hr OSCE Mission to Serbia and ODIHR launch joint Report on peer elections for High Judicial Council and State Prosecutors’ Council By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Wed, 25 May 2016 11:01:43 +0000 Ivana Milatovic, OSCE Mission to Serbia Report on Monitoring of Peer Elections for the High Judicial Council and State Prosecutors’ Council of the Republic of Serbia Serbia’s legal framework for governing elections to the High Judicial Council and the State Prosecutors’ Council is fairly comprehensive although there are a few minor issues with implementing the laws and regulations, partly as a result of gaps in the law. This is the conclusion of a joint Report launched on 24 May 2016 by the OSCE Mission to Serbia and the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR). The OSCE Mission and ODIHR followed the elections of judges and prosecutors to the High Judicial Council and the State Prosecutors’ Council throughout Serbia in December 2015, in partnership with the Lawyers’ Committee for Human Rights (YUCOM), a local civil society organization. The election processes were conducted without any major irregularities observed. The Report makes a number of recommendations, largely similar for both the judicial and prosecutorial councils, including amending and further developing the legal framework regarding the election process for the judicial and prosecutors’ councils, the candidates’ nomination process, and procedures for resolving disputes and providing effective remedies. The findings and recommendations resulting from the election monitoring will help inform the public about the ongoing judicial reform process in Serbia. The relevant state institutions and justice stakeholders will also have an objective assessment to assist them in further strengthening the independence, accountability and efficiency of the Serbian judiciary. The Report is available at: https://www.osce.org/odihr/242346 The OSCE Mission to Serbia and ODIHR stand ready to continue supporting the legal reform efforts of the Serbian authorities in line with the recommendations of this report and OSCE commitments.Related StoriesMore than 1,000 local inspectors in Serbia successfully complete OSCE-supported online training courseOSCE Mission to Serbia supports public consultations on implementation of UN SCR 1325 – Women, Peace and Security (2016-2020) National Action PlanRegional Conference on Legal Remedies in Criminal Proceedings: Laws in the Region and Their Application Full Article Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights OSCE Mission to Serbia Elections South-Eastern Europe News
hr OSCE/ODIHR publishes handbook on follow-up to election observation recommendations By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Mon, 06 Jun 2016 09:46:27 +0000 244966 Handbook on the Follow-up of Electoral Recommendations The OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) on 6 June 2016 released a publication to assist OSCE participating States in better following up on recommendations from final reports by election observation missions. The Handbook on the Follow-up of Electoral Recommendations – the first tool of its kind for the OSCE region – outlines the key issues when developing and implementing electoral legislation and practice, based on ODIHR’s election observation missions, in line with OSCE commitments and international standards. "With this handbook, we hope to establish a more systematic approach to follow-up to election observation activities, that is clearer and more consistent and, at the same time, puts emphasis on the implementation of recommendations," said Michael Georg Link, Director of ODIHR. "This handbook can serve as a practical guide for ODIHR in supporting interested participating States in their efforts to follow up on electoral recommendations." The handbook combines explanations of technical aspects related to follow-up activities with examples of ways ODIHR can help participating States in improving their electoral legislation and processes. ODIHR developed the handbook as part of its continued efforts to improve its methodology and to increase professionalism in its election observation activities. All OSCE participating States have committed themselves to promptly follow up on ODIHR election assessments and recommendations.Related StoriesOSCE/ODIHR final report on early parliamentary elections in Serbia recommends comprehensive review of legislation and ensuring the level playing field for contestantsOSCE/ODIHR final report on the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia’s postponed early parliamentary elections recommends continuing electoral reform processOSCE/ODIHR and Venice Commission meet on electoral reform in Armenia Full Article Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights Elections News
hr OSCE/ODIHR and Venice Commission meet on electoral reform in Armenia By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Mon, 27 Jun 2016 07:51:34 +0000 On 24 June 2016, the working group of the Venice Commission and the OSCE/ODIHR held discussions with some representatives of the opposition on the on-going electoral reform in Armenia. It subsequently held a working meeting with Arpine Hohvanissyan, Minister of Justice and Davit Harutyunyan, Chief of Staff of the Government. Both meetings included discussions on the recent mutual agreement reached in Yerevan between the government and the opposition on the "organisational and technical mechanisms for oversight over the lawfulness of the electoral process." The Venice Commission and the OSCE/ODIHR welcomed the meaningful engagement of all stakeholders which led to this agreement. The meeting acknowledged that voter registration and identification issues are being addressed, while the proper implementation of new technologies has to be ensured, including through careful timing and the use of pilots. In the course of the working meeting, some additional areas for further improvement were identified, including access to the list of voters who voted, the timing of measures to increase gender equality, accreditation of citizens observers and extension of complaint periods. These reforms could increase trust in the electoral process in Armenia.Related StoriesOSCE/ODIHR presents recommendations from final report on 2015 constitutional referendum in ArmeniaConstitutional referendum Full Article Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights Elections Armenia News
hr OSCE/ODIHR final report on the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia’s postponed early parliamentary elections recommends continuing electoral reform process By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Thu, 07 Jul 2016 12:29:42 +0000 The former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Early Parliamentary Elections, 5 June 2016: Final Report The OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) issued a final report on 8 July 2016 on the postponed early parliamentary elections in the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, which were scheduled for 5 June 2016. The final report assesses whether the electoral process and activities conducted before the postponement of elections were in line with OSCE commitments, other international obligations and standards for democratic elections, and with national legislation. While recognizing that 2015 amendments to the Electoral Code attempted to address most of the prior OSCE/ODIHR recommendations, the report notes that late changes negatively affected electoral stakeholders’ understanding of new provisions and impacted their ability to fulfil their functions. In addition, a number of previous recommendations remain to be addressed and legal inconsistencies eliminated. The report recommends conducting a complete review of the Code after consultations between all political stakeholders and relevant civil society organizations. As one of the priority recommendations, the report recommends the State Election Commission and the Ministry of Internal Affairs continue the process of updating the voter register through a co-ordinated effort ahead of the next elections. In order to increase the citizens’ confidence in the accuracy of voter registration, it also recommends that the process is transparent and ensures political parties and civil society access for verification. Noting that some measures to prevent intimidation and pressure on citizens were taken by authorities, it however mentions that a climate of intimidation persisted, attributed to a fear of retribution existing in state companies and institutions. The report recommends that authorities actively encourage citizens to report any cases of pressure and intimidation and thoroughly investigate such instances. While a number of aspects for the media coverage of election campaigns have been detailed in the Electoral Code, a need for continued substantial reform was highlighted. The report suggests amending the legal framework to further clarify the requirements for balanced reporting during the pre-campaign period. Additional recommendations in the report include deciding on election-related cases within timely deadlines and harmonizing the Electoral Code with the Constitution, which provides for public hearings. It also recommends periodic review of district boundaries by an independent body to ensure the equality of the vote.Related StoriesOSCE/ODIHR opens observation mission for early parliamentary elections in the former Yugoslav Republic of MacedoniaOSCE/ODIHR observers to hold press conference in Skopje on ThursdayEarly Parliamentary Elections Full Article Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights Elections South-Eastern Europe the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia News
hr OSCE/ODIHR final report on early parliamentary elections in Serbia recommends comprehensive review of legislation and ensuring the level playing field for contestants By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Fri, 29 Jul 2016 11:17:38 +0000 Serbia, Early Parliamentary Elections, 24 April 2016: Final Report The final report by the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) on Serbia’s 24 April 2016 early parliamentary elections recommends a comprehensive review of legislation to further improve election process. The report, while finding the elections were efficiently administered and held in a competitive environment, spells out key areas that would benefit from such a review, including unclear rules on candidate registration, inadequate regulation of campaign finance, deficiencies and loopholes in dispute resolution mechanisms, an absence of sanctions for some violations and the lack of provisions on election observation. The report, published on 29 July 2016, notes that, while fundamental freedoms were respected and candidates were able to campaign freely, biased media coverage, undue advantage of incumbency and a blurring of the distinction between state and party activities hindered a level playing field for contestants. To this end, the report recommends specific campaign regulations, including the introduction of ceilings on campaign expenditures and preventing the misuse of administrative resources and the abuse of office. In noting the absence of an effective mechanism for monitoring media conduct during the campaign, the report recommends clarifying the competences of the media regulatory body in investigating and sanctioning breaches of legislation in a timely manner. A review of the election appeals system to guarantee an effective and timely remedy for all complaints, and particularly in cases related to electionday irregularities and election results, is also among the report’s recommendations. Additional recommendations relate to providing unrestricted access of citizen and international observers to the entire electoral process, including voting, counting and tabulation, and enhancing the transparency of the tabulation of results. Related StoriesOSCE/ODIHR final report on Serbia’s parliamentary elections notes respect for fundamental freedoms, recommends steps to further improve election processParliamentary ElectionsInternational election observers in Serbia to hold press conference on Monday Full Article Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights Elections Serbia News
hr OSCE/ODIHR opens observation mission for parliamentary elections in Belarus By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Tue, 02 Aug 2016 11:39:43 +0000 MINSK, 2 August 2016 – The OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) today formally opened an election observation mission for the 11 September parliamentary elections in Belarus. The mission’s deployment follows an official invitation from the Belarus authorities. The mission is led by Tana de Zulueta and consists of a core team of 10 experts based in Minsk and 38 long-term observers to be deployed in teams of two across the country. In addition, ODIHR will request 400 short-term observers to monitor proceedings on election day. The experts and observers are drawn from 24 countries. The mission will assess the parliamentary elections for compliance with OSCE commitments and other international standards and obligations for democratic elections, as well as with domestic legislation. Observers will follow the candidate registration process, campaign activities, the work of the election administration and relevant state bodies, implementation of the legal framework and the resolution of election disputes. As part of the observation, the mission will also monitor the media coverage of the campaign. In the course of its observation, the mission will meet with representatives of relevant authorities and of political parties, as well as with representatives of civil society, the media and the international community. On election day, observers will monitor the opening of polling stations, voting, the counting of ballots and the tabulation of results. For election day, the mission plans to join efforts with delegations from the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly and the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe. A statement of preliminary findings and conclusions will be issued on the day after the election. A final report on the observation of the entire election process and including recommendations will be published approximately two months after the completion of the election process. For further information please visit http://www.osce.org/odihr/elections/belarus or contact Ulvi Akhundlu, OSCE/ODIHR Election Adviser, at +375 29 876 3772 (mobile) Related StoriesReforms needed to address substantial shortcomings in Belarus election, international observers say, after peaceful presidential campaignOSCE/ODIHR opens observation mission for presidential election in BelarusWhile noting welcoming attitude by the authorities, OSCE/ODIHR final report on Presidential election in Belarus recommends comprehensive and inclusive review of national legislation Full Article Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights Elections Eastern Europe Belarus Press release
hr OSCE/ODIHR observers to hold press conference in Moscow on Monday By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Fri, 05 Aug 2016 10:59:23 +0000 MOSCOW, 5 August 2016 – On the occasion of the formal opening of the election observation mission (EOM) deployed by the OSCE's Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) to observe the 18 September State Duma elections in the Russian Federation, the mission will hold a press conference in Moscow on Monday, 8 August 2016. Jan Petersen, the head of the OSCE/ODIHR election observation mission, will introduce the role of the EOM and its upcoming activities. Journalists are invited to attend the press conference at 15:00, Monday, 8 August, at Interfax, 1-ya Tverskaya-Yamskaya ul., 2 Moscow, 127006. For further information, please contact Inta Lase OSCE/ODIHR EOM Media Analyst, at +79166214710 (mobile) or Inta.Lase@odihr.ru or Thomas Rymer, OSCE/ODIHR Spokesperson, at +48 609 522 266 (Warsaw mobile) or at thomas.rymer@odihr.pl. Related StoriesParliamentary Elections Full Article Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights Elections Russia Media advisory
hr Strengthening regional women’s networks is crucial in advancing gender equality, say participants at OSCE/ODIHR International Forum of Women Leaders in Minsk By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Wed, 22 Jun 2016 07:35:45 +0000 248011 New approaches to unleashing and mobilizing the potential of female leadership and the role of men as partners in achieving gender equality were the focuses of the International Forum of Women Leaders "Equal Opportunities for a Better Future", co-organized by the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) in Minsk on 21 and 22 June 2016. More than 100 participants from 21 OSCE participating States, including representatives from all of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) countries, discussed the possibilities for creating networks for women’s empowerment, explored ways of institutionalizing gender analysis, and outlined good practices for promoting women’s roles and influence in politics. A Minsk Declaration of Women Leaders was also adopted, acknowledging the main obstacles in reaching gender equality and calling for action to challenge the status quo. The forum was co-organized with Belarusian State University, Council of Europe Information Point in Minsk, the Executive Committee of the Commonwealth of Independent States, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Belarus, United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in Belarus, and Raoul Wallenberg Institute of Human Rights and Humanitarian Law. "All actors, from political parties to governmental structures, should think about how they can involve women and create gender-sensitive platforms where women can substantively contribute on an equal footing with men," said Marcin Walecki, Head of ODIHR’s Democratization Department. Elena Shamal, a Member of the House of Representatives of Belarus National Assembly, said: "The 2015 Global Gender Gap Report of the World Economic Forum points out that there is not a single state in the world that could provide absolute gender equality. Today’s Forum has once again underlined the need to strengthen international, state and public co-operation for further promoting women’s participation in political and public life." Nadezda Shvedova, of the Russian Academy of Science, said: "To achieve gender equality, we need to enhance co-operation in the OSCE area and the CIS region, in particular. We are calling for the establishment of regional networks of women leaders and women’s organizations to further advance women’s participation in political and public life, for the benefit of all." This forum was organized as part of ODIHR’s programme to advance women’s political participation in the OSCE region, and with the support of the Belarus Ministries of Labour and Social Protection and of Foreign Affairs.Related StoriesODIHR trains prosecutors and lawyers in Kyrgyzstan on international standards regarding freedom of religion or beliefOSCE/ODIHR final report on early parliamentary elections in Serbia recommends comprehensive review of legislation and ensuring the level playing field for contestantsOSCE/ODIHR event in Kyiv supports dialogue platform in Verkhovna Rada on parliamentary ethics Full Article Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights Democratization Gender equality News
hr Gender perspective in reaching out to audiences in focus of OSCE/ODIHR-organized workshop in Ukraine By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Fri, 24 Jun 2016 12:45:51 +0000 248506 Building capacities of Ukrainian gender equality advisors was the focus of the workshop Mainstreaming Gender into Communication, organized by the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) and the Equal Opportunities Caucus of the Parliament of Ukraine in Lviv, western Ukraine, on 24 June 2016. Twenty-five participants from government and civil society, representing seven regions of Ukraine, had the opportunity to learn about effective ways to include a gender perspective into their internal and external communication. Oksana Yurynets, a Member of Ukrainian Parliament and the Equal Opportunities Caucus, said: "The workshop focused on enhancing the abilities of regional state-administration gender advisors to communicate clear, strong messages to general public. Such communication helps to create an environment where dialogue about gender equality is possible. Working on these issues is very important for Ukraine as a country where equality remains a strategic target." Kateryna Ryabiko, Project Co-ordinator at ODIHR, said that in accordance with the 2004 OSCE Action Plan for the Promotion of Gender Equality, ODIHR is tasked to promote equality between women and men throughout the OSCE area, including through education in gender awareness. "Promoting gender mainstreaming is essential to recognizing gender equality as a vital element of democratization of society." Participants also discussed findings of the recent report by the UN Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women that urged Ukraine to intensify its efforts to overcome persistent stereotypes that are discriminatory against women and to improve national capacity for promoting gender equality. The event was organized as part of ODIHR’s project on “Strengthening dialogue among civil society and with key government stakeholders in Ukraine on human dimension issues”. It was launched in April 2015 with the aim of enhancing effective mechanisms for dialogue to address key human rights issues in Ukraine, in line with OSCE commitments and international standards.Related StoriesOSCE/ODIHR event in Kyiv supports dialogue platform in Verkhovna Rada on parliamentary ethicsPolitical party legislation in Ukraine, focus of OSCE/ODIHR expert workshopOSCE workshop in Kosovo focuses on improving the recording of hate crimes Full Article Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights Democratization Gender equality Eastern Europe Ukraine News
hr Christine Muttonen of Austria elected OSCE PA President, Vice-Presidents and Committee Officers also elected By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Tue, 05 Jul 2016 09:40:15 +0000 TBILISI, 5 July 2016 – At the close of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly’s 25th Annual Session in Tbilisi today, members of the Assembly elected Austrian parliamentarian Christine Muttonen as President. Muttonen has previously served as OSCE PA Vice-President and Special Representative for Central and Eastern Asia, and is Deputy Head of the Austrian Delegation to the PA. Upon being elected, Muttonen said that she would pursue direct talks with governments and other OSCE institutions on advancing avenues for closer co-operation. “Parliamentarians can play a very important role in securing peace and stability,” she said. “It will be my duty to make sure they have the possibility to do so.” OSCE PA Vice-Presidents were also elected today: Vilija Aleknaite Abramikiene (Lithuania), Azay Guliyev (Azerbaijan), and Isabel Santos (Portugal) were elected to three-year terms, and Victor Dobre (Romania) was elected to a one-year term. On Monday, the OSCE PA’s General Committee on Political Affairs and Security elected its leadership. Members of the committee re-elected Roger Wicker (United States) and Margareta Cederfelt (Sweden) Chair and Rapporteur, respectively, and Guglielmo Picchi (Italy) was elected Vice-Chair. In the General Committee on Economic Affairs, Science, Technology and Environment on Sunday, members elected Nilza Sena (Portugal) Chair and Artur Gerasymov (Ukraine) Vice-Chair. Italian parliamentarian Marietta Tidei was re-elected Rapporteur. Members of the General Committee on Democracy, Human Rights and Humanitarian Questions on Monday elected Ignacio Sanchez Amor (Spain) Chair and Kyriakos Kyriakou-Hadjiyanni (Cyprus) Rapporteur. Vice-Chair Ivana Dobesova (Czech Republic) was re-elected by acclamation. In his final address as Assembly President, Finnish parliamentarian and former Chairperson-in-Office of the OSCE Ilkka Kanerva noted that he has led the PA during challenging times. “In these times, it is important to recall the validity of all ten Helsinki Final Act principles. As President, I have worked to reaffirm these principles, even as they have been put to the test lately. I believe that reviving the spirit of Helsinki requires ensuring that the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly remains an Assembly that is inclusive, open and transparent,” he said. He also highlighted his special paper distributed at the Tbilisi Annual Session entitled “Our common vision for the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly.” Kanerva was elected President of the Assembly at the Baku Annual Session in July 2014, and will now serve as President Emeritus of the Assembly. For the full text of the OSCE PA’s Declaration and resolutions adopted today in Tbilisi, as well as speeches, photos, videos and more, please visit http://www.oscepa.org/meetings/annual-sessions/2016-tbilisi-annual-session. Additional photos are available on the Georgian Parliament’s Flickr pages at https://www.flickr.com/photos/geoparliament and https://www.flickr.com/photos/oscepatbilisi/. 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 StoriesOSCE parliamentarians in Tbilisi adopt wide-ranging Declaration on human rights, security and the environmentOSCE parliamentarians consider resolutions on security, economic and environmental concerns and human rightsOSCE PA human rights committee Chair Ignacio Sanchez Amor follows up on developments in Turkey Full Article Parliamentary Assembly Conflict prevention and resolution Democratization Economic activities Environmental activities Human rights Press release
hr Political party legislation in Ukraine, focus of OSCE/ODIHR expert workshop By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Thu, 07 Jul 2016 11:59:10 +0000 251421 Reforming political party legislation in Ukraine was the focus of an expert workshop in Kyiv on 6 and 7 July 2016, jointly organized by the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR), International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES), the Ukrainian civil society organizations Agency for Legislative Initiatives (ALI) and the Civil Network "OPORA". The event was hosted by the National University of Kyiv-Mohyla Academy. More than 80 experts, including representatives of the Ukrainian parliament, government, academia and civil society organizations, discussed trends and challenges in political party regulation, highlighting good practices and lessons learned over the past two decades, and contextualizing the reforms and challenges of the Ukrainian legislative framework in broader regional and international experience. "Political parties are facing significant challenges in their ability to represent citizens and promote political participation across OSCE participating States," said Marcin Walecki, Head of ODIHR Democratization Department. "Transparency in party procedures and financing sources, their level of inclusiveness towards under-represented groups, and their ability to use new media to promote communication and accountability are all indispensable elements to ensure political pluralism and a vigorous democracy." Sergii Leshchenko, Member of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, said: "Political parties in Ukraine suffer from low levels of trust, affecting the legitimacy of the entire institutional framework. Following last year’s workshop, this meeting represents an opportunity to continue the discussion with international and local experts on the political party legislation implemented in Ukraine and opportunities for reform." The Workshop also addressed the issue of inclusiveness in political parties, looking into the promotion of women and persons with disabilities in policies and party structures. In a video message from Judith E. Heumann, Special Advisor for International Disability Rights in the United States’ State Department, said: "Participating States should support political participation of persons with disabilities in political parties across the OSCE region." Following the workshop, 20 Ukrainian journalists, media and civil society representatives will participate in a one-day training event on Money in Politics, offering a general overview of the issue of political party and campaign financing, and focusing on the findings of the workshop and detailed aspects of the political party legislation adopted in Ukraine. The workshop and the subsequent training workshop were organized within the framework of ODIHR’s project on "Strengthening dialogue among civil society and with key government stakeholders in Ukraine".Related StoriesOSCE/ODIHR event in Kyiv supports dialogue platform in Verkhovna Rada on parliamentary ethicsOSCE workshop in Kosovo focuses on improving the recording of hate crimesOSCE/ODIHR final report on the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia’s postponed early parliamentary elections recommends continuing electoral reform process Full Article Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights Democratization Eastern Europe Ukraine News
hr OSCE/ODIHR event in Kyiv supports dialogue platform in Verkhovna Rada on parliamentary ethics By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Thu, 07 Jul 2016 12:15:58 +0000 251941 Supporting the process of ethical standards reform and developing a code of conduct for members of the Verkhovna Rada, the Ukrainian parliament, was the focus of an event, co-organized by the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR), the Verkhovna Rada, the Agency for Legislative Initiatives, the USAID RADA Program and the Netherlands Institute for Multi-party Democracy. Bringing together 20 Members of Parliament, the event aimed at identifying and addressing specific ethical dilemmas facing them. The event also provided a platform for discussing various ethical dilemmas relating to conflict of interest, gift declaration, gender equality and conduct in private vs. public life with representatives of around 50 civil society and international organizations. "Enhancing trust in the Verkhovna Rada is a necessary precondition for ensuring and maintaining the legitimacy and trust of our institution," said Andriy Parubiy, Speaker of the Parliament of Ukraine. "This is our main responsibility and an opportunity." Participants also discussed avoiding harm to the reputation of the Parliament by considering ethical dilemmas and the low level of public trust in the institution, as well as exploring ways the introduction of ethical standards for its members can increase confidence. Pat Cox, former President of the European Parliament and Head of the European Parliament's Needs Assessment Mission to the Verkhovna Rada, said: "Ethics is not only about black and white, legal and illegal, but also about regulating unethical behaviour and thus showing the public that you strive towards ensuring the highest professionalism standards in your work." "ODIHR has, in recent years, supported more than 12 national Parliaments with developing and adopting a code of conduct," said Kateryna Ryabiko, Project Co-coordinator at ODIHR. "I am convinced that we, together with partner organisations and experts, will be able to support the Verkhovna Rada with ethics reform and development of professional standards for MPs that will meet the public’s expectations of transparency and accountability." The event was organized as part of the ODIHR’s "Strengthening dialogue among civil society and with key governmental stakeholders in Ukraine" project, which was launched in April 2015 with the goal of enhancing effective mechanisms for dialogue to address key human rights issues in Ukraine, in line with OSCE commitments and international standards.Related StoriesPolitical party legislation in Ukraine, focus of OSCE/ODIHR expert workshopOSCE workshop in Kosovo focuses on improving the recording of hate crimesOSCE/ODIHR final report on the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia’s postponed early parliamentary elections recommends continuing electoral reform process Full Article Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights Democratization Eastern Europe Ukraine News
hr Spot Report by OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine: SMM threatened at gunpoint near Lobacheve in Luhansk region By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Wed, 03 Aug 2016 08:14:27 +0000 This report is for media and the general public. At 10:10 on 2 August, an armed man at a known Ukrainian Armed Forces position wearing military-style clothing with no markings stopped two SMM vehicles in government-controlled areas travelling east on the road from Lopaskyne (government-controlled, 24km north-west of Luhansk) to Lobacheve (government-controlled, 17km north-west of Luhansk). When one of the SMM monitors stepped out of the vehicle to speak with the man, the latter chambered a round into his submachine gun (AKSU-74) and after removing the weapon’s safety, pointed it at the SMM monitor and put his finger on the trigger. Speaking in Russian, the armed man told the SMM “Stop. You are not going anywhere”. The SMM requested the armed man call his commander, which he did. Standing approximately two metres away, the man kept his gun pointed at the SMM monitor and spoke to someone in Russian on his handheld radio. Approximately five to seven minutes later, another man arrived at the scene carrying an assault rifle (AK-74) with a silencer. He was accompanied by three other armed men carrying assault rifles, some of whom appeared to be intoxicated, and appeared to be in a position of authority. Some of the men were dressed in military-style clothing. Using Russian and speaking in an aggressive manner, the man said that he and the other armed men present were members of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. The SMM monitor asked the man who appeared to be in charge to order the armed man to lower his weapon. He did so but the weapon was not made safe. Speaking with the commander of the group, the SMM monitor tried to diffuse the situation by explaining the Mission’s mandate and after approximately fifteen minutes, the SMM was allowed to leave the area and proceed to Lobacheve to complete their tasks. The SMM returned safely to its base at 16:00. The Joint Centre for Control and Co-ordination was informed.Related StoriesLatest from OSCE Special Monitoring Mission (SMM) to Ukraine, based on information received as of 19:30, 1 August 2016Latest from OSCE Special Monitoring Mission (SMM) to Ukraine, based on information received as of 19:30, 31 July 2016Latest from OSCE Special Monitoring Mission (SMM) to Ukraine, based on information received as of 19:30, 29 July 2016 Full Article OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine Conflict prevention and resolution Eastern Europe Spot report
hr OSCE/ODIHR observers to hold press conference in Moscow on Monday By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Fri, 05 Aug 2016 10:59:23 +0000 MOSCOW, 5 August 2016 – On the occasion of the formal opening of the election observation mission (EOM) deployed by the OSCE's Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) to observe the 18 September State Duma elections in the Russian Federation, the mission will hold a press conference in Moscow on Monday, 8 August 2016. Jan Petersen, the head of the OSCE/ODIHR election observation mission, will introduce the role of the EOM and its upcoming activities. Journalists are invited to attend the press conference at 15:00, Monday, 8 August, at Interfax, 1-ya Tverskaya-Yamskaya ul., 2 Moscow, 127006. For further information, please contact Inta Lase OSCE/ODIHR EOM Media Analyst, at +79166214710 (mobile) or Inta.Lase@odihr.ru or Thomas Rymer, OSCE/ODIHR Spokesperson, at +48 609 522 266 (Warsaw mobile) or at thomas.rymer@odihr.pl. Related StoriesParliamentary Elections Full Article Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights Elections Russia Media advisory
hr OSCE/ODIHR Director Link criticizes call for reintroduction of death penalty by Tajikistan’s Prosecutor General By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Fri, 05 Aug 2016 15:06:56 +0000 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 StoriesOSCE/ODIHR opens observation mission for parliamentary elections in BelarusODIHR 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 victimsODIHR trains prosecutors and lawyers in Kyrgyzstan on international standards regarding freedom of religion or belief Full Article Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights Human rights Central Asia Press release
hr Another Thrilling International Trailer for Leigh Whannell's 'Wolf Man' By www.firstshowing.net Published On :: Wed, 13 Nov 2024 17:24:21 +0000 "Don't you lay a hand on him!" Universal UK has unveiled another official trailer for the new Wolf Man movie, arriving in theaters January 2025 early next year. A few extra glimpses of different footage added to this trailer though most of it is similar to the official US trailer from last month. Produced by Jason Blum & Blumhouse, this a fresh update on the classic furry Universal Monster originally invented with the 1941 film The Wolf Man. Most recently there was the 2010 remake called The Wolfman starring Benicio Del Toro plus tons of other werewolf flicks in the last few years. From Blumhouse and visionary writer-director Leigh Whannell, the creators of the chilling modern monster tale The Invisible Man, comes a terrifying new lupine nightmare: Wolf Man. The new tagline: "What if someone you loved became something else?" What would you do? A man must save himself and his family when they are stalked, terrorized, and haunted by a deadly werewolf at night – but something else is going on. Christopher Abbott stars with Julia Garner, Sam Jaeger, Matilda Firth, Ben Prendergast, and Benedict Hardie. This is looking better and better the more they show - especially as […] Full Article Horror To Watch Trailer
hr Official Trailer for 'The Amateur' Revenge Thriller Starring Rami Malek By www.firstshowing.net Published On :: Wed, 13 Nov 2024 18:57:58 +0000 "I want to face my wife's killers, look them in the eyes, and balance the scales." Dark. 20th Century Studios has unveiled an official trailer for The Amateur, a thrilling new revenge movie from British director James Hawes (who also directed a bunch of episodes of that spy series "Slow Horses" if you want to get a sense of his cinematic style). The film follows a nerdy CIA cryptographer / software geek who manages to blackmail his own agency into training him to let him go after a group of terrorist who killed his wife in London. He realizes his bosses will not act due to conflicting internal priorities, so he takes things into his own hands. Rami Malek stars as Charles Heller, along with Rachel Brosnahan, Caitríona Balfe, Jon Bernthal, Michael Stuhlbarg, Holt McCallany, Julianne Nicholson, Adrian Martinez, Danny Sapani, and Laurence Fishburne. This reminds me of Jason Bourne at first glance, with him hopping around cities in Europe outsmarting everyone over there. Might turn out really good? Certain looks unsettling and thrilling. Here's the official trailer (+ poster) for James Hawes' thriller The Amateur, direct from YouTube: Charlie Heller (Rami Malek) is a brilliant, but deeply introverted decoder […] Full Article To Watch Trailer
hr Can we relocate our climate-threatened cities? By www.bangkokpost.com Published On :: Thu, 14 Nov 2024 04:00:00 +0700 When my crew and I started excavating Calixtlahuaca -- an Aztec city-state capital near the modern-day city of Toluca in central Mexico -- I knew our findings might help answer questions of the past. Full Article
hr Typhoon Usagi threatens Philippines, latest in string of storms By www.bangkokpost.com Published On :: Thu, 14 Nov 2024 13:32:00 +0700 MANILA — The Philippines is bracing for its fifth powerful storm in three weeks, with Super Typhoon Usagi set to strike the country’s north on Thursday afternoon before tracking toward Taiwan. Full Article
hr Kate Beckinsale's 2024 Action Thriller Is A Streaming Hit On Prime Video By www.slashfilm.com Published On :: Wed, 13 Nov 2024 12:45:31 +0000 Kate Beckinsale has found her way onto Prime Video's top charts thanks to her latest action thriller, which is being streamed in large numbers around the world. Full Article Action & Adventure Movies
hr Chrome Just Added Great New Features For iPhones As Apple Pitches Safari Privacy By hothardware.com Published On :: Wed, 13 Nov 2024 15:42:00 -0500 Even as Apple continues its Safari privacy push, iPhone and iPad users who use Google Chrome are about to see several new features added to their browser of choice. Chrome will be receiving an upgrade to Google Lens, integration with Drive and Photos, improved Shopping Insights, and a more seamless way of finding a way around with Maps. With Full Article
hr ZentrumHub and Mize Unite to Revolutionize Online Travel Agencies through Advanced Technology Integration - Business Wire By news.google.com Published On :: Thu, 14 Nov 2024 09:00:00 GMT ZentrumHub and Mize Unite to Revolutionize Online Travel Agencies through Advanced Technology Integration Business Wire Full Article
hr Vimeo — Too many failed login attempts results in a shrugging... By littlebigdetails.com Published On :: Sat, 23 Sep 2017 16:00:19 +0200 Vimeo — Too many failed login attempts results in a shrugging Vimeo robot and a page title of ‘VimeUhOh’. /via Chris Droom Full Article design ux submission vimeo security password
hr Chrome - When the browser can’t connect to a website, it... By littlebigdetails.com Published On :: Sun, 24 Sep 2017 16:00:21 +0200 Chrome - When the browser can’t connect to a website, it displays a greyed out version of the favicon. /via Thomas Park Full Article web desktop submission
hr Generating Roofing Job Leads Through Content By www.roofingcontractor.com Published On :: Tue, 06 Oct 2015 00:00:00 -0400 You're creating great content every day simply by running a high-quality roofing-contractor business. Full Article
hr Five Steps to Generating Leads Through Content By www.roofingcontractor.com Published On :: Fri, 03 Jun 2016 00:00:00 -0400 If you're a roofing contractor trying to learn how to market effectively in the digital age, you've probably come across the term "content marketing." Full Article
hr Generación Tahrir By www.elmundo.es Published On :: 2011-07-12T00:14:00Z Un estudiante de 18 años recién cumplidos y un jubilado octogenario. Dos edades que reclaman en el corazón de la revolución la promesa de justicia social que trajo la primavera. Full Article
hr Un bolígrafo de Microsoft para tachar al Chromebook By www.elmundo.es Published On :: 2019-01-22T21:27:00Z Full Article
hr Sudan: Sudan Transparency and Policy Tracker - 'SAF Seeks Economic Power Through Reconstruction' By allafrica.com Published On :: Thu, 14 Nov 2024 04:58:30 GMT [Dabanga] Port Sudan -- Suliman Baldo, executive director of the Sudan Transparency and Policy Tracker (STPT), warns in a recently published report that the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) is positioning itself to dominate the country's post-war economy, particularly through control over reconstruction efforts. Full Article Economy Business and Finance Conflict Peace and Security East Africa Governance Sudan
hr John Lewis Christmas Ad Goes in New Direction With Relatable Sister Story By www.adweek.com Published On :: Thu, 14 Nov 2024 07:00:00 +0000 British retailer John Lewis' Christmas ad, long considered the unofficial start of the holiday season in the U.K., goes in a different direction this year by depicting an everyday, familial kind of festive magic. On Thursday (Nov. 14), John Lewis released "The Gifting Hour," the second Christmas campaign by agency Saatchi & Saatchi, which took... Full Article Holidays Retail News
hr No Comment: Eggs thrown at Euro Lithium Balkan headquarters in Serbia By www.euronews.com Published On :: Wed, 13 Nov 2024 13:55:16 +0100 No Comment: Eggs thrown at Euro Lithium Balkan headquarters in Serbia Full Article
hr Legend Of Mushroom Codes By www.talkandroid.com Published On :: Thu, 14 Nov 2024 05:09:09 +0000 Find all the latest Legend of Mushroom codes here! Keep reading for more. Full Article Game Codes Legend of Mushroom
hr Lovebrush Chronicles – Codes List And How To Redeem Them By www.talkandroid.com Published On :: Thu, 14 Nov 2024 05:15:37 +0000 Find the latest Lovebrush Chronicles codes here! Keep reading for more. Full Article Game Codes
hr Artistic Chameleon: Christina Spann keeps her career fresh By www.tucsonweekly.com Published On :: Thu, 14 Nov 2024 01:00:00 -0700 Artist Christina Spann considers art a conversation or a symphony… Full Article Arts & Culture/Arts: Feature
hr Autechre Diary Updates By disquiet.com Published On :: Thu, 14 Nov 2024 02:14:26 +0000 My ongoing Listening Diary of the newly released dozen Autechre live sets from 2023 and 2024 has passed the 2,000 words milestone, with no signs of slowing down, and thus far I’ve still only touched on half the latest AE_2022- recordings. Today I focused on the Melbourne date for the first time, with side trips […] Full Article field notes live-performance recommended stream
hr The Totally Throwback Thursday Show with Special Guest Tracy Moore!! By kkfi.org Published On :: Thu, 14 Nov 2024 02:40:39 +0000 Good morning Kansas City and welcome again to The Totally Throwback Thursday show. I’m DJ Mason and I’m going to take you back in time, where big hair ,big shoulder […] The post The Totally Throwback Thursday Show with Special Guest Tracy Moore!! appeared first on KKFI. Full Article 38 special 80's 80's Music 90.1 FM KKFI A Flock Of Seagulls aha Animotion Beastie Boys Blondie Bruce Springstein Culture Club Daryl Hall & John Oates Debbie Gibson Depeche Mode Devo Duran Duran Echo & The Bunnymen Elvis Costello Eurythmics Groove Huey Lewis & The News Icehouse Indie INXS Jimmy Buffet Kajagoogoo Kansas City Madness Midnight Oil Midnight Star Naked Eyes New Order New Wave Oingo Boingo Plimsouls Prince Punk Rock Queen radio Rock and Roll Run DMC Shelia E Soft Cell Squeeze Sugar Hill Gang Talk Talk Talkingheads Tears For Fears The B-52s The Bangles The Beat The Cars The Church The Cure The Gap Band The Go Go's The Human League The J. Geils Band The Motels The Pretenders The Psychedelic Furs The Ramones The Romantics The Smiths The Tubes The Vapors Thomas Dolby Throwback Thursday Tommy Tutone Totally Ultravox XTC ZZ Top
hr These Are Three of the Best Cryptocurrencies to Buy Right Now Before They Skyrocket By finance.yahoo.com Published On :: 2024-11-14T08:09:00Z Full Article
hr Throat Tuning Part 1 - YouTube By www.youtube.com Published On :: 2024-11-14T07:39:43+00:00 Robert Dick kicks off his instructional video series with a lesson on Throat Tuning. He shows how to use the voice to insure that "bad days" are banished! Full Article
hr Scientists Have Pushed the Schrödinger’s Cat Paradox to New Limits | WIRED By www.wired.com Published On :: 2024-11-14T07:40:15+00:00 Full Article
hr Pete Hegseth, Secretary of Defense nominee, has strong ties to the Christian far right By x.com Published On :: 2024-11-14T08:00:22+00:00 Full Article
hr Creating a BLE Peripheral with BlueZ | Punch Through By punchthrough.com Published On :: 2024-11-14T08:09:00+00:00 Full Article
hr DailyArtUK on Instagram: "Clarence Gagnon ???????? 1881 - 1942 | Christmas Mass | #clarencegagnon #canadianart #canadianartist #canadianpainter #instaart #igart #artdaily #dailyart #oilpainting #canvaspainting #artoftheday #paintingoftheday #artgram By www.instagram.com Published On :: 2024-11-14T08:16:10+00:00 Full Article
hr Column: Lindsay Simmons On Throne Speech By bernews.com Published On :: Thu, 14 Nov 2024 00:40:30 +0000 [Opinion column written by the PLP Senator Lindsay Simmons] In our 2024 Throne Speech, we made one thing clear: the PLP is here to protect and uplift Bermuda’s most vulnerable and to continue making steady progress towards a fairer Bermuda for all of us. From seniors and persons with disabilities to low-income families and those […] Full Article All #2024ThroneSpeech #BermudaPolitics #OpinionColumns
hr Ohio Senate Passes Bill Banning Transgender People from Women's Bathrooms By www.breitbart.com Published On :: Thu, 14 Nov 2024 05:19:16 +0000 The Ohio State Senate passed a bill on Wednesday that would bar transgender people from using women's bathrooms. The post Ohio Senate Passes Bill Banning Transgender People from Women’s Bathrooms appeared first on Breitbart. Full Article 2024 Election Health Politics Bathroom Bill LGBTQ+ Ohio Transgender
hr “Increasing threats of autocracy” spur Jared Polis to join Illinois governor in new initiative ahead of 2nd Trump term By www.denverpost.com Published On :: Wed, 13 Nov 2024 10:00:29 +0000 Neither governor directly tied the new effort "to shape policy and plans that truly protect the rule of law" to former President Donald Trump's return to power. Full Article Election Latest Headlines News Politics Donald Trump Jared Polis National Guard Stephen Miller
hr PRIDIAN Throws Down On New Single "Idoldust" By metalinjection.net Published On :: Wed, 13 Nov 2024 13:57:38 +0000 It feels a little Fear Factory-ish. Full Article New Music Pridian
hr Watch David Nail's 'I'll Be Home for Christmas' Video By www.antimusic.com Published On :: Singer/songwriter David Nail has released the music video for his heartfelt rendition of 'I'll Be Home for Christmas.' Full Article
hr Jason Owen Give 'All I Want For Christmas Is You' A Country Makeover By www.antimusic.com Published On :: Jason Owen returns with his country rock version of the classic just in time for your Christmas playlists Full Article
hr Avalanche’s “Big Three” helps grind out another win against against the Kings By www.denverpost.com Published On :: Thu, 14 Nov 2024 06:13:33 +0000 The Colorado Avalanche got dragged into a defensive slog Wednesday night with the Los Angeles Kings, but having more world-class players than the other team works in those types of contests, too. Full Article Colorado Avalanche Latest Headlines NHL Sports Alexandar Georgiev Artturi Lehkonen Avalanche Cale Makar Jared Bednar Jonathan Drouin Mikko Rantanen Miles Wood More Avalanche News Nathan MacKinnon Valeri Nichushkin
hr Video: Post Throne Speech Press Conference By bernews.com Published On :: Thu, 14 Nov 2024 00:23:45 +0000 Minister of Health Kim Wilson, Minister of National Security Michael Weeks, Minister of Labour Jason Hayward hold a joint media conference to highlight their Ministries respective Throne Speech initiatives. Minister Kim Wilson’s full statement follows below: Good afternoon. In this year’s Throne Speech, the Government of Bermuda set the agenda for a Fairer Bermuda for […] Full Article All News Politics Videos #2024ThroneSpeech #BermudaPolitics