osce--2020-02-06--OSCE organizes study visit of Azerbaijani officials to Dublin to learn about public-private sector c

OSCE organizes study visit of Azerbaijani officials to Dublin to learn about public-private sector co-operation in combating cybercrime

A delegation from Azerbaijan ’ s Government travelled to Dublin on 5 and 6 February 2020 to learn about co-operation between the public and private sectors in fighting cybercrime .
The officials visited the Irish Ministry of Foreign Affairs , Ireland ’ s police force , the Garda Síochána , the regional headquarters of Microsoft , eBay , PayPal and Google , as well as University College Dublin .
The visit was organized by the Strategic Police Matters Unit of the OSCE Transnational Threats Department ( SPMU ) with the support of Italy .
During the study visit , private @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to improve the co-operation .
“ Cybercrime is a complex and ever-evolving phenomenon that represents a transnational security threat , ” said Denise Mazzolani , Deputy Head of SPMU and Adviser on Cybercrime .
“ Public-private co-operation is essential in order to address this issue and ensure cybercrime resilience .
The OSCE stands ready to work with its participating States and partners in building and enhancing co-operation with the private sector in order to ensure a holistic approach and solution to the transnational threat of cybercrime.
” Participants from Azerbaijan underlined the importance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ challenges related to the use of information communication technologies for criminal purposes .
The Azerbaijani side thanked the OSCE Secretariat and the Government of Italy for initiating the project designed on the basis of the needs of Azerbaijan and expressed its conviction that the project is of great use for the practitioners .
The study visit was a follow-up to a workshop held in Baku in November 2019 .
At that time , representatives of private companies and public officials met to discuss co-operation in combating cybercrime and the way forward .

A delegation from Azerbaijan’s Government travelled to Dublin on 5 and 6 February 2020 to learn about co-operation between the public and private sectors in fighting cybercrime. The officials visited the Irish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ireland’s police force, the Garda Síochána, the regional headquarters of Microsoft, eBay, PayPal and Google, as well as University College Dublin.
The visit was organized by the Strategic Police Matters Unit of the OSCE Transnational Threats Department (SPMU) with the support of Italy.
During the study visit, private sector representatives shared best practices on how to improve the co-operation.
“Cybercrime is a complex and ever-evolving phenomenon that represents a transnational security threat,” said Denise Mazzolani, Deputy Head of SPMU and Adviser on Cybercrime. “Public-private co-operation is essential in order to address this issue and ensure cybercrime resilience. The OSCE stands ready to work with its participating States and partners in building and enhancing co-operation with the private sector in order to ensure a holistic approach and solution to the transnational threat of cybercrime.”
Participants from Azerbaijan underlined the importance of a public-private partnership in addressing the challenges related to the use of information communication technologies for criminal purposes. The Azerbaijani side thanked the OSCE Secretariat and the Government of Italy for initiating the project designed on the basis of the needs of Azerbaijan and expressed its conviction that the project is of great use for the practitioners.
The study visit was a follow-up to a workshop held in Baku in November 2019. At that time, representatives of private companies and public officials met to discuss co-operation in combating cybercrime and the way forward.


osce--2020-02-06--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 30/2020 issued on 6 February 2020

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osce--2020-02-06--OSCE Representative Désir concerned by search at 1+1 channel in Ukraine, calls on authorities to res

OSCE Representative Désir concerned by search at 1+1 channel in Ukraine, calls on authorities to respect confidentiality of sources

VIENNA , 6 February 2020 – Following yesterday ’ s search of the editorial office of 1+1 TV channel , the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media , Harlem Désir , called on the Ukrainian authorities to ensure that media activities are not obstructed and confidentiality of sources is respected .
On 5 February , the Security Service of Ukraine ( SBU ) conducted a search of the editorial office of 1+1 TV channel in Kyiv .
According to media reports , the search was conducted as part of SBU ’ s investigation on charges of “ illegal use @ @ @ @ @ @ @ information ” .
This follows the recent publication of conversations allegedly involving high-level public officials .
The SBU informed that the search was carried out in relation to specific persons , and in locations where they could create and store the audio files obtained illegally .
“ I am concerned by the search of the newsroom of 1+1 TV Channel , and that computers and belongings of journalists were seized .
I call on the authorities to ensure that the inquiry does not obstruct the work of the media and to respect the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is recognized internationally , ” Désir said .
“ I am particularly concerned that such actions may have a chilling effect on the work of all media .
The protection of journalistic sources is a key element of media freedom and especially of investigative journalism.
” 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @

VIENNA, 6 February 2020 – Following yesterday’s search of the editorial office of 1+1 TV channel, the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, Harlem Désir, called on the Ukrainian authorities to ensure that media activities are not obstructed and confidentiality of sources is respected.
On 5 February, the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) conducted a search of the editorial office of 1+1 TV channel in Kyiv. According to media reports, the search was conducted as part of SBU’s investigation on charges of “illegal use of special technology for secret obtaining of information”. This follows the recent publication of conversations allegedly involving high-level public officials. The SBU informed that the search was carried out in relation to specific persons, and in locations where they could create and store the audio files obtained illegally.
“I am concerned by the search of the newsroom of 1+1 TV Channel, and that computers and belongings of journalists were seized. I call on the authorities to ensure that the inquiry does not obstruct the work of the media and to respect the principle of confidentiality of journalistic sources which is recognized internationally,” Désir said. “I am particularly concerned that such actions may have a chilling effect on the work of all media. The protection of journalistic sources is a key element of media freedom and especially of investigative journalism.”
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--2020-02-06--President Tsereteli testifies in front of United States Helsinki Commission on the power of parliame

President Tsereteli testifies in front of United States Helsinki Commission on the power of parliamentary diplomacy

WASHINGTON D.C. , 6 February 2020 – OSCE PA President George Tsereteli testified yesterday in front of the United States Helsinki Commission at a hearing on “ The Power and Purpose of Parliamentary Diplomacy ” .
In his appearance before the Helsinki Commission , President Tsereteli discussed the organization ’ s activities , challenges and achievements .
The hearing focused on the ways the OSCE parliamentarians support and add value to the multilateral diplomatic efforts of governments and OSCE institutions .
“ In upholding our shared principles , in promoting democratic values , and in preventing and settling conflicts , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of our citizens .
This may not be palpable at times , but Americans know too well that empowering diplomats today is wiser than deploying troops tomorrow , '' said Tsereteli .
“ It is therefore also our mission to ensure that our organizations are fully equipped to bring peace , stability and democracy across the OSCE area and throughout the world .
`` Testifying alongside the acting President of NATO Parliamentary Assembly Attila Mesterhazy , Tsereteli addressed various pressing issues .
He spoke about fight against terrorism , climate change , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ illegal occupation of the Georgian regions of South Ossetia and Abkhazia , the conflict in Ukraine and the illegal annexation of Crimea , and the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict , recalling the role the Assembly played through the adoption of relevant resolutions and the activities carried out by members , committees and Special Representatives .
Tsereteli also highlighted the benefits of election observation activities , underlining how the engagement of parliamentarians ensures greater expertise , accountability and visibility to this exercise .
“ I am thankful for the leadership and engagement of U.S. members of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all OSCE PA activities .
Your strong engagement in the Western Balkans , in the Mediterranean and the Middle East , the Caucasus and Central Asia is a good example of the influence that parliamentary diplomacy can wield , ” said President Tsereteli .
He also expressed his gratitude towards the United States permanent mission to the OSCE and Ambassador James Gilmore for the continued support and co-operation .
The hearing was chaired by the Chair of the Helsinki Commission and Head of the U.S. delegation to the OSCE PA Alcee Hastings , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wicker , Commissioners Ben Cardin , Filemon Vela , and Joe Wilson.Watch the video of the hearing here .

WASHINGTON D.C., 6 February 2020 – OSCE PA President George Tsereteli testified yesterday in front of the United States Helsinki Commission at a hearing on “The Power and Purpose of Parliamentary Diplomacy”.
In his appearance before the Helsinki Commission, President Tsereteli discussed the organization’s activities, challenges and achievements. The hearing focused on the ways the OSCE parliamentarians support and add value to the multilateral diplomatic efforts of governments and OSCE institutions.
“In upholding our shared principles, in promoting democratic values, and in preventing and settling conflicts, parliamentary diplomacy contributes to bettering the lives of our citizens. This may not be palpable at times, but Americans know too well that empowering diplomats today is wiser than deploying troops tomorrow," said Tsereteli. “It is therefore also our mission to ensure that our organizations are fully equipped to bring peace, stability and democracy across the OSCE area and throughout the world.
"Testifying alongside the acting President of NATO Parliamentary Assembly Attila Mesterhazy, Tsereteli addressed various pressing issues. He spoke about fight against terrorism, climate change, and ongoing unsettled conflicts, in particular the illegal occupation of the Georgian regions of South Ossetia and Abkhazia, the conflict in Ukraine and the illegal annexation of Crimea, and the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, recalling the role the Assembly played through the adoption of relevant resolutions and the activities carried out by members, committees and Special Representatives. Tsereteli also highlighted the benefits of election observation activities, underlining how the engagement of parliamentarians ensures greater expertise, accountability and visibility to this exercise.
“I am thankful for the leadership and engagement of U.S. members of Congress and the Helsinki Commission staff in all OSCE PA activities. Your strong engagement in the Western Balkans, in the Mediterranean and the Middle East, the Caucasus and Central Asia is a good example of the influence that parliamentary diplomacy can wield,” said President Tsereteli. He also expressed his gratitude towards the United States permanent mission to the OSCE and Ambassador James Gilmore for the continued support and co-operation.
The hearing was chaired by the Chair of the Helsinki Commission and Head of the U.S. delegation to the OSCE PA Alcee Hastings, and saw the participation of Co-chair Roger Wicker, Commissioners Ben Cardin, Filemon Vela, and Joe Wilson.Watch the video of the hearing here.


osce--2020-02-08--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 32/2020 issued on 8 February 2020


osce--2020-02-07--OSCE Media Freedom Representative concludes visit to Kyiv calling for more consultation on media law

OSCE Media Freedom Representative concludes visit to Kyiv calling for more consultation on media law reforms to strengthen guarantees of media freedom

KYIV , 7 February 2020 – OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media , Harlem Désir , concluded today his official visit to Kyiv , where he held discussions with the authorities , the media community and international organizations , focusing particularly on two new draft laws , on Media and on Countering Disinformation respectively .
“ The draft law on Media is an important reform of the regulation of the media field in Ukraine .
It is important to ensure that it will contribute to pluralism , independence and freedom of the media in line with the best international @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the media , ” Désir said .
“ The law should particularly ensure the independence , impartiality and accountability of the regulatory body , transparency of media ownership , and equal opportunities for media outlets with fair competition on the market .
The new , extensive competencies of the regulatory agency should not infringe upon freedom of the media and the content of online and printed media , ” Désir said .
The Representative announced that he will provide a legal review of the draft law , including recommendations , to the authorities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Humanitarian and Information Policy within the next few weeks .
Regarding the draft law on countering disinformation “ On Amendments to Certain Legal Acts of Ukraine Aimed to Provide National Information Security and Right to Access to Truthful Information ” , the Representative urged the authorities to allow more time for consultations with the media community and international organizations .
“ I understand the need to fight against disinformation , especially in the context of the current conflict in and around Ukraine .
However , the current draft law , as it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ interference in media content and journalism activities at the expense of media freedom and will not be efficient to counter disinformation.
” He also said : “ The first allies in the fight against disinformation are the Ukrainian journalists themselves and any strategy must build on their capacities and be developed in consultation with them.
” The Representative insisted that more time is needed for the consultation process and for developing a new strategy .
“ Self-regulation , support for professional standards of journalism , fact-checking initiatives to debunk false information , diversity @ @ @ @ @ @ @ independent public service media , as well as the development of media literacy are key components in the fight against the manipulation of information.
” In his discussions with Zurab Alasania , Chair of the Managing Board of the public service company UA : PBC , and members of Parliament , the Representative underlined the importance of a well-funded independent public broadcasting service , which can also contribute to combatting disinformation .
During his visit , Désir discussed the importance of enhancing the safety of journalists .
“ Despite improvements in comparison to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ media property were frequent , intimidation , harassment and obstruction involving members of the media , continue to take place , ” Désir said .
“ The death of the journalist and blogger Vadim Komarov in Cherkasy in June 2019 is a horrible reminder of the danger that journalists face .
In many of these cases , the perpetrators have not been brought to justice yet , and the effectiveness and pace of the investigations remain quite low .
I call on the authorities to spare no effort in boosting effective investigations , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Pavel Sheremet , in line with the OSCE commitments of Ukraine , which include the Ministerial Council decision on safety of journalists , adopted in 2018 in Milan.
” In his discussions with the authorities , the Representative reiterated his concerns about the media freedom situation and safety of journalists in the non-government-controlled areas , and assured the authorities that his Office will continue to closely monitor the related developments and address any violations of the rights of media actors .
During his visit , Désir met with Volodymyr Borodianskyi , Minister @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ukraine ; Oleksandr Tkachenko , Chairperson of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine ’ s Committee on Humanitarian and Information Policy ; Oleg Nalyvaiko , Head of the State Committee for Television and Radio Broadcasting , and Yevhenia Filipenko , Director General for International Organizations at the Foreign Ministry of Ukraine .
He also met with journalists and representatives of civil society organizations , including the Institute of Mass Information , the National Journalists ’ Union of Ukraine , the Platform for Human Rights , the Donbass News website , Detector Media , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hromadske TV , AFP and the Commission on Journalistic Ethics .
Désir also had meetings with the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Ukraine and the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission in Ukraine ; as well as with Verena Taylor , Director of the Office Directorate General of Programmes of the Council of Europe ( CoE ) and Olena Litvinenko , Deputy Head of the CoE Office in Ukraine .
“ I consider Ukraine a close partner in promoting media freedom in the OSCE region .
I encourage the government to vigorously promote a safe and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ consider steps to strengthen media pluralism , independence and sustainability of the public broadcaster , transparency of media ownership and access to information , ” he said .
“ As always , my Office stands ready to engage with relevant stakeholders , provide expert policy recommendations and share positive examples from the OSCE region on matters related to media freedom and safety of journalists.
” 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with OSCE media freedom commitments .
Learn more at www.osce.org/fom , Twitter : @ OSCE_RFoM and on www.facebook.com/osce.rfom .

KYIV, 7 February 2020 – OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, Harlem Désir, concluded today his official visit to Kyiv, where he held discussions with the authorities, the media community and international organizations, focusing particularly on two new draft laws, on Media and on Countering Disinformation respectively.
“The draft law on Media is an important reform of the regulation of the media field in Ukraine. It is important to ensure that it will contribute to pluralism, independence and freedom of the media in line with the best international standards and OSCE commitments on freedom of the media,” Désir said.
“The law should particularly ensure the independence, impartiality and accountability of the regulatory body, transparency of media ownership, and equal opportunities for media outlets with fair competition on the market. The new, extensive competencies of the regulatory agency should not infringe upon freedom of the media and the content of online and printed media,” Désir said.
The Representative announced that he will provide a legal review of the draft law, including recommendations, to the authorities and the Verkhovna Rada’s Committee on Humanitarian and Information Policy within the next few weeks.
Regarding the draft law on countering disinformation “On Amendments to Certain Legal Acts of Ukraine Aimed to Provide National Information Security and Right to Access to Truthful Information”, the Representative urged the authorities to allow more time for consultations with the media community and international organizations. “I understand the need to fight against disinformation, especially in the context of the current conflict in and around Ukraine. However, the current draft law, as it is, could lead to broad state interference in media content and journalism activities at the expense of media freedom and will not be efficient to counter disinformation.” He also said: “The first allies in the fight against disinformation are the Ukrainian journalists themselves and any strategy must build on their capacities and be developed in consultation with them.”
The Representative insisted that more time is needed for the consultation process and for developing a new strategy. “Self-regulation, support for professional standards of journalism, fact-checking initiatives to debunk false information, diversity of reliable sources of information and an independent public service media, as well as the development of media literacy are key components in the fight against the manipulation of information.”
In his discussions with Zurab Alasania, Chair of the Managing Board of the public service company UA: PBC, and members of Parliament, the Representative underlined the importance of a well-funded independent public broadcasting service, which can also contribute to combatting disinformation.
During his visit, Désir discussed the importance of enhancing the safety of journalists. “Despite improvements in comparison to 2014-2015, when attacks on journalists and media property were frequent, intimidation, harassment and obstruction involving members of the media, continue to take place,” Désir said. “The death of the journalist and blogger Vadim Komarov in Cherkasy in June 2019 is a horrible reminder of the danger that journalists face. In many of these cases, the perpetrators have not been brought to justice yet, and the effectiveness and pace of the investigations remain quite low. I call on the authorities to spare no effort in boosting effective investigations, including in the case of the assassination of Pavel Sheremet, in line with the OSCE commitments of Ukraine, which include the Ministerial Council decision on safety of journalists, adopted in 2018 in Milan.”
In his discussions with the authorities, the Representative reiterated his concerns about the media freedom situation and safety of journalists in the non-government-controlled areas, and assured the authorities that his Office will continue to closely monitor the related developments and address any violations of the rights of media actors.
During his visit, Désir met with Volodymyr Borodianskyi, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport of Ukraine; Oleksandr Tkachenko, Chairperson of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine’s Committee on Humanitarian and Information Policy; Oleg Nalyvaiko, Head of the State Committee for Television and Radio Broadcasting, and Yevhenia Filipenko, Director General for International Organizations at the Foreign Ministry of Ukraine.
He also met with journalists and representatives of civil society organizations, including the Institute of Mass Information, the National Journalists’ Union of Ukraine, the Platform for Human Rights, the Donbass News website, Detector Media, the Ukrainian Service of Radio Free Europe, Hromadske TV, AFP and the Commission on Journalistic Ethics. Désir also had meetings with the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Ukraine and the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine; as well as with Verena Taylor, Director of the Office Directorate General of Programmes of the Council of Europe (CoE) and Olena Litvinenko, Deputy Head of the CoE Office in Ukraine.
“I consider Ukraine a close partner in promoting media freedom in the OSCE region. I encourage the government to vigorously promote a safe and enabling environment for journalists, and to consider steps to strengthen media pluralism, independence and sustainability of the public broadcaster, transparency of media ownership and access to information,” he said. “As always, my Office stands ready to engage with relevant stakeholders, provide expert policy recommendations and share positive examples from the OSCE region on matters related to media freedom and safety of journalists.”
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--2020-02-07--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 31/2020 issued on 7 February 2020


osce--2020-02-07--Attack against journalist and lawyer in Grozny, Russia, extremely concerning, OSCE Media Freedom Rep

Attack against journalist and lawyer in Grozny, Russia, extremely concerning, OSCE Media Freedom Representative urges full and thorough investigation

VIENNA , 7 February 2020 – The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media , Harlem Désir , strongly condemned today the attack on Novaya Gazeta ’ s investigative journalist Elena Milashina and lawyer Marina Dubrovina in Grozny , the capital of the Chechen republic of the Russian Federation .
According to reports , on the night of 6 February , a group of 15 individuals attacked Milashina and Dubrovina inside the Continent Hotel in Grozny , where the pair were to attend the hearing of Islam Nukhanov .
Milashina suffered serious bruises to her head , as well as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ One of the assailants filmed the attack .
“ I strongly condemn this violent attack against Elena Milashina and Marina Dubrovina , ” said Désir .
“ This is a very worrying incident .
I urge the authorities to investigate this attack thoroughly and fully , in order to bring those responsible to justice .
It is paramount that journalists are able to work in a safe environment , without fear of reprisals.
” Reportedly , investigators responding to the event prevented Milashina from approaching a bystander , who might have witnessed the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ links the attack to her professional journalistic activities , as she had previously received threats for publishing articles related to human rights violations in Chechnya .
The Representative recalled the OSCE Ministerial Council Decision on Safety of Journalists , which urges participating States to “ condemn publicly and unequivocally all attacks and violence against journalists such as killing , torture , enforced disappearance , arbitrary arrest , arbitrary detention and arbitrary expulsion , intimidation , harassment , and threats of all forms , such as physical , legal , political , technological or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and/or unduly force closure of their offices , including in conflict situations.
” 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, 7 February 2020 – The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, Harlem Désir, strongly condemned today the attack on Novaya Gazeta’s investigative journalist Elena Milashina and lawyer Marina Dubrovina in Grozny, the capital of the Chechen republic of the Russian Federation.
According to reports, on the night of 6 February, a group of 15 individuals attacked Milashina and Dubrovina inside the Continent Hotel in Grozny, where the pair were to attend the hearing of Islam Nukhanov. Milashina suffered serious bruises to her head, as well as cuts to her shoulder and neck. One of the assailants filmed the attack.
“I strongly condemn this violent attack against Elena Milashina and Marina Dubrovina,” said Désir. “This is a very worrying incident. I urge the authorities to investigate this attack thoroughly and fully, in order to bring those responsible to justice. It is paramount that journalists are able to work in a safe environment, without fear of reprisals.”
Reportedly, investigators responding to the event prevented Milashina from approaching a bystander, who might have witnessed the attack, to ask questions. Milashina links the attack to her professional journalistic activities, as she had previously received threats for publishing articles related to human rights violations in Chechnya.
The Representative recalled the OSCE Ministerial Council Decision on Safety of Journalists, which urges participating States to “condemn publicly and unequivocally all attacks and violence against journalists such as killing, torture, enforced disappearance, arbitrary arrest, arbitrary detention and arbitrary expulsion, intimidation, harassment, and threats of all forms, such as physical, legal, political, technological or economic, used to suppress their work and/or unduly force closure of their offices, including in conflict situations.”
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--2020-02-07--OSCE Media Freedom Representative highly concerned by absence of N1 from Telekom Serbia network

VIENNA , 7 February 2020 – The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media , Harlem Désir , expressed his concern today over the absence of the independent media outlet N1 among channels offered by cable operators affiliated with the Telekom Serbia network .
Telekom Serbia is a joint stock company predominantly owned by the state .
In the beginning of this year , cable operators ceased transmitting the N1 channel , which is known for its independent reporting .
The decision was reportedly justified by legal and economic disagreements with the United Group , the owner of N1 and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ concerned by this latest development in the dispute between Telekom Serbia and United Media , ” said Désir .
“ It is essential to allow unhindered access to information for citizens , in order to preserve media plurality in the country through safeguarding the role of independent and critical media outlets.
” N1 was suspended from another state cable provider , PostaNet , after its contract expired in December 2019 .
The Representative also recalled that journalists working for N1 had previously suffered threats and physical attacks , with their web portal having @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ At this time when media and journalism are under attack , there is a pressing need to produce good public interest media content accessible to citizens , and for the state to promote diversity in the media landscape , ” added the Representative .
“ Pluralistic and accurate news are of vital importance for citizens to make informed decisions about their participation in democratic processes , including elections.
” See the Representative ’ s previous statements here : https : //www.osce.org/representative-on-freedom-of-media/410768 ; https : //www.osce.org/representative-on-freedom-of-media/415565 ; https : //www.osce.org/representative-on-freedom-of-media/436331 ; https : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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, 7 February 2020 – The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, Harlem Désir, expressed his concern today over the absence of the independent media outlet N1 among channels offered by cable operators affiliated with the Telekom Serbia network. Telekom Serbia is a joint stock company predominantly owned by the state.
In the beginning of this year, cable operators ceased transmitting the N1 channel, which is known for its independent reporting. The decision was reportedly justified by legal and economic disagreements with the United Group, the owner of N1 and a media provider.
“I am concerned by this latest development in the dispute between Telekom Serbia and United Media,” said Désir. “It is essential to allow unhindered access to information for citizens, in order to preserve media plurality in the country through safeguarding the role of independent and critical media outlets.”
N1 was suspended from another state cable provider, PostaNet, after its contract expired in December 2019. The Representative also recalled that journalists working for N1 had previously suffered threats and physical attacks, with their web portal having been the target of repeated cyber-attacks.
“At this time when media and journalism are under attack, there is a pressing need to produce good public interest media content accessible to citizens, and for the state to promote diversity in the media landscape,” added the Representative. “Pluralistic and accurate news are of vital importance for citizens to make informed decisions about their participation in democratic processes, including elections.”
See the Representative’s previous statements here: https://www.osce.org/representative-on-freedom-of-media/410768; https://www.osce.org/representative-on-freedom-of-media/415565; https://www.osce.org/representative-on-freedom-of-media/436331; https://twitter.com/OSCE_RFoM/status/1222182418465030145
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--2020-02-07--OSCE Presence assists Albania in enhancing implementation of Women, Peace and Security agenda

Albanian high-level officials , civil society activists and representatives of embassies gathered on 7 February in Tirana to discuss achievements in the implementation of the United Nations Security Council resolution ( UNSCR ) 1325 on Women , Peace and Security in Albania and the way ahead .
The OSCE Presence in Albania together with the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare organized the event .
“ Albania adopted its own National Action Plan on Women , Peace and Security in 2018 , and works closely with the OSCE to translate its commitment to women in security into a real and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in supporting the country in implementing the UNSCR 1325 , ” said Head of Presence Bernd Borchardt .
“ The 20th anniversary of UNSC 1325 finds Albania engaged to fulfil the objectives of the national action plan on its implementation .
Despite achievements , we still need more women in politics , police , army , peacekeeping missions , diplomacy and municipal councils .
There is still much to be done to listen to the voice of women , ” said Minister of Health and Social Welfare Ogerta Manastirliu .
Minister of Defence @ @ @ @ @ @ @ women involvement in the armed forces over the last years has been very positive - women make up 18.2 per cent of the armed forces staff , and that 35.4 per cent of the new officers that joined the army last year were women .
“ As we work to build a modern and professional army force we want to attract the most talented people .
If we were to exclude women , we would have deprived ourselves of at least half of the talented army officers that the Albanian society can offer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ showcased good practices in the implementation of national action plans on the Resolution 1325 in the Western Balkans .
The participants discussed the role of state institutions , civil society , international development partners and international relations in fostering the Women , Peace and Security agenda .
They stressed the need for effective structures that enable women ’ s meaningful participation in peace processes and longer-term peacebuilding activities .
The overall message was that challenges in the implementation of UNSCR 1325 can not be addressed properly if only the government is viewed as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ interventions on Women , Peace and Security need to build on cross-institutional co-operation and active role of civil society and media , as well as on research-based evidence on the implementation of the agenda across the OSCE region .
The latest OSCE study Implementing the Women , Peace and Security Agenda in the OSCE Region , published in January 2020 , is a good starting point in this direction , ” said Sihana Nebiu , Head of the Presence ’ s Democratization Department .

Albanian high-level officials, civil society activists and representatives of embassies gathered on 7 February in Tirana to discuss achievements in the implementation of the United Nations Security Council resolution (UNSCR) 1325 on Women, Peace and Security in Albania and the way ahead. The OSCE Presence in Albania together with the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare organized the event.
“Albania adopted its own National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security in 2018, and works closely with the OSCE to translate its commitment to women in security into a real and tangible contribution. We stand fully committed in supporting the country in implementing the UNSCR 1325,” said Head of Presence Bernd Borchardt.
“The 20th anniversary of UNSC 1325 finds Albania engaged to fulfil the objectives of the national action plan on its implementation. Despite achievements, we still need more women in politics, police, army, peacekeeping missions, diplomacy and municipal councils. There is still much to be done to listen to the voice of women,” said Minister of Health and Social Welfare Ogerta Manastirliu.
Minister of Defence Olta Xhaçka said that the trend of women involvement in the armed forces over the last years has been very positive - women make up 18.2 per cent of the armed forces staff, and that 35.4 per cent of the new officers that joined the army last year were women. “As we work to build a modern and professional army force we want to attract the most talented people. If we were to exclude women, we would have deprived ourselves of at least half of the talented army officers that the Albanian society can offer,” she said.
The event showcased good practices in the implementation of national action plans on the Resolution 1325 in the Western Balkans. The participants discussed the role of state institutions, civil society, international development partners and international relations in fostering the Women, Peace and Security agenda. They stressed the need for effective structures that enable women’s meaningful participation in peace processes and longer-term peacebuilding activities.
The overall message was that challenges in the implementation of UNSCR 1325 cannot be addressed properly if only the government is viewed as responsible. “The conference noted that interventions on Women, Peace and Security need to build on cross-institutional co-operation and active role of civil society and media, as well as on research-based evidence on the implementation of the agenda across the OSCE region. The latest OSCE study Implementing the Women, Peace and Security Agenda in the OSCE Region, published in January 2020, is a good starting point in this direction,” said Sihana Nebiu, Head of the Presence’s Democratization Department.


osce--2020-02-10--OSCE Mission to Montenegro and Association of Youth with Disabilities discuss prospects for co-opera

OSCE Mission to Montenegro and Association of Youth with Disabilities discuss prospects for co-operation

Darko Brajović , National Programme Officer in the OSCE Mission to Montenegro , met on 6 February 2020 with Executive @ @ @ @ @ Youth with Disabilities Marina Vujačić .
They discussed ways to ensure that persons with disabilities @ @ @ @ @ in Montenegro .
Vujačić spoke about barriers that limit or prevent persons with disabilities from @ @ @ @ @ voting in elections .
During the meeting , Vujačić and Brajović considered prospects for co-operation @ @ @ @ @ secrecy of vote and ensuring that polling stations are accessible to persons with disabilities .
@ @ @ @ @ Youth with Disabilities to work with the Mission , the State Election Commission and the @ @ @ @ @ awareness of the importance of accessibility to all polling stations .
“ The OSCE is @ @ @ @ @ of people with disabilities and strives to help in removing barriers that hamper their full @ @ @ @ @ , ” said Brajović .

Darko Brajović, National Programme Officer in the OSCE Mission to Montenegro, met on 6 February 2020 with Executive Director of the Association of Youth with Disabilities Marina Vujačić. They discussed ways to ensure that persons with disabilities can participate in electoral processes in Montenegro.
Vujačić spoke about barriers that limit or prevent persons with disabilities from participating in political life and voting in elections.
During the meeting, Vujačić and Brajović considered prospects for co-operation, the importance of the secrecy of vote and ensuring that polling stations are accessible to persons with disabilities.
Brajović encouraged the Association of Youth with Disabilities to work with the Mission, the State Election Commission and the Municipal Election Commissions to raise awareness of the importance of accessibility to all polling stations.
“The OSCE is committed to promoting the rights of people with disabilities and strives to help in removing barriers that hamper their full participation as voters and candidates,” said Brajović.


osce--2020-02-10--Building resilience to corruption in South-Eastern Europe, focus of OSCE regional conference in Skop

Building resilience to corruption in South-Eastern Europe, focus of OSCE regional conference in Skopje

SKOPJE , 10 February 2020 – Representatives of national and international anti-corruption bodies and law enforcement agencies from South-Eastern Europe met today in Skopje at a two-day regional conference , organized by the OSCE Mission to Skopje and OSCE Albania ’ s Chairmanship .
The event will focus on preventing and tackling corruption .
Participants from the region will discuss best practices and share knowledge on anti-corruption activities as well as further developing preventive measures aimed at better curbing corruption .
“ Anti-corruption agencies across the region require both independence and close co-operation with other institutions and authorities in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ police , ” said the Head of the OSCE Mission to Skopje Clemens Koja .
“ We need to keep focusing our collective actions on preventing corruption .
Focus on the transparency of public institutions , including their procurement practices ; have whistleblowing and conflict of interest policies in place ; as well as build the capacity of relevant law enforcement agencies in their response to corruption discoveries , ” said Koja .
Paola Severino , the Special Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office on Combating Corruption , said : “ The consistency of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , including the constant promotion of ownership by the host countries , have generated significant trust and commitment from the regional stakeholders in South-Eastern Europe.
” Severino said that while she is aware that OSCE is not the only international actor focusing on combating corruption , the reserve of trust and commitment that the OSCE has built can also serve as a catalyst in advancing other regional initiatives .
“ These can benefit from the positive momentum created by the impact of OSCE projects .
Particularly in promoting the need to pursue a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ alongside repressive measures , ” she said .
The conference , attended by some 70 participants , is also supported by the OSCE field operations in the Western Balkans .

SKOPJE, 10 February 2020 – Representatives of national and international anti-corruption bodies and law enforcement agencies from South-Eastern Europe met today in Skopje at a two-day regional conference, organized by the OSCE Mission to Skopje and OSCE Albania’s Chairmanship. The event will focus on preventing and tackling corruption.
Participants from the region will discuss best practices and share knowledge on anti-corruption activities as well as further developing preventive measures aimed at better curbing corruption.
“Anti-corruption agencies across the region require both independence and close co-operation with other institutions and authorities in the enforcement chain: particularly the prosecution and police,” said the Head of the OSCE Mission to Skopje Clemens Koja. “We need to keep focusing our collective actions on preventing corruption. Focus on the transparency of public institutions, including their procurement practices; have whistleblowing and conflict of interest policies in place; as well as build the capacity of relevant law enforcement agencies in their response to corruption discoveries,” said Koja.
Paola Severino, the Special Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office on Combating Corruption, said: “The consistency of OSCE’s approach to combating corruption, including the constant promotion of ownership by the host countries, have generated significant trust and commitment from the regional stakeholders in South-Eastern Europe.”
Severino said that while she is aware that OSCE is not the only international actor focusing on combating corruption, the reserve of trust and commitment that the OSCE has built can also serve as a catalyst in advancing other regional initiatives. “These can benefit from the positive momentum created by the impact of OSCE projects. Particularly in promoting the need to pursue a holistic approach that prioritizes prevention and incentives alongside repressive measures,” she said.
The conference, attended by some 70 participants, is also supported by the OSCE field operations in the Western Balkans.


osce--2020-02-10--OSCE Secretary General Greminger and Azerbaijan’s Foreign Minister Mammadyarov discuss ways to enhan

OSCE Secretary General Greminger and Azerbaijan’s Foreign Minister Mammadyarov discuss ways to enhance co-operation

VIENNA , 10 February 2020 – OSCE Secretary General Thomas Greminger met with Foreign Minister of Azerbaijan Elmar Mammadyarov today .
They discussed current issues and co-operation between the OSCE and Azerbaijan .
Secretary General Greminger said that the OSCE is committed to supporting Azerbaijan in the implementation of its commitments in all three dimensions of security : the politico-military , the economic and environmental and the human dimension .
Greminger recalled that the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights ( ODIHR ) deployed an Election Observation Mission to Azerbaijan to observe early parliamentary elections on 9 February @ @ @ @ @ @ @ authorities .
An initial assessment of the elections can be found here .
Minister Mammadyarov stressed that these elections should be viewed in the context of the reform process in Azerbaijan .
Minister Mammadyarov furthermore briefed Secretary General Greminger about his meeting with Armenian Foreign Minister Zohrab Mnatsakanyan , which took place under the auspices of the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs on 28-30 January in Geneva .
The Minister emphasized the importance of such detailed discussions on the substantive aspects of early conflict resolution , on the basis of the Helsinki Final Act @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the efforts of the Minsk Group Co-Chairs and welcomed the talks and concrete steps to prepare the populations for peace through intensified people-to-people contacts .
Greminger and Mammadyarov also discussed the current phase of implementation of the OSCE project on “ Promoting Green Ports and Connectivity in the Caspian Sea Region ” .
The project aims at supporting Azerbaijan , Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan in making the best use of renewable energy , digitalization and trade and transport facilitation to promote connectivity across the Caspian Sea and the wider region .
Azerbaijan ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to visit Azerbaijan in the near future .
Minister Mammadyarov announced that on the occasion of the Secretary General ’ s visit a conference on promoting green ports and connectivity will be organized in Baku .

VIENNA, 10 February 2020 – OSCE Secretary General Thomas Greminger met with Foreign Minister of Azerbaijan Elmar Mammadyarov today. They discussed current issues and co-operation between the OSCE and Azerbaijan.
Secretary General Greminger said that the OSCE is committed to supporting Azerbaijan in the implementation of its commitments in all three dimensions of security: the politico-military, the economic and environmental and the human dimension.
Greminger recalled that the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) deployed an Election Observation Mission to Azerbaijan to observe early parliamentary elections on 9 February, following an official invitation from the authorities. An initial assessment of the elections can be found here.
Minister Mammadyarov stressed that these elections should be viewed in the context of the reform process in Azerbaijan.
Minister Mammadyarov furthermore briefed Secretary General Greminger about his meeting with Armenian Foreign Minister Zohrab Mnatsakanyan, which took place under the auspices of the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs on 28-30 January in Geneva. The Minister emphasized the importance of such detailed discussions on the substantive aspects of early conflict resolution, on the basis of the Helsinki Final Act principles. Greminger expressed his full support to the efforts of the Minsk Group Co-Chairs and welcomed the talks and concrete steps to prepare the populations for peace through intensified people-to-people contacts.
Greminger and Mammadyarov also discussed the current phase of implementation of the OSCE project on “Promoting Green Ports and Connectivity in the Caspian Sea Region”. The project aims at supporting Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan in making the best use of renewable energy, digitalization and trade and transport facilitation to promote connectivity across the Caspian Sea and the wider region.
Azerbaijan’s Foreign Minister invited Secretary General Greminger to visit Azerbaijan in the near future. Minister Mammadyarov announced that on the occasion of the Secretary General’s visit a conference on promoting green ports and connectivity will be organized in Baku.


osce--2020-02-10--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 33/2020 issued on 10 February 2020


osce--2020-02-10--Despite large number of candidates, Azerbaijan elections lacked genuine competition and choice, inte

Despite large number of candidates, Azerbaijan elections lacked genuine competition and choice, international observers say

BAKU , 10 February 2020 – The restrictive legislation and political environment prevented genuine competition in Azerbaijan ’ s early parliamentary elections , international observers said in a preliminary statement published today .
Although some prospective candidates were denied the right to stand , candidate registration was otherwise inclusive .
Despite the large number of candidates , voters were not provided with a meaningful choice , due to a lack of real political discussion , the statement says .
The observation mission , a joint undertaking of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights ( ODIHR ) , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) and the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe ( PACE ) , noted that many candidates used social media to reach out to the voters , but this did not compensate for the absence of campaign coverage in traditional media .
“ I regret very much that what could have been improvements did not lead to a competitive environment enabling truly democratic elections .
Counting on election day was disappointing .
I would have hoped for some real changes .
The absence of any serious coverage of the campaign in traditional @ @ @ @ @ @ @ public and on television are some of the reasons for low public attention , ” said Artur Gerasymov , Special Co-ordinator and leader of the OSCE short-term observer mission .
“ I am well aware of the impact the conflict with Armenia has on the organization of the elections in this country and value the efforts made to assure the participation of IDPs in the elections.
” The election administration was well resourced and met legal deadlines , and the Central Election Commission ( CEC ) made concerted efforts to act transparently and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , significant procedural violations during the counting and tabulation of votes on election day raised concerns over whether the results were established honestly , the observers said .
Most candidates did not present alternative programmes or views to those of the ruling party , and the campaign , overall , was devoid of the political engagement essential for a competitive race and a genuine choice for voters .
Despite constitutional guarantees for freedoms of expression , assembly , association , movement , access to information and the right to take part in political @ @ @ @ @ @ @ primary legislation .
“ Despite some appearance of progress in the preparation for the elections , the widespread violations of counting procedures raised serious concerns about the results of the voting in general , ” said Frank Schwabe , Head of the PACE delegation .
“ In contradiction to the judgements of the European Court of Human Rights and repeated requests from the Council of Europe in the cases of Ilgar Mammadov and others , a number of potential candidates were prevented from running.
” Many long-standing recommendations by ODIHR and the Council @ @ @ @ @ @ @ including those related to fundamental freedoms , the media environment and candidate registration , have yet to be addressed .
The European Court of Human Rights ( ECtHR ) has ruled on 23 cases of violations of the right to free elections , although none of the rulings has been implemented , which prevented some potential candidates from running .
A total of 1,314 candidates ran , after some 19 per cent of those originally registered withdrew , citing , among other reasons , agreements among parties and pressure exercised by some authorities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ failed to provide voters with information on contestants and their platforms , and campaign events were not covered by the broadcasters .
Election-related news coverage was reduced to reports about the activities of the CEC .
“ In these elections , unfortunately , we saw a low level of participation of women candidates , ” said Elona Hoxha-Gjebrea , Head of the OSCE PA delegation .
“ It is clear to me that greater efforts are needed to promote the participation of women in public and political life , and to increase youth @ @ @ @ @ @ @ way towards strengthening Azerbaijan ’ s democracy as a whole.
” None of the 55 registered political parties is headed by a woman , and only 21 percent of candidates were women .
There are no legal requirements to promote women candidates .
More than 89,000 domestic observers were accredited by the CEC and lower commissions .
Over 62 per cent were representatives of contestants , 34 per cent were individual observers , and only 4 per cent were nominated by non-governmental organizations .
There were considerable concerns raised about the political affiliation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ observer groups .
A total of 883 international observers were accredited by the CEC .
“ Since arriving here on 6 January , we have enjoyed good co-operation with the Central Election Commission , which made considerable efforts to increase the transparency of their work , ” said Ambassador Peter Tejler , Head of the ODIHR election observation mission .
“ We observed the campaign throughout the country , including the media coverage , and our conclusion is that there was no meaningful discussion and no meaningful choice for voters.
” The international @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 41 countries – 273 ODIHR-deployed experts and observers , 57 parliamentarians and staff from the OSCE PA , and 28 from PACE .

BAKU, 10 February 2020 – The restrictive legislation and political environment prevented genuine competition in Azerbaijan’s early parliamentary elections, international observers said in a preliminary statement published today. Although some prospective candidates were denied the right to stand, candidate registration was otherwise inclusive. Despite the large number of candidates, voters were not provided with a meaningful choice, due to a lack of real political discussion, the statement says.
The observation mission, a joint undertaking of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR), the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly (OSCE PA) and the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE), noted that many candidates used social media to reach out to the voters, but this did not compensate for the absence of campaign coverage in traditional media.
“I regret very much that what could have been improvements did not lead to a competitive environment enabling truly democratic elections. Counting on election day was disappointing. I would have hoped for some real changes. The absence of any serious coverage of the campaign in traditional media and the lack of debate in public and on television are some of the reasons for low public attention,” said Artur Gerasymov, Special Co-ordinator and leader of the OSCE short-term observer mission. “I am well aware of the impact the conflict with Armenia has on the organization of the elections in this country and value the efforts made to assure the participation of IDPs in the elections.”
The election administration was well resourced and met legal deadlines, and the Central Election Commission (CEC) made concerted efforts to act transparently and was welcoming towards international observers. However, significant procedural violations during the counting and tabulation of votes on election day raised concerns over whether the results were established honestly, the observers said.
Most candidates did not present alternative programmes or views to those of the ruling party, and the campaign, overall, was devoid of the political engagement essential for a competitive race and a genuine choice for voters. Despite constitutional guarantees for freedoms of expression, assembly, association, movement, access to information and the right to take part in political life, these are significantly restricted by primary legislation.
“Despite some appearance of progress in the preparation for the elections, the widespread violations of counting procedures raised serious concerns about the results of the voting in general,” said Frank Schwabe, Head of the PACE delegation. “In contradiction to the judgements of the European Court of Human Rights and repeated requests from the Council of Europe in the cases of Ilgar Mammadov and others, a number of potential candidates were prevented from running.”
Many long-standing recommendations by ODIHR and the Council of Europe’s Venice Commission, including those related to fundamental freedoms, the media environment and candidate registration, have yet to be addressed. The European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) has ruled on 23 cases of violations of the right to free elections, although none of the rulings has been implemented, which prevented some potential candidates from running. A total of 1,314 candidates ran, after some 19 per cent of those originally registered withdrew, citing, among other reasons, agreements among parties and pressure exercised by some authorities at the local level.
Traditional media failed to provide voters with information on contestants and their platforms, and campaign events were not covered by the broadcasters. Election-related news coverage was reduced to reports about the activities of the CEC.
“In these elections, unfortunately, we saw a low level of participation of women candidates,” said Elona Hoxha-Gjebrea, Head of the OSCE PA delegation. “It is clear to me that greater efforts are needed to promote the participation of women in public and political life, and to increase youth engagement. This could go a long way towards strengthening Azerbaijan’s democracy as a whole.”
None of the 55 registered political parties is headed by a woman, and only 21 percent of candidates were women. There are no legal requirements to promote women candidates.
More than 89,000 domestic observers were accredited by the CEC and lower commissions. Over 62 per cent were representatives of contestants, 34 per cent were individual observers, and only 4 per cent were nominated by non-governmental organizations. There were considerable concerns raised about the political affiliation or lack of independence of some citizen observer groups. A total of 883 international observers were accredited by the CEC.
“Since arriving here on 6 January, we have enjoyed good co-operation with the Central Election Commission, which made considerable efforts to increase the transparency of their work,” said Ambassador Peter Tejler, Head of the ODIHR election observation mission. “We observed the campaign throughout the country, including the media coverage, and our conclusion is that there was no meaningful discussion and no meaningful choice for voters.”
The international election observation mission comprised 358 observers from 41 countries – 273 ODIHR-deployed experts and observers, 57 parliamentarians and staff from the OSCE PA, and 28 from PACE.
For further information contact:
Nat Parry, OSCE PA, +994 55 980 42 56 or + 45 60 10 81 77, nat@oscepa.dk
Thomas Rymer, ODIHR, +994 55 414 41 79, thomas.rymer@odihr.az
Bogdan Torcatoriu, PACE, bogdan.torcatoriu@coe.int


osce--2020-02-12--OSCE continues supporting Armenia in establishing an Advance Passenger Information (API) system

A meeting on establishing an Advance Passenger Information ( API ) system for enhancing border and aviation security in Armenia took place in Yerevan on 11 and 12 February 2020 .
The event is a follow-up to the national workshop held in June 2019 that resulted in the drafting of a roadmap outlining the necessary steps Armenia needs to take to establish an API system .
API is an electronic system through which biographic data from a traveler ’ s passport and flight details are collected by airlines and transmitted to the relevant authorities , such as border control agencies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 20 representatives from Armenian agencies involved in passenger information processing , together with police and customs officials and members of the civil aviation authority attended the event .
The meeting was organized by the OSCE Transnational Threats Department ( TNTD ) and Armenia ’ s Ministry of Foreign Affairs .
Participants discussed the situation regarding API in the country , focusing on inter-agency co-operation , the current legal framework and possible IT solutions required to receive , store and analyze passenger data .
The importance of creating one agency responsible for collecting and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ maintaining continuous communication and collaboration , was emphasized as a best practice example used in countries that are already using API systems .
The collection and processing of API data by government structures has grown in importance since the adoption of United Nations Security Council ( UNSC ) Resolution 2178 ( 2014 ) , which calls on the establishment of individual API systems .
This obligation has been further reinforced with the adoption of UNSC Resolution 2396 ( 2017 ) and Amendment 26 to the Chicago Convention , making an API system mandatory @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on API in the OSCE region since December 2016 .
TNTD plans to conduct additional workshops and meetings across the OSCE area during 2020 .

A meeting on establishing an Advance Passenger Information (API) system for enhancing border and aviation security in Armenia took place in Yerevan on 11 and 12 February 2020. The event is a follow-up to the national workshop held in June 2019 that resulted in the drafting of a roadmap outlining the necessary steps Armenia needs to take to establish an API system.
API is an electronic system through which biographic data from a traveler’s passport and flight details are collected by airlines and transmitted to the relevant authorities, such as border control agencies, before departure or arrival.
Some 20 representatives from Armenian agencies involved in passenger information processing, together with police and customs officials and members of the civil aviation authority attended the event.
The meeting was organized by the OSCE Transnational Threats Department (TNTD) and Armenia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Participants discussed the situation regarding API in the country, focusing on inter-agency co-operation, the current legal framework and possible IT solutions required to receive, store and analyze passenger data. The importance of creating one agency responsible for collecting and distributing passenger data, as well as maintaining continuous communication and collaboration, was emphasized as a best practice example used in countries that are already using API systems.
The collection and processing of API data by government structures has grown in importance since the adoption of United Nations Security Council (UNSC) Resolution 2178 (2014), which calls on the establishment of individual API systems. This obligation has been further reinforced with the adoption of UNSC Resolution 2396 (2017) and Amendment 26 to the Chicago Convention, making an API system mandatory.
This was the 19th event organized on API in the OSCE region since December 2016. TNTD plans to conduct additional workshops and meetings across the OSCE area during 2020.


osce--2020-02-11--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 34/2020 issued on 11 February 2020


osce--2020-02-11--Repatriation of ‘foreign terrorist fighters’ and their families urgently needed to safeguard human r

Repatriation of ‘foreign terrorist fighters’ and their families urgently needed to safeguard human rights and security, OSCE human rights head says

The situation of family members of ‘ foreign terrorist fighters ’ ( FTFs ) trapped in camps or detention in Syria and Iraq raise profound human rights and security concerns , the head of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights ( ODIHR ) said ahead of an event on 12 February in Vienna highlighting the need to repatriate both FTFs and their families .
“ Ignoring the dire circumstances of those who remain in camps or detention is not only a denial of their human rights , but also increases future security risks by providing fertile ground @ @ @ @ @ @ @ organizations , ” said ODIHR Director Ingibjörg Sólrún Gísladóttir .
“ I call for the urgent repatriation of all foreign citizens and in particular children , who are in need of special protection.
” Following several years of intense public debate over the return of FTFs , ODIHR ’ s event reminds countries of their obligation to take all the steps necessary to protect their nationals from serious human rights violations abroad .
At the same time it points out that their return is essential to ensure that perpetrators of terrorist crimes are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ standards .
The discussion takes place today in Vienna on the margins of the Joint Regional High-level Conference on “ Foreign Terrorist Fighters – Addressing Current Challenges convened by the OSCE , the UN Office of Counter-Terrorism , and Switzerland , in cooperation with Albania ’ s OSCE Chairmanship .
There are still a large number of foreign citizens among the estimated 100,000 people being held in poor conditions in the camps and detention facilities across Syria and Iraq , the majority of whom are women and small children .
In the three @ @ @ @ @ @ @ alone there are currently some 4,000 women and 8,000 children of foreign nationality .
ODIHR has published guidelines to help national authorities address the threats and challenges of FTFs within a human rights framework .
These emphasize the need to ensure that nobody is made stateless and that especially children and women are able to return to the country of their nationality or with which they have meaningful links , where they should then be provided with the protection and support indispensable for their reintegration and recovery .

The situation of family members of ‘foreign terrorist fighters’ (FTFs) trapped in camps or detention in Syria and Iraq raise profound human rights and security concerns, the head of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) said ahead of an event on 12 February in Vienna highlighting the need to repatriate both FTFs and their families.
“Ignoring the dire circumstances of those who remain in camps or detention is not only a denial of their human rights, but also increases future security risks by providing fertile ground for later recruitment by terrorist or criminal organizations,” said ODIHR Director Ingibjörg Sólrún Gísladóttir. “I call for the urgent repatriation of all foreign citizens and in particular children, who are in need of special protection.”
Following several years of intense public debate over the return of FTFs, ODIHR’s event reminds countries of their obligation to take all the steps necessary to protect their nationals from serious human rights violations abroad. At the same time it points out that their return is essential to ensure that perpetrators of terrorist crimes are brought to justice in line with international standards. The discussion takes place today in Vienna on the margins of the Joint Regional High-level Conference on “Foreign Terrorist Fighters – Addressing Current Challenges convened by the OSCE, the UN Office of Counter-Terrorism, and Switzerland, in cooperation with Albania’s OSCE Chairmanship.
There are still a large number of foreign citizens among the estimated 100,000 people being held in poor conditions in the camps and detention facilities across Syria and Iraq, the majority of whom are women and small children. In the three biggest camps in the north-east of Syria alone there are currently some 4,000 women and 8,000 children of foreign nationality.
ODIHR has published guidelines to help national authorities address the threats and challenges of FTFs within a human rights framework. These emphasize the need to ensure that nobody is made stateless and that especially children and women are able to return to the country of their nationality or with which they have meaningful links, where they should then be provided with the protection and support indispensable for their reintegration and recovery.


osce--2020-02-11--Weekly Update from the OSCE Observer Mission at Russian Checkpoints Gukovo and Donetsk based on info

Weekly Update from the OSCE Observer Mission at Russian Checkpoints Gukovo and Donetsk based on information as of 11 February 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 .
The profile of persons crossing the border can be categorized as follows : • Adults travelling on foot or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ; • Families ( often including elderly persons and/or children ) travelling on foot or by car with a significant amount of luggage .
The average number of entries/exits decreased from 9,853 to 9,164 per day at both BCPs compared to last week [ 1 ] .
During the reporting period , the majority of border crossings were to the Russian Federation , with an average net flow of 123 per day for both BCPs .
The Donetsk BCP continued to experience much more traffic than the Gukovo BCP .
During the reporting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ military-style outfits crossing the border in both directions at both BCPs was eight , compared to 18 last week , seven of them crossed into the Russian Federation , and one into Ukraine ( 88 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ since some of the private vehicles had tinted windows , and buses and minivans had 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 , no families were observed crossing into the Russian Federation and one family was observed crossing into Ukraine , compared to the previous reporting period when two families were observed crossing to the Russian Federation and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 slight decrease in the overall number of buses crossing the border at both BCPs ( 439 compared to 452 observed during the previous @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bound for the Russian Federation and 209 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 .
During the reporting period , the OTs observed a decrease in the overall number of trucks crossing the border @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 716 during the previous reporting week ) ; 266 at the Gukovo BCP and 342 at the Donetsk BCP , 295 of these trucks crossed into the Russian Federation and 313 crossed into Ukraine .
Most of the trucks observed by the OTs had Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region ; however , on a daily basis , the OTs also noted trucks registered in Belarus , the Russian Federation and with “ LPR ” plates .
The OTs also continued to observe tanker trucks crossing the border in both directions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ number of tanker trucks slightly decreased from 34 to 33 .
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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unable to observe any X-ray checks .
Compared to the previous week , the total number of X-ray checks at the Donetsk BCP decreased from 109 to 85 .
Of the total number of trucks scanned , 70 trucks ( 82 per cent ) were bound for Ukraine : the remaining 15 trucks ( 18 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ; however , the OTs also frequently saw minivans registered in the Russian Federation .
Compared to the previous week , the number of cargo minivans slightly increased from 97 to 98 vehicles ; 53 crossed into the Russian Federation and another 45 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 six occasions ; the OTs assessed that three trains were travelling to the Russian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ details are provided in the sections “ trends and figures at a glance ” below ) .
Visual observation was not possible because of the line of trees located between the train tracks and the BCP .
The majority of vehicles crossing the border had Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region , or Russian Federation licence plates .
A significant number of vehicles with “ LPR ” plates were also observed crossing the border in both directions on a daily basis .
The OTs also observed cars with license plates from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cars with “ DPR ” plates were also noted .
On 8 February at 09:44 , a white minivan with Russian Federation license plates was observed entering the Donetsk BCP from the Russian Federation side .
The van had the sign `` 200 '' on its windshield .
Except for the driver , no other passengers were observed on board .
The van underwent border procedures and crossed into Ukraine at 10:16 .
On 8 February at 23:08 , a police van with Russian Federation license plates entered the Donetsk BCP area from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ main building .
At 23:14 , the same van left the BCP to the Russian Federation with two people on board , including the driver .
For trends and figures at a glance covering the period from 7 January to 11 February 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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.
OBSERVATIONS AT THE BORDER CROSSING POINTS
Persons crossing the border
The profile of persons crossing the border can be categorized as follows:
Adults travelling on foot or by car with little or no luggage; Persons in military-style outfits; Families (often including elderly persons and/or children) travelling on foot or by car with a significant amount of luggage.
The average number of entries/exits decreased from 9,853 to 9,164 per day at both BCPs compared to last week[1].
During the reporting period, the majority of border crossings were to the Russian Federation, with an average net flow of 123 per day for both BCPs.
The Donetsk BCP continued to experience much more traffic than the Gukovo BCP.
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 eight, compared to 18 last week, seven of them crossed into the Russian Federation, and one into Ukraine (88 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, no families were observed crossing into the Russian Federation and one family was observed crossing into Ukraine, compared to the previous reporting period when two families were observed crossing to the Russian Federation and three 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 slight decrease in the overall number of buses crossing the border at both BCPs (439 compared to 452 observed during the previous week). There were 230 buses bound for the Russian Federation and 209 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 a decrease in the overall number of trucks crossing the border at both BCPs (608 compared to 716 during the previous reporting week); 266 at the Gukovo BCP and 342 at the Donetsk BCP, 295 of these trucks crossed into the Russian Federation and 313 crossed into Ukraine. Most of the trucks observed by the OTs had Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region; however, on a daily basis, the OTs also noted trucks registered in Belarus, the Russian Federation and with “LPR” plates.
The OTs also continued to observe tanker trucks crossing the border in both directions. During the reporting week, the number of tanker trucks slightly decreased from 34 to 33. 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 decreased from 109 to 85. Of the total number of trucks scanned, 70 trucks (82 per cent) were bound for Ukraine: the remaining 15 trucks (18 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 slightly increased from 97 to 98 vehicles; 53 crossed into the Russian Federation and another 45 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 six occasions; the OTs assessed that three trains were travelling to the Russian Federation and three to Ukraine (more details are provided in the sections “trends and figures at a glance” below).
Visual observation was not possible because of the line of trees located between the train tracks and the BCP.
Other observations
The majority of vehicles crossing the border had Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region, or Russian Federation licence plates. A significant number of vehicles with “LPR” plates were also observed crossing the border in both directions on a daily basis.
The OTs also observed cars with license plates from Belarus, Georgia, and Lithuania; cars with “DPR” plates were also noted.
On 8 February at 09:44, a white minivan with Russian Federation license plates was observed entering the Donetsk BCP from the Russian Federation side. The van had the sign "200" on its windshield. Except for the driver, no other passengers were observed on board. The van underwent border procedures and crossed into Ukraine at 10:16.
On 8 February at 23:08, a police van with Russian Federation license plates entered the Donetsk BCP area from the Russian Federation and parked behind the main building. At 23:14, the same van left the BCP to the Russian Federation with two people on board, including the driver.
For trends and figures at a glance covering the period from 7 January to 11 February 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--2020-02-11--Regional Conference on addressing challenges posed by foreign terrorist fighters begins in Vienna

VIENNA , 11 February 2020 – More than 400 participants from over 70 countries attended the opening of a two-day , high-level regional conference on challenges posed by foreign terrorist fighters .
The conference , which is being held today and tomorrow in Vienna , is jointly organized by the UN Office of Counter-Terrorism ( UNOCT ) , the OSCE , and Switzerland , in co-operation with Albania ’ s OSCE Chairmanship .
The expected return of foreign terrorist fighters from Iraq and Syria is an area of increasing concern for the international community .
Some of these returnees may @ @ @ @ @ @ @ others to engage in terrorist activities , or take part in recruitment and fundraising efforts for terrorist organizations .
The repatriation , in accordance with Member States international obligations , of women and children associated with those fighters presents additional challenges .
In his opening address , Ambassador Johannes Matyassy welcomed the participants of the conference on behalf of the Swiss Foreign Minister and highlighted the many challenges the issue of foreign terrorist fighters pose .
He emphasized the need to find common and convincing solutions on the basis of the rules-based international @ @ @ @ @ @ @ what concerns all of us , we have only one choice : we must come together and jointly tackle the issues at hand , ” he said .
Vladimir Voronkov , Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism , expressed his hope that “ this Conference will provide an opportunity to discuss practical ways to assess and mitigate the risks posed by returning or relocating foreign terrorist fighters , and will address the particularly complex situation of women and children associated with foreign terrorist fighters.
” He also added that “ the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by the principles of individual criminal responsibility , presumption of innocence , right to appeal , and the internationally recognized standards of justice.
” The conference will include panels on key challenges such as : ( i ) Responses to incitement , recruitment for and facilitation of foreign terrorist fighter activities ; ( ii ) Preventing the travel of foreign terrorist fighters ; ( ii ) Gathering and sharing of evidence ; ( iv ) Prosecution of foreign terrorist fighters ; and ( v ) Repatriation , rehabilitation and reintegration .
“ The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ territories has captured the attention of the international community and requires action .
Repatriation has come to the forefront of discussions , and in particular , how to address repatriation in compliance with international standards and obligations , ” said OSCE Secretary General Thomas Greminger .
“ Apart from discussing how , when and which individuals should return – which are politically charged issues in some OSCE participating States – we will look at how to link prison-based rehabilitation programmes with post-prison reintegration efforts .
The importance of including non-government actors in order @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” Igli Hasani , Permanent Representative of Albania and Chair of the OSCE Permanent Council , said : “ Because the related challenges are by nature international , we believe that all States must enhance their international co-operation for an effective human rights-compliant response to this challenge .
Combatting threats through a purely domestic approach will not work .
Inspired by the 30th Anniversary of the Charter of Paris , Albania ’ s Chairmanship will prioritize the revitalization of dialogue within the Organization , including with partners .
In this regard the OSCE-wide @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on 4 and 5 May in Tirana and organized by Albania ’ s Chairmanship .
The Annual Conference will focus on effective partnerships to implement a whole of society approach to violent extremism and radicalization leading to terrorism .
Ghada Waly , Executive Director of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime ( UNODC ) said : “ Foreign terrorist fighters pose urgent and expanding challenges to governments everywhere –in the theatre of operations and transit countries , to places of home and return .
Strengthening co-ordinated , integrated responses to foreign @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the UNODC in our comprehensive support to countries and regions to address drugs , crime , corruption and terrorism.
” This event brings together high-level officials and senior experts from OSCE participating States and Partners for Co-operation , the United Nations , international and regional organizations , academia and civil society .
The conclusions of a civil society event , organized by UNOCT and the Global Center on Cooperative Security , held on the day preceding the conference , will be presented at the conference .
The conference is one in a series @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Secretary-General at the UN ’ s 2018 High-level Conference of Heads of Counter-Terrorism Agencies in New York .
It is also part of a broader initiative to give new impetus to multilateral co-operation in addressing the evolving threat of terrorism and violent extremism in accordance with international law and human rights .
The outcomes of these regional conferences will feed into the Second UN High-level Conference of Heads of Counter-Terrorism Agencies of Member States , to be held in New York in July 2020 .

VIENNA, 11 February 2020 – More than 400 participants from over 70 countries attended the opening of a two-day, high-level regional conference on challenges posed by foreign terrorist fighters. The conference, which is being held today and tomorrow in Vienna, is jointly organized by the UN Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT), the OSCE, and Switzerland, in co-operation with Albania’s OSCE Chairmanship.
The expected return of foreign terrorist fighters from Iraq and Syria is an area of increasing concern for the international community. Some of these returnees may move to commit violent acts, incite others to engage in terrorist activities, or take part in recruitment and fundraising efforts for terrorist organizations. The repatriation, in accordance with Member States international obligations, of women and children associated with those fighters presents additional challenges.
In his opening address, Ambassador Johannes Matyassy welcomed the participants of the conference on behalf of the Swiss Foreign Minister and highlighted the many challenges the issue of foreign terrorist fighters pose. He emphasized the need to find common and convincing solutions on the basis of the rules-based international order. “In order to solve what concerns all of us, we have only one choice: we must come together and jointly tackle the issues at hand,” he said.
Vladimir Voronkov, Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism, expressed his hope that “this Conference will provide an opportunity to discuss practical ways to assess and mitigate the risks posed by returning or relocating foreign terrorist fighters, and will address the particularly complex situation of women and children associated with foreign terrorist fighters.” He also added that “the international community must reaffirm and be guided by the principles of individual criminal responsibility, presumption of innocence, right to appeal, and the internationally recognized standards of justice.”
The conference will include panels on key challenges such as: (i) Responses to incitement, recruitment for and facilitation of foreign terrorist fighter activities; (ii) Preventing the travel of foreign terrorist fighters; (ii) Gathering and sharing of evidence; (iv) Prosecution of foreign terrorist fighters; and (v) Repatriation, rehabilitation and reintegration.
“The humanitarian and security situation in formerly terrorist-controlled territories has captured the attention of the international community and requires action. Repatriation has come to the forefront of discussions, and in particular, how to address repatriation in compliance with international standards and obligations,” said OSCE Secretary General Thomas Greminger. “Apart from discussing how, when and which individuals should return – which are politically charged issues in some OSCE participating States – we will look at how to link prison-based rehabilitation programmes with post-prison reintegration efforts. The importance of including non-government actors in order to achieve sustainability will also be highlighted.”
Igli Hasani, Permanent Representative of Albania and Chair of the OSCE Permanent Council, said: “Because the related challenges are by nature international, we believe that all States must enhance their international co-operation for an effective human rights-compliant response to this challenge. Combatting threats through a purely domestic approach will not work. Inspired by the 30th Anniversary of the Charter of Paris, Albania’s Chairmanship will prioritize the revitalization of dialogue within the Organization, including with partners. In this regard the OSCE-wide Annual Counter-Terrorism Conference, to be held on 4 and 5 May in Tirana and organized by Albania’s Chairmanship. The Annual Conference will focus on effective partnerships to implement a whole of society approach to violent extremism and radicalization leading to terrorism.
Ghada Waly, Executive Director of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) said: “Foreign terrorist fighters pose urgent and expanding challenges to governments everywhere –in the theatre of operations and transit countries, to places of home and return. Strengthening co-ordinated, integrated responses to foreign terrorist fighters remains a critical priority of the UNODC in our comprehensive support to countries and regions to address drugs, crime, corruption and terrorism.”
This event brings together high-level officials and senior experts from OSCE participating States and Partners for Co-operation, the United Nations, international and regional organizations, academia and civil society. The conclusions of a civil society event, organized by UNOCT and the Global Center on Cooperative Security, held on the day preceding the conference, will be presented at the conference.
The conference is one in a series of regional conferences announced by the UN Secretary-General at the UN’s 2018 High-level Conference of Heads of Counter-Terrorism Agencies in New York. It is also part of a broader initiative to give new impetus to multilateral co-operation in addressing the evolving threat of terrorism and violent extremism in accordance with international law and human rights. The outcomes of these regional conferences will feed into the Second UN High-level Conference of Heads of Counter-Terrorism Agencies of Member States, to be held in New York in July 2020.
For more information, visit: www.un.org/counterterrorism/vienna