemic .
In this time of crisis , the media has an important role to play in providing important information to the public , to counter “ fake news ” , and to report on issues of public interest related to the pandemic , ” said Désir .
“ While I acknowledge that the use of emergency powers is allowed by international law in response to significant threats , such as the current health crisis , I want to remind the OSCE participating States that any emergency @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , necessary and non-discriminatory.
” The Representative recalled the joint statement that he published last week 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 , 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Representative and the 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 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ commitments .
Learn more at www.osce.org/fom , Twitter : @ OSCE_RFoM and on www.facebook.com/osce.rfom .

VIENNA, 23 March 2020 – The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, Harlem Désir, expressed his concern today over the detention of several journalists in Turkey after they published reports on the coronavirus crisis.
According to media reports, seven journalists, including Mustafa Ahmet Oktay, owner of Halk and Pusula Newspapers; Eren Sarıkaya, managing editor at Pusula Newspaper; and İsmet Çiğit, editor-in-chief of SES Kocaeli Newspaper, were briefly detained last week in Turkey. All of the journalists were subsequently released.
“I am concerned by several instances of journalists being briefly detained in Turkey for reporting on the COVID-19 pandemic. In this time of crisis, the media has an important role to play in providing important information to the public, to counter “fake news”, and to report on issues of public interest related to the pandemic,” said Désir. “While I acknowledge that the use of emergency powers is allowed by international law in response to significant threats, such as the current health crisis, I want to remind the OSCE participating States that any emergency response to the coronavirus must be proportionate, necessary and non-discriminatory.”
The Representative recalled the joint statement that he published last week 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, 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 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 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--2020-03-25--Сoronavirus response should not curb freedom of the press in Azerbaijan, says OSCE Media Freedom Rep

Сoronavirus response should not curb freedom of the press in Azerbaijan, says OSCE Media Freedom Representative

VIENNA , 25 March 2020 – The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media , Harlem Désir , expressed his concern today regarding amendments to the law on information , adopted by the national parliament of Azerbaijan on 17 March , in the context of the fight against disinformation related to the COVID-19 pandemic .
Based on the amendments , the owner of any internet information resource is under the obligation to prevent the publication of false information online .
According to the bill , this entails information that poses a threat to the life , health and property of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the work of life support facilities , financial , transport , communication , industrial , energy and social infrastructure .
The publication of information that might cause other situations that are dangerous to the public would also be prohibited .
“ I fully understand the need to combat false information during a health emergency .
But the amendment to the law on information , which aims to combat the publication of false information that poses a threat to the life and health of the population and seeks to avoid panic , should @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their ability to report on the pandemic .
The media has a key role to play in providing important information to the public in this situation and to combat ‘ fake news ’ on the crisis , ” said Désir .
The Representative recalled the joint statement that he published last week 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 , which emphasized that : “ Human 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 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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, 25 March 2020 – The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, Harlem Désir, expressed his concern today regarding amendments to the law on information, adopted by the national parliament of Azerbaijan on 17 March, in the context of the fight against disinformation related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Based on the amendments, the owner of any internet information resource is under the obligation to prevent the publication of false information online. According to the bill, this entails information that poses a threat to the life, health and property of the population or public safety, or to the work of life support facilities, financial, transport, communication, industrial, energy and social infrastructure. The publication of information that might cause other situations that are dangerous to the public would also be prohibited.
“I fully understand the need to combat false information during a health emergency. But the amendment to the law on information, which aims to combat the publication of false information that poses a threat to the life and health of the population and seeks to avoid panic, should not impede the work of journalists and their ability to report on the pandemic. The media has a key role to play in providing important information to the public in this situation and to combat ‘fake news’ on the crisis,” said Désir.
The Representative recalled the joint statement that he published last week 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, 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 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 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--2020-03-25--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 24 March 2020

Kamensk-Shakhtinskiy , Russian Federation .
The Observer Mission ( OM ) continues to operate 24/7 at both Border Crossing Points ( BCPs ) .
The overall number of border crossings by persons decreased at both BCPs compared to the previous week .
The OM is currently operating with 22 permanent international 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 .
During the reporting period , the OM has been subject to developing restrictions on air travel and international and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the OM ’ s observers .
The OM ’ s operations have been impacted by COVID-19 developments , and measures taken to ensure the safety of staff and compliance with measures set by the host authorities .
The CO has maintained constant working contacts with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the respective local authorities .
The Mission will continue to keep the situation under close review , in close contact with the Secretariat and Chairmanship and is capable of continuing to fulfill its mandate under the current circumstances .
The profile @ @ @ @ @ @ @ categorized as follows : • Adults travelling on foot or by car with little or no luggage ; • Families ( often including elderly persons and/or children ) travelling on foot or by car with a significant amount of luggage .
The average number of entries/exits decreased from10,523 to 4,735per day at both BCPs compared to last week [ 1 ] .
During the reporting period , the majority of border crossings were to Ukraine , with an average net flow of262 per day for both BCPs.The Donetsk BCP continued to experience much @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Responding to the COVID-19 crisis , the host country closed its borders for the majority of foreigners from 18 March to 1 May 2020 .
Among the exceptions , entered into force on 19 March , there are Ukrainian citizens and stateless people having passport or Identification Document with the mark of permanent residence in certain areas of Luhansk and Donetsk regions of Ukraine .
This category of people crossing is significant at both BCPs .
During the reporting period , the number of persons in military-style outfits crossing the border in both @ @ @ @ @ @ @ compared to 14last week , one of them crossed into the Russian Federation , and three into Ukraine ( 75 per cent of this category ’ s crossings occurred at the Donetsk BCP ) .
They continued to cross the border individually or in groups .
Most individuals crossed on foot , however , some made use of private vehicles , buses or minivans , making it more difficult for the observer teams ( OTs ) to observe their movement across the border , especially since some of the private vehicles had tinted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ drawn curtains .
The OTs continued to report on families , sometimes with elderly persons and/or children , crossing the border at both BCPs with a significant amount of luggage , or travelling in heavily loaded cars .
During this reporting week , one family was observed crossing into the Russian Federation and two families were observed crossing into Ukraine , compared to the previous reporting period when five families were observed crossing to the Russian Federation and 10 families into Ukraine .
Regular local and long-distance bus connections continued to operate between @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) and the Russian Federation .
In addition to regular bus connections , the OTs continued to observe bus connections on irregular routes .
Often the buses did not state their route ; instead they had a sign on the windshield stating “ irregular ” .
During the reporting period , the OTs observed a significant decrease in the overall number of buses crossing the border at both BCPs ( 245 compared to 447observed during the previous week ) .
There were 112 buses bound for the Russian Federation and 133 bound for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ OTs noticed the bus drivers removing the itinerary signs from the windshields of their buses , while some buses did not display their route at all .
The majority of long-distance buses commuting between the Luhansk region and cities in the Russian Federation had Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region and “ LPR ” plates .
During the reporting period , the OTs observed an increase in the overall number of trucks crossing the border at both BCPs ( 949 compared to 793 during the previous reporting week ) ; 538 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Donetsk BCP , 549of these trucks crossed into the Russian Federation and 400 crossed into Ukraine .
Most of the trucks observed by the OTs had Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region ; however , on a daily basis , the OTs also continued to observe tanker trucks crossing the border in both directions .
During the reporting week , the number of tanker trucksincreasedfrom49 to 63 .
These trucks were observed crossing the border at both BCPs .
The trucks had the words “ Propane ” and “ Flammable ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 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 increased from 140 to 179 .
Of the total number of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ per cent ) were bound for Ukraine : the remaining 20 trucks ( 11 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 frequently saw minivans registered in the Russian Federation .
Compared to the previous week , the number of cargo minivans significantly decreased from 195 to 97vehicles ; 47 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 50 into Ukraine .
The OTs continued to pick up the sound of trains on the railway tracks located approximately 150m south-west of the Gukovo BCP .
During the reporting week , the OTs heard trains on 16 occasions ; the OTs assessed that eight trains were travelling to the Russian Federation and eight to Ukraine ( more details are provided in the sections “ trends and figures at a glance ” below ) .
Visual observation was not possible because of the line of trees located between the train tracks and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the border had Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region , or Russian Federation licence plates .
A significant number of vehicles with “ LPR ” plates were also observed crossing the border in both directions on a daily basis .
The OTs also observed vehicles with “ DPR ” plates and vehicles with Georgian and Lithuanian licence plates .
On 17 March at 16:00 , the OT at Donetsk BCP observed a white minivan with an inscription `` Ритуальные услуги '' ( ritual services ) – written in Russian , crossing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ On 23 March at 20:22 , the OT observed one police vehicle arriving atthe Donetsk BCP from the Russian Federation .
The car stopped behind the main building and was partially visible to the OT .
At 20:33 the same day , the vehicle left the BCP towards the Russian Federation with two passengers and a driver on board .
For trends and figures at a glance covering the period from 18 February to 24 March 2020 , please see the attachment here [ 1 ] Based on data received from the Regional @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the Russian Federation .
[ 2 ] Cargo minivans : light commercial vehicles with a maximum authorized mass of more than 3.5 t and not more than 7.5 t ; with or without a trailer with a maximum mass of less than 750 kg ( small cargo vehicles which correspond to driving licence C1 ) .

SUMMARY
Kamensk-Shakhtinskiy, Russian Federation. The Observer Mission (OM) continues to operate 24/7 at both Border Crossing Points (BCPs). The overall number of border crossings by persons decreased at both BCPs compared to the previous week.
OPERATIONAL REMARKS
The OM is currently operating with 22 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
During the reporting period, the OM has been subject to developing restrictions on air travel and international and local measures, which limit the travel of the OM’s observers. The OM’s operations have been impacted by COVID-19 developments, and measures taken to ensure the safety of staff and compliance with measures set by the host authorities. The CO has maintained constant working contacts with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the respective local authorities. The Mission will continue to keep the situation under close review, in close contact with the Secretariat and Chairmanship and is capable of continuing to fulfill its mandate under the current circumstances.
OBSERVATIONS AT THE BORDER CROSSING POINTS
Persons crossing the border
The profile of persons crossing the border can be categorized as follows:
Adults travelling on foot or by car with little or no luggage; Persons in military-style outfits; Families (often including elderly persons and/or children) travelling on foot or by car with a significant amount of luggage.
The average number of entries/exits decreased from10,523 to 4,735per day at both BCPs compared to last week[1].
During the reporting period, the majority of border crossings were to Ukraine, with an average net flow of262 per day for both BCPs.The Donetsk BCP continued to experience much more traffic than the Gukovo BCP.
Responding to the COVID-19 crisis, the host country closed its borders for the majority of foreigners from 18 March to 1 May 2020. Among the exceptions, entered into force on 19 March, there are Ukrainian citizens and stateless people having passport or Identification Document with the mark of permanent residence in certain areas of Luhansk and Donetsk regions of Ukraine. This category of people crossing is significant at both BCPs.
Persons in military-style outfits
During the reporting period, the number of persons in military-style outfits crossing the border in both directions at both BCPs was four, compared to 14last week, one of them crossed into the Russian Federation, and three into Ukraine (75 per cent of this category’s crossings occurred at the Donetsk BCP). They continued to cross the border individually or in groups. Most individuals crossed on foot, however, some made use of private vehicles, buses or minivans, making it more difficult for the observer teams (OTs) to observe their movement across the border, especially since some of the private vehicles had tinted windows, and buses and minivans had drawn curtains.
Families with a significant amount of luggage
The OTs continued to report on families, sometimes with elderly persons and/or children, crossing the border at both BCPs with a significant amount of luggage, or travelling in heavily loaded cars. During this reporting week, one family was observed crossing into the Russian Federation and two families were observed crossing into Ukraine, compared to the previous reporting period when five families were observed crossing to the Russian Federation and 10 families into Ukraine.
Bus connections
Regular local and long-distance bus connections continued to operate between Ukraine (mostly from/to the Luhansk region) and the Russian Federation. In addition to regular bus connections, the OTs continued to observe bus connections on irregular routes. Often the buses did not state their route; instead they had a sign on the windshield stating “irregular”.
During the reporting period, the OTs observed a significant decrease in the overall number of buses crossing the border at both BCPs (245 compared to 447observed during the previous week). There were 112 buses bound for the Russian Federation and 133 bound for Ukraine.
On some occasions, the OTs noticed the bus drivers removing the itinerary signs from the windshields of their buses, while some buses did not display their route at all. The majority of long-distance buses commuting between the Luhansk region and cities in the Russian Federation had Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region and “LPR” plates.
Trucks
During the reporting period, the OTs observed an increase in the overall number of trucks crossing the border at both BCPs (949 compared to 793 during the previous reporting week);538 at the Gukovo BCP and 411at the Donetsk BCP, 549of these trucks crossed into the Russian Federation and 400 crossed into Ukraine. Most of the trucks observed by the OTs had Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region; however, on a daily basis, the OTs also continued to observe tanker trucks crossing the border in both directions. During the reporting week, the number of tanker trucksincreasedfrom49 to 63. 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 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 increased from 140 to 179. Of the total number of trucks scanned, 159 trucks (89 per cent) were bound for Ukraine: the remaining 20 trucks (11 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 frequently saw minivans registered in the Russian Federation. Compared to the previous week, the number of cargo minivans significantly decreased from 195 to 97vehicles; 47 crossed into the Russian Federation and another 50 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 16 occasions; the OTs assessed that eight trains were travelling to the Russian Federation and eight 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 vehicles with “DPR” plates and vehicles with Georgian and Lithuanian licence plates.
On 17 March at 16:00, the OT at Donetsk BCP observed a white minivan with an inscription "Ритуальные услуги" (ritual services) – written in Russian, crossing from the Russian Federation into Ukraine.
On 23 March at 20:22, the OT observed one police vehicle arriving atthe Donetsk BCP from the Russian Federation. The car stopped behind the main building and was partially visible to the OT. At 20:33 the same day, the vehicle left the BCP towards the Russian Federation with two passengers and a driver on board.
For trends and figures at a glance covering the period from 18 February to 24 March 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--2020-03-24--OSCE Media Freedom Representative urges Turkey to lift advertising ban on Evrensel daily newspaper a

OSCE Media Freedom Representative urges Turkey to lift advertising ban on Evrensel daily newspaper and protect media pluralism in the country

VIENNA , 24 March 2020 - The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media , Harlem Désir , voiced his concern today regarding the advertising ban imposed by the Press Advertising Agency ( BİK ) on the Evrensel daily newspaper .
Désir made his call ahead of the newspaper facing the deadline for regaining the right to publish public advertisements , which expires on 28 March 2020 .
In September 2019 , BİK , the agency responsible for the distribution of state advertising , enacted an indefinite ban on Evrensel , reportedly because the daily newspaper had broken rules against @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s appeal against this decision , even though Evrensel had allegedly made the changes requested of them .
“ I am concerned by this ban imposed on Evrensel , whose journalists have already faced many obstacles in the past .
It is particularly worrying that , for the past six months , no sustainable solution was found on this important issue , ” Désir said .
The Representative stressed that a pluralistic and vibrant media landscape is indispensable to any democratic society .
He expressed his hope that the authorities will not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ media .
“ I call on the authorities to lift the advertising ban , which poses a threat to the existence of the Evrensel daily , ” Désir said .
Désir noted that 24 international press freedom organizations ( including Reporters Without Borders ; the International Press Institute ; Article 19 ; Human Rights Watch ; the Committee to Protect Journalists ; the European Centre for Press and Media Freedom ; the European Federation of Journalists ; the International Federation of Journalists ; the Journalists ’ Union of Turkey ; and PEN International @ @ @ @ @ @ @ end to the public advertising ban on Evrensel .
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, 24 March 2020 - The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, Harlem Désir, voiced his concern today regarding the advertising ban imposed by the Press Advertising Agency (BİK) on the Evrensel daily newspaper. Désir made his call ahead of the newspaper facing the deadline for regaining the right to publish public advertisements, which expires on 28 March 2020.
In September 2019, BİK, the agency responsible for the distribution of state advertising, enacted an indefinite ban on Evrensel, reportedly because the daily newspaper had broken rules against bulk purchasing. BİK later rejected Evrensel’s appeal against this decision, even though Evrensel had allegedly made the changes requested of them.
“I am concerned by this ban imposed on Evrensel, whose journalists have already faced many obstacles in the past. It is particularly worrying that, for the past six months, no sustainable solution was found on this important issue,” Désir said.
The Representative stressed that a pluralistic and vibrant media landscape is indispensable to any democratic society. He expressed his hope that the authorities will not use any economic measures to silence critical media. “I call on the authorities to lift the advertising ban, which poses a threat to the existence of the Evrensel daily,” Désir said.
Désir noted that 24 international press freedom organizations (including Reporters Without Borders; the International Press Institute; Article 19; Human Rights Watch; the Committee to Protect Journalists; the European Centre for Press and Media Freedom; the European Federation of Journalists; the International Federation of Journalists; the Journalists’ Union of Turkey; and PEN International) have also called for an immediate end to the public advertising ban on Evrensel.
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--2020-03-24--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 70/2020 issued on 24 March 2020

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osce--2020-03-24--Сoronavirus response should not impede the work of the media in Russia, says OSCE Media Freedom Repr

Сoronavirus response should not impede the work of the media in Russia, says OSCE Media Freedom Representative

VIENNA , 24 March 2020 – The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media , Harlem Désir , expressed his concerns today about recent interferences regarding media content by the media regulatory agency in Russia , Roskomnadzor , in the context of the fight against disinformation related to the COVID-19 pandemic .
“ I fully understand the need to combat false information in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic , ” Desir said .
“ But I want to stress the key role of the media in providing important information to the public and to counter fake news on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ That is why I am concerned by some undue restrictions on the activities of several media in this context.
” Based on interactions with the office of the Prosecutor-General of the Russian Federation on 19 March , Roskomnadzor demanded that the Echo of Moscow radiostation delete the recording and the transcript of its “ Minority Opinion ” talk show with political analyst Valery Solovey about the coronavirus .
The station noted that the government media watchdog did not clarify which words in the program triggered the complaint .
In addition , on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the hosting provider of the online newspaper “ Govorit Magadan ” block access to a story about a local resident hospitalized over suspicion of having contracted the coronavirus .
This person spent a week in hospital , after which he died .
The newspaper did not name the cause of death .
The editors called Roskomnadzor ’ s demand arbitrary and illegal .
Access to these two stories is effectively blocked .
The Representative recalled the joint statement that he published last week with David Kaye , UN Special Rapporteur on the promotion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of opinion and expression , and Edison Lanza , IACHR Special Rapporteur for 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 two Special Rapporteurs also stated that : “ The right of access to information means that governments must be making exceptional efforts to protect the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 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, 24 March 2020 – The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, Harlem Désir, expressed his concerns today about recent interferences regarding media content by the media regulatory agency in Russia, Roskomnadzor, in the context of the fight against disinformation related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“I fully understand the need to combat false information in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic,” Desir said. “But I want to stress the key role of the media in providing important information to the public and to counter fake news on the pandemic,” the Representative added. “That is why I am concerned by some undue restrictions on the activities of several media in this context.”
Based on interactions with the office of the Prosecutor-General of the Russian Federation on 19 March, Roskomnadzor demanded that the Echo of Moscow radiostation delete the recording and the transcript of its “Minority Opinion” talk show with political analyst Valery Solovey about the coronavirus. The station noted that the government media watchdog did not clarify which words in the program triggered the complaint.
In addition, on 20 March, Roskomnadzor also requested that the hosting provider of the online newspaper “Govorit Magadan” block access to a story about a local resident hospitalized over suspicion of having contracted the coronavirus. This person spent a week in hospital, after which he died. The newspaper did not name the cause of death. The editors called Roskomnadzor’s demand arbitrary and illegal.
Access to these two stories is effectively blocked.
The Representative recalled the joint statement that he published last week 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, 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 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 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--2020-03-24--Сoronavirus response should not impede the work of the media in Armenia, says OSCE Media Freedom Rep

Сoronavirus response should not impede the work of the media in Armenia, says OSCE Media Freedom Representative

VIENNA , 24 March 2020 – The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media , Harlem Désir , expressed his concerns today about a package of amendments to the criminal and administrative codes , introduced in Armenia on 23 March , in the context of the fight against disinformation related to the COVID-19 pandemic .
During the current state of emergency in Armenia , any “ organization that carries out journalistic activities ” ( the term includes electronic publications that are not considered part of the legacy media ) would only be allowed to publish information about the coronavirus crisis @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The government explains that this is necessary to avoid any aggression towards coronavirus patients or panic among the population .
Journalists and editors have criticized this decision , stating that there is no precise definition of which messages may or may not cause panic .
“ I fully understand the aim of the new law to avoid panic , aggression and to combat false information during the COVID-19 pandemic , ” Désir said .
“ At the same time , the media has a crucial role to play in providing important information @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fake news ’ on the pandemic , ” the Representative added .
“ The law should not impede the work of journalists and their ability to report on the pandemic .
Publishing only information provided by the authorities is a very restrictive measure which would limit freedom of the media and access to information disproportionately.
” The maximum fine for publications considered to have violated the restrictions during a state of emergency was stated at 300,000 drams ( approximately $ 600 ) .
A refusal to delete prohibited information within 24 hours will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the minimum wage ( $ 1,000-2,000 ) .
The Representative recalled the joint statement that he published last week 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 , 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” 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 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ media freedom commitments .
Learn more at www.osce.org/fom , Twitter : @ OSCE_RFoM and on www.facebook.com/osce.rfom .

VIENNA, 24 March 2020 – The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, Harlem Désir, expressed his concerns today about a package of amendments to the criminal and administrative codes, introduced in Armenia on 23 March, in the context of the fight against disinformation related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
During the current state of emergency in Armenia, any “organization that carries out journalistic activities” (the term includes electronic publications that are not considered part of the legacy media) would only be allowed to publish information about the coronavirus crisis that has been released by official sources. The government explains that this is necessary to avoid any aggression towards coronavirus patients or panic among the population. Journalists and editors have criticized this decision, stating that there is no precise definition of which messages may or may not cause panic.
“I fully understand the aim of the new law to avoid panic, aggression and to combat false information during the COVID-19 pandemic,” Désir said. “At the same time, the media has a crucial role to play in providing important information to the public and to counter ‘fake news’ on the pandemic,” the Representative added. “The law should not impede the work of journalists and their ability to report on the pandemic. Publishing only information provided by the authorities is a very restrictive measure which would limit freedom of the media and access to information disproportionately.”
The maximum fine for publications considered to have violated the restrictions during a state of emergency was stated at 300,000 drams (approximately $600). A refusal to delete prohibited information within 24 hours will result in a fine of 500-1000 times the minimum wage ($1,000-2,000).
The Representative recalled the joint statement that he published last week 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, 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 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--2020-04-16--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 90/2020 issued on 16 April 2020


osce--2020-04-16--Press Statement by Special Representative Heidi Grau following the mutual release and exchange of de

Press Statement by Special Representative Heidi Grau following the mutual release and exchange of detainees on 16 April 2020

KYIV , 16 April 2020 – Тhe Special Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office in Ukraine and in the Trilateral Contact Group ( TCG ) , Ambassador Heidi Grau , made today the following statement : '' I welcome today ’ s mutual release and exchange of detainees related to the conflict in eastern Ukraine , pursuant to the decision of the Trilateral Contract Group taken on 8 April 2020 , with the participation of representatives of certain areas of Donetsk and Luhansk regions of Ukraine .
This step , made in advance of the Orthodox Easter , has a special @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it will contribute to strengthen trust between the sides while implementing other provisions of the Minsk agreements .
I want to express my appreciation to all the members of the TCG and participants in its meetings , to the TCG Working group on humanitarian issues and its Co-ordinator , as well as to all those whose contributions have made today ’ s mutual release and exchange possible .
Welcoming the achievement , I call on the sides further to make all necessary efforts for the peaceful settlement of the conflict in eastern Ukraine @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ”

KYIV, 16 April 2020 – Тhe Special Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office in Ukraine and in the Trilateral Contact Group (TCG), Ambassador Heidi Grau, made today the following statement:
"I welcome today’s mutual release and exchange of detainees related to the conflict in eastern Ukraine, pursuant to the decision of the Trilateral Contract Group taken on 8 April 2020, with the participation of representatives of certain areas of Donetsk and Luhansk regions of Ukraine.
This step, made in advance of the Orthodox Easter, has a special symbolic resonance. I do hope that it will contribute to strengthen trust between the sides while implementing other provisions of the Minsk agreements.
I want to express my appreciation to all the members of the TCG and participants in its meetings, to the TCG Working group on humanitarian issues and its Co-ordinator, as well as to all those whose contributions have made today’s mutual release and exchange possible.
Welcoming the achievement, I call on the sides further to make all necessary efforts for the peaceful settlement of the conflict in eastern Ukraine in line with the Minsk agreements.”


osce--2020-04-16--OSCE Chairperson-in-Office Rama and Secretary General Greminger welcome release of detainees in east

OSCE Chairperson-in-Office Rama and Secretary General Greminger welcome release of detainees in eastern Ukraine and call for further positive steps

TIRANA / VIENNA , 16 April 2020 – The OSCE Chairperson-in-Office , Prime Minister and Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of Albania , Edi Rama , and OSCE Secretary General Thomas Greminger welcomed today ’ s mutual release and exchange of detainees in eastern Ukraine .
“ Today ’ s mutual release and exchange of detainees is an important step taken before the Orthodox Easter .
The sides demonstrated political will and humanitarian action .
This day has been long awaited by both the detainees and their relatives and friends , ” Rama said .
Rama strongly encouraged the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ supporting the efforts of the Trilateral Contact Group and the Normandy Format .
He stressed the importance of continuing to build on the steps taken at the Paris Normandy Summit on 9 December 2019 , including the commitment on a full and comprehensive implementation of the ceasefire , as well as all the other conclusions agreed in Paris .
“ The OSCE , within its mandate , stands ready to support , through the Trilateral Contact Group and the Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine , ” he added .
Contributing to the peaceful @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ukraine and making a difference on the ground is a top priority of the 2020 Albanian Chairmanship .
“ We will do everything possible to support the improvement of the security situation and easing of the hardship of civilians living in conflict-affected areas in eastern Ukraine , ” the Chairperson-in-Office concluded .
OSCE Secretary General Greminger added : `` The mutual release and exchange of detainees today , the second in less than four months , is highly welcome .
Families will be reunited and able to spend the upcoming Orthodox Easter festivities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ build on this exchange and renew the momentum towards achieving a peaceful settlement of the conflict in eastern Ukraine through the full and comprehensive implementation of the Minsk agreements .
”

TIRANA / VIENNA, 16 April 2020 – The OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, Prime Minister and Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of Albania, Edi Rama, and OSCE Secretary General Thomas Greminger welcomed today’s mutual release and exchange of detainees in eastern Ukraine.
“Today’s mutual release and exchange of detainees is an important step taken before the Orthodox Easter. The sides demonstrated political will and humanitarian action. This day has been long awaited by both the detainees and their relatives and friends,” Rama said.
Rama strongly encouraged the full implementation of the Minsk agreements, supporting the efforts of the Trilateral Contact Group and the Normandy Format. He stressed the importance of continuing to build on the steps taken at the Paris Normandy Summit on 9 December 2019, including the commitment on a full and comprehensive implementation of the ceasefire, as well as all the other conclusions agreed in Paris. “The OSCE, within its mandate, stands ready to support, through the Trilateral Contact Group and the Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine,” he added.
Contributing to the peaceful resolution of the crisis in and around Ukraine and making a difference on the ground is a top priority of the 2020 Albanian Chairmanship. “We will do everything possible to support the improvement of the security situation and easing of the hardship of civilians living in conflict-affected areas in eastern Ukraine,” the Chairperson-in-Office concluded.
OSCE Secretary General Greminger added: "The mutual release and exchange of detainees today, the second in less than four months, is highly welcome. Families will be reunited and able to spend the upcoming Orthodox Easter festivities together. I urge the sides to build on this exchange and renew the momentum towards achieving a peaceful settlement of the conflict in eastern Ukraine through the full and comprehensive implementation of the Minsk agreements.”


osce--2020-04-16--Joint Statement on the Role of Parliaments in a Time of Pandemic

COPENHAGEN / STRASBOURG / BRUSSELS , 16 April 2020 – The Presidents of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe ( PACE ) , the North Atlantic Treaty Organization Parliamentary Assembly ( NATO PA ) , and the Parliamentary Assembly of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe ( OSCE PA ) issued the following joint statement : “ Together , our organizations span 57 countries across North America , Europe , and Central Asia , and a population of over one billion citizens .
We are gravely concerned by the global spread of the COVID-19 pandemic , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and well-being , and its devastating effects on the normal functioning of societies , democracies and fundamental rights and freedoms , as well as the world economy .
This global crisis requires a global response .
Our thoughts are first and foremost with the families of all those who have lost loved ones , those who are fighting the disease , and the many more persons whose livelihoods have been greatly affected by the pandemic .
We extend our heartfelt appreciation to all medical professionals , healthcare workers , scientists and researchers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who are working tirelessly on the frontline of the COVID-19 response to keep us safe .
We are also grateful to the essential workers ensuring the good functioning of our societies and economies in a challenging environment .
International co-operation is key to addressing this grave multifaceted crisis .
We welcome the many forms of assistance and solidarity between our nations which have helped save lives .
More efforts are however needed because no state alone can cope with the magnitude of the crisis and its consequences .
Everyone is affected , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ others , including those affected by conflict or living in refugee camps , who have to be given safe access to medical care .
The rapid and safe development of treatments and a vaccine are essential to bring this pandemic to an end .
Here again , our governments and parliaments must do all they can to encourage cooperation between all stakeholders , first among which are the scientific community and pharmaceutical industries .
By working together , including through relevant multilateral organizations , our governments , parliaments , and central banks can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of COVID-19 and the long-term impact of the crisis , particularly on vulnerable and marginalized groups .
Close co-ordination with parliaments at national and international level is necessary to promote democratic , effective and coherent public policy responses and to address citizens ’ concerns .
Parliaments play an essential role as guardians of democratic values , processes and fundamental freedoms , as well as help enhance public confidence .
It is therefore important that they have continued to function throughout this crisis , passing unprecedented economic aid packages and emergency public health measures @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and securing effective checks and balances where possible .
As short term measures produce far-reaching consequences for the lives and wellbeing of the people , it is crucial that parliaments continue to provide oversight and contribute to the conceptualization and design of support measures , not least in the social and economic spheres , targeting the most vulnerable segments of our societies .
In the coming months , our parliaments will have a key role to play to ensure that emergency measures are implemented properly and in accordance with democratic standards , that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , that economic relief funds are disbursed where they are needed , and that security and stability are upheld .
Our organizations stand ready to support national parliaments in these efforts .
Through parliamentary diplomacy , we can encourage further assistance and coordination between our countries .
By providing platforms for legislators to share experience and best practices , we can help parliaments learn the lessons from this crisis and enhance preparedness , resilience and response for the future .
By ensuring access by parliamentarians and the wider public to accurate and trustworthy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Meanwhile , we will also continue to perform our core tasks of defending the fundamental rights of our citizens , helping protect our populations against the wide range of enduring threats to their security , and supporting economic recovery and cooperation .
”

COPENHAGEN / STRASBOURG / BRUSSELS, 16 April 2020 – The Presidents of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE), the North Atlantic Treaty Organization Parliamentary Assembly (NATO PA), and the Parliamentary Assembly of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE PA) issued the following joint statement:
“Together, our organizations span 57 countries across North America, Europe, and Central Asia, and a population of over one billion citizens. We are gravely concerned by the global spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, its threat to human health, safety, and well-being, and its devastating effects on the normal functioning of societies, democracies and fundamental rights and freedoms, as well as the world economy. This global crisis requires a global response.
Our thoughts are first and foremost with the families of all those who have lost loved ones, those who are fighting the disease, and the many more persons whose livelihoods have been greatly affected by the pandemic. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to all medical professionals, healthcare workers, scientists and researchers, and security and military personnel, who are working tirelessly on the frontline of the COVID-19 response to keep us safe. We are also grateful to the essential workers ensuring the good functioning of our societies and economies in a challenging environment.
International co-operation is key to addressing this grave multifaceted crisis. We welcome the many forms of assistance and solidarity between our nations which have helped save lives. More efforts are however needed because no state alone can cope with the magnitude of the crisis and its consequences. Everyone is affected, but there are some persons more vulnerable than others, including those affected by conflict or living in refugee camps, who have to be given safe access to medical care.
The rapid and safe development of treatments and a vaccine are essential to bring this pandemic to an end. Here again, our governments and parliaments must do all they can to encourage cooperation between all stakeholders, first among which are the scientific community and pharmaceutical industries.
By working together, including through relevant multilateral organizations, our governments, parliaments, and central banks can help reduce the economic and social fallout of COVID-19 and the long-term impact of the crisis, particularly on vulnerable and marginalized groups.
Close co-ordination with parliaments at national and international level is necessary to promote democratic, effective and coherent public policy responses and to address citizens’ concerns. Parliaments play an essential role as guardians of democratic values, processes and fundamental freedoms, as well as help enhance public confidence. It is therefore important that they have continued to function throughout this crisis, passing unprecedented economic aid packages and emergency public health measures, while attempting to ensure democratic controls and securing effective checks and balances where possible.
As short term measures produce far-reaching consequences for the lives and wellbeing of the people, it is crucial that parliaments continue to provide oversight and contribute to the conceptualization and design of support measures, not least in the social and economic spheres, targeting the most vulnerable segments of our societies.
In the coming months, our parliaments will have a key role to play to ensure that emergency measures are implemented properly and in accordance with democratic standards, that restrictions on freedoms are proportionate and temporary, that economic relief funds are disbursed where they are needed, and that security and stability are upheld.
Our organizations stand ready to support national parliaments in these efforts. Through parliamentary diplomacy, we can encourage further assistance and coordination between our countries. By providing platforms for legislators to share experience and best practices, we can help parliaments learn the lessons from this crisis and enhance preparedness, resilience and response for the future. By ensuring access by parliamentarians and the wider public to accurate and trustworthy information, we can help combat misinformation.
Meanwhile, we will also continue to perform our core tasks of defending the fundamental rights of our citizens, helping protect our populations against the wide range of enduring threats to their security, and supporting economic recovery and cooperation.”


osce--2020-04-17--OSCE SMM Spot Report 14/2020: Members of the armed formations continued to deny SMM patrols passage

OSCE SMM Spot Report 14/2020: Members of the armed formations continued to deny SMM patrols passage at checkpoints in both Donetsk and Luhansk regions

On 16 and 17 April , members of the armed formations again denied SMM attempts to cross into non-government-controlled areas along official crossing routes : twice in Donetsk region and once in Luhansk region , while a further attempt to cross into government-controlled areas in Luhansk region was also denied .
On the morning of 16 April and the afternoon of 17 April , at the checkpoint of the armed formations south of Stanytsia Luhanska bridge ( 15km north-east of Luhansk ) , members of the armed formations denied SMM patrols passage into government-controlled areas on one occasion and passage @ @ @ @ @ @ @ referring to the closure of the checkpoint due to COVID-19 .
On the morning of 16 April , at a checkpoint near Oleksandrivka ( non-government-controlled , 20km south-west of Donetsk ) , members of the armed formations denied an SMM patrol passage into non-government-controlled areas , referring to quarantine restrictions due to COVID-19 .
On the morning of 17 April , at a checkpoint near Olenivka ( non-government-controlled , 23km south-west of Donetsk ) , members of the armed formations denied an SMM patrol passage into non-government-controlled areas , referring to quarantine restrictions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 SMM Spot Reports 2/2020 , 3/2020 , 4/2020 , 5/2020 , 6/2020 , 7/2020 , 8/2020 , 9/2020 , 10/2020 , 11/2020 , 13/2020 ) .
They restrict the SMM ’ s freedom of movement across the contact line , thus impeding the implementation of its Mandate throughout the country .
With regard to COVID-19 , the SMM has introduced a number @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 .

On 16 and 17 April, members of the armed formations again denied SMM attempts to cross into non-government-controlled areas along official crossing routes: twice in Donetsk region and once in Luhansk region, while a further attempt to cross into government-controlled areas in Luhansk region was also denied.
On the morning of 16 April and the afternoon of 17 April, at the checkpoint of the armed formations south of Stanytsia Luhanska bridge (15km north-east of Luhansk), members of the armed formations denied SMM patrols passage into government-controlled areas on one occasion and passage into non-government-controlled areas on another occasion, referring to the closure of the checkpoint due to COVID-19.
On the morning of 16 April, at a checkpoint near Oleksandrivka (non-government-controlled, 20km south-west of Donetsk), members of the armed formations denied an SMM patrol passage into non-government-controlled areas, referring to quarantine restrictions due to COVID-19.
On the morning of 17 April, at a checkpoint near Olenivka (non-government-controlled, 23km south-west of Donetsk), members of the armed formations denied an SMM patrol passage into non-government-controlled areas, referring to quarantine restrictions due to COVID-19.
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 SMM Spot Reports 2/2020, 3/2020, 4/2020, 5/2020, 6/2020, 7/2020, 8/2020, 9/2020, 10/2020, 11/2020, 13/2020). They restrict the SMM’s freedom of movement across the contact line, thus impeding the implementation of its Mandate throughout the country.
***
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--2020-04-17--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 91/2020 issued on 17 April 2020


osce--2020-04-17--OSCE supports international media forum dedicated to 25th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s neutrality

On 17 April 2020 , the Foreign Ministry of Turkmenistan organized an international media forum dedicated to the 25th anniversary of Turkmenistan ’ s permanent neutrality .
The OSCE Centre in Ashgabat supported the forum by inviting OSCE experts from Belarus and the Netherlands to deliver presentations during the event held in the format of a teleconference .
The media forum brought together representatives of Turkmenistan ’ s print , broadcast and online media , key ministries , universities and public organizations , as well as representatives of fifty news agencies from twenty countries .
The participants stressed the importance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the country ’ s dedicated efforts aimed at promoting peace and security through constructive dialogue .
Sami Faltas , independent consultant on democratization and security sector reform in the Netherlands , talked about countries with neutral status in Europe and the important role of regional co-operation .
He emphasized that Turkmenistan successfully combines positive neutrality with its foreign policy based on the principles of good neighborliness and mutual respect .
Victor Shadursky , Dean of the Department of International Relations of the Belarus State University , focused on the substantive contribution of neutral @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stressed the relevance of Turkmenistan ’ s international initiatives in various areas , and the efforts aimed at ensuring stability in the Central Asian region .
This includes strengthening environmental , energy and transport security , and promoting water diplomacy .
The Foreign Ministry of Turkmenistan showed a video highlighting the achievements of Turkmenistan ’ s neutrality policy over the last 25 years .
The support was provided within the framework of the Centre ’ s project “ Promoting OSCE early warning instruments within the context of Turkmenistan ’ s permanent neutrality policy @ @

On 17 April 2020, the Foreign Ministry of Turkmenistan organized an international media forum dedicated to the 25th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s permanent neutrality.
The OSCE Centre in Ashgabat supported the forum by inviting OSCE experts from Belarus and the Netherlands to deliver presentations during the event held in the format of a teleconference.
The media forum brought together representatives of Turkmenistan’s print, broadcast and online media, key ministries, universities and public organizations, as well as representatives of fifty news agencies from twenty countries.
The participants stressed the importance of Turkmenistan’s neutrality status and the country’s dedicated efforts aimed at promoting peace and security through constructive dialogue.
Sami Faltas, independent consultant on democratization and security sector reform in the Netherlands, talked about countries with neutral status in Europe and the important role of regional co-operation. He emphasized that Turkmenistan successfully combines positive neutrality with its foreign policy based on the principles of good neighborliness and mutual respect.
Victor Shadursky, Dean of the Department of International Relations of the Belarus State University, focused on the substantive contribution of neutral Turkmenistan in addressing regional issues. He stressed the relevance of Turkmenistan’s international initiatives in various areas, and the efforts aimed at ensuring stability in the Central Asian region. This includes strengthening environmental, energy and transport security, and promoting water diplomacy.
The Foreign Ministry of Turkmenistan showed a video highlighting the achievements of Turkmenistan’s neutrality policy over the last 25 years.
The support was provided within the framework of the Centre’s project “Promoting OSCE early warning instruments within the context of Turkmenistan’s permanent neutrality policy”.


osce--2020-04-17--COVID-19: OSCE provides personal protective equipment to penal colonies for women and youth in Uzbek

COVID-19: OSCE provides personal protective equipment to penal colonies for women and youth in Uzbekistan

The OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan delivered personal protective equipment ( PPE ) to the Main Directorate for Execution of Sentence of the Ministry of Internal Affairs on 10 April 2020 in Tashkent .
The PPE is destined for use in penal colonies for women and minors , for the benefit of both inmates and staff of these institutions , to prevent the spread of the coronavirus .
The delivery included protective clothing , medical masks , gloves and bandages .
It also included a help kit consisting of personal hygiene products , detergents and antibacterial agents .
This delivery @ @ @ @ @ @ @ work of the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan in responding to COVID-19 .
With the handover of the PPE , the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan helped the Government of Uzbekistan in its efforts to deal with the pandemic by preventing the spread of the disease among the penal colony population and providing protection for its staff .
The OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan , John MacGregor , said : “ The coronavirus represents a transnational threat extending across the OSCE area and around the world , and is one of the worst @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our lifetime .
The impact of COVID-19 has created a humanitarian crisis and also affects many aspects of the OSCE ’ s cross-dimensional approach to security .
With the donation of personal protective equipment to the women ’ s and juvenile facilities of the penitentiary service , a very vulnerable group , the OSCE is demonstrating that people come first and that their health , safety and security is a top priority .
”

The OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan delivered personal protective equipment (PPE) to the Main Directorate for Execution of Sentence of the Ministry of Internal Affairs on 10 April 2020 in Tashkent.
The PPE is destined for use in penal colonies for women and minors, for the benefit of both inmates and staff of these institutions, to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. The delivery included protective clothing, medical masks, gloves and bandages. It also included a help kit consisting of personal hygiene products, detergents and antibacterial agents. This delivery was made possible due to the cross-dimensional work of the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan in responding to COVID-19.
With the handover of the PPE, the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan helped the Government of Uzbekistan in its efforts to deal with the pandemic by preventing the spread of the disease among the penal colony population and providing protection for its staff.
The OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan, John MacGregor, said: “The coronavirus represents a transnational threat extending across the OSCE area and around the world, and is one of the worst threats most of us have seen in our lifetime. The impact of COVID-19 has created a humanitarian crisis and also affects many aspects of the OSCE’s cross-dimensional approach to security. With the donation of personal protective equipment to the women’s and juvenile facilities of the penitentiary service, a very vulnerable group, the OSCE is demonstrating that people come first and that their health, safety and security is a top priority.”


osce--2020-04-17--OSCE Media Freedom Representative worried about situation of journalists being kept in prison despit

OSCE Media Freedom Representative worried about situation of journalists being kept in prison despite release law in Turkey, amid coronavirus concerns

VIENNA , 17 April 2020 – The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media , Harlem Désir , expressed his concerns today about the fact that journalists in Turkey will in effect not benefit from a new law releasing inmates from prison , amid public health concerns related to the COVID-19 pandemic .
On 14 April , the Turkish Parliament allowed the release of thousands of prisoners , in a bid to protect them from the coronavirus by reducing overcrowding in prisons .
The amendments approving this release excluded , among others , people held in pre-trial detention or convicted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in prison fall within these categories , media workers have been excluded from this release measure and will remain behind bars .
“ While I welcome the steps taken by the Turkish authorities to prevent overcrowding in prisons as a means of tackling the spread of the coronavirus , I am disappointed and worried that media professionals will not benefit from this measure .
Journalists should not be kept in prison in relation to their work or be associated with terrorism .
In the current circumstances , and faced with the health emergency @ @ @ @ @ @ @ authorities to include journalists in this new measure and to release them , ” Désir said .
The Representative recalled that in a letter sent to the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkey , Mevlüt Çavuşoğlu , on 20 March , he stressed that “ in the current circumstances , a humanitarian decision should be taken in favour of these detained journalists allowing them to reunite with their families.
” The Representative emphasized that there are many imprisoned journalists with certain health or age-related issues , which would put them at particular risk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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, 17 April 2020 – The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, Harlem Désir, expressed his concerns today about the fact that journalists in Turkey will in effect not benefit from a new law releasing inmates from prison, amid public health concerns related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
On 14 April, the Turkish Parliament allowed the release of thousands of prisoners, in a bid to protect them from the coronavirus by reducing overcrowding in prisons. The amendments approving this release excluded, among others, people held in pre-trial detention or convicted on terrorism-related charges. Since most journalists in prison fall within these categories, media workers have been excluded from this release measure and will remain behind bars.
“While I welcome the steps taken by the Turkish authorities to prevent overcrowding in prisons as a means of tackling the spread of the coronavirus, I am disappointed and worried that media professionals will not benefit from this measure. Journalists should not be kept in prison in relation to their work or be associated with terrorism. In the current circumstances, and faced with the health emergency in prisons, I urge the Turkish authorities to include journalists in this new measure and to release them,” Désir said.
The Representative recalled that in a letter sent to the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkey, Mevlüt Çavuşoğlu, on 20 March, he stressed that “in the current circumstances, a humanitarian decision should be taken in favour of these detained journalists allowing them to reunite with their families.”
The Representative emphasized that there are many imprisoned journalists with certain health or age-related issues, which would put them at particular risk of contracting the virus.
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--2020-04-17--Inclusion and not hatred needed to overcome the common crisis we face, OSCE human rights head says

WARSAW , 17 April 2020 – It is only through the strength of our diversity that we will overcome the health crisis we are facing as well as the economic and social challenges likely to follow , the Director of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights ( ODIHR ) said today in response to the spate of racist slogans and attacks that have followed the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic .
“ The pandemic and tragic loss of life it has led to remind us of our shared humanity and the need to find a shared response @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Gísladóttir .
“ That makes the hatred we are seeing in some places all the more unacceptable .
We have seen in so many places how health workers and carers from a multitude of backgrounds , ethnicities , and religions have saved lives and in doing so have sometimes lost their own .
This is a time to celebrate the strength of our diverse societies , not to engage in a racist blame game.
” Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic , reports have proliferated of hate-motivated attacks across the OSCE region @ @ @ @ @ @ @ increasingly on people from other minority communities .
Many are in low-paid jobs that can ’ t be carried out from home , potentially exposing them to racist abuse and making it more difficult to keep themselves safe from infection .
Refugees and migrants , often the most vulnerable members of our societies , have also found themselves singled out for abuse and hatred .
Victims of hate crime often belong to groups facing discrimination and marginalization on a daily basis .
In addition to inflicting lasting trauma on the victims , their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ social cohesion by stoking fear and division .
In times of crisis , the threat posed by these crimes only intensifies , heightening the sense of fear and uncertainty .
This makes it even more important that all 57 countries of the OSCE uphold their commitments to record and investigate hate crimes swiftly , support victims as they report their experiences , and ensure the availability of all necessary psychological , social and legal support for victims .
ODIHR has been working for many years to counter hate crime and build more tolerant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Crime Victims in the Criminal Justice System : A Practical Guide was written to help governments put victims at the centre of their work to combat hate crime and assist those working directly with victims .
A further guide , Understanding anti-Muslim Hate Crimes and Addressing the Security Needs of Muslim Communities , is due to be published later this spring .

WARSAW, 17 April 2020 – It is only through the strength of our diversity that we will overcome the health crisis we are facing as well as the economic and social challenges likely to follow, the Director of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) said today in response to the spate of racist slogans and attacks that have followed the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The pandemic and tragic loss of life it has led to remind us of our shared humanity and the need to find a shared response,” said ODIHR Director Ingibjörg Sólrún Gísladóttir. “That makes the hatred we are seeing in some places all the more unacceptable. We have seen in so many places how health workers and carers from a multitude of backgrounds, ethnicities, and religions have saved lives and in doing so have sometimes lost their own. This is a time to celebrate the strength of our diverse societies, not to engage in a racist blame game.”
Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, reports have proliferated of hate-motivated attacks across the OSCE region against people of Asian backgrounds, and increasingly on people from other minority communities. Many are in low-paid jobs that can’t be carried out from home, potentially exposing them to racist abuse and making it more difficult to keep themselves safe from infection. Refugees and migrants, often the most vulnerable members of our societies, have also found themselves singled out for abuse and hatred.
Victims of hate crime often belong to groups facing discrimination and marginalization on a daily basis. In addition to inflicting lasting trauma on the victims, their families and communities, hate crimes damage social cohesion by stoking fear and division. In times of crisis, the threat posed by these crimes only intensifies, heightening the sense of fear and uncertainty. This makes it even more important that all 57 countries of the OSCE uphold their commitments to record and investigate hate crimes swiftly, support victims as they report their experiences, and ensure the availability of all necessary psychological, social and legal support for victims.
ODIHR has been working for many years to counter hate crime and build more tolerant societies. Its latest publication, Hate Crime Victims in the Criminal Justice System: A Practical Guide was written to help governments put victims at the centre of their work to combat hate crime and assist those working directly with victims. A further guide, Understanding anti-Muslim Hate Crimes and Addressing the Security Needs of Muslim Communities, is due to be published later this spring.


osce--2020-04-17--OSCE Mission to Montenegro delivers food and hygiene items to country's Red Cross during COVID-19 pa

OSCE Mission to Montenegro delivers food and hygiene items to country's Red Cross during COVID-19 pandemic

The OSCE Mission to Montenegro procured and handed over food and hygiene items for babies to the Red Cross of @ @ @ @ @ families in need .
Joining comprehensive efforts of the international community in Montenegro to assist @ @ @ @ @ COVID-19 pandemic ,  the Mission delivered the packages , worth 3,000 Euros , on @ @ @ @ @ .
Following the Government ’ s call for support and donations , almost the entire @ @ @ @ @ and donated funds , resources , material , equipment and expertise .
Since it first @ @ @ @ @ 2019 , the coronavirus has spread to almost every country in the world .
Montenegro @ @ @ @ @ Mission welcomes the Government 's initiative to introduce early restrictive measures and thus keep the @ @ @ @

The OSCE Mission to Montenegro procured and handed over food and hygiene items for babies to the Red Cross of Montenegro to be distributed to families in need.
Joining comprehensive efforts of the international community in Montenegro to assist the most vulnerable groups during COVID-19 pandemic,  the Mission delivered the packages, worth 3,000 Euros, on 16 April 2020 in Podgorica.
Following the Government’s call for support and donations, almost the entire international community in Montenegro answered and donated funds, resources, material, equipment and expertise.
Since it first occurred in Asia in December 2019, the coronavirus has spread to almost every country in the world. Montenegro was no exception. The Mission welcomes the Government's initiative to introduce early restrictive measures and thus keep the outbreak under control.


osce--2020-04-18--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 92/2020 issued on 18 April 2020


osce--2020-04-18--Press communiqué of the Co-Chairs of the Geneva International Discussions

BRUSSELS/GENEVA/TIRANA , 18 April 2020 - We , the Co-Chairs of the Geneva International Discussions ( GID ) , recalling @ @ @ @ @ , and in the spirit of the call of UN Secretary General Guterres , strongly @ @ @ @ @ to set aside differences and to refrain from actions that could lead to increased tension @ @ @ @ @ on collaboration , for the good of all people in the region and against the @ @ @ @ @ pandemic .
The reported erection of signs along the South Ossetian dividing line today predictably @ @ @ @ @ on the ground and rids the local people of their livelihoods .
In the face @ @ @ @ @ of COVID-19 , requiring joint approaches and co-operation amongst all , we hereby repeat our @ @ @ @ @ avoid provocative measures and focus on improving the situation of the conflict-affected population .

BRUSSELS/GENEVA/TIRANA, 18 April 2020 - We, the Co-Chairs of the Geneva International Discussions (GID), recalling our statement from 31 March, and in the spirit of the call of UN Secretary General Guterres, strongly urge all the GID participants to set aside differences and to refrain from actions that could lead to increased tension.
The focus should be on collaboration, for the good of all people in the region and against the common threat of the COVID-19 pandemic. The reported erection of signs along the South Ossetian dividing line today predictably contributes to a tense atmosphere on the ground and rids the local people of their livelihoods.
In the face of the current global challenge of COVID-19, requiring joint approaches and co-operation amongst all, we hereby repeat our call on all participants to avoid provocative measures and focus on improving the situation of the conflict-affected population.


osce--2020-04-20--OSCE SMM Spot Report 15/2020: Members of the armed formations continued to deny SMM patrols passage

OSCE SMM Spot Report 15/2020: Members of the armed formations continued to deny SMM patrols passage at checkpoints in both Donetsk and Luhansk regions

On 18 , 19 , and 20 April , members of the armed formations again denied SMM attempts to cross into non-government-controlled areas along official crossing routes : four times in Donetsk region and once in Luhansk region , while further attempts to cross into government-controlled areas were also denied , twice in Luhansk region and twice in Donetsk region .
On 18 , 19 , and 20 April , at the checkpoint of the armed formations south of Stanytsia Luhanska bridge ( 15km north-east of Luhansk ) , members of the armed formations twice denied SMM patrols passage towards @ @ @ @ @ @ @ non-government-controlled areas , referring to the closure of the checkpoint due to COVID-19 .
On 19 April , at a checkpoint about 600m west of Verkhnoshyrokivske ( formerly Oktaibr , non-government-controlled , 85km south of Donetsk ) , members of the armed formations denied an SMM patrol passage towards non-government-controlled areas , providing no explanation .
On 18 and 20 April , at a checkpoint near Horlivka ( non-government-controlled , 39km north-east of Donetsk ) , an SMM patrol was unable to proceed towards non-government-controlled areas due to spikes laid across the entire @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mine sign in the middle of the road .
No members of the armed formations were observed by the SMM .
On 18 and 19 April , at a checkpoint near Olenivka ( non-government-controlled , 23km south-west of Donetsk ) , members of the armed formations twice denied an SMM patrol passage towards government-controlled areas and once denied passage towards non-government-controlled areas , referring to quarantine restrictions due to COVID-19 on two occasions and once providing no reason .
The Mission began facing repeated denials when attempting to cross into non-government-controlled areas at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ region on 21 March , and Luhansk region on 23 March ( see SMM Spot Reports 2/2020 , 3/2020 , 4/2020 , 5/2020 , 6/2020 , 7/2020 , 8/2020 , 9/2020 , 10/2020 , 11/2020 , 13/2020 , 14/2020 ) .
They restrict the SMM ’ s freedom of movement across the contact line , thus impeding the implementation of its Mandate throughout the country .
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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , daily temperature checks , use of PPE , and minimizing the number of personnel in vehicles .

On 18, 19, and 20 April, members of the armed formations again denied SMM attempts to cross into non-government-controlled areas along official crossing routes: four times in Donetsk region and once in Luhansk region, while further attempts to cross into government-controlled areas were also denied, twice in Luhansk region and twice in Donetsk region.
On 18, 19, and 20 April, at the checkpoint of the armed formations south of Stanytsia Luhanska bridge (15km north-east of Luhansk), members of the armed formations twice denied SMM patrols passage towards government-controlled areas and once denied passage towards non-government-controlled areas, referring to the closure of the checkpoint due to COVID-19.
On 19 April, at a checkpoint about 600m west of Verkhnoshyrokivske (formerly Oktaibr, non-government-controlled, 85km south of Donetsk), members of the armed formations denied an SMM patrol passage towards non-government-controlled areas, providing no explanation.
On 18 and 20 April, at a checkpoint near Horlivka (non-government-controlled, 39km north-east of Donetsk), an SMM patrol was unable to proceed towards non-government-controlled areas due to spikes laid across the entire road, and the presence of a mine sign in the middle of the road. No members of the armed formations were observed by the SMM.
On 18 and 19 April, at a checkpoint near Olenivka (non-government-controlled, 23km south-west of Donetsk), members of the armed formations twice denied an SMM patrol passage towards government-controlled areas and once denied passage towards non-government-controlled areas, referring to quarantine restrictions due to COVID-19 on two occasions and once providing no reason.
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 SMM Spot Reports 2/2020, 3/2020, 4/2020, 5/2020, 6/2020, 7/2020, 8/2020, 9/2020, 10/2020, 11/2020, 13/2020, 14/2020). They restrict the SMM’s freedom of movement across the contact line, thus impeding the implementation of its Mandate throughout the country.
***
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--2020-04-20--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 93/2020 issued on 20 April 2020


osce--2020-04-20--OSCE provides personal protective equipment to partners in Kyrgyzstan to ease impact of COVID-19 cri

OSCE provides personal protective equipment to partners in Kyrgyzstan to ease impact of COVID-19 crisis

The OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek provided personal protective equipment ( PPE ) to partners to contribute to Kyrgyzstan ’ s response to the outbreak of COVID-19 .
The handover of the PPE took place on 18 April 2020 in Bishkek .
The equipment was destined for frontline civil servants , volunteers , and members of law enforcement , allowing them to fulfil their daily duties safely .
It includes respiratory masks , coverall suits , gloves , protective goggles , and non-contact thermometers .
This is the first of two-phases of technical assistance by the Programme Office in helping @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stop the spread of the coronavirus .
The OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek remains a reliable partner and continues to offer support to Kyrgyzstan to ease the impact of the COVID-19 .
In addition to the technical assistance , the OSCE Programme Office has also reinforced a number of programmatic activities based on a comprehensive approach in view of COVID-19 .
This includes strengthening co-operation in the area of public security and community policing , supporting small and medium-sized enterprises , assisting the penitentiary system , and the Women Initiative Groups network working @ @ @ @ @

The OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek provided personal protective equipment (PPE) to partners to contribute to Kyrgyzstan’s response to the outbreak of COVID-19. The handover of the PPE took place on 18 April 2020 in Bishkek.
The equipment was destined for frontline civil servants, volunteers, and members of law enforcement, allowing them to fulfil their daily duties safely. It includes respiratory masks, coverall suits, gloves, protective goggles, and non-contact thermometers.
This is the first of two-phases of technical assistance by the Programme Office in helping the Kyrgyzstan Government in its efforts to stop the spread of the coronavirus. The OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek remains a reliable partner and continues to offer support to Kyrgyzstan to ease the impact of the COVID-19.
In addition to the technical assistance, the OSCE Programme Office has also reinforced a number of programmatic activities based on a comprehensive approach in view of COVID-19. This includes strengthening co-operation in the area of public security and community policing, supporting small and medium-sized enterprises, assisting the penitentiary system, and the Women Initiative Groups network working at the community level.