osce--2020-04-23--OSCE parliamentarians focus on economic security fallout of COVID-19 pandemic in first-ever webinar

COPENHAGEN , 23 April 2020 – Some 85 participants joined the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly ’ s first webinar on the COVID 19 crisis on Wednesday , focused on the economic security fallout of the pandemic .
Experts and parliamentarians shared views and lessons learned throughout the OSCE region and discussed the way forward for economic recovery .
Opening the event , OSCE PA President George Tsereteli ( Georgia ) stressed that a global economic problem requires a global economic response and said that enhanced international co-operation is the only way to effectively address the COVID-19 crisis .
“ International organizations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ provide co-ordination to build a safer future for our citizens , ” Tsereteli said .
He urged parliamentarians to make full use of platforms such as the OSCE PA in sharing best practices and developing common approaches .
Expert keynote speakers included Prof. Giovanni Tria , former Italian Minister of Economy and Finance ; Jeffrey Schlagenhauf , Deputy Secretary-General of the OECD ; and Prof. Gottfried Haber , Vice Governor at the National Bank of Austria .
Following their presentations , more than a dozen parliamentarians took the floor to highlight various aspects @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their countries , and pose questions to the experts .
Governments must stimulate productive recovery through financing massive mitigation programs , said Prof. Tria .
He noted that competitive approaches must be avoided , especially considering the disruptions in supply chains .
While international trade has been negatively impacted by the crisis , he said , the globalization process remains the most effective economic development approach at our disposal , noting however that improvements are needed .
The OECD ’ s Schlagenhauf said that the importance of getting the response to COVID-19 right @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be judged on their ability to handle the crisis , he said , and will pay steep price if not done competently .
He noted that prior to recent improvements , public trust in democratic institutions had declined for many years , highlighting the importance in this respect of parliamentarians providing strong oversight and guidance to governments .
The COVID-19 crisis overlaps with other essential issues , including rule of law , conflicts , migration , sustainability , climate change , and access to health care , said Prof. Haber .
He noted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the solution , as opposed to the financial crisis of 2008 when they were part of the problem .
“ There is still hope that this crisis , which is potentially the worst since the Second World War , will be mainly of temporary or transitional nature , but for the mobility , tourism , trade and entertainment sectors it will certainly bear longer term and possibly persistent effects , ” Haber said .
Governments should focus on saving as many businesses as possible and preserve employment , he stressed .
Albanian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the PA ’ s economic committee , noted that small business owners , the working poor , undocumented migrants , the underemployed , and the self-employed are particularly vulnerable during this period .
“ In order to support those who are hit hard by this lockdown , and to prevent the recession from becoming a long-term depression , we need immediate and co-ordinated actions that utilize the world ’ s best economic practices and proven emergency measures to blunt the impact , ” Hoxha said .
“ Co-operation is needed between countries and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from this recession and prevent the worst effects from taking hold.
” In the discussion , members underlined the role of parliaments and discussed ways they can continue their vital functions in the period of lockdowns and social distancing , emphasizing that parliamentarians must work together to build recovery in the post-COVID-19 world .
There is also a need for greater action on the EU level , it was stressed .
Members noted that the crisis poses challenges in both economics and human rights and that it is necessary to protect citizens in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hit the hardest by the lockdown , it was pointed out , and there is an urgent need to invest in IT , healthcare , manufacturing and other vital sectors of the economy .
Participants also highlighted the need to ensure that all public money is spent transparently and in accordance with good governance principles to avoid waste and corruption .
Parliamentarians stressed the need for a Marshall Plan-style economic recovery plan , underlining the importance of finding common purpose and supporting one another even while so much focus is on the domestic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a need to both support citizens at home and work to improve the situation for other countries as well , they said .
Healthcare workers and others on the frontlines are heroes and deserve support , it was stressed .
Participating in the webinar were parliamentarians and staff from Albania , Andorra , Azerbaijan , Belarus , Belgium , Bulgaria , Canada , Cyprus , Estonia , Finland , France , Georgia , Germany , Hungary , Italy , Kyrgyzstan , Latvia , Liechtenstein , Luxembourg , Netherlands , Montenegro , Poland , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Turkey , Ukraine , the United Kingdom , and the United States .
In addition , the webinar was joined by a number of officials from the OSCE executive structures in Vienna , as well as the Office of the OSCE Project Co- ordination in Uzbekistan .
The economic security webinar was the first of a series of Parliamentary Web Dialogues planned by the OSCE PA , with more to come in the coming months focused on various aspects of the COVID-19 crisis .
It was moderated by OSCE PA Secretary General @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the webinar , please click here .
Photos are available on the OSCE PA ’ s Flickr page .

COPENHAGEN, 23 April 2020 – Some 85 participants joined the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly’s first webinar on the COVID 19 crisis on Wednesday, focused on the economic security fallout of the pandemic. Experts and parliamentarians shared views and lessons learned throughout the OSCE region and discussed the way forward for economic recovery.
Opening the event, OSCE PA President George Tsereteli (Georgia) stressed that a global economic problem requires a global economic response and said that enhanced international co-operation is the only way to effectively address the COVID-19 crisis.
“International organizations are very important in this crisis to provide co-ordination to build a safer future for our citizens,” Tsereteli said. He urged parliamentarians to make full use of platforms such as the OSCE PA in sharing best practices and developing common approaches.
Expert keynote speakers included Prof. Giovanni Tria, former Italian Minister of Economy and Finance; Jeffrey Schlagenhauf, Deputy Secretary-General of the OECD; and Prof. Gottfried Haber, Vice Governor at the National Bank of Austria. Following their presentations, more than a dozen parliamentarians took the floor to highlight various aspects of the crisis, share experiences from their countries, and pose questions to the experts.
Governments must stimulate productive recovery through financing massive mitigation programs, said Prof. Tria. He noted that competitive approaches must be avoided, especially considering the disruptions in supply chains. While international trade has been negatively impacted by the crisis, he said, the globalization process remains the most effective economic development approach at our disposal, noting however that improvements are needed.
The OECD’s Schlagenhauf said that the importance of getting the response to COVID-19 right cannot be overstated. Governments will be judged on their ability to handle the crisis, he said, and will pay steep price if not done competently. He noted that prior to recent improvements, public trust in democratic institutions had declined for many years, highlighting the importance in this respect of parliamentarians providing strong oversight and guidance to governments.
The COVID-19 crisis overlaps with other essential issues, including rule of law, conflicts, migration, sustainability, climate change, and access to health care, said Prof. Haber. He noted that financial markets and banks are part of the solution, as opposed to the financial crisis of 2008 when they were part of the problem.
“There is still hope that this crisis, which is potentially the worst since the Second World War, will be mainly of temporary or transitional nature, but for the mobility, tourism, trade and entertainment sectors it will certainly bear longer term and possibly persistent effects,” Haber said. Governments should focus on saving as many businesses as possible and preserve employment, he stressed.
Albanian parliamentarian Elona Gjebrea Hoxha, Rapporteur of the PA’s economic committee, noted that small business owners, the working poor, undocumented migrants, the underemployed, and the self-employed are particularly vulnerable during this period.
“In order to support those who are hit hard by this lockdown, and to prevent the recession from becoming a long-term depression, we need immediate and co-ordinated actions that utilize the world’s best economic practices and proven emergency measures to blunt the impact,” Hoxha said. “Co-operation is needed between countries and within countries if we hope to emerge from this recession and prevent the worst effects from taking hold.”
In the discussion, members underlined the role of parliaments and discussed ways they can continue their vital functions in the period of lockdowns and social distancing, emphasizing that parliamentarians must work together to build recovery in the post-COVID-19 world. There is also a need for greater action on the EU level, it was stressed.
Members noted that the crisis poses challenges in both economics and human rights and that it is necessary to protect citizens in both respects. The service sector is hit the hardest by the lockdown, it was pointed out, and there is an urgent need to invest in IT, healthcare, manufacturing and other vital sectors of the economy. Participants also highlighted the need to ensure that all public money is spent transparently and in accordance with good governance principles to avoid waste and corruption.
Parliamentarians stressed the need for a Marshall Plan-style economic recovery plan, underlining the importance of finding common purpose and supporting one another even while so much focus is on the domestic situation in each country. There is a need to both support citizens at home and work to improve the situation for other countries as well, they said. Healthcare workers and others on the frontlines are heroes and deserve support, it was stressed.
Participating in the webinar were parliamentarians and staff from Albania, Andorra, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, Cyprus, Estonia, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Kyrgyzstan, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Montenegro, Poland, Portugal, Serbia, Spain, Sweden, Turkey, Ukraine, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
In addition, the webinar was joined by a number of officials from the OSCE executive structures in Vienna, as well as the Office of the OSCE Project Co- ordination in Uzbekistan.
The economic security webinar was the first of a series of Parliamentary Web Dialogues planned by the OSCE PA, with more to come in the coming months focused on various aspects of the COVID-19 crisis. It was moderated by OSCE PA Secretary General Roberto Montella.
To watch a video of the webinar, please click here. Photos are available on the OSCE PA’s Flickr page.


osce--2020-04-23--OSCE SMM Chief Monitor Çevik pays tribute to SMM medic who died in the cause of peace

KYIV , 23 April 2020 – Chief Monitor of the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission ( SMM ) to Ukraine Yaşar @ @ @ @ @ to SMM medic Joseph Stone , who , while on patrol , tragically lost his @ @ @ @ @ an SMM armoured vehicle was struck by an explosion , most likely caused by an @ @ @ @ @ controlled area near Pryshyb in the Luhansk region .
“ As colleagues and friends , @ @ @ @ @ .
Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends as we remember a @ @ @ @ @ others , in the cause of peace , ” he said .
While there has @ @ @ @ @ de-mining , Çevik stressed that mines and UXO continue to be reported on a daily @ @ @ @ @ to civilians living along the contact line .
“ Joseph Stone and 262 other civilians @ @ @ @ @ indiscriminate weapons over the past three years .
Further action is urgently needed .
Civilians @ @ @ @ @ in safety and without fear , ” he said .

KYIV, 23 April 2020 – Chief Monitor of the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission (SMM) to Ukraine Yaşar Halit Çevik today paid tribute to SMM medic Joseph Stone, who, while on patrol, tragically lost his life three years ago when an SMM armoured vehicle was struck by an explosion, most likely caused by an anti-tank mine in a non-government controlled area near Pryshyb in the Luhansk region.
“As colleagues and friends, we miss Joseph Stone dearly. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends as we remember a brave medic who died serving others, in the cause of peace,” he said.
While there has been some limited progress on de-mining, Çevik stressed that mines and UXO continue to be reported on a daily basis, posing a danger to civilians living along the contact line. “Joseph Stone and 262 other civilians have fallen victim to these indiscriminate weapons over the past three years. Further action is urgently needed. Civilians have the right to live in safety and without fear,” he said.


osce--2020-04-23--Parliamentary security committee leaders recall 2017 death of OSCE monitor in Ukraine, lament restri

Parliamentary security committee leaders recall 2017 death of OSCE monitor in Ukraine, lament restrictions on monitors’ movement

COPENHAGEN , 23 April 2020 – On the somber occasion of the third anniversary of the death of a member of the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission in Ukraine , senior OSCE Parliamentary Assembly officials called for an end to harassment and restrictions placed on international monitors in Ukraine , respect for principles of the Helsinki Final Act , and the restoration of Ukrainian territorial integrity .
Congressman Richard Hudson ( United States ) , Costel Neculai Dunava ( MP , Romania ) , and Laurynas Kasciunas ( MP , Lithuania ) , the Chair , Vice-Chair and Rapporteur of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Affairs and Security , released the following statement : “ Joseph Stone , an American paramedic supporting the OSCE monitors in eastern Ukraine , was killed by a landmine in the conflict zone three years ago today .
This solemn occasion must remind us of the dangers this needless Russian war of aggression imposes not only on international monitors but on innocent Ukrainian civilians on a daily basis .
It is long past time for the monitors to be allowed to do their work unimpeded , for the human costs of the conflict @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ukraine ’ s territorial integrity and sovereignty to be fully restored.
” The PA leaders underscored that restrictions on the monitors ’ movement , including under the pretext of COVID-19 quarantine restrictions , were unacceptable and only served to deepen the misery of local populations by depriving them of critical assistance .
They also lamented the continued toll of landmines and unexploded ordnance in eastern Ukraine .

COPENHAGEN, 23 April 2020 – On the somber occasion of the third anniversary of the death of a member of the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission in Ukraine, senior OSCE Parliamentary Assembly officials called for an end to harassment and restrictions placed on international monitors in Ukraine, respect for principles of the Helsinki Final Act, and the restoration of Ukrainian territorial integrity.
Congressman Richard Hudson (United States), Costel Neculai Dunava (MP, Romania), and Laurynas Kasciunas (MP, Lithuania), the Chair, Vice-Chair and Rapporteur of the OSCE PA's General Committee on Political Affairs and Security, released the following statement:
“Joseph Stone, an American paramedic supporting the OSCE monitors in eastern Ukraine, was killed by a landmine in the conflict zone three years ago today. This solemn occasion must remind us of the dangers this needless Russian war of aggression imposes not only on international monitors but on innocent Ukrainian civilians on a daily basis. It is long past time for the monitors to be allowed to do their work unimpeded, for the human costs of the conflict to be addressed, and ultimately for Ukraine’s territorial integrity and sovereignty to be fully restored.”
The PA leaders underscored that restrictions on the monitors’ movement, including under the pretext of COVID-19 quarantine restrictions, were unacceptable and only served to deepen the misery of local populations by depriving them of critical assistance. They also lamented the continued toll of landmines and unexploded ordnance in eastern Ukraine.


osce--2020-04-24--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 97/2020 issued on 24 April 2020

Sign up to receive OSCE Press Releases and Media Advisories by email as soon as they have been published .

Subscribe to OSCE
Sign up to receive OSCE Press Releases and Media Advisories by email as soon as they have been published.


osce--2020-04-24--OSCE SMM Spot Report 17/2020: Members of the armed formations continued to deny SMM patrols passage

OSCE SMM Spot Report 17/2020: Members of the armed formations continued to deny SMM patrols passage at checkpoints in both Donetsk and Luhansk regions

On 23 and 24 April , members of the armed formations again denied SMM attempts to cross into non-government-controlled areas along official crossing routes : twice in Donetsk region and once in Luhansk region , while a further attempt to cross into government-controlled areas was also denied in Luhansk region .
On 23 April , at a checkpoint 600m west of Verkhnoshyrokivske ( formerly Oktaibr , non-government-controlled , 85km south of Donetsk ) , members of the armed formations denied an SMM patrol passage towards non-government-controlled areas , referring to quarantine restrictions due to COVID-19 .
On 23 and 24 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ armed formations south of Stanytsia Luhanska bridge ( 15km north-east of Luhansk ) , members of the armed formations denied SMM patrols passage towards non-government-controlled areas on one occasion , and passage towards government-controlled areas on another occasion , referring to the closure of the checkpoint due to COVID-19 .
On 24 April , at a checkpoint near Oleksandrivka ( non-government-controlled , 20km south-west of Donetsk ) , a member of the armed formations denied an SMM patrol passage towards non-government-controlled areas , referring to quarantine restrictions due to COVID-19 .
The Mission @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cross into non-government-controlled areas at checkpoints of the armed formations in Donetsk region on 21 March , and Luhansk region on 23 March ( see SMM Spot Reports 2/2020 , 3/2020 , 4/2020 , 5/2020 , 6/2020 , 7/2020 , 8/2020 , 9/2020 , 10/2020 , 11/2020 , 13/2020 , 14/2020 , 15/2020 , 16/2020 ) .
They restrict the SMM ’ s freedom of movement across the contact line , thus impeding the implementation of its mandate throughout the country .
With regard to COVID-19 , the SMM has introduced a number @ @ @ @ @ @ @ procedures .
These include strict adherence to social distancing rules both internally and with external interlocutors , daily temperature checks , use of PPE , and minimizing the number of personnel in vehicles .

On 23 and 24 April, members of the armed formations again denied SMM attempts to cross into non-government-controlled areas along official crossing routes: twice in Donetsk region and once in Luhansk region, while a further attempt to cross into government-controlled areas was also denied in Luhansk region.
On 23 April, at a checkpoint 600m west of Verkhnoshyrokivske (formerly Oktaibr, non-government-controlled, 85km south of Donetsk), members of the armed formations denied an SMM patrol passage towards non-government-controlled areas, referring to quarantine restrictions due to COVID-19.
On 23 and 24 April, at the checkpoint of the armed formations south of Stanytsia Luhanska bridge (15km north-east of Luhansk), members of the armed formations denied SMM patrols passage towards non-government-controlled areas on one occasion, and passage towards government-controlled areas on another occasion, referring to the closure of the checkpoint due to COVID-19.
On 24 April, at a checkpoint near Oleksandrivka (non-government-controlled, 20km south-west of Donetsk), a member of the armed formations denied an SMM patrol passage towards non-government-controlled areas, referring to quarantine restrictions due to COVID-19.
The Mission began facing repeated denials when attempting to cross into non-government-controlled areas at checkpoints of the armed formations in Donetsk region on 21 March, and Luhansk region on 23 March (see SMM Spot Reports 2/2020, 3/2020, 4/2020, 5/2020, 6/2020, 7/2020, 8/2020, 9/2020, 10/2020, 11/2020, 13/2020, 14/2020, 15/2020, 16/2020). They restrict the SMM’s freedom of movement across the contact line, thus impeding the implementation of its mandate throughout the country.
***
With regard to COVID-19, the SMM has introduced a number of stringent mitigation measures into its operational procedures. These include strict adherence to social distancing rules both internally and with external interlocutors, daily temperature checks, use of PPE, and minimizing the number of personnel in vehicles.


osce--2020-04-25--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 98/2020 issued on 25 April 2020


osce--2020-04-27--OSCE Media Freedom Representative and Head of OSCE Mission in Kosovo condemn physical attack on jour

OSCE Media Freedom Representative and Head of OSCE Mission in Kosovo condemn physical attack on journalist in Mitrovica North

VIENNA/PRISHTINË/PRIŠTINA , 27 April 2020 - The Head of the OSCE Mission in Kosovo , Jan Braathu , and the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media , Harlem Désir , strongly condemned the physical attack on TV Puls journalist earlier today in Mitrovica North .
“ A key element of a democratic society is the ability of journalists to report freely on developments of interest to the public .
It is particularly concerning when journalists are physically attacked , ” said Ambassador Jan Braathu , Head of the OSCE Mission in Kosovo .
“ I strongly condemn this physical @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Violence against journalists is unacceptable and should not be tolerated , ” said Désir .
The Representative stressed that the motives behind this attack need to be investigated and that this is his third intervention on incidents of violence against journalists in Mitrovica North in the past several weeks .
( Previous statements are available at : https : //www.osce.org/representative-on-freedom-of-media/449065 ; https : //www.osce.org/representative-on-freedom-of-media/450085 ) Ambassador Braathu and Representative Désir expressed their hope for a swift and efficient police investigation that would lead to the identification and prosecution of those responsible .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ upon all actors with influence in the local community to condemn the incident and work to prevent the further intimidation of journalists .
The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media observes media developments in all 57 OSCE participating States .
He provides early warning on violations of freedom of expression and media freedom and promotes full compliance with OSCE media freedom commitments .
Learn more at www.osce.org/fom , Twitter : @ OSCE_RFoM and on www.facebook.com/osce.rfom .

VIENNA/PRISHTINË/PRIŠTINA, 27 April 2020 - The Head of the OSCE Mission in Kosovo, Jan Braathu, and the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, Harlem Désir, strongly condemned the physical attack on TV Puls journalist earlier today in Mitrovica North.
“A key element of a democratic society is the ability of journalists to report freely on developments of interest to the public. It is particularly concerning when journalists are physically attacked,” said Ambassador Jan Braathu, Head of the OSCE Mission in Kosovo.
“I strongly condemn this physical attack against TV Puls Director Nenad Milenković. Violence against journalists is unacceptable and should not be tolerated,” said Désir. The Representative stressed that the motives behind this attack need to be investigated and that this is his third intervention on incidents of violence against journalists in Mitrovica North in the past several weeks. (Previous statements are available at: https://www.osce.org/representative-on-freedom-of-media/449065; https://www.osce.org/representative-on-freedom-of-media/450085)
Ambassador Braathu and Representative Désir expressed their hope for a swift and efficient police investigation that would lead to the identification and prosecution of those responsible. At the same time, they called upon all actors with influence in the local community to condemn the incident and work to prevent the further intimidation of journalists.
The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media observes media developments in all 57 OSCE participating States. He provides early warning on violations of freedom of expression and media freedom and promotes full compliance with OSCE media freedom commitments. Learn more at www.osce.org/fom, Twitter: @OSCE_RFoM and on www.facebook.com/osce.rfom.


osce--2020-04-27--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 99/2020 issued on 27 April 2020


osce--2020-04-27--OSCE SMM Spot Report 18/2020: Members of the armed formations continued to deny SMM patrols passage

OSCE SMM Spot Report 18/2020: Members of the armed formations continued to deny SMM patrols passage at checkpoints in both Donetsk and Luhansk regions

On 25 , 26 , and 27 April , members of the armed formations again denied SMM attempts to cross into non-government-controlled areas along official crossing routes : three times in Donetsk region and twice in Luhansk region , while further attempts to cross into government-controlled areas were also denied , once in Donetsk region and once in Luhansk region .
On 25 April , at a checkpoint near Olenivka ( non-government-controlled , 23km south-west of Donetsk ) , a member of the armed formations denied an SMM patrol passage towards government-controlled areas , stating that the SMM did not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ same checkpoint , members of the armed formations denied another SMM patrol passage towards non-government-controlled areas , providing no explanation .
On 26 April , at a checkpoint near Oleksandrivka ( non-government-controlled , 20km south-west of Donetsk ) , an SMM patrol was unable to proceed towards non-government-controlled areas due to the presence of anti-tank barriers and tires laid across the road .
Members of the armed formations were present but did not remove the obstacles or provide an explanation for the obstruction .
On 25 , 26 , and 27 April , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ south of Stanytsia Luhanska bridge ( 15km north-east of Luhansk ) , members of the armed formations twice denied SMM patrols passage towards non-government-controlled areas and once denied passage towards government-controlled areas , referring to the closure of the checkpoint due to COVID-19 .
On 27 April , at a checkpoint 600m west of Verkhnoshyrokivske ( formerly Oktiabr , non-government-controlled , 85km south of Donetsk ) , a member of the armed formations denied an SMM patrol passage towards non-government-controlled areas , referring to quarantine restrictions due to COVID-19 .
The Mission began @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into non-government-controlled areas at checkpoints of the armed formations in Donetsk region on 21 March , and Luhansk region on 23 March ( see SMM Spot Reports 2/2020 , 3/2020 , 4/2020 , 5/2020 , 6/2020 , 7/2020 , 8/2020 , 9/2020 , 10/2020 , 11/2020 , 13/2020 , 14/2020 , 15/2020 , 16/2020 , 17/2020 ) .They restrict the SMM ’ s freedom of movement across the contact line , thus impeding the implementation of its mandate throughout the country .
With regard to COVID-19 , the SMM has introduced a number @ @ @ @ @ @ @ procedures .
These include strict adherence to social distancing rules both internally and with external interlocutors , daily temperature checks , use of PPE , and minimizing the number of personnel in vehicles .

On 25, 26, and 27 April, members of the armed formations again denied SMM attempts to cross into non-government-controlled areas along official crossing routes: three times in Donetsk region and twice in Luhansk region, while further attempts to cross into government-controlled areas were also denied, once in Donetsk region and once in Luhansk region.
On 25 April, at a checkpoint near Olenivka (non-government-controlled, 23km south-west of Donetsk), a member of the armed formations denied an SMM patrol passage towards government-controlled areas, stating that the SMM did not have permission to pass. At the same checkpoint, members of the armed formations denied another SMM patrol passage towards non-government-controlled areas, providing no explanation.
On 26 April, at a checkpoint near Oleksandrivka (non-government-controlled, 20km south-west of Donetsk), an SMM patrol was unable to proceed towards non-government-controlled areas due to the presence of anti-tank barriers and tires laid across the road. Members of the armed formations were present but did not remove the obstacles or provide an explanation for the obstruction.
On 25, 26, and 27 April, at the checkpoint of the armed formations south of Stanytsia Luhanska bridge (15km north-east of Luhansk), members of the armed formations twice denied SMM patrols passage towards non-government-controlled areas and once denied passage towards government-controlled areas, referring to the closure of the checkpoint due to COVID-19.
On 27 April, at a checkpoint 600m west of Verkhnoshyrokivske (formerly Oktiabr, non-government-controlled, 85km south of Donetsk), a member of the armed formations denied an SMM patrol passage towards non-government-controlled areas, referring to quarantine restrictions due to COVID-19.
The Mission began facing repeated denials when attempting to cross into non-government-controlled areas at checkpoints of the armed formations in Donetsk region on 21 March, and Luhansk region on 23 March (see SMM Spot Reports 2/2020, 3/2020, 4/2020, 5/2020, 6/2020, 7/2020, 8/2020, 9/2020, 10/2020, 11/2020, 13/2020, 14/2020, 15/2020, 16/2020, 17/2020).They restrict the SMM’s freedom of movement across the contact line, thus impeding the implementation of its mandate throughout the country.
***
With regard to COVID-19, the SMM has introduced a number of stringent mitigation measures into its operational procedures. These include strict adherence to social distancing rules both internally and with external interlocutors, daily temperature checks, use of PPE, and minimizing the number of personnel in vehicles.


osce--2020-04-27--OSCE assists the Government of Tajikistan with disinfectant and medical equipment

The OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe handed over medical and disinfection equipment to partners in the Tajik government , in Dushanbe , for preventing the potential spread of COVID-19 .
The Ministry of Health and Social Protection and the Committee of Emergency Situation and Civil Defence received the assistance on 21 and 24 April 2020 , respectively .
The donated items included ventilators , steam autoclaves , laboratory thermostats and a range of protective gear .
The provided assistance will help to strengthen the country ’ s preventive measures against COVID-19 .
The items are designated for frontline medical staff @ @ @ @ @ @ @ allowing them to safely carry out their daily duties .
“ The handover is the Office ’ s contribution to maintain the operative capacity of the Health and Social Protection Ministry and the Emergency Committee during the COVID-19 crisis .
These donations are part of the wider assistance we provide to our partners , ” said Valeriu Chiveri , Head of the OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe .
“ It will allow the government to enhance their capacity to prevent the spreading of COVID-19 and to address related challenges , undertaking all necessary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the continued implementation of joint activities .
”

The OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe handed over medical and disinfection equipment to partners in the Tajik government, in Dushanbe, for preventing the potential spread of COVID-19. The Ministry of Health and Social Protection and the Committee of Emergency Situation and Civil Defence received the assistance on 21 and 24 April 2020, respectively.
The donated items included ventilators, steam autoclaves, laboratory thermostats and a range of protective gear. The provided assistance will help to strengthen the country’s preventive measures against COVID-19. The items are designated for frontline medical staff, emergency response groups and volunteers, allowing them to safely carry out their daily duties.
“The handover is the Office’s contribution to maintain the operative capacity of the Health and Social Protection Ministry and the Emergency Committee during the COVID-19 crisis. These donations are part of the wider assistance we provide to our partners,” said Valeriu Chiveri, Head of the OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe. “It will allow the government to enhance their capacity to prevent the spreading of COVID-19 and to address related challenges, undertaking all necessary measures. This will create conditions allowing for the continued implementation of joint activities.”


osce--2020-04-27--OSCE on domestic violence in Bosnia and Herzegovina in time of COVID-19

The OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina ( BiH ) called today for safety measures to be taken by governments in the country to protect women and children .
The results of the OSCE Survey on Well Being and Safety of Women in BiH showed that almost one in two women survived some form of abuse including intimate partner violence since the age of 15 .
In addition , 64 % of women in BIH can be considered as conflict-affected , while the indicated prevalence of current partner violence is higher among those women whose current partner fought in a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The Mission finds this data worrying in light of the current situation .
Lockdown and self-isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic heighten the risk of gender-based violence .
Women and children are the most susceptible to abuse and need increased protection in times like these and authorities are urged to ensure that they are kept safe from abusers .
In order to provide early warning and take proactive stance , the OSCE Mission to BiH is monitoring the situation with domestic violence and started collecting data on how responses to the COVID-19 pandemic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The Mission urges all relevant institutions to respond swiftly and efficiently to cases of domestic violence abiding by the rule of law at all times .
There are different ways to reduce the risk of violence against women .
Some would include , for example , information campaigns notifying the public that women ’ s shelters remain open during the coronavirus lockdown , allowing victims of domestic abuse to file a complaint , and providing new channels for women to report violence would also help reduce the risk .
Law enforcement and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ affording victims ’ access to emergency protection orders , especially during emergencies .
Kathleen Kavalec , Head of the OSCE Mission to BiH said : “ The right of women and children to live free of violence at all times is essential .
This is particularly required in times of families finding themselves in self-isolation .
Swift actions should be taken to address their needs and undertake measures to provide adequate protection for them .
We call for relevant authorities to address this problem in their public messaging , recognize that violence affects @ @ @ @ @ @ @ measures such as elderly and children .
They should be able to seek for help , and even encouraged to do so.
” She stressed the importance of having access to information relevant to preventing and tackling the violence against women and children such as the online service : stopvawnow.org .
“ The state of emergency is not an excuse for violence .
We encourage men and boys to say No to violence and keep themselves , their family and their community healthy and protected , ” Kavalec said .
“ Depending on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ may feel anxious , crowded at home or isolated .
Those under risk of domestic violence will have even harder time being locked in a place that is not safe for them especially without social contact , ” said Elmaja Bavcic , Gender and Youth National Programme Officer at the OSCE Mission to BiH .
She said that it is important to recognize such threats publicly and ensure victims are dully protected .
“ We all bear responsibility to prevent and protect those under risk of violence .
We call all relevant institutions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are able and encouraged to seek protection even during curfews ” .
Survivors are encouraged to report domestic violence abuse .
BiH has two SOS lines : both are free and active for calls .
For advice on what to do , please call either 1265 for FBiH or 1264 for RS , to receive first instance psychological and social support .
To report a violent act , please call the police at 122 .
The Mission examined gender-based violence in detail through an OSCE-led Survey on Violence Against Women in BiH .

The OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) called today for safety measures to be taken by governments in the country to protect women and children.
The results of the OSCE Survey on Well Being and Safety of Women in BiH showed that almost one in two women survived some form of abuse including intimate partner violence since the age of 15. In addition, 64% of women in BIH can be considered as conflict-affected, while the indicated prevalence of current partner violence is higher among those women whose current partner fought in a conflict that those whose partner did not. The Mission finds this data worrying in light of the current situation. Lockdown and self-isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic heighten the risk of gender-based violence. Women and children are the most susceptible to abuse and need increased protection in times like these and authorities are urged to ensure that they are kept safe from abusers.
In order to provide early warning and take proactive stance, the OSCE Mission to BiH is monitoring the situation with domestic violence and started collecting data on how responses to the COVID-19 pandemic influence the gender equality including gender-based violence.
The Mission urges all relevant institutions to respond swiftly and efficiently to cases of domestic violence abiding by the rule of law at all times.
There are different ways to reduce the risk of violence against women. Some would include, for example, information campaigns notifying the public that women’s shelters remain open during the coronavirus lockdown, allowing victims of domestic abuse to file a complaint, and providing new channels for women to report violence would also help reduce the risk. Law enforcement and prosecution should continue with their practice of affording victims’ access to emergency protection orders, especially during emergencies.
Kathleen Kavalec, Head of the OSCE Mission to BiH said: “The right of women and children to live free of violence at all times is essential. This is particularly required in times of families finding themselves in self-isolation. Swift actions should be taken to address their needs and undertake measures to provide adequate protection for them. We call for relevant authorities to address this problem in their public messaging, recognize that violence affects those who are heavily impacted by imposed measures such as elderly and children. They should be able to seek for help, and even encouraged to do so.” She stressed the importance of having access to information relevant to preventing and tackling the violence against women and children such as the online service: stopvawnow.org.
“The state of emergency is not an excuse for violence. We encourage men and boys to say No to violence and keep themselves, their family and their community healthy and protected,” Kavalec said.
“Depending on the situation one lives in, some may feel anxious, crowded at home or isolated. Those under risk of domestic violence will have even harder time being locked in a place that is not safe for them especially without social contact,” said Elmaja Bavcic, Gender and Youth National Programme Officer at the OSCE Mission to BiH. She said that it is important to recognize such threats publicly and ensure victims are dully protected. “We all bear responsibility to prevent and protect those under risk of violence. We call all relevant institutions to review their messaging and ensure victims are able and encouraged to seek protection even during curfews”.
Survivors are encouraged to report domestic violence abuse. BiH has two SOS lines: both are free and active for calls. For advice on what to do, please call either 1265 for FBiH or 1264 for RS, to receive first instance psychological and social support. To report a violent act, please call the police at 122.
The Mission examined gender-based violence in detail through an OSCE-led Survey on Violence Against Women in BiH.


osce--2020-04-28--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 100/2020 issued on 28 April 2020


osce--2020-04-28--Weekly Update from the OSCE Observer Mission at Russian Checkpoints Gukovo and Donetsk based on info

Weekly Update from the OSCE Observer Mission at Russian Checkpoints Gukovo and Donetsk based on information as of 28 April 2020

Kamensk-Shakhtinskiy , Russian Federation .
The Observer Mission ( OM ) continues to operate 24/7 at both Border Crossing Points ( BCPs ) .
The overall number of border crossings by persons slightly increased at both BCPs compared to the previous week .
The OM is currently operating with 20 permanent international staff members , including the Chief Observer ( CO ) .
The Mission is supported administratively by a staff member and the Chief of Fund Administration based in Vienna .
Activities have been impacted by COVID-19 and measures undertaken by the OM to ensure the safety and duty @ @ @ @ @ @ @ compliance with measures set by the host country authorities .
The Mission is continuing to keep the situation under review , in close contact with the OSCE Secretariat and the Chairmanship .
Following the host country recommendations , the observers are applying a self-isolation regime between the shifts at the border checkpoints and adherence to social distancing .
Due to the preventive measures taken by the central and regional authorities , the OM is faced with certain difficulties , but is still able to continue to fulfill its mandate without any limitations in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ profile of persons crossing the border can be categorized as follows : • Adults travelling on foot or by car with little or no luggage ; • Families ( often including elderly persons and/or children ) travelling on foot or by car with a significant amount of luggage .
The average number of entries/exits slightly increased from 613 to 662 per day at both BCPs compared to last week [ 1 ] .
During the reporting period , the majority of border crossings were to Ukraine , with an average net flow of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Donetsk BCP continued to experience much more traffic than the Gukovo BCP .
Responding to the COVID-19 situation , the host country has closed its borders for the majority of foreigners from 18 March to 1 May .
Among the exceptions of persons allowed to cross the border ( which entered into force on 19 March ) , are Ukrainian citizens and stateless persons holding passports or identification documents proving permanent residence in certain areas of Luhansk and Donetsk regions of Ukraine .
This category of people crossing remains significant at both @ @ @ @ @ @ @ due to the threat of the spread of COVID-19 , starting from 10 April , the organized passenger transport commuting between the non-government-controlled areas of Luhansk region of Ukraine and the Russian Federation was suspended .
During the reporting period , the number of persons in military-style outfits crossing the border at both BCPs was three , compared to four last week , no crossings of this category were observed into the Russian Federation , while three were observed crossing into Ukraine ( 67 per cent of this category ’ s crossings occurred @ @ @ @ @ @ @ individuals crossed the border on foot .
The OTs continued to report on families , sometimes with elderly persons and/or children , crossing the border at both BCPs with a significant amount of luggage , or travelling in heavily loaded cars .
During this reporting week , six families were observed crossing into the Russian Federation and five were observed crossing into Ukraine , compared to the previous reporting period when no families were observed either crossing to the Russian Federation or into Ukraine .
Regular local and long-distance bus connections between Ukraine @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the Russian Federation were stopped from 10 April .
During the reporting period , no buses were observed at the two BCPs .
During the reporting period , the OTs observed an increase in the overall number of trucks crossing the border at both BCPs ( 845 compared to 750 during the previous reporting week ) ; 406 at the Gukovo BCP and 439 at the Donetsk BCP , 431 of these trucks crossed into the Russian Federation and 414 crossed into Ukraine .
Most of the trucks observed by the OTs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Luhansk region ; however , on a daily basis , the OTs also noted trucks registered in the Russian Federation and trucks with “ LPR ” plates .
In addition , during the reporting week , trucks registered in Belarus and Lithuania were also observed .
The OTs also continued to observe tanker trucks crossing the border in both directions .
During the reporting week , the number of tanker trucks decreased from 62 to 45 .
These trucks were observed crossing the border at both BCPs .
The trucks had the words @ @ @ @ @ @ @ written across the tanks in either Russian or Ukrainian .
The majority of tanker trucks had hazard signs , indicating that they were transporting propane or a mix of propane and butane .
All trucks underwent systematic inspection by Russian Federation officials , which could include an X-ray check .
Due to the unfavourable observation position at the Gukovo BCP , the OTs continued to be unable to observe any X-ray checks .
Compared to the previous week , the total number of X-ray checks at the Donetsk BCP increased from 129 to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trucks scanned , 133 trucks ( 90 per cent ) were bound for Ukraine : the remaining 15 trucks ( 10 per cent ) crossed into the Russian Federation .
The OM continued to observe passenger and cargo minivans [ 2 ] crossing the border in both directions at both BCPs .
The OTs observed minivans predominantly with Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region ; however , the OTs also frequently saw minivans registered in the Russian Federation .
Compared to the previous week , the number of cargo minivans increased @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crossed into the Russian Federation and another 22 into Ukraine .
The OTs continued to pick up the sound of trains on the railway tracks located approximately 150m south-west of the Gukovo BCP .
During the reporting week , the OTs heard trains on 20 occasions ; the OTs assessed that 12 trains were travelling to the Russian Federation and eight to Ukraine ( more details are provided in the sections “ trends and figures at a glance ” below ) .
Visual observation was not possible because of the line of trees @ @ @ @ @ @ @ BCP .
The majority of vehicles crossing the border had Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region , or Russian Federation licence plates .
A significant number of vehicles with “ LPR ” plates were also observed crossing the border in both directions on a daily basis .
For trends and figures at a glance covering the period from 24 March to 28 April 2020 , please see the attachment here .
[ 1 ] Based on data received from the Regional Representation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : light commercial vehicles with a maximum authorized mass of more than 3.5 t and not more than 7.5 t ; with or without a trailer with a maximum mass of less than 750 kg ( small cargo vehicles which correspond to driving licence C1 ) .

SUMMARY
Kamensk-Shakhtinskiy, Russian Federation. The Observer Mission (OM) continues to operate 24/7 at both Border Crossing Points (BCPs). The overall number of border crossings by persons slightly increased at both BCPs compared to the previous week.
OPERATIONAL REMARKS
The OM is currently operating with 20 permanent international staff members, including the Chief Observer (CO). The Mission is supported administratively by a staff member and the Chief of Fund Administration based in Vienna.
Update on COVID-19 measures
Activities have been impacted by COVID-19 and measures undertaken by the OM to ensure the safety and duty of care of its Mission members and compliance with measures set by the host country authorities. The Mission is continuing to keep the situation under review, in close contact with the OSCE Secretariat and the Chairmanship. Following the host country recommendations, the observers are applying a self-isolation regime between the shifts at the border checkpoints and adherence to social distancing. Due to the preventive measures taken by the central and regional authorities, the OM is faced with certain difficulties, but is still able to continue to fulfill its mandate without any limitations in its observation and reporting activities.
OBSERVATIONS AT THE BORDER CROSSING POINTS
Persons crossing the border
The profile of persons crossing the border can be categorized as follows:
Adults travelling on foot or by car with little or no luggage; Persons in military-style outfits; Families (often including elderly persons and/or children) travelling on foot or by car with a significant amount of luggage.
The average number of entries/exits slightly increased from 613 to 662 per day at both BCPs compared to last week[1].
During the reporting period, the majority of border crossings were to Ukraine, with an average net flow of 65 per day for both BCPs. The Donetsk BCP continued to experience much more traffic than the Gukovo BCP.
Responding to the COVID-19 situation, the host country has closed its borders for the majority of foreigners from 18 March to 1 May. Among the exceptions of persons allowed to cross the border (which entered into force on 19 March), are Ukrainian citizens and stateless persons holding passports or identification documents proving permanent residence in certain areas of Luhansk and Donetsk regions of Ukraine. This category of people crossing remains significant at both BCPs. In addition, reportedly, due to the threat of the spread of COVID-19, starting from 10 April, the organized passenger transport commuting between the non-government-controlled areas of Luhansk region of Ukraine and the Russian Federation was suspended.
Persons in military-style outfits
During the reporting period, the number of persons in military-style outfits crossing the border at both BCPs was three, compared to four last week, no crossings of this category were observed into the Russian Federation, while three were observed crossing into Ukraine (67 per cent of this category’s crossings occurred at the Donetsk BCP). These individuals crossed the border on foot.
Families with a significant amount of luggage
The OTs continued to report on families, sometimes with elderly persons and/or children, crossing the border at both BCPs with a significant amount of luggage, or travelling in heavily loaded cars. During this reporting week, six families were observed crossing into the Russian Federation and five were observed crossing into Ukraine, compared to the previous reporting period when no families were observed either crossing to the Russian Federation or into Ukraine.
Bus connections
Regular local and long-distance bus connections between Ukraine (mostly from/to the Luhansk region) and the Russian Federation were stopped from 10 April. During the reporting period, no buses were observed at the two BCPs.
Trucks
During the reporting period, the OTs observed an increase in the overall number of trucks crossing the border at both BCPs (845 compared to 750 during the previous reporting week); 406 at the Gukovo BCP and 439 at the Donetsk BCP, 431 of these trucks crossed into the Russian Federation and 414 crossed into Ukraine. Most of the trucks observed by the OTs had Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region; however, on a daily basis, the OTs also noted trucks registered in the Russian Federation and trucks with “LPR” plates. In addition, during the reporting week, trucks registered in Belarus and Lithuania were also observed.
The OTs also continued to observe tanker trucks crossing the border in both directions. During the reporting week, the number of tanker trucks decreased from 62 to 45. These trucks were observed crossing the border at both BCPs. The trucks had the words “Propane” and “Flammable” written across the tanks in either Russian or Ukrainian. The majority of tanker trucks had hazard signs, indicating that they were transporting propane or a mix of propane and butane.
All trucks underwent systematic inspection by Russian Federation officials, which could include an X-ray check. Due to the unfavourable observation position at the Gukovo BCP, the OTs continued to be unable to observe any X-ray checks.
Compared to the previous week, the total number of X-ray checks at the Donetsk BCP increased from 129 to 148. Of the total number of trucks scanned, 133 trucks (90 per cent) were bound for Ukraine: the remaining 15 trucks (10 per cent) crossed into the Russian Federation.
Minivans
The OM continued to observe passenger and cargo minivans[2] crossing the border in both directions at both BCPs. The OTs observed minivans predominantly with Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region; however, the OTs also frequently saw minivans registered in the Russian Federation. Compared to the previous week, the number of cargo minivans increased from 29 to 43 vehicles; 21 crossed into the Russian Federation and another 22 into Ukraine.
Trains
The OTs continued to pick up the sound of trains on the railway tracks located approximately 150m south-west of the Gukovo BCP. During the reporting week, the OTs heard trains on 20 occasions; the OTs assessed that 12 trains were travelling to the Russian Federation and eight to Ukraine (more details are provided in the sections “trends and figures at a glance” below).
Visual observation was not possible because of the line of trees located between the train tracks and the BCP.
Other observations
The majority of vehicles crossing the border had Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region, or Russian Federation licence plates. A significant number of vehicles with “LPR” plates were also observed crossing the border in both directions on a daily basis.
For trends and figures at a glance covering the period from 24 March to 28 April 2020, please see the attachment here.
[1]Based on data received from the Regional Representation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation.
[2] Cargo minivans: light commercial vehicles with a maximum authorized mass of more than 3.5 t and not more than 7.5 t; with or without a trailer with a maximum mass of less than 750 kg (small cargo vehicles which correspond to driving licence C1).


osce--2020-04-28--PA Bureau leaders meet online, hear from OSCE Chairperson-in-Office and EU Commissioner, discuss act

PA Bureau leaders meet online, hear from OSCE Chairperson-in-Office and EU Commissioner, discuss activities in the period of COVID-19

COPENHAGEN , 28 April 2020 – The elected leaders of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly met online Monday for the annual spring Bureau meeting , hearing presentations from the OSCE Chair-in-Office , Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama , and the EU Commissioner for Crisis Management , Ambassador Janez Lenarcic .
The meeting , which usually takes place at the Danish Folketing , was held in an online format this year due to the coronavirus pandemic .
In his remarks , Prime Minister Rama noted the need for exceptional levels of co-operation between executive and legislative branches , stressing that parliaments have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ COVID-19 crisis and that every effort must be made to ensure they can carry out their core roles of legislation and oversight .
Parliaments can help to build social trust , he noted , and to ensure that the legitimate concerns of citizens are addressed .
“ Without trust it is impossible to maintain high levels of co-operation needed to save lives , ” Rama said .
He also stressed that the OSCE will have to adapt as an organization to the new realities , with new prioritizations and efforts made to continue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people .
“ The challenges the OSCE faces are the same as our own : finding the right balance between getting things done and staying safe , ” Rama said .
Amb .
Lenarcic reported on the European Union ’ s work to address the COVID-19 crisis , expressing confidence that the EU is functioning with solidarity and close co-ordination .
The pandemic is exacerbating complex problems , Lenarcic said , noting that the long-term consequences will be profound .
The impact is worst on those who are already in a precarious state @ @ @ @ @ @ @ particularly focused on the impact on conflict zones , he said .
The EU is also working to repatriate citizens who have been stranded due to air travel restrictions and to address the problem of international transport , Lenarcic said .
It is imperative to increase EU support to countries outside of the EU , including those in the Eastern Partnership , he noted .
“ Parliaments need to watch and make sure that when we get out of the crisis , we get out with our principles fully preserved , ” he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ George Tsereteli ( MP , Georgia ) stressed that attention must be paid to the most vulnerable people , including those who live in conflict zones and migrant camps .
He informed the members of recent correspondence he has had with the UN Secretary-General and the Director-General of the World Health Organization , and noted the challenges that the pandemic has presented to OSCE PA activities .
In spite of this unprecedented challenge , he said , the continued engagement of parliamentarians ensures that the PA remains active .
Roberto Montella , OSCE @ @ @ @ @ @ @ state of multilateralism in his remarks , underlining that the COVID-19 crisis has taught us that more international co-operation among governments , more solidarity among peoples , and more collaboration amongst health institutions is the way forward .
“ During this crisis we have seen a concentration of power in the executives and more centralized policies , ” Montella said .
“ If this is probably physiological in the urgency of the moment we need to be vigilant that this temporary state of affairs does not become the new normal and that parliaments @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and oversight .
Less autocracy and more democracy.
” The Bureau meeting also included reports by Chairs of Committees and OSCE PA Special Representatives .
Vice-President and Chair of the Ad Hoc Committee on Migration Margareta Cederfelt ( MP , Sweden ) informed the Bureau of the committee ’ s first online meeting , scheduled for 6 May with participation expected by Member of the European Parliament Isabel Santos on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on migrants and refugees .
Austrian parliamentarian Reinhold Lopatka , Chair of the OSCE PA ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stressed that despite the current health crisis , traditional threats such as terrorism and violent extremism have not disappeared .
“ On the contrary , such conditions tend to create opportunities for terrorist groups to prosper and achieve their goals , as the attention of the world has shifted to fighting the pandemic , ” he said .
“ Hence , following this topic in the time of crises is more important than ever.
” He noted that the CCT is currently exploring the possibility of holding a web-based meeting in early June @ @ @ @ @ @ @ OSCE PA ’ s Special Representative on Human Trafficking Issues , noted that attention needs to be focused on trafficking during the pandemic , which he said has put victims at even higher risk .
“ We must prioritize the fight against human trafficking , even during this crisis , ” said Congressman Smith .
“ Traffickers are not shut down – they haven ’ t gone on a holiday .
Victims still need to be rescued .
Survivors still need assistance .
Vulnerable people likely will be made even more vulnerable by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the response to it .
And as a result , when things start to open back up , traffickers may have an easier time finding , deceiving , coercing and exploiting victims.
” “ New patterns of exploitation are emerging due to increased online activity , greater use of social media , and social distancing practices , ” Smith said .
“ This makes it even more clear that we need to take into account how new technologies affect our efforts to combat human trafficking.
” Special Representative on Fighting Corruption Irene @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that a planned conference in Cyprus has been postponed .
She urged the inclusion of clear anti-corruption safeguards in all public expenditures on coronavirus-related emergency economic measures .
Norwegian parliamentarian Torill Eidsheim , the OSCE PA ’ s Special Representative on Arctic Issues , noted that the current crisis can demonstrate the connection between climate , science and technology .
She urged the importance of keeping the topic of climate change on the PA ’ s agenda going forward , as well as broader Arctic issues .
Special Representative on Anti-Semitism , Racism @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) reported that minority and immigrant communities are more vulnerable to the impact of the pandemic because of entrenched inequalities .
COVID-caused disruptions in education may also have long-term disproportionate consequences for those already impacted by discriminatory schooling , he noted .
Treasurer Peter Juel-Jensen , in accordance with Rule 41.2 , presented the Assembly ’ s proposed budget for the upcoming financial year for discussion .
He noted that efforts would be made to relieve the financial burden on parliaments that may be facing revenue shortfalls due to the economic impact of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Bureau meeting that the San Marino Autumn Meeting , scheduled for October 2020 , is cancelled .
To download Secretary General Roberto Montella ’ s report , “ OSCE PA – COVID COMPACT : Readapting the OSCE PA to Challenges in the Time of COVID-19 Pandemic , ” please click here .
Photos of the Bureau meeting are available on the OSCE PA Flickr page .

COPENHAGEN, 28 April 2020 – The elected leaders of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly met online Monday for the annual spring Bureau meeting, hearing presentations from the OSCE Chair-in-Office, Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama, and the EU Commissioner for Crisis Management, Ambassador Janez Lenarcic. The meeting, which usually takes place at the Danish Folketing, was held in an online format this year due to the coronavirus pandemic.
In his remarks, Prime Minister Rama noted the need for exceptional levels of co-operation between executive and legislative branches, stressing that parliaments have an important role to play during the COVID-19 crisis and that every effort must be made to ensure they can carry out their core roles of legislation and oversight. Parliaments can help to build social trust, he noted, and to ensure that the legitimate concerns of citizens are addressed. “Without trust it is impossible to maintain high levels of co-operation needed to save lives,” Rama said.
He also stressed that the OSCE will have to adapt as an organization to the new realities, with new prioritizations and efforts made to continue its important work on behalf of the people. “The challenges the OSCE faces are the same as our own: finding the right balance between getting things done and staying safe,” Rama said.
Amb. Lenarcic reported on the European Union’s work to address the COVID-19 crisis, expressing confidence that the EU is functioning with solidarity and close co-ordination.
The pandemic is exacerbating complex problems, Lenarcic said, noting that the long-term consequences will be profound. The impact is worst on those who are already in a precarious state, which is why the EU is particularly focused on the impact on conflict zones, he said. The EU is also working to repatriate citizens who have been stranded due to air travel restrictions and to address the problem of international transport, Lenarcic said. It is imperative to increase EU support to countries outside of the EU, including those in the Eastern Partnership, he noted.
“Parliaments need to watch and make sure that when we get out of the crisis, we get out with our principles fully preserved,” he said.
In his report, President George Tsereteli (MP, Georgia) stressed that attention must be paid to the most vulnerable people, including those who live in conflict zones and migrant camps. He informed the members of recent correspondence he has had with the UN Secretary-General and the Director-General of the World Health Organization, and noted the challenges that the pandemic has presented to OSCE PA activities. In spite of this unprecedented challenge, he said, the continued engagement of parliamentarians ensures that the PA remains active.
Roberto Montella, OSCE PA Secretary General, reflected on the state of multilateralism in his remarks, underlining that the COVID-19 crisis has taught us that more international co-operation among governments, more solidarity among peoples, and more collaboration amongst health institutions is the way forward.
“During this crisis we have seen a concentration of power in the executives and more centralized policies,” Montella said. “If this is probably physiological in the urgency of the moment we need to be vigilant that this temporary state of affairs does not become the new normal and that parliaments fully exercise their natural function of control and oversight. Less autocracy and more democracy.”
The Bureau meeting also included reports by Chairs of Committees and OSCE PA Special Representatives. Vice-President and Chair of the Ad Hoc Committee on Migration Margareta Cederfelt (MP, Sweden) informed the Bureau of the committee’s first online meeting, scheduled for 6 May with participation expected by Member of the European Parliament Isabel Santos on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on migrants and refugees.
Austrian parliamentarian Reinhold Lopatka, Chair of the OSCE PA’s Ad Hoc Committee on Countering Terrorism, stressed that despite the current health crisis, traditional threats such as terrorism and violent extremism have not disappeared. “On the contrary, such conditions tend to create opportunities for terrorist groups to prosper and achieve their goals, as the attention of the world has shifted to fighting the pandemic,” he said. “Hence, following this topic in the time of crises is more important than ever.”
He noted that the CCT is currently exploring the possibility of holding a web-based meeting in early June.
US Congressman Chris Smith, the OSCE PA’s Special Representative on Human Trafficking Issues, noted that attention needs to be focused on trafficking during the pandemic, which he said has put victims at even higher risk.
“We must prioritize the fight against human trafficking, even during this crisis,” said Congressman Smith. “Traffickers are not shut down – they haven’t gone on a holiday. Victims still need to be rescued. Survivors still need assistance. Vulnerable people likely will be made even more vulnerable by both the virus and the economic impact of the response to it. And as a result, when things start to open back up, traffickers may have an easier time finding, deceiving, coercing and exploiting victims.”
“New patterns of exploitation are emerging due to increased online activity, greater use of social media, and social distancing practices,” Smith said. “This makes it even more clear that we need to take into account how new technologies affect our efforts to combat human trafficking.”
Special Representative on Fighting Corruption Irene Charalambides (MP, Cyprus) reported that a planned conference in Cyprus has been postponed. She urged the inclusion of clear anti-corruption safeguards in all public expenditures on coronavirus-related emergency economic measures.
Norwegian parliamentarian Torill Eidsheim, the OSCE PA’s Special Representative on Arctic Issues, noted that the current crisis can demonstrate the connection between climate, science and technology. She urged the importance of keeping the topic of climate change on the PA’s agenda going forward, as well as broader Arctic issues.
Special Representative on Anti-Semitism, Racism and Intolerance Ben Cardin (United States) reported that minority and immigrant communities are more vulnerable to the impact of the pandemic because of entrenched inequalities. COVID-caused disruptions in education may also have long-term disproportionate consequences for those already impacted by discriminatory schooling, he noted.
Treasurer Peter Juel-Jensen, in accordance with Rule 41.2, presented the Assembly’s proposed budget for the upcoming financial year for discussion. He noted that efforts would be made to relieve the financial burden on parliaments that may be facing revenue shortfalls due to the economic impact of COVID-19.
It was also reported during the Bureau meeting that the San Marino Autumn Meeting, scheduled for October 2020, is cancelled.
To download Secretary General Roberto Montella’s report, “OSCE PA – COVID COMPACT: Readapting the OSCE PA to Challenges in the Time of COVID-19 Pandemic,” please click here.
Photos of the Bureau meeting are available on the OSCE PA Flickr page.


osce--2020-04-29--OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) Daily Report 101/2020 issued on 29 April 2020


osce--2020-04-29--OSCE SMM Spot Report 19/2020: Members of the armed formations continued to deny SMM patrols passage

OSCE SMM Spot Report 19/2020: Members of the armed formations continued to deny SMM patrols passage at checkpoints in both Donetsk and Luhansk regions

On 28 and 29 April , members of the armed formations again denied SMM attempts to cross into non-government-controlled areas along official crossing routes : twice in Donetsk region and once in Luhansk region , while further attempts to cross into government-controlled areas were also denied , once in Donetsk region and once in Luhansk region .
On 28 April , at a checkpoint near Horlivka ( non-government-controlled , 39km north-east of Donetsk ) , an SMM patrol waited unsuccessfully for about 40 minutes for members of the armed formations to remove a road barrier and allow the SMM passage @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 29 April , at the checkpoint south of Stanytsia Luhanska bridge ( 15km north-east of Luhansk ) , members of the armed formations denied SMM patrols passage towards government-controlled areas on one occasion , and passage towards non-government-controlled areas on another occasion , referring to the closure of the checkpoint due to COVID-19 .
On 29 April , at a checkpoint near Olenivka ( non-government-controlled , 23km south-west of Donetsk ) , a member of the armed formations denied an SMM patrol passage towards government-controlled areas , stating that the SMM did not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ same checkpoint , members of the armed formations denied another SMM patrol passage towards non-government-controlled areas , referring to quarantine restrictions due to COVID-19 .
The Mission began facing repeated denials when attempting to cross into non-government-controlled areas at checkpoints of the armed formations in Donetsk region on 21 March , and Luhansk region on 23 March ( see SMM Spot Reports 2/2020 , 3/2020 , 4/2020 , 5/2020 , 6/2020 , 7/2020 , 8/2020 , 9/2020 , 10/2020 , 11/2020 , 13/2020 , 14/2020 , 15/2020 , 16/2020 , 17/2020 , 18/2020 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ freedom of movement across the contact line , thus impeding the implementation of its mandate throughout the country .
With regard to COVID-19 , the SMM has introduced a number of stringent mitigation measures into its operational procedures .
These include strict adherence to social distancing rules both internally and with external interlocutors , daily temperature checks , use of PPE , and minimizing the number of personnel in vehicles .

On 28 and 29 April, members of the armed formations again denied SMM attempts to cross into non-government-controlled areas along official crossing routes: twice in Donetsk region and once in Luhansk region, while further attempts to cross into government-controlled areas were also denied, once in Donetsk region and once in Luhansk region.
On 28 April, at a checkpoint near Horlivka (non-government-controlled, 39km north-east of Donetsk), an SMM patrol waited unsuccessfully for about 40 minutes for members of the armed formations to remove a road barrier and allow the SMM passage towards non-government-controlled areas.
On 28 and 29 April, at the checkpoint south of Stanytsia Luhanska bridge (15km north-east of Luhansk), members of the armed formations denied SMM patrols passage towards government-controlled areas on one occasion, and passage towards non-government-controlled areas on another occasion, referring to the closure of the checkpoint due to COVID-19.
On 29 April, at a checkpoint near Olenivka (non-government-controlled, 23km south-west of Donetsk), a member of the armed formations denied an SMM patrol passage towards government-controlled areas, stating that the SMM did not have permission to pass. At the same checkpoint, members of the armed formations denied another SMM patrol passage towards non-government-controlled areas, referring to quarantine restrictions due to COVID-19.
The Mission began facing repeated denials when attempting to cross into non-government-controlled areas at checkpoints of the armed formations in Donetsk region on 21 March, and Luhansk region on 23 March (see SMM Spot Reports 2/2020, 3/2020, 4/2020, 5/2020, 6/2020, 7/2020, 8/2020, 9/2020, 10/2020, 11/2020, 13/2020, 14/2020, 15/2020, 16/2020, 17/2020, 18/2020).They restrict the SMM’s freedom of movement across the contact line, thus impeding the implementation of its mandate throughout the country.
***
With regard to COVID-19, the SMM has introduced a number of stringent mitigation measures into its operational procedures. These include strict adherence to social distancing rules both internally and with external interlocutors, daily temperature checks, use of PPE, and minimizing the number of personnel in vehicles.


osce--2020-04-29--Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba opens Ukrainian Chairmanship of OSCE Forum for Security Co-

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba opens Ukrainian Chairmanship of OSCE Forum for Security Co-operation

VIENNA / KYIV , 29 April 2020 – Steps need to be taken to rebuild trust and stability in the OSCE region , and to restore full and genuine implementation of our principles and commitments on politico-military security , said Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba as he opened Ukraine ’ s Chairmanship of the OSCE Forum for Security Co-operation ( FSC ) today .
Addressing representatives of the OSCE participating States from Kyiv via video teleconference , Foreign Minister Kuleba said that : “ The OSCE remains an essential platform of co-operation and dialogue .
The unique concept of OSCE @ @ @ @ @ @ @ never before .
Especially now , when our societies face unprecedented hybrid threats , restrictions , economic crisis and profound changes to everyday life.
” “ We witness an unprecedented scale of volatility , mistrust and unpredictability in the OSCE region .
This situation is marked by deliberate and flagrant disregard of our shared principles and commitments , from Helsinki , Paris and onwards.
” Pointing to the ongoing relevance of the FSC , he said : “ We are in need of genuine and practical dialogue .
As our past shows , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ such dialogue can bring tangible results.
” He stressed that Ukraine will lead the FSC amid ongoing conflicts in the OSCE region and the global coronavirus pandemic .
“ Six years ago , the OSCE participating States found the courage to send hundreds of their citizens to the conflict zone , as international civilian observers , to work in a very dangerous and unpredictable security environment , ” said Minister Kuleba referring to the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine ( SMM ) .
Remembering US paramedic Joseph Stone , who lost his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ years ago , the Foreign Minister said that : “ We continue to value the contribution of all civilian monitors working in the conflict-affected area .
We are convinced that the politico-military aspects of this conflict should remain in the spotlight of the Forum.
” Moving to Ukraine ’ s priorities for its Chairmanship , which will last until the end of August , he said it will focus on a “ well-balanced and forward-looking agenda.
” The meetings will cover security challenges in the Black and Azov Sea regions ; the impact @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the armed forces and on the implementation of confidence- and security-building measures ( CSBMs ) ; hybrid threats “ and their possible interconnection with modern warfare ” ; and the activities and regulation of private military companies .
Describing the OSCE Vienna Document on CSBMs as “ one of the pillars of the European security architecture ” , Minister Kuleba said raising momentum towards its modernization will be a focus , particularly in light of the increasing “ military snap exercises , especially those taking place near the borders.
” There will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of small arms and light weapons , and stockpiles of conventional ammunition .
Of particular focus will be the OSCE ’ s role in addressing the negative humanitarian and socio-economic impacts of landmines and explosive remnants of war , he said .
Together with Albania ’ s OSCE Chairmanship , Ukraine ’ s FSC Chair will commemorate 20 years of UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women , Peace and Security .
The FSC Chair will also build on the Commemorative Declaration , adopted at last year ’ s Ministerial Council , to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Governing Non-Proliferation and the 15th anniversary of UN Security Council Resolution 1540 .
The FSC Chair will focus on how OSCE participating States can take an active role in the forthcoming Comprehensive Review of Resolution 1540 on the non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction .
Ukraine will also contribute to the conduct of the Annual Discussion on the Implementation of the Code of Conduct on Politico-Military Aspects of Security and the OSCE Annual Security Review Conference over the course of its FSC Chairmanship , he said .
In line with restrictions introduced by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to prevent the spread of COVID-19 , meetings of the FSC are being held online .
Minister Kuleba thanked the OSCE Secretariat and Albania ’ s OSCE Chairmanship for helping to facilitate this .

VIENNA / KYIV, 29 April 2020 – Steps need to be taken to rebuild trust and stability in the OSCE region, and to restore full and genuine implementation of our principles and commitments on politico-military security, said Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba as he opened Ukraine’s Chairmanship of the OSCE Forum for Security Co-operation (FSC) today.
Addressing representatives of the OSCE participating States from Kyiv via video teleconference, Foreign Minister Kuleba said that: “The OSCE remains an essential platform of co-operation and dialogue. The unique concept of OSCE comprehensive approach to security is relevant as never before. Especially now, when our societies face unprecedented hybrid threats, restrictions, economic crisis and profound changes to everyday life.”
“We witness an unprecedented scale of volatility, mistrust and unpredictability in the OSCE region. This situation is marked by deliberate and flagrant disregard of our shared principles and commitments, from Helsinki, Paris and onwards.” Pointing to the ongoing relevance of the FSC, he said: “We are in need of genuine and practical dialogue. As our past shows, when political will is in place, such dialogue can bring tangible results.”
He stressed that Ukraine will lead the FSC amid ongoing conflicts in the OSCE region and the global coronavirus pandemic.
“Six years ago, the OSCE participating States found the courage to send hundreds of their citizens to the conflict zone, as international civilian observers, to work in a very dangerous and unpredictable security environment,” said Minister Kuleba referring to the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM).
Remembering US paramedic Joseph Stone, who lost his life while serving with the SMM three years ago, the Foreign Minister said that: “We continue to value the contribution of all civilian monitors working in the conflict-affected area. We are convinced that the politico-military aspects of this conflict should remain in the spotlight of the Forum.”
Moving to Ukraine’s priorities for its Chairmanship, which will last until the end of August, he said it will focus on a “well-balanced and forward-looking agenda.”
The meetings will cover security challenges in the Black and Azov Sea regions; the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the work of the armed forces and on the implementation of confidence- and security-building measures (CSBMs); hybrid threats “and their possible interconnection with modern warfare”; and the activities and regulation of private military companies.
Describing the OSCE Vienna Document on CSBMs as “one of the pillars of the European security architecture”, Minister Kuleba said raising momentum towards its modernization will be a focus, particularly in light of the increasing “military snap exercises, especially those taking place near the borders.”
There will also be an emphasis on the issues of small arms and light weapons, and stockpiles of conventional ammunition. Of particular focus will be the OSCE’s role in addressing the negative humanitarian and socio-economic impacts of landmines and explosive remnants of war, he said.
Together with Albania’s OSCE Chairmanship, Ukraine’s FSC Chair will commemorate 20 years of UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security.
The FSC Chair will also build on the Commemorative Declaration, adopted at last year’s Ministerial Council, to mark 25 years of the OSCE Principles Governing Non-Proliferation and the 15th anniversary of UN Security Council Resolution 1540. The FSC Chair will focus on how OSCE participating States can take an active role in the forthcoming Comprehensive Review of Resolution 1540 on the non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.
Ukraine will also contribute to the conduct of the Annual Discussion on the Implementation of the Code of Conduct on Politico-Military Aspects of Security and the OSCE Annual Security Review Conference over the course of its FSC Chairmanship, he said.
In line with restrictions introduced by the OSCE and the Austrian host authorities to prevent the spread of COVID-19, meetings of the FSC are being held online. Minister Kuleba thanked the OSCE Secretariat and Albania’s OSCE Chairmanship for helping to facilitate this.


osce--2020-04-29--Don’t forget those behind bars during coronavirus pandemic, OSCE PA human rights leaders say

COPENHAGEN , 29 April 2020 – As COVID-19 continues spreading quickly in many jails and prisons , some countries are releasing inmates on humanitarian grounds , a move welcomed today by leaders of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly ’ s human rights committee .
The parliamentarians echoed calls by United Nations officials and the World Health Organization for governments to drastically reduce prison populations .
Each OSCE country should find an effective approach to upholding criminal justice and promoting public health , the PA members said , stressing that societies should not forget those behind bars .
Protecting inmates and guards @ @ @ @ @ @ @ release of prisoners to relieve overcrowding , the OSCE parliamentarians said .
“ Social distancing is not an option in overcrowded jails and prisons , which makes them among the most dangerous places to be during an outbreak , ” said Kyriakos Hadjiyianni ( MP , Cyprus ) , Chair of the PA ’ s Committee on Democracy , Human Rights and Humanitarian Questions .
“ The prison systems of many OSCE countries are over capacity , and so for the sake of the health of both prisoners and prison workers , I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ those who are not considered a threat to public safety.
” Committee Vice-Chair Michael Georg Link ( MP , Germany ) called attention to the plight of those awaiting trial .
“ In some countries , trials and court hearings have been delayed or canceled to help stop the spread of the coronavirus , but this means that many people are now in custody who are denied their basic due process rights , ” he said .
“ No one should be needlessly exposed to a deadly virus without even having a day @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be a death sentence.
” “ Health services and sanitation are inadequate in many detention facilities , ” Committee Rapporteur Kari Henriksen ( MP , Norway ) pointed out .
“ To expose people to deadly pathogens without proper protection is inhumane and irresponsible .
This is even more true when we are talking about people who have not been convicted of a crime , or those who are elderly and pose no threat to society , or those who are serving sentences for petty offences.
” Hadjiyianni , Link and Henriksen urged @ @ @ @ @ @ @ detainees , notably those over the age of 60 , pregnant women , those with underlying health conditions , as well as people awaiting trial for nonviolent offences or with imminent release dates .
They welcomed the steps taken by some governments to ease overcrowding in jails and protect detainees from the coronavirus , but noted that more action is needed , particularly in terms of taking proactive steps to protect inmates and guards from infection .
They highlighted the humanitarian assistance recently provided by the OSCE to penal institutions in Uzbekistan as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can be replicated in other OSCE countries .
The OSCE PA human rights leaders also reiterated the call earlier this month by OSCE Parliamentary Assembly Vice-President and Acting Chair of the Ad Hoc Committee on Migration Margareta Cederfelt ( MP , Sweden ) who highlighted the deplorable conditions that many migrants and refugees face in camps and detention facilities across the OSCE area .
Cederfelt stressed that one of the most critical steps that can be taken to reduce the spread of COVID-19 is to relieve overcrowding in migrant detention facilities .

COPENHAGEN, 29 April 2020 – As COVID-19 continues spreading quickly in many jails and prisons, some countries are releasing inmates on humanitarian grounds, a move welcomed today by leaders of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly’s human rights committee. The parliamentarians echoed calls by United Nations officials and the World Health Organization for governments to drastically reduce prison populations.
Each OSCE country should find an effective approach to upholding criminal justice and promoting public health, the PA members said, stressing that societies should not forget those behind bars. Protecting inmates and guards from COVID-19 may require early or provisional release of prisoners to relieve overcrowding, the OSCE parliamentarians said.
“Social distancing is not an option in overcrowded jails and prisons, which makes them among the most dangerous places to be during an outbreak,” said Kyriakos Hadjiyianni (MP, Cyprus), Chair of the PA’s Committee on Democracy, Human Rights and Humanitarian Questions. “The prison systems of many OSCE countries are over capacity, and so for the sake of the health of both prisoners and prison workers, I urge authorities to explore options for releasing those who are not considered a threat to public safety.”
Committee Vice-Chair Michael Georg Link (MP, Germany) called attention to the plight of those awaiting trial. “In some countries, trials and court hearings have been delayed or canceled to help stop the spread of the coronavirus, but this means that many people are now in custody who are denied their basic due process rights,” he said. “No one should be needlessly exposed to a deadly virus without even having a day in court. An arrest should not be a death sentence.”
“Health services and sanitation are inadequate in many detention facilities,” Committee Rapporteur Kari Henriksen (MP, Norway) pointed out. “To expose people to deadly pathogens without proper protection is inhumane and irresponsible. This is even more true when we are talking about people who have not been convicted of a crime, or those who are elderly and pose no threat to society, or those who are serving sentences for petty offences.”
Hadjiyianni, Link and Henriksen urged authorities to prioritize the release of vulnerable detainees, notably those over the age of 60, pregnant women, those with underlying health conditions, as well as people awaiting trial for nonviolent offences or with imminent release dates.
They welcomed the steps taken by some governments to ease overcrowding in jails and protect detainees from the coronavirus, but noted that more action is needed, particularly in terms of taking proactive steps to protect inmates and guards from infection. They highlighted the humanitarian assistance recently provided by the OSCE to penal institutions in Uzbekistan as an example of a good practice that can be replicated in other OSCE countries.
The OSCE PA human rights leaders also reiterated the call earlier this month by OSCE Parliamentary Assembly Vice-President and Acting Chair of the Ad Hoc Committee on Migration Margareta Cederfelt (MP, Sweden) who highlighted the deplorable conditions that many migrants and refugees face in camps and detention facilities across the OSCE area.
Cederfelt stressed that one of the most critical steps that can be taken to reduce the spread of COVID-19 is to relieve overcrowding in migrant detention facilities.


osce--2020-04-30--OSCE Presence brings together youth and Albanian Delegation to the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly to di

OSCE Presence brings together youth and Albanian Delegation to the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly to discuss COVID-19 measures

Young people are agents of change , and they have a say also in the COVID-19 situation .
With this aim , on 29 April 2020 in Tirana , the OSCE Presence in Albania brought together its Youth Advisory Group and the Albanian Delegation to the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly to discuss the COVID-19 situation in Albania , the work of the Albanian Delegation and youth involvement .
Ditmir Bushati , Chair of the Albanian Delegation to the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly and members Elona Gjebrea and Rudina Hajdari shared with the youth group how they have been adapting their work under @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they continue to communicate and co-operate with colleagues from other OSCE participating States , especially because Albania is Chair of the OSCE this year .
They also talked about measures the Albanian Assembly has taken to respond to the current crisis .
During the meeting , Bernd Borchardt , Head of the OSCE Presence , welcomed the quick adaption and reaction of the Albanian parliament to the COVID-19 situation .
Members of the Parliament , youth group , and OSCE staff also discussed the importance of the rule of law and oversight role @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reform and 2021 elections during COVID-19 .
The parliamentarians praised the gender balance of the Youth Advisory Group and invited them to continue to give their opinion about measures taken to cope with the pandemic in Albania , stressing the important role youth have in engaging in the political and economic life of the country .
The Youth Advisory Group helps the OSCE Presence ’ s efforts to integrate a youth perspective with its programmatic activities .

Young people are agents of change, and they have a say also in the COVID-19 situation. With this aim, on 29 April 2020 in Tirana, the OSCE Presence in Albania brought together its Youth Advisory Group and the Albanian Delegation to the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly to discuss the COVID-19 situation in Albania, the work of the Albanian Delegation and youth involvement.
Ditmir Bushati, Chair of the Albanian Delegation to the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly and members Elona Gjebrea and Rudina Hajdari shared with the youth group how they have been adapting their work under the pandemic. They also explained how they continue to communicate and co-operate with colleagues from other OSCE participating States, especially because Albania is Chair of the OSCE this year. They also talked about measures the Albanian Assembly has taken to respond to the current crisis.
During the meeting, Bernd Borchardt, Head of the OSCE Presence, welcomed the quick adaption and reaction of the Albanian parliament to the COVID-19 situation.
Members of the Parliament, youth group, and OSCE staff also discussed the importance of the rule of law and oversight role of parliaments, as well as electoral reform and 2021 elections during COVID-19.
The parliamentarians praised the gender balance of the Youth Advisory Group and invited them to continue to give their opinion about measures taken to cope with the pandemic in Albania, stressing the important role youth have in engaging in the political and economic life of the country.
The Youth Advisory Group helps the OSCE Presence’s efforts to integrate a youth perspective with its programmatic activities.


osce--2020-04-30--OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan provided humanitarian aid to Tashkent City Main Department o

OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan provided humanitarian aid to Tashkent City Main Department of Internal Affairs

On April 30 , the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan provided humanitarian aid , including medical means of personal protection , to stop the spread of COVID-19 to Tashkent city police officers .
To enhance the safety and effectiveness of police , who continue to confront the current pandemic , the PCUz has purchased safety glasses and protection masks , gloves and sanitizers for further donation to the Tashkent city Main Department of Internal Affairs .
The donation is part of the PCUz assistance to the Government of Uzbekistan in its efforts to fight the transnational threat represented by COVID-19 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Tashkent City Main Department of Internal Affairs , attended the handover of the assistance .
The OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan Ambassador John MacGregor said : “ The police services of Uzbekistan are on the frontline in the fight against the coronavirus , as they interact with the public every day .
By protecting police officers , we protect the public , and prevent the spread of COVID-19.
” The donation demonstrates that the safety of people , and their health , are part of the OSCE ’ s comprehensive approach to @ @

On April 30, the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan provided humanitarian aid, including medical means of personal protection, to stop the spread of COVID-19 to Tashkent city police officers.
To enhance the safety and effectiveness of police, who continue to confront the current pandemic, the PCUz has purchased safety glasses and protection masks, gloves and sanitizers for further donation to the Tashkent city Main Department of Internal Affairs. The donation is part of the PCUz assistance to the Government of Uzbekistan in its efforts to fight the transnational threat represented by COVID-19.
Colonel Aziz Tashpulatov, Head of the Tashkent City Main Department of Internal Affairs, attended the handover of the assistance. The OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan Ambassador John MacGregor said: “The police services of Uzbekistan are on the frontline in the fight against the coronavirus, as they interact with the public every day. By protecting police officers, we protect the public, and prevent the spread of COVID-19.”
The donation demonstrates that the safety of people, and their health, are part of the OSCE’s comprehensive approach to security.