The PA House and Senate were both in session this week in Harrisburg. Here are a few highlights, as posted on our Facebook page. https://www.facebook.com/share/v/XacBkpVDrM8KK2wk/?mibextid=WC7FNe https://www.facebook.com/share/v/43GWBfQD9Ug8vQrn/?mibextid=WC7FNe https://www.facebook.com/share/v/pVnfMZ3LweFitSdt/?mibextid=WC7FNe https://www.facebook.com/share/v/XJ3jW2v9GmqTdYoH/?mibextid=WC7FNe https://www.facebook.com/share/v/kzUokt3YHpaa1AvD/?mibextid=WC7FNe https://www.facebook.com/share/v/QH6Gs5ErWZecLbtX/?mibextid=WC7FNe https://www.facebook.com/share/v/oE5iuzdYKwQpNqBs/?mibextid=WC7FNe https://www.facebook.com/share/v/V14dd8txoWRGF477/?mibextid=WC7FNe  

It was a week of long days and late nights at the PA Capitol in Harrisburg. The House and Senate passed a $47.6-billiion budget Thursday night and the Governor quickly signed it. Here are some of the highlights from the week as we posted on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/share/v/jB4x3LorzSqsLGGH/?mibextid=WC7FNe https://www.facebook.com/share/v/e6znUQoeEmS8bEVb/?mibextid=WC7FNe https://www.facebook.com/share/v/xRefuvWNigC7J8Yr/?mibextid=WC7FNe https://www.facebook.com/share/v/3XkX2ARAsyAwBKq4/?mibextid=WC7FNe https://www.facebook.com/share/v/7UMepHi21UzpeVFP/?mibextid=WC7FNe https://www.facebook.com/share/v/xWuE2TTU16vzTbGr/?mibextid=WC7FNe https://www.facebook.com/share/v/VhN9DPhZXAQfNshK/?mibextid=WC7FNe https://www.facebook.com/share/v/TjJfE13g46cUwRSt/?mibextid=WC7FNe https://www.facebook.com/share/v/zSvyP6CHK366W8hp/?mibextid=WC7FNe    

We talked with Jim Lee of Susquehanna Polling & Research about his latest poll on the Presidential race. Here is how we shared the comments on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/share/v/eFvLAT1aT9FYqFRY/?mibextid=WC7FNe https://www.facebook.com/share/v/NdQXTChmWarrunmi/?mibextid=WC7FNe https://www.facebook.com/share/v/hjjie61Pso2UFX7A/?mibextid=WC7FNe https://www.facebook.com/share/v/ztTnwXpFqx7Leb6u/?mibextid=WC7FNe    

There were actually a few things happening this past week at the PA Capitol, including a committee meeting. Here are the postings we featured on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/share/v/AzvyoRbqGz9T9eUb/?mibextid=WC7FNe https://www.facebook.com/share/v/ZuZMKFaYECxAHEb4/?mibextid=WC7FNe https://www.facebook.com/share/v/64FEnHSzn7y465JV/?mibextid=WC7FNe https://www.facebook.com/share/v/iHxcnGq66i1m4mtY/?mibextid=WC7FNe

In January Brian Lynch founded the South Central PA Chapter of the Young Catholic Professionals. We talked with Brian about the group. https://www.facebook.com/share/v/kwRbNff8kzdAxMAv/?mibextid=WC7FNe https://www.facebook.com/share/v/8NpLfyUb7crA35JB/?mibextid=WC7FNe https://www.facebook.com/share/v/7twzgWxPv2LaUsab/?mibextid=WC7FNe  

The PA Senate returned to the Capitol for full sessions and committee meetings. The Bishop of Harrisburg, Timothy Senior gave the opening prayer on Tuesday. That is in the first of our Facebook posts offered here. https://www.facebook.com/share/v/gji9z8diELbaWi5E/?mibextid=WC7FNe https://www.facebook.com/share/v/JLLp8LZNLFuBAyrH/?mibextid=WC7FNe https://www.facebook.com/share/v/XRs363N9Mvpog1pe/?mibextid=WC7FNe https://www.facebook.com/share/v/wGTgGutdEcf6vX6V/?mibextid=WC7FNe https://www.facebook.com/share/v/JRyWvi2KkipabkwQ/?mibextid=WC7FNe https://www.facebook.com/share/v/3aBxFaPwQxATNBJj/?mibextid=WC7FNe https://www.facebook.com/share/v/L7H8rK475qyztwnM/?mibextid=WC7FNe

It was a very light week for activity inside the PA Capitol in Harrisburg. https://www.facebook.com/share/v/2twZhe3eUW5ZJvvj/?mibextid=WC7FNe https://www.facebook.com/share/v/WYgvZG5kRNGm5doS/?mibextid=WC7FNe https://www.facebook.com/share/p/qK1GmVTnFY4xtKu1/?mibextid=WC7FNe https://www.facebook.com/share/v/DAmTVrp7ytqHbrYM/?mibextid=WC7FNe  

The PA House and Senate were both in session this past week at the PA Capitol. Here are the highlights as we posted them on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/share/v/91gte3oN22z3gcvd/?mibextid=WC7FNe https://www.facebook.com/share/v/36rT8WAJXtqMrdDR/?mibextid=WC7FNe https://www.facebook.com/share/v/Mipw7kCWijArooH3/?mibextid=WC7FNe https://www.facebook.com/share/v/jmdqNWHwEFRMbsej/?mibextid=WC7FNe https://www.facebook.com/share/v/jmdqNWHwEFRMbsej/?mibextid=WC7FNe https://www.facebook.com/share/v/8a8QBvQ6KecfTUNp/?mibextid=WC7FNe https://www.facebook.com/share/v/sDwrwx4tiJfEw4qx/?mibextid=WC7FNe https://www.facebook.com/share/v/sDwrwx4tiJfEw4qx/?mibextid=WC7FNe https://www.facebook.com/share/v/hWRi35AmpYPNWqMH/?mibextid=WC7FNe https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1RCQUhW2Tkq3kuyN/?mibextid=WC7FNe https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1RCQUhW2Tkq3kuyN/?mibextid=WC7FNe https://www.facebook.com/share/v/H5sgwM6UTcTyqekr/?mibextid=WC7FNe https://www.facebook.com/share/v/QwZ9hNGA6rr9V1gz/?mibextid=WC7FNe https://www.facebook.com/share/v/3dCRP1MuPDNskLA1/?mibextid=WC7FNe  

Presidential Voter Guide https://www.hbgdiocese.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/2024-PA-Presidential-Voter-Guide.pdf Allentown Diocese https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/38ozcuv2k9a8284l3g5oj/State-Voter-Guide-for-Diocese-of-Allentown.pdf?rlkey=d736o5zt9dim845lp5i8x264g&e=1&st=n431ntpo&dl=0 Harrisburg Diocese  https://www.hbgdiocese.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/2024-State-Voter-Guide-Harrisburg.pdf Erie Diocese  https://www.eriercd.org/images/pdf/2024-PCC-Voter%20Guide.pdf Altoona-Johnstown Diocese https://www.dioceseaj.org/2024-pcc-voter-guide/ Scranton Diocese https://www.dioceseofscranton.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/PCC-Voter-Guide-Scranton.pdf Pittsburgh Diocese https://acrobat.adobe.com/id/urn:aaid:sc:US:50d08636-546a-4ad1-8030-46a1fa4ed5e3        

COPENHAGEN, 18 July 2016 – In response to the attempted coup in Turkey and subsequent developments in the country, Ignacio Sanchez Amor (MP, Spain), Chairperson of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly’s Committee on Democracy, Human Rights and Humanitarian Questions, today issued the following statement:

“I regret the violent events that took place in Turkey on the night of 15 July, especially the loss of human lives, and reiterate OSCE PA President Christine Muttonen’s condemnation of the attempt to overthrow Turkey’s elected leaders. I was relieved by the restoration of constitutional order and the rapid resumption of parliamentary activity, as well as the agreement of the major parties on the constitutional legitimacy of institutions.

“However, I am concerned by some subsequent developments, including mass arrests of judges and other members of the judiciary. Legitimate legal responses to the coup must not lead to reprisals or hasty purges, and a responsible approach must be taken to safeguard democratic institutions. Indeed, it is particularly at times of crisis that democratic approaches and institutions must be upheld.

“I call for the calm and prudent use of state powers, and for Turkish authorities to ensure that the constitutional order is consolidated through respecting human rights and the independence of democratic institutions.”

Related Stories

• OSCE PA human rights committee Chair Ignacio Sanchez Amor follows up on developments in Turkey
• Assembly’s work on migration presented to OSCE ambassadors by Ad Hoc Committee Chair Lombardi at special Permanent Council
• Christine Muttonen of Austria elected OSCE PA President, Vice-Presidents and Committee Officers also elected

The OSCE Mission to Moldova organized a summer school on 15-17 July 2016 for 25 lawyers from both banks of the Dniester/Nistru River aimed at enhancing their ability to represent individuals who have been subject to discrimination. The summer school was held at Vadul-lui-Vodă, a town by the river.

Participants in the summer school studied various types and instances of discrimination, as well as the existing legal criteria for combating discriminatory actions and practices. In particular, the discussions focused on stereotypes and prejudices that can lead to the unequal treatment of people and looked at the latest trends in international case law addressing discrimination. Participants also had the opportunity to test their understanding of discrimination by taking part in mock scenarios involving gender, linguistic and ethnic bias and hate speech. 

“The problem of discrimination is very relevant in our current environment,” said Nicolae Radita of the Roma National Centre. “The summer school training has provided me with the tools to prevent and combat discrimination more effectively in my day-to-day work.”

Yan Feldman, Chairperson of Moldova’s Equality Council also participated in the summer school and updated participants on recent issues arising out of the Council’s work.

This event is part of a year-long OSCE project that aims to facilitate the exchange of experiences among lawyers from both banks of the Dniester/Nistru River.

Related Stories

• Psychologists and professionals working with domestic violence victims trained at OSCE-supported events in Moldova on both banks
• Summer School to be held for lawyers from both banks of the Dniester/Nistru River
• OSCE Mission to Moldova strengthens professional skills and civic engagement among young people from both banks

VIENNA, 20 July 2016 – Possible roles for the OSCE in the context of the migration and refugee flows across the OSCE area were discussed today at a special meeting of the Permanent Council in Vienna.

The meeting was a milestone in the process launched in March 2016 by Germany’s 2016 OSCE Chairmanship. In a series of seven meetings and following an inclusive approach, an Informal Working Group took stock of the migration-related activities of the OSCE and developed proposals for future engagement. The Working Groups was chaired by Swiss Ambassador to the OSCE Claude Wild and open to all participating States, Partners for-Cooperation and OSCE executive structures as well as a number of international organizations and NGOs.

Presenting results of this ambitious preparatory process Wild said in today’s Permanent Council: “While the current situation is generally referred to as ‘the refugee and migration crisis’, it is in fact a crisis of international migration governance. Comprehensive governance is needed to deal responsibly with the phenomenon of migration and refugee flows. This includes addressing issues of protection, combating crime, border management, successful integration as well as solidarity and partnerships.”

Wild highlighted that the OSCE is uniquely positioned and equipped to use its political convening power and technical expertise to create formal and informal networks. “In such networks national experts and decision makers can exchange best practices in all specific issues that have to be addressed to design and implement responsible national policies on migration and refugee flows,” he said.

Chairperson of the Permanent Council and German Ambassador to the OSCE, Eberhard Pohl, thanked the Swiss OSCE Ambassador and his team for their committed work. “There was a clear common understanding among all OSCE States today that migration and refugee flows figure high on the OSCE agenda in line with its comprehensive approach to security,” Pohl said.

“Given the scale and transnational character of this issue, it is clear that no single country can cope with the challenge of current migration and refugee flows alone. It has to be addressed in a co-operative manner, in a spirit of shared responsibility. We will continue to support OSCE activities in this field and work to further develop the contribution of the OSCE.”

The OSCE Permanent Council is one of the main regular decision-making bodies of the Organization bringing together representatives of all 57 OSCE participating States and the 11 Partners for Co-operation.

Related Stories

• Azerbaijan’s Deputy Foreign Minister addresses OSCE, calls for work toward peaceful settlement of Nagorno-Karabakh conflict to be advanced
• Urgent steps needed towards full respect for ceasefire in eastern Ukraine, says OSCE Chairmanship Special Representative and Chief Monitor
• OSCE Chairperson-in-Office Steinmeier, in Moldova, calls for swift and full implementation of confidence-building measures

VIENNA, 20 July 2016 – Presenting the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly’s work concerning the refugee and migrant crisis at a special meeting of the OSCE Permanent Council in Vienna today, Swiss parliamentarian Filippo Lombardi laid out the Assembly’s plan of action going forward, which includes monitoring the situation on the ground and developing policy recommendations for the OSCE and its participating States.

The meeting was convened by the OSCE German Chairmanship to present and discuss the report by Amb. Claude Wild, Chair of the OSCE Informal Working Group Focusing on the Issue of Migration and Refugee Flows. The participants discussed in particular the importance of improving global migration governance and how the OSCE can lend its contribution to promoting regional implementation of a global migration governance architecture.

Lombardi noted that the OSCE PA’s Ad Hoc Committee on Migration, which he chairs, has been active in three main areas, including by organizing field visits, strengthening co-operation with the OSCE and other international actors, and promoting discussions on the migration crisis within the OSCE PA.

“The migration and refugee crisis remains high on the agenda of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly as highlighted by the importance accorded to this issue in the Tbilisi Declaration adopted at the OSCE PA Annual Session on 5 July,” Lombardi said. “Indeed, the various aspects of this complex issue are addressed in the resolutions of all three general committees as well as in a number of supplementary resolutions” adopted in Tbilisi, he added.

Stressing the need for better communication strategies between governments and the public, Lombardi said that while media plays a fundamental role in shaping public opinion on migration, “political forces bear an equally important responsibility.

“Governments, diplomats and parliamentarians must join forces to tackle the root causes of migration,” he said.

Lombardi further highlighted a recent field visit to camps in Calais and Dunkirk, the Parliamentary Assembly’s contribution to the 27 June meeting of the Informal Working Group, which was addressed by five OSCE parliamentarians, and noted that the PA’s Ad Hoc Committee on Migration met officially for the first timeduring the OSCE PA Annual Session in Tbilisi on 3 July.

In June, the OSCE PA’s then-human rights and humanitarian committee chair, Portuguese parliamentarian Isabel Santos, joined a delegation of the OSCE’s Special Representative and Co-ordinator for Combating Trafficking in Human Beings, Ambassador Madina Jarbussynova, for a visit to Lampedusa, Italy, to an aircraft carrier in the Mediterranean Sea, and to a refugee reception centre in Catania.

Migration will also occupy a prominent position in the discussions of the OSCE PA Autumn Meeting to be held in Skopje from 29 September to 2 October, Lombardi pointed out.

Other than Lombardi’s presentation, today’s special meeting of the Permanent Council included a comprehensive report by Amb. Wild, who noted that addressing the migration crisis requires a multidimensional response based on protection, combating crime, border management, successful integration, and solidarity and partnerships. The OSCE has a number of comparative advantages when addressing migration and refugee flows and is thus uniquely positioned to address this crisis, he emphasized.

Lombardi welcomed the priorities of the OSCE’s Informal Working Group and stressed that members of the PA’s Ad Hoc Committee have agreed to keep in mind the principles identified by this body in carrying out its work.

The Permanent Council and the Ministerial Council are the primary decision-making bodies of the OSCE.

To learn more about the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly’s work in the field of migration, please click here. A video interview conducted with Ad Hoc Committee Chair Filippo Lombardi is available on the OSCE PA’sYouTube channel.

Related Stories

• Christine Muttonen of Austria elected OSCE PA President, Vice-Presidents and Committee Officers also elected
• OSCE parliamentarians in Tbilisi adopt wide-ranging Declaration on human rights, security and the environment
• OSCE parliamentarians consider resolutions on security, economic and environmental concerns and human rights

COPENHAGEN, 25 July 2016 – In response to the measures taken by the Turkish authorities following the attempted coup, Ignacio Sanchez Amor (MP, Spain), Chairperson of the OSCE PA Committee on Democracy, Human Rights and Humanitarian Questions, issued the following statement today:

“I remain concerned by the developments which have been taking place in Turkey since the attempted coup, as expressed in an earlier statement. As I joined the rest of the international community in offering strong support to the restoration of constitutional order, I also warned against reprisals and hasty purges and underscored the need to safeguard democratic institutions.

“Unfortunately, the sudden dismissal of thousands of judges, prosecutors, academics, and journalists across the country has challenged human rights standards, due process, the right to a fair trial, and freedom of expression. As underlined by the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR), and the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, Turkey’s response to these unconstitutional events should seek to reinforce, not undermine, the rule of law, the independence of the judiciary, and media freedom.

“I once again call on the Turkish authorities to follow a responsible approach to ensure that the constitutional order is reinforced through the respect of human rights and the independence of democratic institutions in line with OSCE commitments.”

Related Stories

• Christine Muttonen of Austria elected OSCE PA President, Vice-Presidents and Committee Officers also elected
• Assembly’s work on migration presented to OSCE ambassadors by Ad Hoc Committee Chair Lombardi at special Permanent Council
• OSCE PA human rights committee Chair Ignacio Sanchez Amor issues statement on developments in Turkey

The OSCE Project Co-ordinator on 15 July 2016 launched the first distance course in Ukraine on the application of the case-law of the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR).

Developed, designed and produced by the OSCE Project Co-ordinator, the course was finalized after it was successfully piloted on the online platform of the National School of Judges of Ukraine (NSJU).

From now the NSJU will have this sustainable tool at its disposal for systematically training judges on applying the case-law of the ECtHR without having to involve extra human or financial resources. Thirty judges from all over Ukraine have already been trained distantly and received their certificates of accomplishment.

The content was developed in co-operation with experts on the European Convention on Human Rights and the case-law of the ECtHR, and Ukrainian judges.

The course was developed as part of the “Safeguarding Human Rights through Courts” project, which is being implemented by the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Ukraine with the financial support of the Government of Canada.

Related Stories

• OSCE supports Ukrainian legal education practitioners in developing human rights-oriented approaches to their work
• OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Ukraine trains social entrepreneurs on social media marketing
• OSCE Project Co-ordinator supports creation of a pool of trainers on anti-corruption for Ukraine’s judges

International standards and the national legal framework on freedom of religion or belief were the focus of two consecutive training events organized jointly by the OSCE Office for Democratic Institution and Human Rights (ODIHR) and the Regional Office for Central Asia (ROCA) of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) from 25 to 28 July 2016 in Bishkek.

The training for 25 prosecutors and 31 defence lawyers from all regions of Kyrgyzstan was provided in close co-operation with the Training Centre for Prosecutors under the General Prosecutor’s Office of the Kyrgyz Republic and the Training Centre for Lawyers. The course covered a wide variety of topics directly relevant to the work of the participants, including recent developments in Kyrgyzstan.

Drawing on the guidance of national and international experts, participants discussed the nature of the right to freedom of religion or belief, its interrelatedness with other human rights and fundamental freedoms, the nature, extent and impact of violations of freedom of religion or belief, and the duties of the state to respect, protect and fulfil this universal human right. Participants also took part in mock trials on cases involving interference with freedom of religion or belief, such as through the banning of religious clothing and discrimination against religious organizations. 

“In using topical case studies, the participants were able to apply the knowledge they had acquired in a practical ‘courtroom’ environment and improve their legal skills in analysing freedom of religion or belief cases and advancing cogent and structured arguments,” said Mark Hill, one of the participating international experts and a senior barrister from the United Kingdom.

Dilnoza Satarova, Associate Officer on Freedom of Religion or Belief at ODIHR, said: “ODIHR welcomes co-operation with the Training Centre for Prosecutors of Kyrgyzstan and the Training Centre for Lawyers in organizing this course. Such capacity-building activities are key to advancing freedom of religion or belief for all, and ODIHR stands ready to support similar initiatives in Kyrgyzstan in the future.”

The two events are part of a series of training events for lawyers, prosecutors and judges on a variety of human rights-related issues conducted as part of the OHCHR project “Peace and Reconciliation through strengthening the rule of law and protection of human rights”, which is funded by the Peacebuilding Fund. 

Related Stories

• OSCE/ODIHR final report on early parliamentary elections in Serbia recommends comprehensive review of legislation and ensuring the level playing field for contestants
• OSCE workshop in Kosovo focuses on improving the recording of hate crimes
• OSCE/ODIHR Director Link welcomes Kyrgyzstan’s review of Askarov’s case, calls on Kyrgyz authorities to implement UN Human Rights Committee decision

The OSCE Programme Office in Astana concluded a series of two-day training seminars for some 100 members of the National Preventive Mechanism (NPM) against Torture on 2 August 2016 in Aktobe, Western Kazakhstan.

From May to August 2016, participants were trained in Pavlodar, Almaty, Astana and Aktobe on practical aspects of the NPM’s implementation.

The training seminars aimed at increasing the transparency and effectiveness of the Mechanism in monitoring, reporting and conducting preventive visits at detention facilities. National experts discussed with the NPM members the working procedures and methodology, challenges in fulfilling human rights obligations and ethical aspects in line with national and international anti-torture standards. Special emphasis was placed on the necessary co-operation between NPM and the law-enforcement sector.

The set of seminars was organized in partnership with the Ombudsman’s Office of Kazakhstan and the Regional Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights and is part of the Office’s long-standing commitment to reinforce the NPM and promote the Optional Protocol to the UN Convention against Torture.

Related Stories

• OSCE promotes ‘green’ women’s entrepreneurship in rural areas of Kazakhstan
• OSCE supports water co-operation in southern Kazakhstan
• OSCE Programme Office concludes series of training seminars on National Preventive Mechanism Implementation in Kazakhstan

WARSAW / BUCHAREST, 2 August 2016 – Michael Georg Link, Director of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) and Ambassador Mihnea Constantinescu, Chair of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA), called today for greater efforts to protect endangered memorial sites related to the Roma and Sinti genocide during World War II.

Speaking on the occasion of the commemoration of the liquidation of the “Gypsy family camp” at Auschwitz-Birkenau in 1944, when the close to 3,000 remaining Roma and Sinti in the camp were murdered, they stressed that states have to do more to demonstrate their sincere and strong commitment to education about and remembrance of the genocide.

“Positively, we have seen increasing attention in recent years on the part of OSCE participating States to commemorate the Roma and Sinti genocide, and to educate people about this horrible event. This practice and these experiences should be widely shared and replicated,” Director Link said. “Promoting understanding of the Holocaust and its effect on different communities can help to create empathy and promote equality and non-discrimination for all.”

“Accurate and ethical education about the Holocaust includes the respectful and dignified preservation of memorial sites,” said Ambassador Constantinescu. “States have to take resolute action to protect endangered memorial sites and continue to do more to commemorate the Roma and Sinti victims. The history of these endangered sites should be included as part of broader efforts to educate about the consequences of indifference to racism.”

They called on governments to ensure that endangered memorial sites for Roma and Sinti victims are preserved and protected, to include this history as an integral part of civic and human rights education in their countries. They stressed that current developments, including a disturbing rise in xenophobic public rhetoric and racism, mean it is even more essential to build strong alliances among different communities.

In 2003, with the Action Plan on Improving the Situation of Roma and Sinti within the OSCE Area, the OSCE participating States committed themselves to strengthen education about the Roma and Sinti genocide. Through its Contact Point for Roma and Sinti Issues, ODIHR promotes knowledge about and recognition of the plight of Roma and Sinti during the Holocaust to counter present-day discrimination and racism, and to promote tolerance. According to ODIHR’s recent publication Teaching about and Commemorating the Roma and Sinti Genocide: Practices within the OSCE Area, seven OSCE participating States officially commemorate the Roma and Sinti genocide on 2 August, while a larger number of states commemorate the Roma and Sinti victims on the International Holocaust Memorial Day, 27 January.

The International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance is an inter-governmental organization and the foremost international network of political leaders and professionals advancing and shaping Holocaust education, remembrance and research. Its 31 member countries are committed to the tenets of the Stockholm Declaration. The IHRA Committee on the Genocide of the Roma aims to increase the commitment of IHRA Member Countries to educate, research and commemorate the genocide of the Roma.

Related Stories

• After violent attempted coup, Turkish authorities must strengthen, not weaken, rule of law and independence of judiciary, says ODIHR Director Link
• OSCE workshop in Kosovo focuses on improving the recording of hate crimes
• OSCE/ODIHR Director Link welcomes Kyrgyzstan’s review of Askarov’s case, calls on Kyrgyz authorities to implement UN Human Rights Committee decision

WARSAW, 6 August 2016 – Michael Georg Link, Director of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR), today criticized the call by the Prosecutor General of Tajikistan for the reintroduction of the death penalty, and expressed concern over recent discussions related to removing the bans on capital punishment in some other OSCE participating States.

“Countries in the OSCE have committed themselves to consider the complete abolition of capital punishment, not to reconsider that abolition,” the ODIHR Director said. “Yesterday’s call by the Prosecutor General in Tajikistan for the reintroduction of capital punishment in that country is completely out of place in a region where most of the countries recognize the inherently cruel, inhuman and degrading nature of a punishment that fails to act as a deterrent and makes any miscarriage of justice irreversible.”

Tajikistan’s Prosecutor-General, Yusuf Rahmon, told a press conference yesterday that perpetrators of premeditated murder, terrorists and traitors must be punished by death. His words followed similar statements by other leaders, among them President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey and President Viktor Orban of Hungary, suggesting that the reinstitution of the death penalty should be opened for discussion.

Tajikistan suspended the application of the death penalty in 2004, while Turkey and Hungary completely abolished capital punishment, in 2004 and 1990, respectively.

“Rather than reversing its course, it is my hope that Tajikistan will take further steps toward the complete abolition of the death penalty,” he said. “It is also my hope that Turkey, remains with the vast majority of the OSCE participating States and will continue to  act as a strong advocate for the global abolition, as it has in recent years.”

Related Stories

• OSCE/ODIHR opens observation mission for parliamentary elections in Belarus
• ODIHR Director Link and IHRA Chair Constantinescu, on day to commemorate genocide against Roma and Sinti, say greater efforts needed to protect endangered memorial sites and ensure dignity of victims
• ODIHR trains prosecutors and lawyers in Kyrgyzstan on international standards regarding freedom of religion or belief

Some 18 officers of the Moldovan armed forces, as well as representatives of the Interior and Justice Ministries successfully completed a training course on the safe handling of ammunition stockpiles held at the Military Academy in Chisinau from 23 February to 11 March 2016.

The participants were familiarized with different types of ammunition, including small arms and light weapons and conventional ammunition, and were instructed on how to handle, pack and store ammunition.

“Knowing how to handle ammunition in a manner that does not pose a risk to yourself and to those around you is an essential skill for any member of the armed forces, regardless of their rank,” said Per Normark, Programme Manager of the Conflict Prevent and Resolution programme at the OSCE Mission to Moldova. “This training course has equipped participants with practical knowledge on how to handle a range of types of ammunition, thereby building the capacity of the Moldovan armed forces to ensure a secure and safe environment.”

The course, which was supported by the OSCE Mission to Moldova, was conducted by specialized trainers in the National Army with the guidance of a group of experts from Austria and Sweden.

The training course is part of a multi-year project to train Moldovan ammunition specialists. The aim of the project is to provide the specialists with the necessary skills for the safe and secure storage of small arms and light weapons in accordance with OSCE and international best practices.

Related Stories

• OSCE Mission to Moldova trains lawyers from both banks of the Dniester/Nistru River on addressing discrimination
• OSCE Mission to Moldova strengthens professional skills and civic engagement among young people from both banks
• Psychologists and professionals working with domestic violence victims trained at OSCE-supported events in Moldova on both banks

BISHKEK, 18 March 2016 – Some 20 military personnel from the Northern Regional Command and the Southern Regional Command of the Kyrgyz Armed Forces completed an OSCE-supported one-week training-course on maintaining an electronic database system for the management, record-keeping and tracing of small arms and light weapons and stockpiles of conventional ammunition.

Organized by the OSCE Centre in Bishkek, the General Staff of Armed Forces and Kyrgyz State Committee on Defence Affairs, the course was held in a specialized computer classroom within the premises of the Military Institute of the Kyrgyz Armed Forces for which the OSCE Centre and the British Embassy provided equipment last year.

In 2014 the OSCE Centre in Bishkek signed five agreements with the Kyrgyz Defence Ministry as a part of the Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Kyrgyz Republic and the OSCE on Small Arms and Light Weapons and a Stockpile of Conventional Ammunition Programme.

The event is part of the OSCE Centre in Bishkek’s Politico-Military Programme on strengthening the capacity of the Kyrgyz Republic toward the physical security and stockpile management of small arms and light weapons and conventional ammunition. This project is being implemented by the OSCE Centre since February 2012. 

Related Stories

• To mark World Day against Trafficking in Persons OSCE Centre in Bishkek supports public awareness raising campaign
• OSCE Centre in Bishkek supports summer school on topical issues of police reform
• OSCE Centre in Bishkek trains defence lawyers and prosecutors on right to liberty and freedom from arbitrary arrest or detention

BISHKEK, 31 March 2016 – A series of two consecutive one-week training courses co-organized by the OSCE Centre in Bishkek on the security and management of small arms and light weapons and stockpiles of conventional ammunition concluded in Bishkek today.

The courses aimed at building awareness among armed forces personnel on new regulations and instructions approved by the Chief of the Kyrgyz General Staff on 12 February 2016 regarding the physical security, management, record-keeping, maintenance and disposal of small arms and light weapons and stockpiles of conventional ammunition. These documents were developed with the support of the OSCE Centre in Bishkek in 2014-2015.

Some 48 military personnel from the Northern and Southern Regional Commands directly dealing with such weapons and stockpiles of conventional ammunition took part in the courses, which along with the OSCE Centre, were also co-organized with the General Staff of the Armed Forces and the Kyrgyz State Committee on Defence Affairs.

Yury Padun, Senior Politico-military Officer at the OSCE Centre, said: “The training course provided officers of the Kyrgyz Armed Forces with the knowledge and practical skills required to meet international standards and OSCE recommendations in this area. The course will contribute to the safe and secure stockpiling of weapons and ammunition in Central Asia.”

Colonel Medetbek Sultanbekov, Head of the Rocket-Artillery Armament Division of the Kyrgyz State Committee on Defence Affairs, said: “Co-operation with the OSCE Centre in Bishkek has facilitated significant improvement to the legal framework in relation to small arms and light weapons and conventional ammunition. It has also raised the professional level of Kyrgyz officers dealing with the stockpiling of weapons and ammunition.”

The event is part of the OSCE Centre in Bishkek’s Politico-Military Programme on strengthening the capacity of the Kyrgyz Armed Forces and is being implemented since February 2012. 

Related Stories

• To mark World Day against Trafficking in Persons OSCE Centre in Bishkek supports public awareness raising campaign
• OSCE Centre in Bishkek supports summer school on topical issues of police reform
• OSCE Centre in Bishkek trains defence lawyers and prosecutors on right to liberty and freedom from arbitrary arrest or detention

SLOVIANSK, Ukraine, 7 April 2016 – The OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Ukraine, at a ceremony in Sloviansk, Donetsk region today, presented representatives of the Infrastructure Ministry’s State Special Transport Service with 15 sets of protective equipment, including vests and helmets, which are to be delivered to local deminers working along transport routes in the east of the country.

The State Special Transport Service is responsible for ensuring the safety of the transport network and for restoring railways and bridges destroyed by hostilities. This often involves clearing mines and unexploded ordnance that threaten civilian transportation routes. 

“Safety of communications is extremely important in the context of sustainable post-conflict recovery, future peace and security in the region,” said Vaidotas Verba, the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Ukraine. “I hope that with our help the Service will be in better position to swiftly and efficiently ensure safer conditions for the movement of people and goods in the conflict-affected areas.”

Since July 2014 the Service has cleared over 300 kilometres of railways in government-controlled areas of Donbas and disposed of more than 4,500 unexploded ordnance, mines and booby traps. This is among the more than 100,000 such dangerous items discovered and destroyed by all organizations working in the region, which are involved in dealing with these remnants of conflict.

To help Ukraine address this new challenge, the OSCE Project Co-ordinator is also training the country's humanitarian deminers on international mine action standards, helping to introduce a modern information management system to improve operations and the inter-agency co-ordination of efforts, and assisting in developing relevant legislation and standards.

Related Stories

• Spot Report by OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM):“DPR” members threaten SMM at gunpoint near Lukove
• OSCE-trained Ukrainian cyber-police officers begin fulfilling their mission
• OSCE Project Co-ordinator to assist Ukraine in strengthening democratic control of defence and security sectors

KOY-TASH, Kyrgyzstan, 13 April 2016 – A two-day donor assessment of the OSCE Centre in Bishkek’s ongoing programme on small arms and light weapons (SALW) and conventional ammunition (CA) concluded today in Koy-Tash village of Kyrgyzstan.

The assessment coincided with the launch of disposal facility for SALW, jointly organized by the Kyrgyz Armed Forces and the OSCE Centre.   

A delegation comprised of representatives of the embassies of the United States, United Kingdom, Germany and Finland, as well as members of the EU Delegation to Kyrgyzstan, OSCE Secretariat, OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina and the International Trust Fund. Representatives of Kyrgyzstan’s government administration, the General Staff of the Armed Forces and the State Defence Committee also joined the visit.

The main goal of the programme is to increase the capacities of the Kyrgyz Armed Forces, focusing on effective management and disposal of SALW and CA, improving the relevant normative framework, enhancing the security of the storage warehouses for weapons and ammunition and capacity building among military staff.

According to Colonel Adyl Kurbanov, Deputy Chair of the State Defence Committee, the Kyrgyz Armed Forces and the OSCE Centre in Bishkek successfully implemented the measures stipulated in the memorandum signed in 2013. He stated that, in the long-term, the contribution of the OSCE Centre will enhance the potential of the Armed Forces and ensure physical security of military depots. “Within the OSCE-implemented programme, Kyrgyzstan will receive modern warehouses that meet all security requirements and safety standards.”

“Some of the major achievements of the programme include the establishment of an electronic record-storing and tracing database, which will significantly help to manage the stockpiles of SALW and ammunition available in the Kyrgyz Republic,” said Sergey Kapinos, the Head of the OSCE Centre in Bishkek. “The database will be the only one operating in Central Asia and it will reflect best practices of the SALW and ammunition management adopted in the OSCE area.”

Rodney Robideau, Grants Officer at the U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Political-Military Affairs, reassured the Kyrgyz Armed Forces and the OSCE Centre in Bishkek that additional funds in the amount of USD 100,000 will be allocated in 2016 for the construction of a new warehouse for rockets and artillery in the Buzhum village of Batken oblast.

The donors familiarized with programme activities, and visited warehouses where construction and refurbishment works are ongoing, and where the SALW disposal facility is established and equipped. The representatives of the Kyrgyz Armed Forces organized a demonstration of the destruction of unserviceable weapons through the use of a special hydraulic shear that is considered to be one of the most efficient tools in this field. Donors also visited the training centre for electronic database for SALW and CA record-storing and tracing.

The OSCE Centre in Bishkek has been implementing this programme since February 2012 with the financial contributions of the USA, United Kingdom, European Union, Germany, Finland and Kazakhstan.

Related Stories

• To mark World Day against Trafficking in Persons OSCE Centre in Bishkek supports public awareness raising campaign
• OSCE Centre in Bishkek supports summer school on topical issues of police reform
• OSCE Centre in Bishkek trains defence lawyers and prosecutors on right to liberty and freedom from arbitrary arrest or detention

VIENNA, 13 April 2016 – As Poland takes over the rotating Chairmanship of the OSCE Forum for Security Co-operation (FSC), Under-Secretary of State with the Foreign Ministry Marek Ziółkowski said that one of the main tasks of his country will be to strengthen confidence- and security-building measures by revitalizing the Vienna Document 2011. Moving this process forward and including regional perspectives into the security dialogue with the focus on some areas including the Baltic Sea region, Central and Eastern Europe are the priorities of Poland’s Chairmanship of the FSC.

Opening the 815th meeting of the Forum for Security Co-operation Ziółkowski said: “Poland believes that risk reduction is one of the pillars of the Vienna Document-based co-operation. And nowadays the relevance and usefulness of risk reduction mechanisms are growing.”

He noted in particular the proposal made jointly by Poland and other OSCE participating States to improve co-operation regarding hazardous incidents of a military nature.

Poland’s Chairmanship will put an emphasis on regional perspectives in the security dialogue in the OSCE area. Political-military aspects of security in Georgia and Tajikistan as well as Montenegro’s Demilitarization Programme (MONDEM) will also be topics of discussion.

Regarding the crisis in and around Ukraine, the Under-Secretary of State drew attention to the lack of progress in the implementation of the Minsk agreements and further deterioration of the security situation in Donbas. “The OSCE must retain its focus and resolve to facilitate a peaceful and lasting resolution of the conflict in eastern Ukraine. We see room for the FSC to play a more prominent role here. For example, the applicability of the existing set of confidence- and security-building measures could be re-examined and further explored,” Ziółkowski said.

Poland is taking over the Chairmanship of the Forum for Security Co-operation from the Netherlands and preceding Portugal. Ambassador Adam Bugajski of Poland will chair the FSC till the end of the summer recess.

Related Stories

• OSCE confidence- and security-building measures must be adapted to current security challenges, says Polish Foreign Ministry Under-Secretary of State
• Dialogue for enhanced European security in focus at joint session of OSCE Forum for Security Co-operation and Permanent Council
• Greater international efforts needed to address challenges to stable security in Georgia, say participants of OSCE Forum for Security Co-operation

More than 40 specialists from Afghanistan, Armenia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan completed a training seminar on advanced explosive ordnance disposal on April 20, 2016 in Dushanbe, organized by the OSCE Office in Tajikistan as a part of a multi-year project.

The course, which covered levels one and two of the explosive ordnance disposal curriculum outlined in International Mine Action Standards, was held at the Lyaur Field Training Centre of Tajikistan’s Ministry of Defence. The participants came from national armed forces, national mine action co-ordination authorities and civilian agencies which are directly engaged in addressing explosive hazards threats.

“The second explosive ordnance disposal training cycle is particularly significant as it introduces the mentorship approach to training whereby junior instructors – graduates of the first training cycle implemented in years 2014 and 2015 - are providing training shoulder-to-shoulder with their United States Army Central colleagues to the students from Central Asian and Afghanistan,” said Scott Kearin, Acting Head of the OSCE Office in Tajikistan.

U.S. Ambassador to Tajikistan Elisabeth Millard highlighted the leadership that the Ministry of Defense of Tajikistan has shown in hosting this series of training events. She said: “The need for competent explosive ordnance disposal specialists and trainers is critical for removing landmines and explosive remnants of war that threaten safety and stability in Tajikistan and surrounding countries.” She praised the Tajik Ministry of Defence for hosting a train-the-trainer program that allows them to lead humanitarian mine action programmes in the wider region.

Muhabbat Ibrohimzoda, Director of the Tajikistan National Mine Action Centre, said: “Tajikistan recognizes the present-day threats of explosive hazards and the need to address these challenges throughout the region and on a global level.”

Two separate courses – for Russian speaking and Tajik-Dari speaking groups of students - were facilitated by the OSCE Office in partnership with the United States Army Central and supported by the U.S. Embassy’s Office for Military Co-operation in Dushanbe. They were financed by the U.S. State Department’s Office of Weapons Removal and Abatement.

Since 2009, the OSCE has been supporting the development of co-operative mechanisms on a technical level among states in Central Asia and Afghanistan to address concerns and challenges stemming from explosive hazards.

Related Stories

• OSCE Office in Tajikistan organizes first regional forum for promoting women’s political participation in Khujand
• OSCE Office in Tajikistan presents recommendations from the Customs Code Integrity Assessment
• OSCE Office in Tajikistan donates audio-visual material to enhance interactive teaching at Police Academy

Montenegro’s Demilitarization Programme (MONDEM) has had a positive impact on promoting the OSCE’s comprehensive approach to security, said the country’s Defence Minister Milica Pejanovic-Djurisic as she addressed the OSCE Forum for Security Co-operation in Vienna on 20 April 2016, under the Chairmanship of Poland.

Run by Montenegro’s Government, OSCE and UNDP, the Programme has since 2007 contributed to the reduction of the country’s surplus ordnances by 85 per cent, decrease in the number of munitions sites and closure of open-space storage facilities. There are still about 1,900 tonnes of ammunition and some 14,000 pieces of armaments pending destruction.

“The Programme has had a positive impact on human security, counter-proliferation policy, sub-regional confidence- and security-building measures, the national small arms and light weapons control strategy, public administration reform, reducing of environmental pollution and sustainable development,” said Pejanovic-Djurisic.

MONDEM is based on five components aimed at demilitarizing chemicals, ammunition and heavy weapons, developing safe storage infrastructure and enhancing the knowledge and abilities of personnel working in this area.

Pejanovic-Djurisic said that the expert support and assistance provided by the OSCE Mission to Montenegro has contributed not only to the implementation of MONDEM but also to strengthening of democratic institutions and overall reforms in the country.

Related Stories

• OSCE confidence- and security-building measures must be adapted to current security challenges, says Polish Foreign Ministry Under-Secretary of State
• Dialogue for enhanced European security in focus at joint session of OSCE Forum for Security Co-operation and Permanent Council
• OSCE High-Level Military Doctrine Seminar: Transparency and co-operation needed to build trust in the face of challenges eroding European security

Tajikistan’s National Action Plan on implementing UN Security Council Resolution 1540, which was supported by the OSCE Office in Tajikistan as a way of enhancing the country’s chemical, biological, radiation and nuclear security, was presented to representatives of the international community in Dushanbe on 28 April 2016.

As well as bringing together representatives of international organizations dealing with non-proliferation issues, and embassies and diplomatic missions of the OSCE participating States and the UN members in Tajikistan, some 30 professionals in the area of chemical, biological, radiation and nuclear security in Tajikistan also attended the meeting. The discussion was held to mark the adoption of UN Security Council Resolution 1540 on 28 April 2004.

“As we have now already moved to the implementation phase of the Plan, I have no doubt that we all understand the importance of the need to provide resources that are indispensable for strengthening co-operation and collaboration in implementing the approved 1540 measures,” said Fabio Piana, Acting Head of the OSCE Office in Tajikistan. “Diplomatic missions of the OSCE participating States or UN Member States in Tajikistan are encouraged to take part in implementing Tajikistan’s National Action Plan, with the aim of ensuring the overall sustainability of our joint efforts.”

Ilkhom Mirsaidov, National co-ordinator on implementing the National Action Plan, thanked the OSCE for the assistance provided in developing the Plan – a process that took two years to accomplish. He also stressed the importance of multilateral co-operation and co-ordination of efforts during its implementation.

The National Action Plan, encompassing various implementation measures on nuclear, chemical, and biological security for 2016-2021, was adopted by Tajikistan’s Government on 9 February 2016.

The Office, in close co-operation with the OSCE Conflict Prevention Centre, United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs, and the 1540 Committee Group of Experts, will continue to assist the Government in the Plan’s practical implementation.

Related Stories

• OSCE Office in Tajikistan organizes first regional forum for promoting women’s political participation in Khujand
• OSCE Office in Tajikistan presents recommendations from the Customs Code Integrity Assessment
• OSCE Office in Tajikistan donates audio-visual material to enhance interactive teaching at Police Academy

VIENNA, 15 June 2016 – The twentieth anniversary of the Agreement on Sub-Regional Arms Control Agreement, which served as a framework for Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Montenegro and Serbia to engage with each other in order to promote peace and stability in the region, was marked today in Vienna.

Almir Sahovic, Assistant Minister for Multilateral Relations at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina, stressed that today was a good opportunity to reflect on the path the region went through in the last 20 years. “Our region was a synonym for problems and a source of instability. Our friends from the OSCE family and international community used to send military and police forces to help us sustain peace and stability. Today, we are the ones contributing with military and diplomatic missions to peace and stability around the world.”

The Agreement remains highly relevant for stability in the region as well as for the entire OSCE area and serves as a model for other OSCE regions.

“We see that the four State parties show mutual understanding, professionalism and confidence in their joint treaty activities,” said Chairperson of the OSCE Permanent Council and Permanent Representative of Germany to the OSCE Eberhard Pohl. “The Agreement continues to play a useful role in maintaining military stability in South Eastern Europe by promoting co-operation, transparency and predictability. Key to this is upholding the common political will for good development in the future. The members of the contact group stand ready to further support these activities.”

The Director of the OSCE Conflict Prevention Centre Marcel Pesko highlighted how the commitments from the Article IV of Dayton Peace Agreement became actions. “The four countries of the region proved they can establish a stable military balance, reducing the risk of a new escalation of the conflict. This would not be possible without courage and political will to move the process forward.”

The ceremony included a photo-exhibition dedicated to the process of implementation of the Agreement. Distinguished individuals and organizations from the region received special recognition for their contribution to the process.

Bosnia and Hercegovina is currently a Chair of Sub-Regional Consultative Commission in accordance with Article IV, Annex 1-B to the Dayton Agreement.

Learn more about the transfer of ownership of regional stability and how targets of arms control were achieved even beyond the set limits.

Related Stories

• Urgent steps needed towards full respect for ceasefire in eastern Ukraine, says OSCE Chairmanship Special Representative and Chief Monitor
• OSCE Chairperson-in-Office Steinmeier, in Moldova, calls for swift and full implementation of confidence-building measures
• OSCE Chairperson-in-Office Frank-Walter Steinmeier to visit Moldova on Tuesday

WARSAW, 3 June 2016 – Michael Georg Link, Director of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR), expressed concern today over yesterday’s sentencing by a court in Dushanbe of two leaders of the banned Islamic Renaissance Party (IRPT) to life imprisonment, and 11 other high-ranking party officials to jail terms ranging from two to 28 years.

“The harsh sentences handed down yesterday, following the earlier ban of the IRPT and the arrest and harassment of its members and their families and lawyers, raise concerns in relation to the commitments Tajikistan has made as an OSCE participating State to uphold key values of democracy, including political pluralism and political participation,” the ODIHR Director said. “ODIHR has raised this issue with the authorities in the past, and asked for more information on the rationale behind these actions.”

The IRPT party officials were convicted and sentenced by the court on charges that they had conspired in and taken part in the organization of an army coup in the country in September 2015. At that time, the Supreme Court banned the party as an “extremist and terrorist organization”.

The trials leading up to yesterday’s sentences were held behind closed doors, with the proceedings off-limits to the media as well.

“Fair-trial rights are a central element of the rule of law, and measures limiting public scrutiny of and access to criminal proceedings can only undermine confidence that these rights are being upheld,” Director Link said. “ODIHR continues to stand ready to support the Tajik authorities in fulfilling the country’s OSCE commitments in the areas of political pluralism and the rule of law.”

Related Stories

• OSCE/ODIHR Director concerned about reported rise of hate incidents in the United Kingdom, supports calls for tolerance in a challenging time
• OSCE/ODIHR Director Michael Link expresses shock over Orlando shootings, commends calls for unity in face of hatred and terror
• ODIHR Director Link welcomes U.S. Supreme Court decision throwing out conviction, death sentence of African-American man from all-white jury

Human rights and fair trial standards, as reflected in recent decisions of the Armenian Cassation Court, the country’s highest judicial instance for all except constitutional matters, were the focus of an OSCE-supported training workshop held on June 11 and 12 in Dilijan, Armenia. The workshop aimed at promoting transparency and predictability of justice and a unified application of the law.

Some forty judges of courts of general jurisdiction and the Court of Appeals and their assistants discussed the major precedent decisions of the Cassation Court related to human rights and the judicial supervision of pre-trial proceedings, presumption of innocence, right to liberty and security of person and other fair trial guarantees.

Davit Avetisyan, Chairman of the Criminal Chamber of the Cassation Court, who moderated the workshop, emphasised that precedent decisions of the Cassation Court not only shape judicial practice but also impact overall developments and on-going reforms in the criminal justice system.

“This initiative is a part of continuous efforts by the OSCE Office in Yerevan to promote the application of international best practices and human rights standards in the daily work of judges,” said Maria Silvanyan, National Legal Officer at the OSCE Office.

The event was the fourth in a series of workshops since November 2015 organized with the support of the OSCE Office in Yerevan, in partnership with Armenia’s Cassation Court and the Judicial Department. The workshops have provided training to up to 100 criminal law judges and their assistants from the capital and the regions of Armenia. 

The OSCE Office has a long-standing relationship of co-operation with the Cassation Court, contributing to the independence, impartiality and professionalism of the judicial system and adoption of decisions based on international standards.

Related Stories

• OSCE promotes free access to Government-held information in Armenia
• OSCE launches a volume of decisions by the high instance court to support Armenia’s judicial system
• OSCE Office supports discussion on challenges of community policing and its development in Armenia

SARAJEVO, 16 June 2016 – The OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina today published the report of Judge Joanna Korner CMG QC on war crimes processing at the state level in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

At a press conference held on this occasion, Ambassador Jonathan Moore, Head of the OSCE Mission to BiH, noted that the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina has been monitoring the prosecution of war crimes before the domestic courts of BiH since 1996, as part of its mandate under the Dayton Peace Accords.

“In 2003, the Mission developed an increasingly structured trial monitoring capacity.  In November 2006, the BiH High Judicial and Prosecutorial Council issued an Opinion recognizing the role of the Mission in observing criminal proceedings, stating that the OSCE Mission’s trial monitors should be given ‘full and unrestricted access to all documents they request within their mandate which includes monitoring the activities of courts and prosecutors’ offices,’” said Moore. 

The Mission has carried out training courses and other capacity-building activities for judicial and prosecutorial staff, and provided expert advice to the judiciary based on its findings.

“The Mission is routinely asked to provide information and analysis regarding the quality of war crimes processing at the state and entity levels. These inquiries come from a variety of sources, including private persons, victims’ and survivors’ associations, ICTY, and employees of BiH judicial institutions,” said Moore. “The purpose of such inquiries is generally to understand the capacity of domestic judicial institutions for processing war crimes cases in a manner that is fair to the interests of both victims and defendants and in line with international standards, and to identify gaps in the processing of such cases.”  

Moore emphasized that it is normal in democratic societies to have a vigorous public debate about judicial processes.  “No one is universally happy with every verdict, sentence, conviction, and acquittal.  Nevertheless, justice has yet to be done in many cases, more than 20 years after the end of the war in Bosnia and Herzegovina.”

In accordance with the mandate, role, and authorities of the Mission, with the support of the HJPC and in coordination with ICTY Chief Prosecutor Serge Brammertz and the British Embassy, Judge Korner was engaged by the OSCE Mission to BiH on the basis of her professional background and knowledge. 

Judge Korner visited BiH twice in order to review available materials, speak with prosecutors, judges, and others, and prepare an analytical report that would offer suggestions as to how to improve the processing of war crimes at the state level, at which the most complex and serious war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide cases, are processed. 

“The work of Judge Korner, her analysis and concrete advice are very valuable.  It is of course up to the institutions themselves, including the HJPC, the Prosecutor’s Office of BiH, and the Court of BiH to react to the report and to act upon its recommendations.  We respect the role of those institutions in guaranteeing the rule of law in Bosnia and Herzegovina.”

The Mission’s work in this regard is supported financially as part of its core budget and by additional contributions from the European Union, the United States, the United Kingdom, Switzerland, Norway, Germany, Italy, and Austria, and is closely co-ordinated with the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia.

Related Stories

• Judges and prosecutors in Bosnia and Herzegovina, at OSCE meeting, learn about videoconferencing to reach remote witnesses
• War crimes prosecutors in Bosnia and Herzegovina, at OSCE meeting in Mostar, discuss cases involving enforced disappearance
• OSCE supports international conference on obstacles in prosecuting war crimes in Bosnia and Herzegovina

ASTANA, 20 June 2016 – An OSCE-supported training seminar for some 30 prosecutors and defence lawyers from different regions of Kazakhstan on plea bargaining and the role of procedural prosecutors in criminal procedure began today in Astana.

During the three-day seminar the participants will learn about issues related to the interpretation and application of the Criminal Procedure Code’s relevant provisions by legal professionals. International experts from the United States and Ukraine will familiarize participants with best practices in using plea bargaining in criminal proceedings and the role of prosecutors in preliminary investigation. Intensive discussions and mock exercises are planned to enhance comprehension and practical skills.

The recent introduction of the concepts of plea bargaining and procedural prosecutors into the new Code aims to simplify criminal procedure and contribute to the development of a more effective and cost-efficient criminal justice system in Kazakhstan.  These concepts have been in place since the Code entered into force in January 2015.

“It is important to ensure sufficient balance between simplified criminal procedure, cost-efficiency and the procedural rights of participants,” said Colin McCullough, Political Officer at the OSCE Programme Office in Astana. “This is predicated upon a high level of professionalism of the investigative bodies, adequate legal literacy of the general population and the absence of corruption.”

Nail Akhmetzakirov, the Vice-Rector of the Law Enforcement Academy under the Prosecutor General’s Office, said: “The purpose of a plea agreement is the simplification of criminal proceedings, with omitting a number of investigative actions and the entire trial process. This requires a high professional level of the defender and the prosecutor.”

The event was jointly organized by the OSCE Programme Office in Astana and the Law Enforcement Academy, as part of the Programme Office’s long-term activities to support criminal justice sector reform in Kazakhstan.

Related Stories

• OSCE Programme Office supports training for defence lawyers in Kazakhstan on the new criminal procedure legislation
• OSCE supports training seminar on torture prevention in Kazakhstan
• OSCE concludes series of training seminars on implementing the National Preventive Mechanism in Kazakhstan

ASTANA, 4 July 2016 – A two-day OSCE-supported training seminar on the practical aspects of implementing the National Preventive Mechanism (NPM) for preventing torture began today in Astana, Kazakhstan.

Some 20 NPM members participated in the third in a series of four events aimed at building the capacities of the NPM in the context of monitoring, reporting and preventive visits to places of detention.

“You represent a reliable ‘pulse’ of the interaction between citizens and law-enforcement authorities and your reaching out to various places of detention provides us with some ‘measurement’ in that sense,” said Ambassador Gyorgy Szabo, Head of the Programme Office in Astana. “Such training events are productive for developing a common methodology and approach and for increasing the potential to prevent abuses of power and cruel and degrading treatment.”

The training addressed working procedures and methodology, key challenges in fulfilling human rights monitoring obligations at detention facilities and ethical matters. Both national and international anti-torture standards were taken into consideration.

Particular attention was paid to the co-operation between NPM and law-enforcement departments, prosecutors, prison administrations, healthcare institutions and media representatives.

The seminar was organized by the OSCE Programme Office in Astana in partnership with the Commissioner for Human Rights (Ombudsman) of Kazakhstan and the Regional Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights.

The series of training events is part of the Office’s long-term assistance to the NPM and work in promoting the Optional Protocol to the UN Convention against Torture in the host country.

Related Stories

• OSCE concludes series of training seminars on implementing the National Preventive Mechanism in Kazakhstan
• OSCE Programme Office supports training for defence lawyers in Kazakhstan on the new criminal procedure legislation
• OSCE supports plea bargain training in Kazakhstan

By OSCE Secretary General Lamberto Zannier

Today we celebrate a significant milestone for Montenegro and its people. A decade ago, the country restored its independence. At the same time, Montenegro also joined the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), which with 57 participating States is the largest regional security organization worldwide.

By becoming a full-fledged OSCE participating State, and by inviting an OSCE field mission into the country, Montenegro entrusted the OSCE with important responsibilities to assist the country’s development. Hand in hand with Montenegro’s young state institutions and civil society, we embarked on responding to the country’s evolving needs with great enthusiasm.

Evolving democracy

I am proud that we have been able to make a substantial contribution towards further advancing the country’s democratic reform process. Through the hard work and energies of our Montenegrin partners, we can now see that these efforts have borne results and delivered tangible benefits for Montenegrin citizens.

The responsibility displayed in overcoming the recent political crisis is important above all for the people of this country but it is also a positive signal that resonates in the wider region. Political leaders managed to bridge their differences by reaching a compromise that will serve the public interest. It showed us that a crisis can turn into an opportunity.

With strong leadership to success

Leadership, a long-term vision and willingness to compromise will all be greatly needed in the coming months to ensure full implementation of all adopted laws and agreements, thereby creating a level playing field for the parliamentary elections scheduled for this autumn. The elections will be an important test for the country. At present, the Mission to Montenegro is providing technical assistance to the State Election Commission, who will play a key role in the administration of the coming elections.

Public trust requires commitment

Full implementation of necessary laws is vital, particularly in countering transnational threats, strengthening the rule of law and protecting media freedoms. That is where the OSCE can help. We will continue providing assistance in the implementation of many aspects of the reform process in accordance with our mandate. The OSCE, as a strategic partner, can continue to assist Montenegro in developing strong and independent institutions that enjoy wide public trust. Key changes need time, dedication and commitment by all stakeholders.

Diversity and pluralism a key objective

Looking at the broader international context, we see mounting challenges and a complex security environment. Armed conflict is once again a reality on European soil. Unprecedented waves of refugees and migrants continue to test the unity of the international community, and extremist movements continue to promote radical ideologies that threaten dialogue and peaceful coexistence. In these challenging circumstances, building and empowering diverse and pluralistic communities is fundamental, as is the promotion of dialogue and tolerance.  

These challenges show how volatile stability can be and how crises can escalate into violent conflict. Particularly in times of growing tensions, they also underscore the importance of the OSCE’s unique role as a platform for dialogue and as a driver for joint action.

Regional security – Montenegrin security

Only last year, the OSCE marked the 40th anniversary of the Helsinki Final Act, which is the foundation of our security order and the OSCE’s comprehensive approach to security. It is thanks to this heritage that the OSCE Mission to Montenegro has become engaged in many diverse activities, from destroying heavy weapons and unsafe and obsolete military ammunition to supporting the rule of law, democratic policing and good governance, or enhancing environmental awareness and security.

We are pleased with what the OSCE has accomplished not only in Montenegro, but across the Western Balkans. The Organization has played an important role in post-conflict rehabilitation, promoting human rights and building democratic institutions. We have not acted alone but in co-operation with our national and international partners. We believe that strong partnerships offer the best guarantee for broad participation, effectiveness and our joint success.

Legitimate aspirations of today – concrete realities of tomorrow

We commend Montenegro’s achievements, its commitment to further democratic progress, and its role as a recognized factor for stability in the region. Working closely with the Montenegrin authorities and citizens, the OSCE will further develop its role as a partner that is responsive to the country’s evolving strategic priorities. We stand ready to support Montenegro as it continues to progress along the path of reform, where the legitimate aspirations of today can become the concrete realities of tomorrow. 

Related Stories

• Difficult times left behind, progress must accelerate
• Partnership and co-operation takes Bosnia and Herzegovina forward on its reform path, says OSCE Secretary General Zannier
• OSCE Secretary General addresses White House Summit on Countering Violent Extremism

ASTANA, 22 July 2016 – An OSCE-supported two-day training seminar for some 30 defence lawyers from the northern part of Kazakhstan began today in Astana, with the aim of enhancing their understanding, common interpretation and implementation of the new criminal procedure legislation.

The event is organized by the OSCE Programme Office in Astana in co-operation with the National Bar Association and the Almaty Bar Association for lawyers from the Akmola region, Pavlodar, Kostanay, Karaganda and Petropavlovsk.

Presentations will focus on new approaches and methods of legal protection, the legal institute of investigative judges in criminal proceedings, international guarantees for lawyers’ legal security, collection of evidence, and the questioning of witnesses. The interaction of lawyers with citizens, officials conducting criminal proceedings, the media and social networks will also be discussed.

“It is of utmost importance to ensure adequate conditions for the training of judges, prosecutors and lawyers as the equal actors of the lawsuit,” said Ambassador György Szabó, Head of the OSCE Programme Office in Astana. “The Bar, as an independent institution, is responsible for ensuring the professional development of defence lawyers. As demonstrated by the current training, the OSCE stands ready to support efforts in this direction”

Kadirzhan Baimukhanova, Deputy Head of the Republican Bar Association, said: "In the current conditions of rapidly developing legislation, such training seminars on the legislative novelties are crucial in ensuring the high professionalism of defence lawyers."

Other topics covered by the training course are new information technologies, e-government, relevant ethical and professional requirements as well as national and international standards and best practices.

The seminar is the first in a series of four planned for this autumn. Future events will take place in Almaty, Aktobe and Ust-Kamenogorsk. The series is part of the Programme Office’s long-standing efforts to strengthen the rule of law and support judicial reform in the host country.

Related Stories

• OSCE supports training seminar on torture prevention in Kazakhstan
• OSCE supports plea bargain training in Kazakhstan
• OSCE concludes series of training seminars on implementing the National Preventive Mechanism in Kazakhstan

TIRANA, 22 July 2016 – The OSCE Presence in Albania welcomes the Assembly’s adoption today of the set of constitutional amendments aimed at reforming the justice sector. We commend the Assembly for this fundamental achievement, which was supported tangibly by many international experts and diplomats.

It is an important milestone, paving the way for the implementation of a meaningful justice reform. The amendments adopted today must now be cascaded down through the primary and secondary legislation, the procedures and policies of the entire judicial system. Reform is not genuine until it is felt by Albanian citizens in their daily lives, across the country.

The manner in which the reform package is implemented is essential for the sustainability and the success of the reform process. Sustainability and success also depend on a change in attitudes: establishing a culture of responsibility and accountability, countering impunity and consolidating respect for the rule of law at all levels of society. 

The OSCE Presence has been a committed contributor and partner of the reform process so far and stands ready to continue its active support at all levels.

Related Stories

• OSCE Presence launches nationwide ‘Justice without delays’ initiative in Albania
• OSCE Presence, German Embassy launch project to foster public discourse about Communist past in Albania
• OSCE helps Albania dispose of highly toxic chemicals

BISHKEK, 28 July 2016 – A two-day training conducted by the OSCE Centre in Bishkek for 14 defence lawyers and 12 officers from the Prosecutor’s office on the right to liberty and freedom from arbitrary arrest or detention, ended today in the Kyrgyz capital.

The workshop focused on the international framework for measures of restraint, as well as the internationally recognized constitutional right to institute proceedings in cases of violations.

The detention of minors, persons with disabilities, women with children, or defendants in need of continued medical treatment and hospitalization were among the topics discussed, and participants learned more about their specific concerns to ensure that the restraint measures taken comply with human rights standards.

“The right to liberty is a basic fundamental right, protected by international human rights law and enshrined in the Kyrgyz Constitution,” said Anete Erdmane, acting Senior Human Dimension Officer at the OSCE Centre. “To ensure that restrictions on liberty are applied in compliance with the law and that other human rights are not violated as a result of the deprivation of liberty, it is important that prosecutors and lawyers are aware of the relevant standards and obligations. In line with its mandate, the OSCE Centre works to improve the administration of justice and strengthen the rule of law in Kyrgyzstan.”

The course was delivered by Ulugbek Azimov, a well-known national expert in the field, while  Sergey Poduzov, an international human rights law expert from Russia, also led a training session.

The training course is part of the OSCE Centre’s project on promoting a comprehensive approach to the rule of law, administration of justice, prevention of torture, and capacity building. 

Related Stories

• OSCE Centre in Bishkek supports summer school on topical issues of police reform
• OSCE Centre in Bishkek enhances police investigators’ skills in crime investigation techniques
• OSCE Centre in Bishkek hosts regional discussion on Security Sector Governance and Reform

The OSCE Programme Office in Astana concluded a series of two-day training seminars for some 100 members of the National Preventive Mechanism (NPM) against Torture on 2 August 2016 in Aktobe, Western Kazakhstan.

From May to August 2016, participants were trained in Pavlodar, Almaty, Astana and Aktobe on practical aspects of the NPM’s implementation.

The training seminars aimed at increasing the transparency and effectiveness of the Mechanism in monitoring, reporting and conducting preventive visits at detention facilities. National experts discussed with the NPM members the working procedures and methodology, challenges in fulfilling human rights obligations and ethical aspects in line with national and international anti-torture standards. Special emphasis was placed on the necessary co-operation between NPM and the law-enforcement sector.

The set of seminars was organized in partnership with the Ombudsman’s Office of Kazakhstan and the Regional Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights and is part of the Office’s long-standing commitment to reinforce the NPM and promote the Optional Protocol to the UN Convention against Torture.

Related Stories

• OSCE launches series of training seminars on National Preventive Mechanism in Kazakhstan
• OSCE supports training seminar on torture prevention in Kazakhstan
• OSCE Programme Office supports training for defence lawyers in Kazakhstan on the new criminal procedure legislation

ASTANA, 24 May 2016 – An OSCE-supported regional training seminar for some 50 military officers from Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan on the practical implementation of the Vienna Document 2011 and confidence- and security-building measures began today in Astana.

The OSCE Programme Office in Astana organized the four-day event in co-operation with Kazakhstan's Defence Ministry and with the support of the OSCE field operations.

Military and civilian experts from France, Hungary, the OSCE Forum for Security Co-operation and the Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia will share their expertise. The participants will discuss developments in the field of confidence- and security-building measures, which are the focus of the Vienna Document 2011, as well as  its implementation aspects, such as inspection procedures, experience exchange and the demonstration of weapons and equipment systems.

Deputy Defence Minister of Kazakhstan Talgat Mukhtarov said: “The Vienna Document is one of the most important instruments of the OSCE’s politico-military dimension. It has long served to promote co-operation, transparency and confidence building as well as a system of verification. While the annual seminar serves to help us understand the ‘letter’ of the Vienna Document, it is always very important that our activities embrace its ‘spirit.’”

“The OSCE has been placing considerable emphasis on building confidence and security through closer co-operation of the armed forces in the region under the Vienna Document 2011,” said György Szabó, Head of the OSCE Programme Office in Astana. “What makes the Vienna Document so exceptional is that it does not only helps de-escalate a potential conflict, but can help build relations between countries in such a way that war between them seems inconceivable.”

Robin Mossinkoff, Head of the Forum for Security Co-operation Support Section, highlighted the work done to build trust and confidence by OSCE participating States, supported by the OSCE. He noted that this was conducted not only under the Vienna Document, but also agreements such as the Code of Conduct on Political-Military Aspects of Security and the Document on Small Arms and Light Weapons, and Stockpiles of Conventional Ammunition.

The seminar will include theoretical exercises and a simulated inspection visit to the 36th Air Assault Brigade near Astana on 27 May. The participants will carry out an evaluation in accordance with the provisions of the Vienna Document on compliance and verification, and produce a report.

The Vienna Document was adopted by all OSCE participating States and obliges them to share information on their armed forces and military activities. It also contains provisions on compliance and verification, such as conducting and hosting inspections and evaluations, as well as on risk reduction, military contacts and co-operation, and prior notification of certain military activities.

The OSCE Programme Office in Astana has been organizing seminars on the Vienna Document in Kazakhstan since 2006. The seminar is part of the Programme Office's long-standing efforts to promote OSCE confidence- and security-building measures and regional security.

Related Stories

• OSCE Programme Office supports training for defence lawyers in Kazakhstan on the new criminal procedure legislation
• OSCE Programme Office supports public hearings on libel and slander legislation in Kazakhstan
• OSCE supports training seminar on torture prevention in Kazakhstan

BERLIN, 3 June 2016 – Some 20 OSCE parliamentarians were in Berlin this week for an OSCE Code of Conduct conference focused on strengthening parliamentary control of the security sector. The event, which took place 2-3 June, highlighted the important role that parliaments play in both the oversight of armed forces and in increasing the level of political support for the OSCE Code of Conduct on Politico-Military Aspects, particularly in the context of emerging security challenges.

Speaking at the opening session Thursday, OSCE PA Vice-President Alain Neri noted that at the core of the Code of Conduct is a recognition of the importance of democratic civilian control of the armed and security forces, which means that elected parliaments must have ultimate authority over the activities of the security sector. “It is up to parliamentarians,” he said, “to ensure that fundamental human rights are respected by all security and intelligence services, both public and private.”

He regretted however that “the norms and principles outlined by the Code of Conduct are being breached with a discouraging frequency” and that “there is hardly any participating State across the OSCE region with a comprehensive and fully effective oversight over the private and public security sectors.”

Neri said that members of parliament have a special role to play not only by providing needed oversight, but by increasing the Code of Conduct’s legitimacy and relevance through active political support. For the Code to fulfill its purpose, he pointed out, both experts and parliamentarians are needed to commit to fostering its implementation.

OSCE PA Treasurer and Head of the German Delegation Doris Barnett also spoke Thursday, focusing her remarks on the changing character of conflicts, including the growing number of internal and external actors that are involved in armed conflicts and the role of non-state actors. The term “hybrid warfare” has come to define discussions around security, she pointed out, with civil, economic, informational and technological means being used for aims of war instead of peace.

“To identify who is fighting against whom, with whose support, with which aims and interests – to keep a clear overview, not to mention predicting these relationships, is anything but easy, and therefore an intense inter-disciplinary, trans-sectoral, and international co-operative approach among parliamentarians is required,” said Barnett.

The OSCE PA’s Special Representative in Vienna, Amb. Andreas Nothelle, moderated a session today entitled “Parliamentary Control of Armed and Security Forces and the Role of the Code of Conduct: Perspectives on Furthering Implementation,” and delivered concluding remarks at the closing session.

“If implemented faithfully the Code of Conduct is all-encompassing and sufficiently flexible to address all new challenges of our times,” Nothelle said. “The OSCE PA, in its 2014 resolution on parliamentary oversight over the private and public security sectors, has set guidelines for meeting these challenges.”

Organized jointly by Germany’s 2016 OSCE Chairmanship and the OSCE Conflict Prevention Centre, in partnership with the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly and the Geneva Centre for the Democratic Control of Armed Forces, the event brought together over 100 participants, including parliamentarians from OSCE participating States and Partners for Co-operation, senior government officials, representatives of OSCE institutions, OSCE field presences and civil society.

OSCE parliamentarians from 13 countries participated, including several Bureau Members and Special Representatives.

For Vice-President Neri’s full remarks, please click here. Treasurer Barnett’s remarks are available (in German) here.

Related Stories

• Addressing security challenges requires rebuilding trust, says resolution to be considered at OSCE Parliamentary Assembly’s 25th Annual Session
• Assembly’s work on migration presented to OSCE ambassadors by Ad Hoc Committee Chair Lombardi at special Permanent Council
• Press registration open for OSCE Parliamentary Assembly annual session in Tbilisi

Some 20 newly-recruited personnel of the Atlantis rehabilitation centre took part in a two-week capacity building training course, conducted in the premises of the penal colony in the village of Novopokrovka, which concluded on 10 June. The event was organized by the Kyrgyz State Service for Execution of Punishment (SSEP) and the OSCE Centre in Bishkek.

OSCE-supported international trainers and specialists on therapeutic work with drug- and alcohol-addicted prisoners presented the Minnesotan treatment model, which is recognized as a global best practice among psychotherapeutic programmes for treatment of people with such problems, and organized practical sessions on the development of therapeutic skills.

“Specific professional training is critical to enable the staff of the penitentiary service to carry out their work in full safety,” said Daniele Rumolo, Senior Human Dimension Officer at the OSCE Centre in Bishkek. “Providing them with the necessary skills to effectively deal with specific categories of prisoners is also crucial to prevent criminal activities inside the prisons and enhance the respect of the rule of law.”

The course is part of an OSCE project on supporting the implementation of the National Strategy on the Development of Penitentiary System “Umut-2”. The project addresses the human rights situation and safety in penitentiary establishments through capacity building activities for prison staff.

Related Stories

• OSCE Centre in Bishkek supports workshop on crime prevention through partnerships between police, civil organizations and the public
• OSCE Centre in Bishkek supports newly established working group on police reform
• OSCE Centre in Bishkek hosts regional discussion on Security Sector Governance and Reform

COPENHAGEN, 13 June 2016 – Pointing to a loss of trust between OSCE countries in recent years, the rapporteur of the Parliamentary Assembly’s political affairs and security committee, Margareta Cederfelt (MP, Sweden), has authored a report and draft resolution geared towards strengthening international dialogue and improving co-operation to meet common challenges facing the OSCE region. The resolution will be considered at the OSCE PA’s 25th Annual Session, being held in Tbilisi, Georgia, from 1 to 5 July.

“Since so many international problems require real multilateral engagement, the gridlock and loss of trust we have recently seen across the OSCE area has had a tangible and negative impact on our mutual security,” Cederfelt said today. “Only by strengthening dialogue and political will can diplomatic efforts succeed in bringing together belligerent parties, resolving conflicts and addressing common threats.”

In this regard, she said that the OSCE should utilize its full capacity to tackle problems including transnational terrorism and the crisis in and around Ukraine. The resolution also points to conflicts and challenges of refugees and internally displaced persons in Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia and Moldova as requiring greater attention and political will. Regarding Abkhazia, Georgia, and South Ossetia, Georgia, the resolution calls for strengthening international dialogue in regard to the security and stability arrangements, and urges the full implementation of the EU-brokered Six-Point Agreement of 12 August 2008.

Other key themes highlighted by the rapporteur include women in armed conflict, the link between security and democracy, and the fight against corruption. Specifically, Cederfelt’s resolution:

• Calls upon OSCE governments to harmonize and co-ordinate anti-terrorism legislation and intelligence-sharing, as well as develop measures to block the funding of terrorist groups;
• Urges all parties to the Ukraine conflict to fully implement the Package of Measures for the implementation of the Minsk Agreements, and calls for an international peacekeeping operation under the auspices of the UN and the OSCE to reinforce the Minsk Agreements;
• Calls for democratic and legal accountability in order to address corruption and ensure greater political integrity;
• Encourages OSCE countries to promote effective measures to provide security guarantees and humanitarian relief for women at all stages of the conflict cycle.

Regarding the crisis in and around Ukraine, which Cederfelt underlines has been exacerbated by Russian aggression, the resolution expresses “respect for the principles of the inviolability of frontiers and territorial integrity, peaceful settlement of disputes, equal rights, and self-determination of peoples as stated in the Helsinki Final Act, and calls on the Russian Federation to restrain its aggressive practices and reverse the illegal annexation of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea.” 

Concern is also expressed over recent military escalation in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict zone, with the resolution urging parliamentarians to encourage political will from the sides in the region to promote an agreement on confidence building-measures to reduce the risk for further hostilities.

Cederfelt’s draft resolution will be debated and amended during a number of meetings of the OSCE PA’s General Committee on Political Affairs and Security beginning on 2 July. The committee will also take up several other resolutions that cover additional matters related to the OSCE’s politico-military dimension of security. After the amendment process and their adoption by the committee, resolutions will be voted on by the full Assembly during the final day of the Annual Session on 5 July, for inclusion in the OSCE PA’s Tbilisi Declaration.

The Declaration, containing wide-ranging policy recommendations and pronouncements in the fields of security, economics and the environment, and human rights, will be sent to the foreign ministers of OSCE participating States and presented in national parliaments. 

Held under the theme “25 Years of Parliamentary Co-operation: Building Trust Through Dialogue,” the Annual Session will take place at Expo Georgia Exhibition Center in Tbilisi, and is open to the media. Additional information, including the full text of resolutions and reports, is available here. Journalists interested in attending the Annual Session should register here by 20 June.

The OSCE Parliamentary Assembly is comprised of 323 parliamentarians from 57 countries spanning Europe, Central Asia and North America. The Assembly provides a forum for parliamentary diplomacy, monitors elections, and strengthens international co-operation to uphold commitments on political, security, economic, environmental and human rights issues.

Related Stories

• At OSCE Code of Conduct conference, PA Members stress importance of parliamentary oversight
• Assembly’s work on migration presented to OSCE ambassadors by Ad Hoc Committee Chair Lombardi at special Permanent Council
• Press registration open for OSCE Parliamentary Assembly annual session in Tbilisi

VIENNA, 16 June 2016 – Accountability is crucial to preventing future crimes against humanity, war crimes and genocide, said President of the Hague-based International Criminal Court (ICC), Judge Silvia Fernandez de Gurmendi as she addressed the 823d meeting of the Forum for Security Co-operation (FSC) on Wednesday in Vienna.

Fernandez emphasized that the current security challenges are staggering in their numbers and complexity.

“The world is facing destabilizing conflicts around the globe which include not only deliberate acts of violence against the physical security and well-being of civilians, but also deliberate attacks against their cultures and identities,” she said. “This demands a multi-faceted response from the international community to stop violence in the short-term, but also sustainable conflict resolution in the long-term.”

Fernandez stressed the importance of justice in preventing future crimes and the necessity of building the capacity of national jurisdictions. The ICC can exercise jurisdiction over crimes against humanity, war crimes and genocide but it is complementary and not intended to replace national systems, she noted.

“Capacity building of national jurisdictions is essential. The OSCE has played a role - especially in the former Yugoslavia - and can also make contributions through supporting the rule of law and democratic institutions,” Fernandez said.

Ambassador Adam Bugajski of Poland, the OSCE participating State currently chairing the FSC, said: “In paragraph 30 of the Code of Conduct we committed ourselves, inter alia, to ensure that armed forces personnel are aware they are individually accountable under national and international law for their actions."

Related Stories

• OSCE Forum for Security Co-operation: Modernizing the Vienna Document and strong CSBMs are key responses to security challenges
• Gender equality in the military enhances security for all, say participants of joint OSCE Forum for Security Co-operation-Permanent Council meeting
• Mongolia hosts OSCE conference on the role of armed and security forces in democratic societies

SARAJEVO, 16 June 2016 – An-OSCE supported course on security policy in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) for some 30 participants from government institutions, parliament, police, armed forces, civil society, academia, media and industry concluded today in Sarajevo.

The two-week course, organized by the OSCE Mission to BiH and Council of Ministers’ Inter-ministerial Working Group on Monitoring the Implementation of BiH Security Policy, focused on the necessity of a multi-disciplinary approach and co-ordination and co-operation among various security actors. The course also aimed at increasing their knowledge of the BiH security policy and security system.

“The responsibility for security is not the exclusive domain of any one particular ministry or institution. No single institution has sufficient resources or mandate to address what have become global security concerns and problems,” said Michael Delacruz, Head of Security Co-operation Unit at the OSCE Mission to BiH.

Momir Brajic, member of the Council of Minister’s Inter-ministerial Working Group, said: “Implementation of the security policy requires a particular accent to be placed on the establishment and improvement of inter-section co-operation, principally on co-operation between the government and civil sector. Therefore, this course is an excellent forum for exchange of opinions and experiences between different actors in the area of security.”

Dario Busic, Head of the Department at the BiH Ministry of Communication and Transport, said: “The course covered very interesting topics, some of which were new for me. It, therefore, enabled me to see the field of transportation, as my field of expertise, from a new perspective.”    

The OSCE Mission to BiH and Inter-Ministerial Working Group have been organizing security policy courses since 2007 to raise understanding of BiH’s security policy and to exchange information in this area. The course is accredited by the BiH Civil Service Agency with ten credits and serves for the professional development and career advancement of civil servants.  

Related Stories

• OSCE Mission releases report on war crimes processing at state level in Bosnia and Herzegovina
• OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina facilitates visit to National Museum for children from Zepce and Maglaj
• Judges and prosecutors in Bosnia and Herzegovina, at OSCE meeting, learn about videoconferencing to reach remote witnesses

BISHKEK, 28 June 2016 – The OSCE’s role and activities in Security Sector Governance and Reform in Central Asia, and the challenges and opportunities in the field, are the focus of a three-day regional seminar hosted by the OSCE Centre in Bishkek, which began today in the Kyrgyz capital.

Taking part are some 50 representatives of OSCE field operations in Central Asia and regional partners, government officials from Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, as well as civil society and academia. As well as providing a platform for regional networking among national and international partners, the discussion will explore challenges within police reform, border management and security, counter-terrorism, anti-corruption, justice sector reform among others.

“By reviewing the government’s budget and reports on its execution, adopting laws, establishing a working group to monitor enforcement of the laws and parliamentary decisions, we can make the reforms possible,” said Ainuru Altybaeva,  Kyrgyz member of parliament and member of the parliamentary Committee for International Relations, Defence and Security.

Security Sector Governance and Reform is increasingly recognized by OSCE participating States as an essential element in conflict prevention, early warning, crisis management and peace-building.

Daniele Rumolo, Acting Head of the OSCE Centre in Bishkek, said: “Effective security sector reform processes have to be carried out in full consultation with all affected sides, including civil society and independent experts, as well as with the support of international organizations. The new OSCE guidelines on Security Sector Governance and Reform are designed to lead us and all other stakeholders and partners, in upholding these principles.”

Professor Erica Marat of the National Defense University in Washington D.C. said that while there are challenges for reform processes in the region, there are also tremendous opportunities which can be supported by a well-educated population, empowered women, ethnic and religious diversity, and a vibrant civil society.

The regional seminar is part of an extra-budgetary project that aims to support, build capacity and raise awareness on Security Sector Governance and Reform within the OSCE. The project is supported by Germany’s 2016 OSCE Chairmanship, as well as Switzerland, Slovakia, Serbia and Austria. A similar regional event is planned for later this year in South-East Europe. 

Related Stories

• OSCE Centre in Bishkek supports summer school on topical issues of police reform
• OSCE Centre in Bishkek trains defence lawyers and prosecutors on right to liberty and freedom from arbitrary arrest or detention
• OSCE Centre in Bishkek enhances police investigators’ skills in crime investigation techniques

VIENNA, 28 June 2016 – High-level representatives of OSCE participating States, Partners for Co-operation and partnering organizations are exploring how to revive co-operative security against the backdrop of current challenges to European security, during the three-day 2016 Annual Security Review Conference (ASRC), which started today in Vienna.

The Conference brings together about 400 participants and was opened by the Special Representative of the Federal Government of Germany for the OSCE Chairmanship Gernot Erler who stressed that the discussion should provide an “honest, scrupulously constructive dialogue.” He welcomed the agreement by all OSCE participating States to use the platform of the ASRC to discuss the crises and conflicts in the OSCE area in a frank manner.

“Peace in Europe is broken and the fundamental values and principles of the European security order have been and are being called into question. This situation is unacceptable,” he said. “At the same time we must adhere to a tone characterized by mutual confidence.”

Looking at the conflict in and around Ukraine in particular, Erler emphasized that the Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) must not be threatened nor its work obstructed. “The SMM must not be made blind,” said Erler as he criticized the recent attacks on SMM unarmed aerial vehicles and cameras.

Erler welcomed the keynote speaker José Ramos-Horta, 1996 Nobel Peace Prize laureate and former president of Timor-Leste:  “Mr. Ramos-Horta fought for the freedom of his country and his people with perseverance and by peaceful means.  Today, he can be a source of inspiration for us in the OSCE,” Erler said.  

In his speech, Ramos-Horta said that Europe is at a crossroads, but the region had faced greater challenges in the past. “You can do it again, and do better still,” he said, referring to the rebuilding of Europe after the Second Word War. With a view to many unresolved conflicts Ramos-Horta urged: “The preferred option should always be prevention of conflicts, dialogue and mediation to settle disputes. When these are actively, creatively and patiently exercised in a timely fashion more often than not they produce better results than the use of force.”

OSCE Secretary General Lamberto Zannier said that despite divergent interpretations of the origins of the current crisis in European security “there is also a growing realization that we cannot simply give up on seeking a convergence of interests where this appears possible.”

Highlighting the agreement reached earlier this year by participating States on a second set of OSCE confidence-building measures on cybersecurity, Zannier said that the OSCE as the most inclusive platform for dialogue in the northern hemisphere should play a significant role in revitalising the discussion on strengthening arms control. “Establishing a neutral mechanism for military fact-finding, inspections under an OSCE flag or even a centralized and institutionalized OSCE verification/inspection mechanism are some of the suggestions that we may want to consider,” he said.

Michael Møller, Director-General of the United Nations Office at Geneva conveyed a message to the ASRC participants by the UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon, re-affirming the benefits of enhancing “the invaluable co-operation between the OSCE and the United Nations.”

Møller welcomed the call by Germany’s 2016 OSCE Chairmanship for ‘renewing dialogue, rebuilding trust and restoring security.’ “As we work to pursue these goals, we need to devise joint strategies according to our respective strengths,” he said.

Related Stories

• Statement by OSCE Chairperson-in-Office and German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier on the domestic political crisis in the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia
• Azerbaijan’s Deputy Foreign Minister addresses OSCE, calls for work toward peaceful settlement of Nagorno-Karabakh conflict to be advanced
• OSCE States explore role for the Organization regarding migration and refugee flows

National Points of Contact from 16 OSCE participating States on implementing UN Security Council Resolution 1540 (2004) on the non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their components were familiarized with countries’ commitments stemming from this Resolution, at a training session co-organized by the OSCE from 28 June to 1 July 2016 in Kaliningrad, in the Russian Federation. A National Point of Contact from Chile – an observer State – also took part.

The session was hosted by the Government of the Russian Federation, and conducted in partnership with the UN Regional Centre for Peace and Disarmament in Asia and the Pacific (UNRCPD) and the UN Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA).

Welcoming the participants on behalf of Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, an official of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs stressed that “the efficiency of the UN Security Council Resolution 1540 can be guaranteed only through its full implementation by all countries”, and by encouraging close and constructive co-operation between all parties.

Robin Mossinkoff, the Head of the Forum for Security Cooperation Support Unit, said: “The OSCE has been supporting the network of OSCE National Points of Contact on implementing Resolution 1540 with annual meetings since 2014, and appreciates the Russian Federation’s initiative to hold this year’s annual meeting in format of a training session.”

Participants were provided with an overview of the international non-proliferation regimes and instruments. They discussed the national legislative and regulatory framework, enforcement of legislation with regard to export and border controls, transshipment, illicit trafficking and brokering control as well as the role of the Points of Contact in supporting the development and implementation of these measures.

Anton Martyniuk, the UNRCPD Coordinator of the project, noted that establishing Points of Contact and fostering their operation is a solid contribution to implementing Resolution 1540 at the national, regional and international levels.

Participants also visited a border crossing point to learn more about the work of a commodity identification centre.

The training course was organized as part of the joint UNODA-OSCE project on facilitating the regional implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1540. UNRCPD and the OSCE organized the course in co-operation with the 1540 Committee and its Group of Experts.

Related Stories

• Civil society dialogue and mediation processes North and South of Mediterranean region in focus of OSCE-supported workshop and discussions in Madrid
• Intelligence-led policing in focus of OSCE Annual Police Experts Meeting in Vienna
• Head of OSCE Strategic Police Matters Unit addresses UN Chiefs of Police Summit in New York

KYIV, 15 July 2016 – The OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Ukraine today opened a new sphere of project assistance to Ukraine – improving democratic control of defence and security sectors – with a presentation of international experience and best practices at a conference in Kyiv.

The event, co-organized with the Parliament and the Ministry of Defence, brought together more than 120 parliamentarians, military and civilian representatives of various ministries, experts, and civil society activists to learn about the basic principles in this area, as well as practical examples from other countries.

During the conference, the OSCE Code of Conduct on Politico-Military Aspects of Security and the OSCE Security Sector Governance and Reform Guidelines were presented. Ukrainian translations of these documents can be found at www.osce.org/fsc/41355  and www.osce.org/uk/secretariat/253156, respectively.

The participants discussed in detail the national models of parliamentary and civic control over the defence sectors of Austria, Bulgaria, Denmark, Germany, and Norway.

“The ability of Parliament, and of society at large, to exercise control over its security services is a true litmus test for democracy and rule of law,” said Jeffrey Erlich, Senior Project Officer at the OSCE Project Co-ordinator’s Office. “Such oversight contributes to a much more effective security sector by rooting out corruption, and by strengthening the bond between society and the armed forces.”

Igor Dolgov, Deputy Minister of Defence, said: “For me there is no question of whether it is possible to simultaneously deal with current crisis and implement reforms in defense sectors, including strengthening mechanisms of democratic control over armed forces. It is needed and it is already happening.”

Until the end of the year, the OSCE Project Co-ordinator will provide expertise in developing a concept paper and implementation plan for democratic oversight; assist in promoting dialogue between the military, parliamentarians, experts and civic activists; and contribute to raising awareness among the public by publishing relevant online resources.  Further assistance efforts will continue after 2016.

In partnering with the Geneva Centre for the Democratic Control of the Armed Forces (DCAF), the project will also draw on their expertise.

Related Stories

• OSCE Project Co-ordinator promotes best practices of democratic control over defence and security sector in Ukraine
• OSCE Project Co-ordinator to mark 20 years of Ukraine’s constitution with discussion on constitutional reform
• OSCE Project Co-ordinator trains new Ukrainian neighbourhood police

VIENNA, 13 July 2016 – OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media Dunja Mijatović today said that media laws under consideration by the Parliament in Moldova run counter to international standards on media freedom.

On 7 July the Parliament adopted, in the first reading, three amendments to the Audio-visual Code of the Republic of Moldova. All three amendments aim to limit broadcasts in foreign languages or those originating from abroad.

“It is counterproductive to try to limit speech through excessively restrictive legislation,” Mijatović wrote in a letter yesterday to the Chairperson of the Parliament of the Republic of Moldova, Andrian Candu. “In my view it seems excessive and may be ineffective.”

The reasoning given for introducing the restrictive provisions banning broadcasts or rebroadcasts of certain content is that it originates from states that are neither members of the European Union, nor are parties to the European Convention on Transfrontier Television. 

“I trust that the draft laws will be carefully reviewed by the members of Parliament before being adopted in the second reading, ensuring that the regulation does not pose undue limits on free expression and free flow of information,” Mijatović said.

The Representative also pointed to the recommendations of her Office’s non-paper “Propaganda and Freedom of the Media” published in 2015 (available at www.osce.org/fom/203926).

The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media observes media developments in all 57 OSCE participating States. She 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. 

Related Stories

• OSCE Representative condemns incidents directed at journalists and independent voices in Bosnia and Herzegovina
• OSCE Representative condemns murder of journalist Pavel Sheremet in Ukraine
• Russia’s labeling of journalists as terrorists a threat to media freedom, OSCE Representative says