osce--2020-12-15--OSCE Mission to Moldova strengthens capacities of law enforcement to address hate crimes

Moldovan law enforcement officers strengthened their capacities and knowledge to identify and investigate hate crimes at an OSCE-led training of trainers from 9 to 11 December 2020 .
The Joint Law Enforcement Training Centre of the Moldovan Ministry of Internal Affairs Academy collaborated with the OSCE Mission to organize the event .
In recent years , the Mission has been supporting the Training Centre with various capacity-building activities to improve the skills of police officers around Moldova to address bias-motivated offences .
Being rooted in intolerance , such crimes affect not only individuals , but also communities and , ultimately @ @ @ @ @ @ @ year ’ s workshop consolidated the sustainability of this support .
Eight women and nine men from law enforcement from various parts of Moldova , including the Autonomous Territorial Unit of Gagauzia , participated in the workshop .
They learned about international standards and the specifics of the national legislation in the field of hate crimes .
Having upgraded their teaching and training techniques , the new trainers will be able to share their knowledge and skills with their peers around the country in the coming years .
This event was organized in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ project “ Building a more inclusive society by advancing the capacity and co-operation of state and non-state actors ” .
The Mission has been continuously supporting the Moldovan Government in advancing policies that create a sense of a common home for all people throughout the country , and to make Moldova ’ s diversity a tangible asset .

Moldovan law enforcement officers strengthened their capacities and knowledge to identify and investigate hate crimes at an OSCE-led training of trainers from 9 to 11 December 2020. The Joint Law Enforcement Training Centre of the Moldovan Ministry of Internal Affairs Academy collaborated with the OSCE Mission to organize the event.
In recent years, the Mission has been supporting the Training Centre with various capacity-building activities to improve the skills of police officers around Moldova to address bias-motivated offences. Being rooted in intolerance, such crimes affect not only individuals, but also communities and, ultimately, social cohesion and security.
This year’s workshop consolidated the sustainability of this support. Eight women and nine men from law enforcement from various parts of Moldova, including the Autonomous Territorial Unit of Gagauzia, participated in the workshop. They learned about international standards and the specifics of the national legislation in the field of hate crimes. Having upgraded their teaching and training techniques, the new trainers will be able to share their knowledge and skills with their peers around the country in the coming years.
This event was organized in the framework of the Mission’s project “Building a more inclusive society by advancing the capacity and co-operation of state and non-state actors”. The Mission has been continuously supporting the Moldovan Government in advancing policies that create a sense of a common home for all people throughout the country, and to make Moldova’s diversity a tangible asset.


osce--2020-12-14--Statement of the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs

BAKU/YEREVAN/MOSCOW , 14 December 2020 - The Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group ( Igor Popov of the Russian Federation , Stephane Visconti of France , and Andrew Schofer of the United States of America ) released the following statement today : French Co-Chair Stephane Visconti and U.S. Co-Chair Andrew Schofer traveled to Baku 12 and 13 December and Yerevan 13 and 14 December .
In Baku , they were received by President Aliyev and met with Foreign Minister Bayramov .
In Yerevan , they were received by Prime Minister Pashinyan and met with Foreign Minister Aivazian .
Due to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to travel , the Russian Federation was represented in Baku by Russian Ambassador Mikhail Bocharnikov and in Yerevan by Russian chargé d ’ affaires Alexei Sinegubov .
The Co-Chairs also met with representatives of the ICRC and UN agencies active in the region .
The Personal Representative of the Chairperson in Office ( PRCiO ) Andrzej Kasprzyk also participated in all meetings .
In both capitals , the sides provided their assessment of the situation on the ground and expressed their expectations on engagement with the Co-Chairs for the coming year .
Taking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Co-Chairs affirmed their continuing commitment to engage constructively with the sides to promote peace , stability , and prosperity in the region and to resolve outstanding issues .
The Co-Chairs also committed to providing concrete proposals on issues raised during the meetings for future discussions between the sides .
Noting recent reports of incidents resulting in casualties , the Co-Chairs called on the sides to take additional measures to stabilize the situation in accordance with their commitments .
The Co-Chairs urged Armenia and Azerbaijan to complete as soon as possible the exchange of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ repatriation of remains in coordination with the ICRC .
Recalling the 3 December OSCE ministerial statement in Tirana by the Minsk Group Co-Chair country heads of delegation , the Co-Chairs reiterate their united position in favor of comprehensive and sustainable settlement of all remaining core substantive issues .
The Co-Chairs and the sides stressed the importance of reducing inflammatory rhetoric in order to create a more positive environment .
The Co-Chairs and the sides emphasized the importance of engaging with international organizations to promote humanitarian assistance to populations affected by the conflict , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and religious heritage .

BAKU/YEREVAN/MOSCOW, 14 December 2020 - The Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group (Igor Popov of the Russian Federation, Stephane Visconti of France, and Andrew Schofer of the United States of America) released the following statement today:
French Co-Chair Stephane Visconti and U.S. Co-Chair Andrew Schofer traveled to Baku 12 and 13 December and Yerevan 13 and 14 December. In Baku, they were received by President Aliyev and met with Foreign Minister Bayramov. In Yerevan, they were received by Prime Minister Pashinyan and met with Foreign Minister Aivazian. Due to Russian Co-Chair Igor Popov’s inability to travel, the Russian Federation was represented in Baku by Russian Ambassador Mikhail Bocharnikov and in Yerevan by Russian chargé d’affaires Alexei Sinegubov. The Co-Chairs also met with representatives of the ICRC and UN agencies active in the region. The Personal Representative of the Chairperson in Office (PRCiO) Andrzej Kasprzyk also participated in all meetings.
In both capitals, the sides provided their assessment of the situation on the ground and expressed their expectations on engagement with the Co-Chairs for the coming year. Taking into account the new realities, the Co-Chairs affirmed their continuing commitment to engage constructively with the sides to promote peace, stability, and prosperity in the region and to resolve outstanding issues. The Co-Chairs also committed to providing concrete proposals on issues raised during the meetings for future discussions between the sides.
Noting recent reports of incidents resulting in casualties, the Co-Chairs called on the sides to take additional measures to stabilize the situation in accordance with their commitments. The Co-Chairs urged Armenia and Azerbaijan to complete as soon as possible the exchange of all detainees and accelerate the identification and repatriation of remains in coordination with the ICRC.
Recalling the 3 December OSCE ministerial statement in Tirana by the Minsk Group Co-Chair country heads of delegation, the Co-Chairs reiterate their united position in favor of comprehensive and sustainable settlement of all remaining core substantive issues. The Co-Chairs and the sides stressed the importance of reducing inflammatory rhetoric in order to create a more positive environment. The Co-Chairs and the sides emphasized the importance of engaging with international organizations to promote humanitarian assistance to populations affected by the conflict, as well as the protection of cultural and religious heritage.


osce--2020-12-14--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 297/2020 issued on 14 December 2020

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osce--2020-12-14--OSCE PA President George Tsereteli steps down, Vice-President Bowness to serve as President

COPENHAGEN , 14 December 2020 – Following the 31 October parliamentary elections and the new convocation of the Parliament of Georgia on 11 December , George Tsereteli stepped down as President of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly .
As the most senior Vice-President of the Assembly , Peter Lord Bowness ( United Kingdom ) took over as President .
“ I want to thank President George Tsereteli for his dedication to the OSCE PA and the OSCE .
He has been unstinting in giving time and work to our affairs , ” wrote President Bowness in a letter to the OSCE @ @ @ @ @ @ @ determine that I follow him as President , but I know that I shall not be able to equal his extraordinary commitment.
” In his final correspondence , President Tsereteli thanked OSCE PA Members for their trust and support he was able to enjoy during his long years of service in the Assembly .
“ My presidency ends as our Assembly continues to deal with numerous challenges and urgently needs to address global crises , including the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic , armed conflicts , growing threats to democracy and human rights , climate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ large-scale human migration .
I encourage you to continue your hard work to pursue our unfinished agenda and safeguard the fundamental values and principles of the OSCE , ” Tsereteli said .
President Tsereteli highlighted the work accomplished in previous years to build honest and strong working relations with successive OSCE Chairmanships , the OSCE Secretariat , institutions , and field operations .
He also underlined the progress made in upgrading the visibility of the Assembly on the international scene and in opening new areas of work and expertise within the PA. Secretary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tireless work and leadership throughout the last years and expressed gratitude for the efforts he has made for the Assembly .
At the same time , Montella underlined his and the Secretariat ’ s readiness to start working with President Bowness , noting that his experience , wisdom , and dedication will be instrumental for the Parliamentary Assembly especially in the current challenging period .
In taking the reins of the Assembly , President Bowness announced he will not run for election during the PA ’ s next Annual Session but will focus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ order and without any commitments that should rightly belong to the new OSCE PA President .
In light of the COVID-19 pandemic , Bowness also noted the importance of adopting emergency rules to allow remote elections for the President , Officers , and Committee Officers , should the OSCE PA be unable to meet in person for the Bucharest Annual Session in July 2021 .
President Bowness has been a Member of the United Kingdom ’ s Delegation to the OSCE PA since 2007 .
He was first elected Vice-President in 2015 and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as Chair of the OSCE PA ’ s Sub-Committee on Rules of Procedure and Working Practices .

COPENHAGEN, 14 December 2020 – Following the 31 October parliamentary elections and the new convocation of the Parliament of Georgia on 11 December, George Tsereteli stepped down as President of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly. As the most senior Vice-President of the Assembly, Peter Lord Bowness (United Kingdom) took over as President.
“I want to thank President George Tsereteli for his dedication to the OSCE PA and the OSCE. He has been unstinting in giving time and work to our affairs,” wrote President Bowness in a letter to the OSCE PA Standing Committee. “The Rules determine that I follow him as President, but I know that I shall not be able to equal his extraordinary commitment.”
In his final correspondence, President Tsereteli thanked OSCE PA Members for their trust and support he was able to enjoy during his long years of service in the Assembly.
“My presidency ends as our Assembly continues to deal with numerous challenges and urgently needs to address global crises, including the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, armed conflicts, growing threats to democracy and human rights, climate change, radicalization and terrorism, and large-scale human migration. I encourage you to continue your hard work to pursue our unfinished agenda and safeguard the fundamental values and principles of the OSCE,” Tsereteli said.
President Tsereteli highlighted the work accomplished in previous years to build honest and strong working relations with successive OSCE Chairmanships, the OSCE Secretariat, institutions, and field operations. He also underlined the progress made in upgrading the visibility of the Assembly on the international scene and in opening new areas of work and expertise within the PA.
Secretary General Roberto Montella thanked Tsereteli for his tireless work and leadership throughout the last years and expressed gratitude for the efforts he has made for the Assembly. At the same time, Montella underlined his and the Secretariat’s readiness to start working with President Bowness, noting that his experience, wisdom, and dedication will be instrumental for the Parliamentary Assembly especially in the current challenging period.
In taking the reins of the Assembly, President Bowness announced he will not run for election during the PA’s next Annual Session but will focus on handing over the Assembly in good order and without any commitments that should rightly belong to the new OSCE PA President.
In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, Bowness also noted the importance of adopting emergency rules to allow remote elections for the President, Officers, and Committee Officers, should the OSCE PA be unable to meet in person for the Bucharest Annual Session in July 2021.
President Bowness has been a Member of the United Kingdom’s Delegation to the OSCE PA since 2007. He was first elected Vice-President in 2015 and re-elected in 2018. He also serves as Chair of the OSCE PA’s Sub-Committee on Rules of Procedure and Working Practices.


osce--2020-12-14--OSCE-supported webinars discuss role of lawyers, NGO and media representatives in preserving diverse

OSCE-supported webinars discuss role of lawyers, NGO and media representatives in preserving diverse societies in times of COVID-19

More than 60 lawyers , NGO and media representatives from both banks of the Dniester/Nistru River participated in three online webinars on non-discrimination , inter-ethnic relations and national minorities , held in late November and early December 2020 .
They were organized by the OSCE Mission to Moldova and delivered by Professor Frederick John Packer , Director of the Human Rights Research and Education Centre at the University of Ottawa .
In his March recommendations to the OSCE participating States , the OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities noted : “ As governments rush to introduce emergency measures , it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ include the needs of everyone in society , including persons belonging to national minorities and other marginalized communities.
” In line with these recommendations , the Mission ’ s webinars provided civil society actors guidance on how they can support national minorities in enjoying basic human rights , especially to accurate , easy-to-understand and timely information .
Highlighting the importance of preserving the freedom of the press , Professor Packer provided practical tips on how to report on inter-ethnic relations without unwittingly contributing to escalation or perpetuation .
Webinars with lawyers had a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to justice and public/private information in minority languages , including in the courts , in times of COVID-19 .
“ Since the beginning of the pandemic , we have been struggling with the methods that youth organizations can apply to promote inter-ethnic harmony .
During the webinar we received relevant information , which will help us in our daily activities , ” said Nikolay Kelesh , President of the National Youth Council of Moldova .
Over the past two years , the Mission has been working with the state and non-state institutions to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the rights of national minorities in the Republic of Moldova – key to promoting tolerance and inclusivity , which are important enabling factors for the Transdniestrian settlement process .

More than 60 lawyers, NGO and media representatives from both banks of the Dniester/Nistru River participated in three online webinars on non-discrimination, inter-ethnic relations and national minorities, held in late November and early December 2020. They were organized by the OSCE Mission to Moldova and delivered by Professor Frederick John Packer, Director of the Human Rights Research and Education Centre at the University of Ottawa.
In his March recommendations to the OSCE participating States, the OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities noted: “As governments rush to introduce emergency measures, it is also vital that they remember to include the needs of everyone in society, including persons belonging to national minorities and other marginalized communities.”
In line with these recommendations, the Mission’s webinars provided civil society actors guidance on how they can support national minorities in enjoying basic human rights, especially to accurate, easy-to-understand and timely information. Highlighting the importance of preserving the freedom of the press, Professor Packer provided practical tips on how to report on inter-ethnic relations without unwittingly contributing to escalation or perpetuation. Webinars with lawyers had a special focus on ways to ensure access to justice and public/private information in minority languages, including in the courts, in times of COVID-19.
“Since the beginning of the pandemic, we have been struggling with the methods that youth organizations can apply to promote inter-ethnic harmony. During the webinar we received relevant information, which will help us in our daily activities,” said Nikolay Kelesh, President of the National Youth Council of Moldova.
Over the past two years, the Mission has been working with the state and non-state institutions to improve their co-operation and capacity in protecting the rights of national minorities in the Republic of Moldova – key to promoting tolerance and inclusivity, which are important enabling factors for the Transdniestrian settlement process.


osce--2020-12-14--OSCE Presence in Albania, Tirana University launch Executive Master’s Programme in Criminology

The OSCE Presence in Albania and the University of Tirana launched an Executive Master ’ s Programme in Criminology , the first of its kind in Albania , at an event on 14 December 2020 .
The Master ’ s Programme was launched following a period of more than two years of intensive work focused on developing the structure and curricula of the programme , and building the capacities and resources of the University of Tirana to deliver and manage it .
There will be twenty-five students participating in the programme in the first year .
“ The Executive Master @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be ground-breaking for the country , departing from a classic approach to crime , based on investigation and punishment , switching the focus and effort to a more encompassing approach , ” said Vincenzo Del Monaco , Head of Presence .
Minister of Education , Sports and Youth Evis Kushi , said : “ Albania had a vacuum in the university programmes with regard to the preparation of criminology experts and , thanks to the support for the OSCE Presence , we assessed our needs in this field and prepared for the first @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
I believe that the new Master ’ s Programme will be an added value in the qualification of human sources and the development of even more efficient criminal policies .
The Rector of the University of Tirana and the deans of the Faculty of Law and the Faculty of Social Sciences also spoke at the event .
Through the Master ’ s Programme , the Presence aims at improving research capacities of professionals , academics and policy-makers in Albania in order to support identifying root causes of crime .
The Programme will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crime , justice and society in a comparative context , as well as promote restorative justice for victims and victim-centred responses .
The project “ On Establishing a Master ’ s Programme in Criminology ” is implemented by the OSCE Presence with financial support of the United States Mission to the OSCE and the British Embassy in Tirana .
It is implemented in close co-operation with the Faculty of Law of the University of Tirana , with the support of the Faculty of Social Sciences , the Ministry of Justice and the Ministry @ @ @

The OSCE Presence in Albania and the University of Tirana launched an Executive Master’s Programme in Criminology, the first of its kind in Albania, at an event on 14 December 2020.
The Master’s Programme was launched following a period of more than two years of intensive work focused on developing the structure and curricula of the programme, and building the capacities and resources of the University of Tirana to deliver and manage it. There will be twenty-five students participating in the programme in the first year.
“The Executive Master Programme in Criminology has the potential to be ground-breaking for the country, departing from a classic approach to crime, based on investigation and punishment, switching the focus and effort to a more encompassing approach,” said Vincenzo Del Monaco, Head of Presence.
Minister of Education, Sports and Youth Evis Kushi, said: “Albania had a vacuum in the university programmes with regard to the preparation of criminology experts and, thanks to the support for the OSCE Presence, we assessed our needs in this field and prepared for the first time this Executive Master’s Programme. I believe that the new Master’s Programme will be an added value in the qualification of human sources and the development of even more efficient criminal policies.
The Rector of the University of Tirana and the deans of the Faculty of Law and the Faculty of Social Sciences also spoke at the event.
Through the Master’s Programme, the Presence aims at improving research capacities of professionals, academics and policy-makers in Albania in order to support identifying root causes of crime. The Programme will enable students to explore the interrelationships between crime, justice and society in a comparative context, as well as promote restorative justice for victims and victim-centred responses.
The project “On Establishing a Master’s Programme in Criminology” is implemented by the OSCE Presence with financial support of the United States Mission to the OSCE and the British Embassy in Tirana. It is implemented in close co-operation with the Faculty of Law of the University of Tirana, with the support of the Faculty of Social Sciences, the Ministry of Justice and the Ministry of Interior.


osce--2020-12-12--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 296/2020 issued on 12 December 2020


osce--2020-12-11--OSCE-UNODA 2020 Scholarship for Peace and Security training course holds concluding event

The 2020 Scholarship for Peace and Security training programme , jointly organized by the OSCE and the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs ( UNODA ) , held its concluding event on 10 and 11 December 2020 .
The Scholarship for Peace and Security training programme is an annual initiative to encourage young people , particularly women , from the OSCE region and the Organization ’ s Partners for Co-operation to participate in the security sector .
The 8-week training programme provides participants with a deeper understanding of key conceptual and analytical issues in the field of conflict prevention and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the OSCE .
It also aims to bridge gaps between education , training and career opportunities and facilitates professional networking among programme participants and experts .
The third edition of the programme was held from April to June 2020 with 150 participants , of which , 135 were women .
It focused on various aspects of arms control , disarmament and non-proliferation issues particularly related to the OSCE .
For the 2020 programme , the scholarships were provided through generous contributions made by the governments of Andorra , Ireland , Finland , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The concluding event for the 2020 programme took place virtually due to restrictions imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic .
The two-day event was organized by the OSCE with valuable contribution from VCDNP and in cooperation with UNODA , and featured discussions with programme graduates and experts on topics ranging from the importance of building trust in the field of arms control , disarmament and non-proliferation , to factors preventing and promoting the implementation of the Women , Peace and Security Agenda .
OSCE experts also provided interactive sessions at the event as an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more about job interview requirements , practice self-development and further explore on how to expand their networks with peers and experts in the field .
The fourth edition of the programme is expected to take place in 2021 and to be jointly organized by the OSCE and UNODA in collaboration with other stakeholders from the field .

The 2020 Scholarship for Peace and Security training programme, jointly organized by the OSCE and the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA), held its concluding event on 10 and 11 December 2020.
The Scholarship for Peace and Security training programme is an annual initiative to encourage young people, particularly women, from the OSCE region and the Organization’s Partners for Co-operation to participate in the security sector.
The 8-week training programme provides participants with a deeper understanding of key conceptual and analytical issues in the field of conflict prevention and confidence- and security-building with a specific focus on the OSCE. It also aims to bridge gaps between education, training and career opportunities and facilitates professional networking among programme participants and experts.
The third edition of the programme was held from April to June 2020 with 150 participants, of which, 135 were women. It focused on various aspects of arms control, disarmament and non-proliferation issues particularly related to the OSCE. For the 2020 programme, the scholarships were provided through generous contributions made by the governments of Andorra, Ireland, Finland, France, Germany, and Switzerland.
The concluding event for the 2020 programme took place virtually due to restrictions imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The two-day event was organized by the OSCE with valuable contribution from VCDNP and in cooperation with UNODA, and featured discussions with programme graduates and experts on topics ranging from the importance of building trust in the field of arms control, disarmament and non-proliferation, to factors preventing and promoting the implementation of the Women, Peace and Security Agenda.
OSCE experts also provided interactive sessions at the event as an opportunity for the programme graduates to learn more about job interview requirements, practice self-development and further explore on how to expand their networks with peers and experts in the field.
The fourth edition of the programme is expected to take place in 2021 and to be jointly organized by the OSCE and UNODA in collaboration with other stakeholders from the field.


osce--2020-12-11--Press Communiqué of the Co-Chairs of the Geneva International Discussions

GENEVA , 11 December 2020 - The 51st round of the Geneva International Discussions ( GID ) took place in the Palais des Nations on 10-11 December 2020 .
Against the backdrop of the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic , this was the first and only GID round that took place in 2020 .
In the interim , the Co-Chairs held a series of consultations via videoconference and conducted several visits for in-person meetings with the participants .
The holding of an in-person GID round re-confirmed the commitment of all participants to the GID process .
In this regard @ @ @ @ @ @ @ noted , as was support for continued dialogue and joint efforts , which are aimed at addressing conflict-related issues and defusing tensions and potential misunderstandings .
The collective efforts of the Co-Chairs allowed participants to better address issues relating to the security and humanitarian situation of conflict-affected populations on the ground .
During this 51st GID round , the participants once again met in two separate working groups focused on security and humanitarian issues .
The security situation on the ground was assessed as relatively calm and stable .
The participants reviewed a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ including the situation in the Chorchana-Tsnelisi area , recent detention cases , missing persons , and the importance of conflict-affected populations ' access to livelihoods .
Particular focus was given on the one side to the core agenda item of non-use of force and , on the other , on the impact of COVID-19 on the humanitarian situation on the ground .
Efforts to address these challenges jointly were positively noted .
Participants could not engage on the issues of IDPs and refugees , due to a walkout of some participants .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mechanism ( IPRM ) in Ergneti with two meetings held this year was welcomed .
The Co-Chairs emphasised the need to resume regular meetings of the Gali IPRM .
The Co-Chairs reiterated their call for all participants to increase efforts to build trust and confidence among them , and to ensure constructive cooperation with international humanitarian and human rights organisations .
The participants agreed to hold their next meeting in Geneva on 23-24 March 2021 .

GENEVA, 11 December 2020 - The 51st round of the Geneva International Discussions (GID) took place in the Palais des Nations on 10-11 December 2020.
Against the backdrop of the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, this was the first and only GID round that took place in 2020. In the interim, the Co-Chairs held a series of consultations via videoconference and conducted several visits for in-person meetings with the participants. The holding of an in-person GID round re-confirmed the commitment of all participants to the GID process.
In this regard, the importance of in-person meetings was noted, as was support for continued dialogue and joint efforts, which are aimed at addressing conflict-related issues and defusing tensions and potential misunderstandings. The collective efforts of the Co-Chairs allowed participants to better address issues relating to the security and humanitarian situation of conflict-affected populations on the ground.
During this 51st GID round, the participants once again met in two separate working groups focused on security and humanitarian issues. The security situation on the ground was assessed as relatively calm and stable. The participants reviewed a number of issues on the agenda, including the situation in the Chorchana-Tsnelisi area, recent detention cases, missing persons, and the importance of conflict-affected populations' access to livelihoods. Particular focus was given on the one side to the core agenda item of non-use of force and, on the other, on the impact of COVID-19 on the humanitarian situation on the ground. Efforts to address these challenges jointly were positively noted. Participants could not engage on the issues of IDPs and refugees, due to a walkout of some participants.
The resumption of the Incident Prevention and Response Mechanism (IPRM) in Ergneti with two meetings held this year was welcomed. The Co-Chairs emphasised the need to resume regular meetings of the Gali IPRM.
The Co-Chairs reiterated their call for all participants to increase efforts to build trust and confidence among them, and to ensure constructive cooperation with international humanitarian and human rights organisations.
The participants agreed to hold their next meeting in Geneva on 23-24 March 2021.


osce--2020-12-11--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 295/2020 issued on 11 December 2020


osce--2020-12-11--“Debating Perspectives 2030 Roadshow” continues to call on passionate young women and men to shape n

“Debating Perspectives 2030 Roadshow” continues to call on passionate young women and men to shape national and international action

On 11 December 2020 , the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights , with the support of Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung Polska , hosted the “ Debating Perspectives 2030 Roadshow ” , providing a platform for young women and men in Poland to make their voices heard .
In her opening remarks , OSCE CiO Special Representative on Youth and Security Keisi Seferi recognized : `` Young people have a responsibility to advocate for human rights standards and to develop platforms for their implementation , as well as working in a structured manner to ensure public access to these rights .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ joint initiative of the Office of the OSCE Secretary General and the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung Regional Office for Cooperation and Peace in Europe aimed at giving youth a stronger voice in the promotion of international peace and security .
It finds inspiration in the findings of the “ Engaging Youth for a Safer Future ” paper , which proposes innovative and constructive solutions to challenges to peace and security and security in topics such as human rights , rule of law , building peace , education , new technologies , and environment and energy .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights , said : “ Young people are the new architects of our democratic future .
Their energy , vision , and resourcefulness have the power to shape our democracies in the coming years , giving them stronger foundations and more space to welcome everyone.
” '' Developing and implementing inclusive youth policies , strategies and programmes to tackle the growing social and political issues shall become a priority for both international organizations and national governments .
I believe that this initiative makes a real @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of youth in decision-making processes '' , said Kanatbek Abdiev , member of the OSCE Perspectives 2030 Core Group of Experts and moderator of the event .
The Roadshow in Poland is part of a series of events at the national level that are taking place across the OSCE region .
Conclusions and recommendations from these discussions will be published in a policy paper that will provide participating States with a youth perspective on how to strengthen co-operation to better promote comprehensive security .
Perspectives 20-30 initiative is promoted through an extra-budgetary project @ @ @ @ @ @ @ General , with support from Andorra , Finland , Germany , Ireland , Italy , Liechtenstein , Slovakia , Spain and Switzerland .

On 11 December 2020, the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights, with the support of Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung Polska, hosted the “Debating Perspectives 2030 Roadshow”, providing a platform for young women and men in Poland to make their voices heard.
In her opening remarks, OSCE CiO Special Representative on Youth and Security Keisi Seferi recognized: "Young people have a responsibility to advocate for human rights standards and to develop platforms for their implementation, as well as working in a structured manner to ensure public access to these rights."
The Perspectives 20-30 Roadshow is a joint initiative of the Office of the OSCE Secretary General and the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung Regional Office for Cooperation and Peace in Europe aimed at giving youth a stronger voice in the promotion of international peace and security. It finds inspiration in the findings of the “Engaging Youth for a Safer Future” paper, which proposes innovative and constructive solutions to challenges to peace and security and security in topics such as human rights, rule of law, building peace, education, new technologies, and environment and energy.
Katarzyna Gardapkhadze, First Deputy Director of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights, said: “Young people are the new architects of our democratic future. Their energy, vision, and resourcefulness have the power to shape our democracies in the coming years, giving them stronger foundations and more space to welcome everyone.”
"Developing and implementing inclusive youth policies, strategies and programmes to tackle the growing social and political issues shall become a priority for both international organizations and national governments. I believe that this initiative makes a real difference when it comes to the inclusion of youth in decision-making processes", said Kanatbek Abdiev, member of the OSCE Perspectives 2030 Core Group of Experts and moderator of the event.
The Roadshow in Poland is part of a series of events at the national level that are taking place across the OSCE region. Conclusions and recommendations from these discussions will be published in a policy paper that will provide participating States with a youth perspective on how to strengthen co-operation to better promote comprehensive security.
Perspectives 20-30 initiative is promoted through an extra-budgetary project of the OSCE Office of the Secretary General, with support from Andorra, Finland, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Liechtenstein, Slovakia, Spain and Switzerland.


osce--2020-12-11--Conference for the 25th anniversary of the Institute of the Authorized Person of the Oliy Majlis of

Conference for the 25th anniversary of the Institute of the Authorized Person of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan for Human Rights

On 11 December 2020 , the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan co-hosted the blended event “ the Digitalization of the Ombudsperson ’ s work : innovative mechanisms for promoting and protecting human rights and freedoms ” , dedicated to the 25th anniversary of the Institute of the Authorized Person of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan for Human Rights ( Ombudsperson ) .
The United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights ’ ( UN OHCHR ) Regional Office for Central Asia , the United Nations Office in Uzbekistan , the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the United Nations Democracy Fund , the United Nations Development Programme and Penal Reform International , co-organized the event .
Among the 150 participants were : the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights ; the Chairperson of the Senate of Uzbekistan ; the Speaker of the Legislative Chamber of Parliament ; the leadership of the International Ombudsman Institute and of the European Ombudsman Institute ; the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions ; as well as the Ombudspersons from several OSCE participating States and Partners for Co-operation ; OSCE/ODIHR representatives ; @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from Uzbekistan .
The high-level event was an opportunity to exchange good practices in the OSCE region and beyond on topics such as the use of contemporary information technologies in times of the COVID-19 pandemic and the experience of interacting with rights holders and the public during the pandemic .
Additionally , discussions were held on working towards specific vulnerable groups , as well as on the co-operation between national human rights institutions and the civil society .
The conference was also the occasion for the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan to sign @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Institution .

On 11 December 2020, the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan co-hosted the blended event “the Digitalization of the Ombudsperson’s work: innovative mechanisms for promoting and protecting human rights and freedoms”, dedicated to the 25th anniversary of the Institute of the Authorized Person of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan for Human Rights (Ombudsperson). The United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights’ (UN OHCHR) Regional Office for Central Asia, the United Nations Office in Uzbekistan, the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (OSCE/ODIHR), the United Nations Democracy Fund, the United Nations Development Programme and Penal Reform International, co-organized the event.
Among the 150 participants were: the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights; the Chairperson of the Senate of Uzbekistan; the Speaker of the Legislative Chamber of Parliament; the leadership of the International Ombudsman Institute and of the European Ombudsman Institute; the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions; as well as the Ombudspersons from several OSCE participating States and Partners for Co-operation; OSCE/ODIHR representatives; UN OHCHR representatives and civil society representatives from Uzbekistan.
The high-level event was an opportunity to exchange good practices in the OSCE region and beyond on topics such as the use of contemporary information technologies in times of the COVID-19 pandemic and the experience of interacting with rights holders and the public during the pandemic. Additionally, discussions were held on working towards specific vulnerable groups, as well as on the co-operation between national human rights institutions and the civil society.
The conference was also the occasion for the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan to sign a Memorandum of Co-operation with the Ombudsperson Institution.


osce--2020-12-11--OSCE and UN Office on Drugs and Crime deliver online train-the-trainer course to enhance Bosnia and

OSCE and UN Office on Drugs and Crime deliver online train-the-trainer course to enhance Bosnia and Herzegovina’s capacities to analyze terrorist financing related  risks and threats

The OSCE Transnational Threats Department ’ s Action against Terrorism Unit , in co-operation with the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina and the UN Office on Drugs and Crime ( UNODC ) organized an online train-the-trainer course from 9 to 11 December 2020 , with the aim of strengthening Bosnia and Herzegovina ’ s ( BiH ) capacities to analyse terrorist financing risks and threats .
The train-the-trainer course emphasized the key role of inter-agency and international co-operation and of multi-stakeholder approaches in countering terrorist financing .
Senior experts and practitioners from the Ministry of Security of BiH , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the State Investigation and Protection Agency , the Ministry of Interior of the Federation of BiH , and the Ministry of Interior of Republika Srpska took part in the course .
Together with the OSCE lead trainers , participants adapted the OSCE-UNODC training course on countering terrorist financing to the needs of BiH .
The senior experts participating in the train-the-trainer courses , jointly with the OSCE and UNODC lead trainers , will go on to train further experts from relevant authorities in BiH in the coming years .
The multi-year training @ @ @ @ @ @ @ increase the country ’ s capacity to detect and combat terrorist financing and strengthen compliance with international standards in this area .

The OSCE Transnational Threats Department’s Action against Terrorism Unit, in co-operation with the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina and the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) organized an online train-the-trainer course from 9 to 11 December 2020, with the aim of strengthening Bosnia and Herzegovina’s (BiH) capacities to analyse terrorist financing risks and threats.
The train-the-trainer course emphasized the key role of inter-agency and international co-operation and of multi-stakeholder approaches in countering terrorist financing.
Senior experts and practitioners from the Ministry of Security of BiH, the Prosecutor’s Office of BiH, the State Investigation and Protection Agency, the Ministry of Interior of the Federation of BiH, and the Ministry of Interior of Republika Srpska took part in the course.
Together with the OSCE lead trainers, participants adapted the OSCE-UNODC training course on countering terrorist financing to the needs of BiH.
The senior experts participating in the train-the-trainer courses, jointly with the OSCE and UNODC lead trainers, will go on to train further experts from relevant authorities in BiH in the coming years.
The multi-year training programme on countering terrorist financing aims to increase the country’s capacity to detect and combat terrorist financing and strengthen compliance with international standards in this area.


osce--2020-12-11--Celebrating Human Rights Day in Uzbekistan

The OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan , together with the National Human Rights Centre of Uzbekistan , co-hosted a blended event to mark Human Rights Day .
The International Human Rights Day is observed every year on 10 December , the day the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948 .
The event in Tashkent was attended by more than 140 participants with some of them attending in person and some online .
Representatives of the Parliament , state bodies , youth and civil society , as well as representatives of the diplomatic corps @ @ @ @ @ @ @ meeting .
Discussions focused on the COVID-19 pandemic and the need to build back better by ensuring that human rights are central to recovery efforts , which was the main theme of this year ’ s Human Rights Day .
During the event , winners of the award titled “ For the Protection of Human Rights ” were announced .
Prof. Akmal Saidov , Director of the National Human Rights Centre of the Republic of Uzbekistan that organized the award , congratulated the winners .
There were different categories for the award that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ human rights ; human rights activity in the non-government sector ; contribution to the protection of women and children ’ s right ; human rights advocacy and educational activities and reporting on human rights ; educational and research work in the field of human rights and the development of international co-operation in the field of human rights .
The winners , in the order of the above-mentioned categories , included : Former Ombudsperson , Sayyora Rashidova , and Director of the Center for Support of Citizens ' Initiatives Dilova Kabulova ; The Istiqbolli @ @ @ @ @ @ @ human trafficking , and Mahmudjon Isaev ; The Republican Center for Socio-Economic Development `` Sabr ” and the Center for Youth and Children with Disabilities ; Rustambek Shamsutdinov , Editor-in-Chief of `` Vodiynoma '' magazine , and Nargul Abdreymova , Head of the Legislation , Legal Advocacy and Anti-Corruption Department of the Policy and News Editorial Office of the National News Agency of Uzbekistan ; Professor of Tashkent State Law University Halimbay Babaev and Head of the department of the National Human Rights Centre of the Republic of Uzbekistan Abdulkhay Muminov ( posthumously @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for Human Rights Tatyana Moskalkova for effective work in protecting the rights of migrants during the pandemic , and former Minister of Justice of the Federal Republic of Germany Herta Doybler-Gmelin for effective activities in the field of justice , human rights and anti-corruption in Uzbekistan .
John MacGregor , OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan , who was a member of the awarding commission , expressed appreciation for the all the winners work saying that he is honoured to “ meet people who worked hard this year to achieve a better implementation of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

The OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan, together with the National Human Rights Centre of Uzbekistan, co-hosted a blended event to mark Human Rights Day. The International Human Rights Day is observed every year on 10 December, the day the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948.
The event in Tashkent was attended by more than 140 participants with some of them attending in person and some online. Representatives of the Parliament, state bodies, youth and civil society, as well as representatives of the diplomatic corps and international organizations took part in the meeting. Discussions focused on the COVID-19 pandemic and the need to build back better by ensuring that human rights are central to recovery efforts, which was the main theme of this year’s Human Rights Day.
During the event, winners of the award titled “For the Protection of Human Rights” were announced. Prof. Akmal Saidov, Director of the National Human Rights Centre of the Republic of Uzbekistan that organized the award, congratulated the winners. There were different categories for the award that included practical work in the field of human rights; human rights activity in the non-government sector; contribution to the protection of women and children’s right; human rights advocacy and educational activities and reporting on human rights; educational and research work in the field of human rights and the development of international co-operation in the field of human rights.
The winners, in the order of the above-mentioned categories, included:
Former Ombudsperson, Sayyora Rashidova, and Director of the Center for Support of Citizens' Initiatives Dilova Kabulova;
The Istiqbolli Avlod NGO working on the prevention of human trafficking, and Mahmudjon Isaev;
The Republican Center for Socio-Economic Development "Sabr” and the Center for Youth and Children with Disabilities;
Rustambek Shamsutdinov, Editor-in-Chief of "Vodiynoma" magazine, and Nargul Abdreymova, Head of the Legislation, Legal Advocacy and Anti-Corruption Department of the Policy and News Editorial Office of the National News Agency of Uzbekistan;
Professor of Tashkent State Law University Halimbay Babaev and Head of the department of the National Human Rights Centre of the Republic of Uzbekistan Abdulkhay Muminov (posthumously);
Representative of the Russian Federation for Human Rights Tatyana Moskalkova for effective work in protecting the rights of migrants during the pandemic, and former Minister of Justice of the Federal Republic of Germany Herta Doybler-Gmelin for effective activities in the field of justice, human rights and anti-corruption in Uzbekistan.
John MacGregor, OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan, who was a member of the awarding commission, expressed appreciation for the all the winners work saying that he is honoured to “meet people who worked hard this year to achieve a better implementation of international human rights standards in Uzbekistan”.


osce--2020-12-11--On International Anti-Corruption Day OSCE hosts event on beneficial ownership and public procurement

On International Anti-Corruption Day OSCE hosts event on beneficial ownership and public procurement processes, key to preventing corrupt practices

The importance of political support as a key step in introducing effective legal and policy frameworks to strengthen open data initiatives that lead to societies that are more transparent was discussed at an OSCE-organized webinar on International Anti-Corruption Day on 9 December 2020 .
Around 100 representatives from governments , OSCE institutions , civil society organizations and academia discussed success stories in beneficial ownership and public procurement as well as ways to build and maintain political support for anti-corruption reforms .
The Chair of the OSCE Permanent Council and Permanent Representative of Albania to the OSCE , Ambassador Igli Hasani @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ministerial Council Decision on “ Preventing and Combatting Corruption through Digitalization and Increased Transparency ” adopted on 4 December 2020 .
“ This is truly a great achievement , which enriches the OSCE ’ s set of commitments in this field .
It also responds to the emerging trends of development of technologies in promoting good governance , transparency and accountability .
This is the first Ministerial Council Decision elaborating on the links between anti-corruption and digitalization , ” said Hasani .
Professor Paola Severino , Special Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Žugić , Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities stated during the opening session that : “ Efficient , accessible , accountable , and transparent public service delivery is a key component in building a functioning public sector , and this is particularly important when we talk about procurement procedures.
” Guest speakers from Slovakia , the United Kingdom , Ukraine , the United States and Georgia focused on how to achieve political support in combating corruption .
They provided an overview of the key role that transparent beneficial ownership information plays and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ procurement processes in enhancing public and private sector transparency and accountability .
Irene Charalambides , the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly ’ s Special Representative on Fighting Corruption , said : “ It is only through strong political will that we can effectively fight corruption at all levels .
Without political will , anti-corruption laws will remain empty shells and anti-corruption authorities will feel abandoned.
” Speakers identified transparent processes and access to well-analyzed data as essential for fighting corruption .
Emphasizing the importance of beneficial ownership portals , Drago Kos , Chair of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in International Business Transactions said : “ Access to data on beneficial ownership is crucial in our mutual fight against corruption on the international , national and local level.
” This is the third webinar in a series of capacity-building seminars organized by the Office of the Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities in the framework of the extra-budgetary project “ Promoting Good Governance and Enhancing Anti-Corruption Efforts in the OSCE Area through the Use of Open Data and New Digital Technologies ” .
The government of Germany and the United States @ @ @ @ @ @ @

The importance of political support as a key step in introducing effective legal and policy frameworks to strengthen open data initiatives that lead to societies that are more transparent was discussed at an OSCE-organized webinar on International Anti-Corruption Day on 9 December 2020.
Around 100 representatives from governments, OSCE institutions, civil society organizations and academia discussed success stories in beneficial ownership and public procurement as well as ways to build and maintain political support for anti-corruption reforms.
The Chair of the OSCE Permanent Council and Permanent Representative of Albania to the OSCE, Ambassador Igli Hasani opened the event by referencing the 2020 Ministerial Council Decision on “Preventing and Combatting Corruption through Digitalization and Increased Transparency” adopted on 4 December 2020.
“This is truly a great achievement, which enriches the OSCE’s set of commitments in this field. It also responds to the emerging trends of development of technologies in promoting good governance, transparency and accountability. This is the first Ministerial Council Decision elaborating on the links between anti-corruption and digitalization,” said Hasani. Professor Paola Severino, Special Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office on Combating Corruption echoed his message.
Vuk Žugić, Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities stated during the opening session that: “Efficient, accessible, accountable, and transparent public service delivery is a key component in building a functioning public sector, and this is particularly important when we talk about procurement procedures.”
Guest speakers from Slovakia, the United Kingdom, Ukraine, the United States and Georgia focused on how to achieve political support in combating corruption. They provided an overview of the key role that transparent beneficial ownership information plays and the importance of open and efficient public procurement processes in enhancing public and private sector transparency and accountability.
Irene Charalambides, the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly’s Special Representative on Fighting Corruption, said: “It is only through strong political will that we can effectively fight corruption at all levels. Without political will, anti-corruption laws will remain empty shells and anti-corruption authorities will feel abandoned.”
Speakers identified transparent processes and access to well-analyzed data as essential for fighting corruption. Emphasizing the importance of beneficial ownership portals, Drago Kos, Chair of the OECD’s Working Group on Bribery in International Business Transactions said: “Access to data on beneficial ownership is crucial in our mutual fight against corruption on the international, national and local level.”
This is the third webinar in a series of capacity-building seminars organized by the Office of the Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities in the framework of the extra-budgetary project “Promoting Good Governance and Enhancing Anti-Corruption Efforts in the OSCE Area through the Use of Open Data and New Digital Technologies”. The government of Germany and the United States Department of State support the initiative.


osce--2020-12-11--Montenegro parliamentary elections 2020: OSCE/ODIHR limited election observation mission final repor

Montenegro parliamentary elections 2020: OSCE/ODIHR limited election observation mission final report

The 2020 parliamentary elections in Montenegro were competitive , and took place in an environment highly polarized over issues of church and national identity .
Contestants were able to convey their messages but the ruling party gained an undue advantage through misuse of office and state resources , and dominant media coverage .
These are some of the main conclusions from the final report on Montenegro ’ s parliamentary elections of 30 August 2020 , published on 11 December 2020 by the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights ( ODIHR ) .
The report provides 23 recommendations to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them fully in line with OSCE commitments and other international standards .
Key recommendations include : • carrying out a comprehensive reform to harmonize the electoral legal framework and regulate all key aspects of the elections • implementing clear , consistent , timely and fully implementable decisions within the mandate of the State Election Commission • reviewing the legal capacity and residency requirements for voting and standing for election • introducing effective and proportionate sanctions , and an explicit obligation of the oversight body to identify and publish the information on inaccuracies , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ provisions on challenging and invalidation of election , and prescribing that decisions on preliminary results may be appealed , including to the Constitutional Court • considering additional measures to achieve balanced representation of women and men holding publicly elected positions ODIHR deployed a Limited Election Observation Mission ( LEOM ) on 4 August 2020 to observe the parliamentary elections .
All 57 countries across the OSCE region have formally committed to follow up promptly on ODIHR ’ s election assessments and recommendations .

The 2020 parliamentary elections in Montenegro were competitive, and took place in an environment highly polarized over issues of church and national identity. Contestants were able to convey their messages but the ruling party gained an undue advantage through misuse of office and state resources, and dominant media coverage.
These are some of the main conclusions from the final report on Montenegro’s parliamentary elections of 30 August 2020, published on 11 December 2020 by the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR).
Recommendations
The report provides 23 recommendations to improve the conduct of elections and bring them fully in line with OSCE commitments and other international standards. Key recommendations include:
carrying out a comprehensive reform to harmonize the electoral legal framework and regulate all key aspects of the elections
implementing clear, consistent, timely and fully implementable decisions within the mandate of the State Election Commission
reviewing the legal capacity and residency requirements for voting and standing for election
introducing effective and proportionate sanctions, and an explicit obligation of the oversight body to identify and publish the information on inaccuracies, including unreported incomes and expenditures
reviewing provisions on challenging and invalidation of election, and prescribing that decisions on preliminary results may be appealed, including to the Constitutional Court
considering additional measures to achieve balanced representation of women and men holding publicly elected positions
ODIHR deployed a Limited Election Observation Mission (LEOM) on 4 August 2020 to observe the parliamentary elections. All 57 countries across the OSCE region have formally committed to follow up promptly on ODIHR’s election assessments and recommendations.


osce--2020-12-11--OSCE Programme Office in Nur-Sultan conducts second module of a series of online seminars on gender

OSCE Programme Office in Nur-Sultan conducts second module of a series of online seminars on gender equality and human rights in Kazakhstan

An OSCE-supported webinar on identifying and combatting gender-based violence organized by the OSCE Programme Office in Nur-Sultan concluded on 11 December 2020 .
Twenty-nine representatives from civil society organizations , women entrepreneurs , students and young professionals attended the webinar titled `` Domestic Violence : Types , Prevention and Assistance '' .
Participants were informed about the local and international legislation on addressing gender-based violence and protecting victims , effective measures in tackling violence against women and girls and statistical data on the cases of domestic violence during the current pandemic .
Particular focus was given to the issue of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ portraits of abuser and lifetime consequences on persons affected by it .
The webinar was facilitated in the framework of a series of seminars on gender equality and human rights , initiated by the OSCE Programme Office in Nur-Sultan .
The aim of the series , which is running from November 2020 through February 2021 , is to bring public awareness to the notion of gender and pertinent issues .
The event is part of the Programme Office ’ s continuous efforts to support gender mainstreaming and economic empowerment initiatives in the host @ @

An OSCE-supported webinar on identifying and combatting gender-based violence organized by the OSCE Programme Office in Nur-Sultan concluded on 11 December 2020.
Twenty-nine representatives from civil society organizations, women entrepreneurs, students and young professionals attended the webinar titled "Domestic Violence: Types, Prevention and Assistance". Participants were informed about the local and international legislation on addressing gender-based violence and protecting victims, effective measures in tackling violence against women and girls and statistical data on the cases of domestic violence during the current pandemic. Particular focus was given to the issue of identifying the cases of violence, psychological portraits of abuser and lifetime consequences on persons affected by it.
The webinar was facilitated in the framework of a series of seminars on gender equality and human rights, initiated by the OSCE Programme Office in Nur-Sultan. The aim of the series, which is running from November 2020 through February 2021, is to bring public awareness to the notion of gender and pertinent issues.
The event is part of the Programme Office’s continuous efforts to support gender mainstreaming and economic empowerment initiatives in the host country.


osce--2020-12-11--OSCE Presence in Albania holds event on application of Decriminalization Law and its implementation

OSCE Presence in Albania holds event on application of Decriminalization Law and its implementation on the 2021 parliamentary elections

The OSCE Presence in Albania and the Embassy of the Kingdom of Netherlands jointly organized a workshop on 11 December 2020 in Tirana .
The event focused on the current application of the Law on Decriminalization in view of the upcoming parliamentary elections on 25 April 2021 .
Key stakeholders of the Central Election Commission , General Prosecutor ’ s Office , state and public institutions , representatives of political parties , civil society and the main international partners in Albania that follow closely the implementation of the Law on Decriminalization participated in the workshop .
“ The OSCE Presence @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Law is the foundation for a more efficient fight against electoral fraud as well as for a more efficient cleansing of the candidates lists from individuals with criminal records or those under criminal investigation ” , said Head of Presence , Vincenzo Del Monaco .
The implementing partner of the activity , the Institute of Political Studies , presented the main findings of an assessment and survey they recently conducted on the implementation of this law in the field of elections ; providing a synopsis of its implementation until now and identifying various @ @ @ @ @ @ @ application .
Participants highlighted that the Law on Decriminalization has achieved significant results since its adoption in December 2015 , which has led to the dismissal and resignation of a considerable number of high-level state officials , including many in elected positions such as MPs , mayors and local councilors .
The Central Election Commission and the General Prosecutor ’ s Office shared their experiences and challenges faced in its implementation in the area of elections over the years .
Participants committed to further strengthen the cooperation among them and support each-other towards @ @ @ @ @ @ @ incriminated individuals ’ intrusion in the candidate lists for the 2021 parliamentary elections .
The OSCE Presence in Albania will continue to closely follow and support the Central Election Commission , General Prosecutor ’ s Office and political actors in view of a fully effective application of the Law on Decriminalization in the upcoming elections .

The OSCE Presence in Albania and the Embassy of the Kingdom of Netherlands jointly organized a workshop on 11 December 2020 in Tirana. The event focused on the current application of the Law on Decriminalization in view of the upcoming parliamentary elections on 25 April 2021.
Key stakeholders of the Central Election Commission, General Prosecutor’s Office, state and public institutions, representatives of political parties, civil society and the main international partners in Albania that follow closely the implementation of the Law on Decriminalization participated in the workshop.
“The OSCE Presence strongly believes that proper application of Decriminalization Law is the foundation for a more efficient fight against electoral fraud as well as for a more efficient cleansing of the candidates lists from individuals with criminal records or those under criminal investigation”, said Head of Presence, Vincenzo Del Monaco.
The implementing partner of the activity, the Institute of Political Studies, presented the main findings of an assessment and survey they recently conducted on the implementation of this law in the field of elections; providing a synopsis of its implementation until now and identifying various hurdles they have encountered towards a fully-efficient application.
Participants highlighted that the Law on Decriminalization has achieved significant results since its adoption in December 2015, which has led to the dismissal and resignation of a considerable number of high-level state officials, including many in elected positions such as MPs, mayors and local councilors.
The Central Election Commission and the General Prosecutor’s Office shared their experiences and challenges faced in its implementation in the area of elections over the years.
Participants committed to further strengthen the cooperation among them and support each-other towards a more efficient and timely prevention of incriminated individuals’ intrusion in the candidate lists for the 2021 parliamentary elections.
The OSCE Presence in Albania will continue to closely follow and support the Central Election Commission, General Prosecutor’s Office and political actors in view of a fully effective application of the Law on Decriminalization in the upcoming elections.


osce--2020-12-11--The fourth BSMSL course: Completion of module one

Twenty-seven officers and managers from different border security and law enforcement agencies from OSCE ’ s participating States completed the first module of the one-year Border Security and Management for Senior Leadership course ( BSMSL ) on 11 December 2020 .
Due to the COVID-29 pandemic and the travel restrictions , the traditional face-to-face phase of the first module was held via video teleconferencing .
The course was conducted by the OSCE Border Management Staff College in collaboration with the Geneva Centre for Security Sector Governance .
Participants represented Armenia , France , Greece , Lithuania , Moldova , Mongolia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Poland , Portugal , Spain , Tajikistan , and Ukraine , as well as three of the OSCE ’ s Partners for Co-operation : Afghanistan , Egypt , and Jordan .
The purpose of the first module was to expand the knowledge and expertise of the mid-to-senior level border officials on modern security challenges on border management as well to address possible countermeasures .
“ The course provided a good foundation for the participants on ways to deal with current security threats , ” said Dr. Stanislav Filippov from the National Academy of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Filippov is the leading expert of the BSMSL Module One .
The main topics covered during the course included the analysis of security threats , human trafficking , cybercrime , counter-terrorism threats as well as refugee protection and border management .
Mohammad Amran Sahak , provincial co-ordination manager at Afghanistan ’ s Customs Department and course participant said : “ I learned many things but the most interesting part for me was to gain an understanding about what integrated border management is .
Afghanistan is in the process of implementing integrated border @ @ @ @ @ @ @ become part of the committee.
” Upon the completion of Module One , participants will now embark on the second stage of the one-year course , which emphasizes the application of leadership skills in border management .
The course is accredited by the EKKA Quality Assessment Council for Higher Education and equals to an internationally recognized one-year postgraduate diploma course .

Twenty-seven officers and managers from different border security and law enforcement agencies from OSCE’s participating States completed the first module of the one-year Border Security and Management for Senior Leadership course (BSMSL) on 11 December 2020. Due to the COVID-29 pandemic and the travel restrictions, the traditional face-to-face phase of the first module was held via video teleconferencing.
The course was conducted by the OSCE Border Management Staff College in collaboration with the Geneva Centre for Security Sector Governance.
Participants represented Armenia, France, Greece, Lithuania, Moldova, Mongolia, the Netherlands, North Macedonia, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Tajikistan, and Ukraine, as well as three of the OSCE’s Partners for Co-operation: Afghanistan, Egypt, and Jordan.
The purpose of the first module was to expand the knowledge and expertise of the mid-to-senior level border officials on modern security challenges on border management as well to address possible countermeasures. “The course provided a good foundation for the participants on ways to deal with current security threats,” said Dr. Stanislav Filippov from the National Academy of the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine. Filippov is the leading expert of the BSMSL Module One.
The main topics covered during the course included the analysis of security threats, human trafficking, cybercrime, counter-terrorism threats as well as refugee protection and border management. Mohammad Amran Sahak, provincial co-ordination manager at Afghanistan’s Customs Department and course participant said: “I learned many things but the most interesting part for me was to gain an understanding about what integrated border management is. Afghanistan is in the process of implementing integrated border management strategy and I was nominated to become part of the committee.” Upon the completion of Module One, participants will now embark on the second stage of the one-year course, which emphasizes the application of leadership skills in border management.
The course is accredited by the EKKA Quality Assessment Council for Higher Education and equals to an internationally recognized one-year postgraduate diploma course.


osce--2020-12-11--OSCE Mission to Montenegro equips parliamentary staff with skills as trainers

With the support of the OSCE Mission to Montenegro , from June to December 2020 , six staff of Montenegro ’ s parliament acquired the knowledge and tools to organize and facilitate workshops on a range of skills for their colleagues within parliament .
In co-operation with the parliament ’ s Human Resources Management Bureau , the Mission facilitated a mentoring programme for the parliamentary staff that spanned 13 days , conducted over six months .
The staff developed a detailed training curriculum and practiced delivering courses on communication , presentations and stress management .
Dražen Malović , Head of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Affairs said : “ As in the previous period , all agreed activities with the OSCE Mission were successfully implemented , in spite of all the challenges caused by COVID-19 pandemic .
Our joint achievements represent a fertile ground for building further successful co-operation.
“ The experts who delivered the training , Jadranka Vojinović and Bego Begu , said that participants have gained skills that will increase the professionalism , efficiency and effectiveness of the parliamentary service .
This activity was part of the Mission ’ s efforts to strengthen the capacities of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ working environment .
The Mission plans to support the pool of trainers to conduct training workshops on the three topics for their colleagues in 2021 by providing mentoring throughout the process .

With the support of the OSCE Mission to Montenegro, from June to December 2020, six staff of Montenegro’s parliament acquired the knowledge and tools to organize and facilitate workshops on a range of skills for their colleagues within parliament.
In co-operation with the parliament’s Human Resources Management Bureau, the Mission facilitated a mentoring programme for the parliamentary staff that spanned 13 days, conducted over six months. The staff developed a detailed training curriculum and practiced delivering courses on communication, presentations and stress management.
Dražen Malović, Head of the Service for Human Resources and Corporation Affairs said: “As in the previous period, all agreed activities with the OSCE Mission were successfully implemented, in spite of all the challenges caused by COVID-19 pandemic. Our joint achievements represent a fertile ground for building further successful co-operation.“
The experts who delivered the training, Jadranka Vojinović and Bego Begu, said that participants have gained skills that will increase the professionalism, efficiency and effectiveness of the parliamentary service.
This activity was part of the Mission’s efforts to strengthen the capacities of the parliamentary services to create an enabling working environment. The Mission plans to support the pool of trainers to conduct training workshops on the three topics for their colleagues in 2021 by providing mentoring throughout the process.


osce--2020-12-10--OSCE workshop promotes social re-use of confiscated assets in Serbia and North Macedonia

Promoting the social re-use of assets confiscated from criminal activity was the focus of two online workshops for Serbian and North Macedonian civil society organizations , law enforcement practitioners , asset management agencies and prosecutions offices , which were held on 7 and 10 December 2020 .
More than 30 participants attended .
The workshops are part of a series of national workshops the OSCE is organizing for five South-Eastern European countries to promote the social re-use of assets as an efficient tool in preventing and fighting against organized crime and corruption .
The events were organized as part of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ OSCE Secretariat ’ s Transnational Threats Department and the Office of the Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities on asset recovery-related efforts in South-Eastern Europe .
The workshops aim to reinforce the importance of asset re-use for social purposes among government agencies and civil society ; build awareness of the infiltration of organized crime money in the legal economy ; and foster a public discourse on the role of civil society in the fight against organized crime and corruption .
Opening the meeting for Serbian participants , Carlo Lo Cascio , Italian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In line with the goals of the project , we have also emphasized and supported the importance of a joint response to organized crime involving civil society , that in Serbia — and in the Western Balkans — should play a fundamental role in developing a common effort towards the progress needed.
” Ambassador Clemens Koja , Head of OSCE Mission to Skopje addressed the attendees of the workshop for North Macedonia , and highlighted the importance of a multi-stakeholder approach .
“ There can be no real progress in increasing accountability and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ between governments and civil society organizations.
” During both workshops , participants were familiarized with the national legislative framework under which assets can be socially re-used .
They also learned from international civil society organizations and experts on best practices to convert confiscated assets into safe places for communities and use them for social , cultural and rehabilitation purposes .
The donors of this cross-dimensional project are the United States Department of State , Italy , Germany and the United Kingdom .

Promoting the social re-use of assets confiscated from criminal activity was the focus of two online workshops for Serbian and North Macedonian civil society organizations, law enforcement practitioners, asset management agencies and prosecutions offices, which were held on 7 and 10 December 2020. More than 30 participants attended. The workshops are part of a series of national workshops the OSCE is organizing for five South-Eastern European countries to promote the social re-use of assets as an efficient tool in preventing and fighting against organized crime and corruption.
The events were organized as part of the OSCE extra-budgetary initiative led by the OSCE Secretariat’s Transnational Threats Department and the Office of the Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities on asset recovery-related efforts in South-Eastern Europe.
The workshops aim to reinforce the importance of asset re-use for social purposes among government agencies and civil society; build awareness of the infiltration of organized crime money in the legal economy; and foster a public discourse on the role of civil society in the fight against organized crime and corruption.
Opening the meeting for Serbian participants, Carlo Lo Cascio, Italian Ambassador to Serbia, said: “In line with the goals of the project, we have also emphasized and supported the importance of a joint response to organized crime involving civil society, that in Serbia — and in the Western Balkans — should play a fundamental role in developing a common effort towards the progress needed.”
Ambassador Clemens Koja, Head of OSCE Mission to Skopje addressed the attendees of the workshop for North Macedonia, and highlighted the importance of a multi-stakeholder approach. “There can be no real progress in increasing accountability and transparency, without the reinforced joint efforts between governments and civil society organizations.”
During both workshops, participants were familiarized with the national legislative framework under which assets can be socially re-used. They also learned from international civil society organizations and experts on best practices to convert confiscated assets into safe places for communities and use them for social, cultural and rehabilitation purposes.
The donors of this cross-dimensional project are the United States Department of State, Italy, Germany and the United Kingdom.


osce--2020-12-10--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 294/2020 issued on 10 December 2020

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osce--2020-12-10--The brave people strengthening human rights in 2020 will lead us out of adversity, OSCE human rights

The brave people strengthening human rights in 2020 will lead us out of adversity, OSCE human rights office says

WARSAW , 10 December 2020 – On Human Rights Day , the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights ( ODIHR ) pays tribute to human rights defenders and many organizations across the OSCE region that have protected our rights throughout the Covid-19 pandemic , and will have a key role to play if the global recovery is to put respect for human rights at its core .
OSCE states have long recognized the important role played by civil society in ensuring full respect for human rights , fundamental freedoms , democracy and the rule of law .
Throughout @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and activists have worked hard to lessen the suffering caused by the health crisis .
They have exposed gaps in responses to the health emergency and drawn attention to the undermining of human rights standards and democratic values in the name of public safety. As public emergencies were introduced across the OSCE region and human rights and freedoms of millions of people were restricted , national human rights institutions ( NHRIs ) as well as civil society organizations were swift to hold accountable those states that were using vaguely defined regulations to bypass @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In addition to their regular monitoring activities , NHRIs were often quick and resourceful in developing solutions and disseminating key information to the public when it was needed .
A spirit of dialogue and compromise , the ability to combat systematic inequality and exclusion , and the will to overcome ever-deepening polarization , are hard to imagine without a strong and vibrant civil society .
But in many places across the OSCE region , pressure on civic space is increasing .
This takes many forms , from legislation restricting the activities of civil @ @ @ @ @ @ @ defenders and journalists .
Despite their commitment – or because of it – many courageous human rights defenders across the OSCE region have been the brunt of attacks in 2020 .
They have faced threats and intimidation , frequently initiated by national authorities , as well as funding cuts and risks to their data security and privacy .
Two years ago , ODIHR launched its first ever targeted assessments on the situation of human rights defenders .
Early next year , ODIHR will publish trends and recommendations based on an analysis of almost @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The report will identify gaps and challenges in the protection of human rights defenders , as well as highlighting good practices so countries can learn from each other as they seek to rebuild societies overwhelmed by the challenges of the pandemic .
Today , ODIHR wants to thank all those brave people across the OSCE region who are committed to safeguarding the human rights of us all .
The Office will continue to support and work with them towards this ultimate goal .

WARSAW, 10 December 2020 – On Human Rights Day, the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) pays tribute to human rights defenders and many organizations across the OSCE region that have protected our rights throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, and will have a key role to play if the global recovery is to put respect for human rights at its core.
OSCE states have long recognized the important role played by civil society in ensuring full respect for human rights, fundamental freedoms, democracy and the rule of law. Throughout the pandemic, numerous organizations, initiatives and activists have worked hard to lessen the suffering caused by the health crisis. They have exposed gaps in responses to the health emergency and drawn attention to the undermining of human rights standards and democratic values in the name of public safety.
As public emergencies were introduced across the OSCE region and human rights and freedoms of millions of people were restricted, national human rights institutions (NHRIs) as well as civil society organizations were swift to hold accountable those states that were using vaguely defined regulations to bypass human rights obligations and lower standards. In addition to their regular monitoring activities, NHRIs were often quick and resourceful in developing solutions and disseminating key information to the public when it was needed.
A spirit of dialogue and compromise, the ability to combat systematic inequality and exclusion, and the will to overcome ever-deepening polarization, are hard to imagine without a strong and vibrant civil society. But in many places across the OSCE region, pressure on civic space is increasing. This takes many forms, from legislation restricting the activities of civil society to smear campaigns against human rights defenders and journalists.
Despite their commitment – or because of it – many courageous human rights defenders across the OSCE region have been the brunt of attacks in 2020. They have faced threats and intimidation, frequently initiated by national authorities, as well as funding cuts and risks to their data security and privacy.
Two years ago, ODIHR launched its first ever targeted assessments on the situation of human rights defenders. Early next year, ODIHR will publish trends and recommendations based on an analysis of almost 250 discussions across five OSCE countries. The report will identify gaps and challenges in the protection of human rights defenders, as well as highlighting good practices so countries can learn from each other as they seek to rebuild societies overwhelmed by the challenges of the pandemic.
Today, ODIHR wants to thank all those brave people across the OSCE region who are committed to safeguarding the human rights of us all. The Office will continue to support and work with them towards this ultimate goal.


osce--2020-12-10--COVID-19 recovery must promote inclusive societies, OSCE parliamentarians say on Human Rights Day

COPENHAGEN , 10 December 2020 – At the close of a year defined by a global pandemic that has killed more than 1.5 million people worldwide , devastated economies and uprooted daily life for billions , the leaders of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly ’ s human rights and humanitarian committee today called for ensuring that recovery efforts focus on protecting the most vulnerable .
Prioritizing an inclusive approach to the COVID-19 recovery is vital to ensure greater enjoyment of human rights , particularly for those suffering from extreme poverty and food insecurity , the parliamentarians said in a joint statement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Day , we are reminded that inequalities continue to exclude many from their enjoyment of basic rights , ” said Kyriakos Hadjiyianni ( Cyprus ) , Michael Link ( Germany ) , and Kari Henriksen ( Norway ) .
“ It is therefore fitting that today is also the day that the Nobel Peace Prize is awarded to the UN ’ s World Food Programme for its vital work in feeding the world ’ s most vulnerable people – those living in conflict zones , refugee camps and people suffering conditions of extreme @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for every human being , and so today we honour all those fighting for freedoms of speech and conscience and freedom from fear and want .
As the work of recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic begins , ensuring a truly inclusive approach to human rights promotion and humanitarian support is a challenge we must all rise to meet.
” This year ’ s Human Rights Day is being held under the theme “ Recover Better - Stand Up for Human Rights , ” and is focused on promoting equal opportunities for all , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and applying human rights standards to resolve inequalities , exclusion and discrimination .
Hadjiyianni , Link and Henriksen are the Chair , Vice-Chair and Rapporteur , respectively , of the General Committee on Democracy , Human Rights and Humanitarian Questions .
They recalled that on 12 November , David Beasley , Executive Director of the UN World Food Programme , addressed the OSCE PA ’ s Standing Committee of heads of delegations , warning that 2021 could be a catastrophic year for food security if appropriate resources are not dedicated to the effort @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and mass migration .

COPENHAGEN, 10 December 2020 – At the close of a year defined by a global pandemic that has killed more than 1.5 million people worldwide, devastated economies and uprooted daily life for billions, the leaders of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly’s human rights and humanitarian committee today called for ensuring that recovery efforts focus on protecting the most vulnerable. Prioritizing an inclusive approach to the COVID-19 recovery is vital to ensure greater enjoyment of human rights, particularly for those suffering from extreme poverty and food insecurity, the parliamentarians said in a joint statement.
“As we celebrate Human Rights Day, we are reminded that inequalities continue to exclude many from their enjoyment of basic rights,” said Kyriakos Hadjiyianni (Cyprus), Michael Link (Germany), and Kari Henriksen (Norway). “It is therefore fitting that today is also the day that the Nobel Peace Prize is awarded to the UN’s World Food Programme for its vital work in feeding the world’s most vulnerable people – those living in conflict zones, refugee camps and people suffering conditions of extreme poverty. Human rights must be protected for every human being, and so today we honour all those fighting for freedoms of speech and conscience and freedom from fear and want. As the work of recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic begins, ensuring a truly inclusive approach to human rights promotion and humanitarian support is a challenge we must all rise to meet.”
This year’s Human Rights Day is being held under the theme “Recover Better - Stand Up for Human Rights,” and is focused on promoting equal opportunities for all, addressing the failures exposed by COVID-19, and applying human rights standards to resolve inequalities, exclusion and discrimination.
Hadjiyianni, Link and Henriksen are the Chair, Vice-Chair and Rapporteur, respectively, of the General Committee on Democracy, Human Rights and Humanitarian Questions. They recalled that on 12 November, David Beasley, Executive Director of the UN World Food Programme, addressed the OSCE PA’s Standing Committee of heads of delegations, warning that 2021 could be a catastrophic year for food security if appropriate resources are not dedicated to the effort, highlighting the possibility of increased famine and mass migration.


osce--2020-12-23--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 305/2020 issued on 23 December 2020


osce--2020-12-23--OSCE presents recommendations on improving correspondent banking relations in Tajikistan

Recommendations on how to improve correspondent banking relations between Tajik commercial banks and banks based in the European Union and the United States were presented at an online event organized by the OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe on 23 December 2020 .
The presentation was attended by some 20 officials of Tajikistan ’ s National Bank and representatives of local financial institutions .
The event highlighted difficulties faced by Tajik commercial banks in establishing correspondent banking relations with foreign counterparts and recommended ways to improve relations .
The recommendations were based on a report commissioned by the OSCE Programme Office @ @ @ @ @ @ @ expert to conduct and present the analysis .
The report will also serve as a guide for enhancing existing mechanisms and adopting internal regulations on anti-bribery and anti-corruption policies by commercial banks in Tajikistan , which could help to speed up the process of establishing correspondent banking relations with EU and US banks .
Farhod Bilolov , Director of the Financial Monitoring Department in Tajikistan ’ s National Bank , said the report is an important document that “ will serve as good guidance for improving the banking sector in the area of @ @ @ @ @ @

Recommendations on how to improve correspondent banking relations between Tajik commercial banks and banks based in the European Union and the United States were presented at an online event organized by the OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe on 23 December 2020. The presentation was attended by some 20 officials of Tajikistan’s National Bank and representatives of local financial institutions.
The event highlighted difficulties faced by Tajik commercial banks in establishing correspondent banking relations with foreign counterparts and recommended ways to improve relations. The recommendations were based on a report commissioned by the OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe, which hired an international expert to conduct and present the analysis.
The report will also serve as a guide for enhancing existing mechanisms and adopting internal regulations on anti-bribery and anti-corruption policies by commercial banks in Tajikistan, which could help to speed up the process of establishing correspondent banking relations with EU and US banks.
Farhod Bilolov, Director of the Financial Monitoring Department in Tajikistan’s National Bank, said the report is an important document that “will serve as good guidance for improving the banking sector in the area of anti-money laundering and anti-corruption.”


osce--2020-12-23--Developing and implementing the national action plan on Women, Peace and Security in focus at OSCE P

Developing and implementing the national action plan on Women, Peace and Security in focus at OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan-supported event

The OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan ( PCUz ) conducted an international roundtable discussion on “ Developing and Implementing the National Action Plans on Women , Peace and Security : Good Practices and Lessons Learned ” on 18 December 2020 .
The online event was organized together with the OSCE Secretariat ’ s Programme for Gender Issues , the National Human Rights Centre and the National Commission on Gender Equality of the Republic of Uzbekistan .
International experts from Albania , Georgia and Ireland shared best practices and provided information on drafting the National Action Plans on United Nations Security @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their approach to the Women , Peace and Security agenda .
During the roundtable discussion , representatives of the National Human Rights Centre and civil society organizations of Uzbekistan presented their experiences with developing a draft National Action Plan on Resolution 1325 .
Akmal Saidov , Director of the National Human Rights Centre , said : “ At this moment , in Uzbekistan , according to the legislation , every single draft law must go through the gender expertise.
” Amarsanaa Darisuren , OSCE Senior Adviser on Gender Issues , noted : “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ beneficial for Uzbekistan to discuss and exchange views with experts from other sub-regions of the OSCE area and to explore in more detail the implementation of the Women , Peace and Security agenda in the participating States of the OSCE.
” OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan , John MacGregor , said : “ I am delighted that Uzbekistan is determined to advance the implementation of a Women , Peace and Security agenda .
I have no doubts that women ’ s full , equal and meaningful participation is required to maintain peace and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or global.
” The event provided a platform for discussing the relevant legal and policy frameworks and sharing good practices on implementation of the Women , Peace and Security agenda among practitioners from Uzbekistan and other OSCE participating States .

The OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan (PCUz) conducted an international roundtable discussion on “Developing and Implementing the National Action Plans on Women, Peace and Security: Good Practices and Lessons Learned” on 18 December 2020.
The online event was organized together with the OSCE Secretariat’s Programme for Gender Issues, the National Human Rights Centre and the National Commission on Gender Equality of the Republic of Uzbekistan.
International experts from Albania, Georgia and Ireland shared best practices and provided information on drafting the National Action Plans on United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325, as well as their approach to the Women, Peace and Security agenda.
During the roundtable discussion, representatives of the National Human Rights Centre and civil society organizations of Uzbekistan presented their experiences with developing a draft National Action Plan on Resolution 1325.
Akmal Saidov, Director of the National Human Rights Centre, said: “At this moment, in Uzbekistan, according to the legislation, every single draft law must go through the gender expertise.”
Amarsanaa Darisuren, OSCE Senior Adviser on Gender Issues, noted: “Today’s roundtable discussion is particularly beneficial for Uzbekistan to discuss and exchange views with experts from other sub-regions of the OSCE area and to explore in more detail the implementation of the Women, Peace and Security agenda in the participating States of the OSCE.”
OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan, John MacGregor, said: “I am delighted that Uzbekistan is determined to advance the implementation of a Women, Peace and Security agenda. I have no doubts that women’s full, equal and meaningful participation is required to maintain peace and security, be it national, regional or global.”
The event provided a platform for discussing the relevant legal and policy frameworks and sharing good practices on implementation of the Women, Peace and Security agenda among practitioners from Uzbekistan and other OSCE participating States.


osce--2020-12-22--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 304/2020 issued on 22 December 2020