vi Two CPA.com Staffers Named to CPA Practice Advisor's 'Top 20 Under 40 Superstars' List By www.cpa.com Published On :: Fri, 08 Sep 2017 13:46:13 +0000 NEW YORK (Sept. 8, 2017) – Two CPA.com staffers have been named to CPA Practice Advisor’s Top 20 Under 40 Superstars list, which the trade publication said is composed of “young leaders helping advance the profession through their roles in technology, education, consulting and firm development.” Representing CPA.com on the list are Samantha Mansfield, the company’s director of professional development and community, and Kalil Merhib, director of sales. Mansfield is a driving force behind the Digital CPA Conference and the curriculum and training it offers to firms, including the recently launched Client Accounting Advisory Services (CAAS) certificate and CPA.com’s popular CAAS workshops. Merhib’s key responsibilities include rollout of the RIVIO Clearinghouse, a private company financial information hub jointly developed by CPA.com and Confirmation.com, and working with firms across the country in building effective strategies for outsourced accounting practices. “This year’s 40 Under 40 and 20 Under 40 honorees are visibly and incrementally changing the accounting profession through their exemplary leadership, their innovative thinking, their collaborative efforts guaranteed to provide unity to the profession across the generations, and their community outreach which extends the visibility of the profession outside the workplace” Gail Perry, CPA Practice Advisor’s editor-in-chief, wrote in an article announcing the winners. “It’s a great honor for CPA.com to have two employees on this list,” said Erik Asgeirsson, president and CEO of CPA.com. “We’re grateful to see validation of our staff’s hard work in helping CPA firms embrace change and thrive.” The full list of winners can be found on CPA Practice Advisor’s website. About CPA.com CPA.com offers a growing list of products and services for practice management, client advisory services and professional development. The company has established itself as a thought leader on cloud technology and has been a driving force around the reemergence of virtual CFO/controller services by firms. The RIVIO Clearinghouse, a joint venture between CPA.com and Confirmation.com, is an online financial document clearinghouse that enables private businesses to exchange key financial information with lenders and investors. CPA.com is a subsidiary of the American Institute of CPAs, the world’s largest member body representing the CPA profession. For more information, visit CPA.com. CPA.comSep 8th, 2017Press Releases Full Article
vi Productivity Enablement: Simplifying the Most Challenging Parts of Your Job and Becoming Future-Ready By www.cpa.com Published On :: Mon, 16 Oct 2017 14:17:01 +0000 With 12 words, Seth Godin has captured one of the biggest, most frustrating and difficult-to-overcome challenges of our time: “We’re so busy doing our jobs, we can’t get any work done.” Until a clear return on investment is defined, many leaders fall back on the status quo, thinking we can dig ourselves out from the avalanche of busy-ness if we just work a little harder. But there are two problems with that line of thinking: We’ll never have less work to do. The problem isn’t what we’re doing; it’s how we’re doing it. Instead of worrying about the ROI, we should focus on the RONI—the risk of not investing. Today, that risk is huge. Our competitors are working to become future ready. If we don’t, we risk irrelevance at best…and extinction at worst. Mike Sabbatis, CEO of XCM™, discusses how new productivity enablement and workflow solutions can help leadership teams work smarter, not harder—and increase their resource capacity to focus on strategies that prepare them for the future and deliver higher business performance. In this webinar, you will learn: How connecting your people and processes through technology can result in higher productivity Techniques to create a work environment that is structured to attract and retain the best talent Benefits of capturing the Who, What, When, Where & Why of your business practices NOTE: This on-demand webinar does not offer CPE credit. View WebinarYour browser does not support iframes, but you can use the following link. LinkShow Secondary Body: 11. Pardot Form URL: https://marketing.cpa.com/l/701003/2019-07-11/6gyx2. Pardot Form Handler URL: https://marketing.cpa.com/l/701003/2019-07-19/9gm43. Pardot URL Parameters: ?Latest_Download=https://www.cpa.com/7C080C7D3312973455A06CD24323790C&Campaign_URL=https://marketing.cpa.com/l/701003/2019-07-19/9gm4&WebFormCampaign-XCM=Download Webinar Recording&Lead_WebForm_Source=XCM&Record_Type_ID=FS Sales&Send_Email=true&Dont_Route_to_Sales=TRUE Full Article
vi Top Challenges Facing Firms Performing PCR Services By www.cpa.com Published On :: Fri, 25 Jan 2019 16:54:39 +0000 https://www.cpa.com/system/files/cpa/infographics/top-challenges-facing-firms-performing-pcr-services-onpoint-cpacom_0.pdf Full Article
vi Provision of Conducting a Survey on the Well-being and Security of Women in South East Europe, Eastern Europe and the South Caucasus By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Wed, 13 Jul 2016 07:49:03 +0000 Secretariat RFP/SEC/10/2016 Request for Proposal (RFP) balazs.fule@osce.org Wed, 2016-07-13 (All day) 23 September 2016 Western Europe and North America The main objective of this OSCE project is to create evidence including in the context of conflict/crisis to be used in the long term for improved programming and policy-making. The contractor will be expected to undertake all aspects of work relating to the survey and additional qualitative research, including: • pre-test/pilot study of the new conflict module; • development of country/area specific research tools; • qualitative key expert interviews and focus group discussions; • interviewer selection (female interviewers only); • interviewer training; • random selection of respondents; • questionnaire finalisation and translation of fieldwork and interviewer training materials; • all fieldwork/data collection; • data entry and processing; • data analysis and drafting several thematic and regional reports. The data will be collected through the use of structured, quantitative survey interviews and additional key expert interviews and focus group discussions. The survey interviews will be carried out face-to-face in each country/area by female interviewers who have completed in-depth, in-person training dedicated to the topic of the survey. The interviews will be conducted using a standardised questionnaire already developed. Part of the contract will be testing revisions on this questionnaire and finalizing it. The required net sample size is a minimum of 1500 women per country/area using a strict random (probability) sample. The Contractor will be responsible for ensuring the quality, consistency and timeliness of work carried out in each country/area selected to take part in the study. The consistency of the methods and procedures applied in the various countries/areas and strict compliance with the detailed methodology of the survey needs to be ensured by the Contractor. The foreseen total duration of the assignment is 15 months.Related StoriesImplementation of the Project “Promoting awareness-raising tools on combating sexual exploitation through internet (social theatre) (2016)”Provision of Printing and related Services for the OSCEProvision of IT Security Consulting Services on IT Information Security Incident Response Full Article Secretariat Western Europe and North America Request for Proposal (RFP) One-off purchase
vi Request for pre-qualification: Life-Cycle Support and Technical Consultative Services for the Integrated Notification Application (INA) Software By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Mon, 01 Aug 2016 11:52:02 +0000 Secretariat RFPQ/SEC/17/2016 Invitation for Prequalification (IFP) yury.golovkov@osce.org Mon, 2016-08-01 (All day) 28 August 2016 Attachments: RFPQ/SEC/17/2016 - INA Software For more details please see attached the Request for pre-qualification. Related StoriesLife-Cycle Support and Technical Consultative Services for the OSCE Integrated Notification Application (INA) SoftwareRequest for pre-qualification in relation to the planned tender for the provision of Life-Cycle Support and Technical Consultative Services for the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) Conflict Prevention Centre (CPC) Integrated NotSelection of Microsoft-designated Large Account Reseller (LAR) for provision of Microsoft Software and Related Services Full Article Secretariat Invitation for Prequalification (IFP) 5 years
vi Provision of mobile voice and data services to the OSCE centre in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Fri, 01 Jul 2016 14:48:53 +0000 OSCE Centre in Bishkek RFP/KYR/04/2016 Request for Proposal (RFP) Karolina.Semina@osce.org jirgalbek.jumashev@osce.org Fri, 2016-07-01 (All day) 22 August 2016 Attachments: Clarification Note no. 1 Clarification Note no. 2 mobile voice and data services to the OSCE centre in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan Related StoriesProvision of conference services for the OSCE events at 3 star venues on the Northern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake, KRProvision of conference services for the OSCE events at the 4 or 3+ star venues on the Northern shore of Issyk-Kul lakeProvision of IT Security Consulting Services on IT Information Security Incident Response Full Article OSCE Centre in Bishkek Request for Proposal (RFP) 3 years
vi Selection of Microsoft-designated Large Account Reseller (LAR) for provision of Microsoft Software and Related Services By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Fri, 15 Jul 2016 07:46:36 +0000 Secretariat ITB/SEC/18/2016 Invitation to Bid (ITB) khawla.farah@osce.org Thu, 2016-07-14 (All day) 11 August 2016 Attachments: Clarification Note 1 dated 26 July 2016 Related StoriesProvision of Printing and related Services for the OSCEProvision of transportation services for OSCE Mission to SerbiaProvision of Conducting a Survey on the Well-being and Security of Women in South East Europe, Eastern Europe, Turkey and the South Caucasus Full Article Secretariat Invitation to Bid (ITB) 5 years
vi OSCE-supported training course in Tashkent focuses on improving judicial responses to human trafficking By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Mon, 22 Jun 2015 10:12:33 +0000 TASHKENT, 22 June 2015 – A two-day training course on improving judicial responses to human trafficking, organized by the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan, in co-operation with the Lawyers’ Training Centre under the Uzbek Justice Ministry, was launched today in Tashkent. Some 20 newly-appointed judges from all regions of Uzbekistan will discuss effective ways to use international and national legal tools in dealing with criminal cases on trafficking in human beings as well as relevant good judicial practices and challenges. “The training course is designed to help the judges to assess the implementation of the non-punishment principle for victims while handling the criminal cases,” said Ambassador Gyorgy Szabo, Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan. “This kind of training course serves as a platform for the exchange of experience and professional expertise related to Human Rights Protection.” Askar Gafurov, Director of the Lawyers’ Training Centre, said: “The training course is one of the commitments of Uzbekistan to improve the effectiveness of countering human trafficking and to develop a comprehensive victim-support system through expert advice and in service training activities.” The training course is part of the OSCE Project Co-ordinator’ s long-term project to assist Uzbekistan in combating trafficking in human beings.Related StoriesOSCE launches training seminar for Uzbek journalists on human traffickingOSCE-supported training course in Uzbekistan focuses on addressing and preventing human trafficking in the tourism sectorOSCE Project Co-ordinator lights up central Tashkent with 20 solar-powered street lamps Full Article OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan Combating human trafficking Central Asia Press release
vi Environment friendly flood management saves lives and protects nature By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Mon, 13 Jun 2016 11:30:59 +0000 Article The Dniester River delta, located on the territories of both Ukraine and Moldova, is a powerful, complex and fragile ecosystem with invaluable biodiversity. However, it poses a risk of extreme flooding as well as water scarcity for people. Mon, 2016-06-13 12:56 Secretariat OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Ukraine Environmental activities The Dniester River delta, located on the territories of both Ukraine and Moldova, is a powerful, complex and fragile ecosystem with invaluable biodiversity. However, it poses a risk of extreme flooding as well as water scarcity for people. “Following days of extremely heavy rains in July 2008, a severe flood hit the Dniester River area with devastating consequences for thousands of households and infrastructure in both Ukraine and Moldova,” says Viktoriya Boyko, Head of the Hydrological Forecasts Department of the Ukrainian Hydro-meteorological Centre.“It led to human casualties and huge economic damage in both countries. It was devastating.” Boyko noted that in a changing climate, floods on the Dniester are expected to become more frequent and more intense. “It is critical that in the future, the disastrous consequences of floods be mitigated.” [node id="246436" preset="medium" align="left" description="A dry section of the Zastoyniy channel before ecosystem restoration activities were started. (Lower Dniester National Nature Park/Volodymyr Gubanov)"] Flooding threats In the past, mainly structural solutions such as the construction of dams were used to mitigate flood risk. Those measures had high financial and environmental costs, and could lead to catastrophe in case of failure. Today, new ecosystem-based approaches can mitigate floods by spreading water away from populated areas, and by slowing the flood’s volume and speed. “Ecosystem-based approaches to mitigating the risks of floods and water deficits have huge untapped potential for application in the Dniester river basin,” says Alexei Andreev, Head of the BIOTICA Ecological Society. “There is a clear need to learn more about their use,” [node id="246446" preset="medium" align="right" description="Channel Zastoyniy after it was cleaned from silt and vegetation in April 2016. Small islands created along the channel for birds and other animals to use as shelter during flooding. (Lower Dniester National Nature Park/Nikolay Stepanok)"] OSCE engagement In spring 2016, the Office of the Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities (OCEEA) with the support of the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Ukraine, and funding from the Austrian Development Cooperation, the European Union’s Instrument for Stability and the Government of Switzerland, conducted a pilot restoration project of a small watercourse connecting the Dniester floodplain and the main course of the Dniester delta in the Lower Dniester National Nature Park. Leonid Kalashnyk, OCEEA Environmental Programme Officer, says that the restoration included clearing silt and vegetation from the Zastoyniy Channel, forming islets for birds and other animals along the channel. “We created a small shallow reservoir, and moved three cables that had crossed the channel and obstructed the water flow.” Vladimir Gubanov, the park’s deputy science director, says that the restoration has certainly had a positive impact on biodiversity conservation including fish resources, flood mitigation and fire risk reduction. “Results will be further monitored and used for restoration activities in the Dniester delta.” [node id="246451" preset="medium" align="right" description="A Great White Pelican flock flying above the Zastoyniy channel. (Lower Dniester National Nature Park/Nikolay Stepanok)"] Co-operation saves lives Even though these restoration activities are conducted in Ukraine, the effect is also felt across the border in Moldova. “The results of, and lessons learned from these restoration activities have also been shared with experts and relevant authorities in Moldova. This will contribute to the joint efforts undertaken by Moldova and Ukraine, including environmental NGOs from each country, to address the risks of flooding and drought in the Dniester Basin,” says Andreev. Gubanov says that the improvement of fish nurseries in Ukraine increases fish populations in Moldova and supports animal migration within both countries. “Our experience within the project could be applied in the Moldovan part of the Lower Dniester. We are ready to share the know-how.” “The project’s long-term effects aim at increasing trans-boundary co-operation by sharing knowledge and expertise among regional and international stakeholders in the Lower Dniester area, notes Kalashnyk. “The pilot project in the Lower Dniester Delta is an important step towards restoring the ecosystem thereby reducing the risk of catastrophic flooding. Prevention is key.” “During Soviet times we tried to control nature, rather than mitigate the effects of this natural phenomenon on people,” says Gubanov. “Now, we are working on correcting these mistakes and we seem to be on the right path.” These flood mitigation activities are part of a multi-year effort under the Environment and Security Initiative (ENVSEC), which has also included facilitating the signing of the Dniester Basin bilateral Treaty, developing and endorsing a trans-boundary Strategic Framework of Adaptation to Climate Change in the Dniester River Basin, and implementing a range of monitoring and flood mitigation measures in the basin. The OSCE, UNDP, UNEP, UNECE AND REC have joined forces in the ENVSEC Initiative to help transform environmental risks into opportunities for co-operation in Central Asia, Eastern Europe, the South Caucasus and South Eastern Europe. Related StoriesOSCE organizes field study in sustainable energy for the OSCE Mediterranean Partner Countries.Concluding Meeting of the 24th OSCE Economic and Environmental ForumOSCE supports training of 16 National Points of Contact on implementing UN Security Council Resolution 1540 Full Article Secretariat OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Ukraine Environmental activities Article
vi Psychologists and professionals working with domestic violence victims trained at OSCE-supported events in Moldova on both banks By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Thu, 30 Jun 2016 11:42:38 +0000 249986 Rachel Bending The OSCE Mission to Moldova held the final in a series of three training sessions for 12 psychologists and professionals working with domestic violence victims. The session took place on 27 June 2016 in Rybnitsa, a town on the left bank of the Dniester/Nistru River. The event aimed to equip participants with essential skills in family counselling and post-traumatic stress rehabilitation. Participants studied means to identify family violence, various coaching techniques to use when working with families, as well as methods for handling trauma and post-traumatic stress among domestic violence victims. In the past week, similar training events have been held in Chisinau and Tiraspol with the total participation of 50 professionals from Bender, Causeni, Chisinau, Comrat, Drochia, Rybnitsa and Tiraspol. Participants in the training sessions included psychologists, teachers, medical professionals, lawyers and social workers, all of whom encounter cases of domestic violence in their work through Moldova’s referral system. The training events were held as part of the Mission’s project to strengthen the capacity of those who provide crisis services to women and families on both banks of the Dniester/Nistru River. The project was developed following a country-wide assessment conducted in 2014 and 2015. The assessment identified a number of challenges in this field in Moldova, most notably the difficulties in accessing domestic violence services – including shelters and crisis centres – for those living in rural areas, and a lack of state resources. Related StoriesOSCE Mission to Moldova trains lawyers from both banks of the Dniester/Nistru River on addressing discriminationCivil society representatives tackle key NGO management issues at OSCE Mission to Moldova-supported eventSummer School to be held for lawyers from both banks of the Dniester/Nistru River Full Article OSCE Mission to Moldova Gender equality Human rights Eastern Europe News
vi Special Representative of OSCE Chairmanship-in-Office on Gender Issues Verveer to visit Bosnia and Herzegovina from 1 to 4 July By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Thu, 30 Jun 2016 12:21:12 +0000 SARAJEVO, 30 June 2016 - The Special Representative of the OSCE Chairmanship-in-Office on Gender Issues Ambassador Melanne Verveer is to visit the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) from 1 to 4 July 2016, where she will meet with officials and activists and discuss the status of women in the country. In Sarajevo and Zenica, Verveer will meet with the BiH Ministers of Human Rights and Refugees, Security and Defence, as well as representatives of the Gender Equality Committee of the BiH Parliamentary Assembly, State Gender Equality Agency, Entity Gender Centers, international organizations and civil society. “Gender equality remains high on the agenda of Germany's 2016 OSCE Chairmanship and I am pleased that the OSCE Mission to BiH already has extensive co-operation with the governmental and non-governmental sector in BiH on promoting gender equality,” said Verveer. “I am very hopeful that during my visit we will get concrete proposals on how the OSCE can further assist BiH officials in achieving full respect for human rights and by that, women’s rights in BiH.” Head of the OSCE Mission to BiH Ambassador Jonathan Moore said: “This is not the first visit of Ambassador Verveer to BiH, but the first in her capacity as the Special Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office on Gender Issues. We are looking forward to faciliting her visit and continuing our efforts to support women’s political, social and economic empowerment in BiH.” Ambassador Verveer spent four years working with U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton to co-ordinate foreign policy issues and activities relating to the political, economic and social advancement of women. In 2009, the President of the United States Barack Obama nominated Verveer to be the first ever U.S. Ambassador-at-Large for Global Women’s Issues at the Department of State, and appointed her to serve as U.S. Representative to the UN Commission on the Status of Women. Related StoriesVisit to Jajce of international community representatives led by OSCE Mission to Bosnia and HerzegovinaOSCE-supported Regional Housing Programme Steering Committee meeting in Sarajevo, explores durable solutionsOSCE Mission releases report on war crimes processing at state level in Bosnia and Herzegovina Full Article Chairmanship OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina Gender equality South-Eastern Europe Press release
vi OSCE Office in Tajikistan holds workshop to improve local referral mechanisms for protection of domestic violence victims in Sughd region By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Wed, 13 Jul 2016 13:38:15 +0000 KHUJAND, Tajikistan, 13 July 2016 – A two-day workshop for civil society and police officers on improving the local referral mechanisms for the protection of domestic violence victims concluded today in Khujand. The workshop brought together some 23 representatives of crisis centres, the police, state services for social protection and the Committee of Women and Family Affairs from the Sughd region of Tajikistan. Participants exchanged good practices on inter-agency co-operation to assist victims of violence in the region, discuss current challenges and ways to improve the current mechanism of the multi-disciplinary approach. “This is an opportunity for the OSCE-supported Women’s Resource Centres from the regions to share the experiences and plans for further activities on strengthening women’s rights in the region,” said Viorelia Rusu, the OSCE Office’s Gender and Anti-Trafficking Officer. Within separate sessions, participants from the crisis centres shared experiences related to the rehabilitation and protection of domestic violence victims, and police inspectors discussed the provisions of the updated Instructions on dealing with domestic violence cases. Police officers also received copies of the new Manual on Countering Domestic Violence, published by the OSCE Office in Tajikistan. “We learned from similar meetings organized earlier in Khatlon region that such discussions, including on concrete cases, contribute to a better co-ordinated and victim-centered, multi-agency approach in protecting domestic victims at the local level, and it harmoniously compliments the Ministry’s plans on gender mainstreaming into police reform,” said Ali Bobonazarzoda, National Co-ordinator on Police Reform under the country’s Interior Ministry. The event is part of the annual activities of the Office’s Gender and Anti-Trafficking Unit aimed at strengthening the current local protection mechanisms for victims of domestic violence and human trafficking. Related StoriesOSCE Office in Tajikistan support Garm’s local authorities in strengthening referral mechanisms for protecting domestic violence victimsOSCE Office in Tajikistan donates audio-visual material to enhance interactive teaching at Police AcademyOSCE Office in Tajikistan’s training series highlights role of parents in the fight against terrorism Full Article OSCE Office in Tajikistan Gender equality Central Asia Press release
vi Bringing security home: More needs to be done to combat violence against women and girls, say participants of OSCE conference in Vienna By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Fri, 22 Jul 2016 14:27:43 +0000 VIENNA, 22 July 2016 - Violence against women and girls is one of the most serious and pervasive human rights violations. More needs to be done to eliminate this problem so that women can participate without barriers in all spheres of life, said participants of a high-level OSCE conference today in Vienna. The conference, organized by the OSCE Gender Section and Germany’s 2016 OSCE Chairmanship, brought together representatives of governments of OSCE participating States, international organizations and civil society to discuss the progress, and to exchange good practices and lessons learned in the efforts to end violence against women.. “One in three women worldwide has experienced physical and/or sexual violence in their lifetime, perpetrated by intimate partners, family members, acquaintances and strangers,” said OSCE Secretary General Lamberto Zannier, opening the conference. “While we should take note of past and current achievements and activities, we need to now translate our commitments into concrete action”. Ambassador Zannier referred to the 2004 OSCE Action Plan on the Promotion of Gender Equality and OSCE Ministerial Council Decisions of 2005 and 2014, which called on participating States to address gender-based violence through legislation, supporting victims’ access to justice, education of relevant institutions and ensuring that women and girls receive special consideration in terms of protection and assistance. Baroness Joyce Anelay, the UK’s Minister of State at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and Department for International Development was one of the prominent speakers of the event. "The OSCE Action Plan on the Promotion of Gender Equality is clear that this agenda is essential to achieving comprehensive security across the OSCE region. We all have a responsibility to promote women's empowerment and their full political, social and economic participation," she said. Baroness Anelay is also UK Prime Minister’s Special Representative on Preventing Sexual Violence in Conflict. Earlier this week she addressed representatives of OSCE participating States and Partners for Co-operation at meetings of the Forum for Security Co-operation and the Permanent Council on the need to promote the role of women in conflict prevention and resolution. Ambassador Eberhard Pohl, Chair of the OSCE Permanent Council and representing Germany’s OSCE Chairmanship, said: “The protection of women and girls needs our special attention. Violence against women is not only a traumatizing experience for individuals; it has an adverse impact on the stability of societies as a whole. As the OSCE Chairmanship we call for the joint political will in the OSCE to speed up combating violence against women. It is a violation of human rights and all OSCE participating States have committed to ensuring human rights for all its inhabitants equally.”Related StoriesUrgent steps needed towards full respect for ceasefire in eastern Ukraine, says OSCE Chairmanship Special Representative and Chief MonitorOSCE Chairperson-in-Office Steinmeier, in Moldova, calls for swift and full implementation of confidence-building measuresOSCE Chairperson-in-Office Frank-Walter Steinmeier to visit Moldova on Tuesday Full Article Chairmanship Secretariat Gender equality Press release
vi Athletes discuss gender-based violence at OSCE-supported event in southern Kyrgyzstan By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Tue, 26 Jul 2016 12:57:36 +0000 OSH, Kyrgyzstan, 26 July 2016 – Some 25 athletes and sport trainers today discussed gender-based violence at an OSCE-supported roundtable discussion attended by a world amateur boxing champion (1986) and former member of parliament, Orzubek Nazarov. At the event organized by the Ensan-Diamond NGO with support of the OSCE Centre in Bishkek, participants discussed how violent behaviour at training venues might impact social relationships further in life. Gender equality, gender-based stereotypes and promoting positive images of masculinity without resorting to violence, were among the main topics of the discussion. “Preventing gender based-violence and promoting gender equality is at the centre of OSCE human rights commitments and comprehensive approach to security,” said Anete Erdmane, OSCE Human Dimension Officer at the Osh Field Office. “The initiative aims at supporting Kyrgyzstan in achieving positive change through dialogue and engagement with men.” Jamilya Kaparova, director of Ensan-Diamond, said: “The nature of sports training and overall culture of masculinity can contribute to an increased aggression among athletes. Such behaviour can result in gender-based violence and negatively affect family and community members. To reach out to this important audience and promote positive role models, we have invited Mr. Nazarov who has been an outspoken advocate for gender equality.” The roundtable discussion follows a similar event which also took place in Osh in November 2015. The initiative was held in line with the OSCE’s efforts to assist Kyrgyzstan in implementing its National Action Plan for 2015-2017 on gender equality. The National Action Plan foresees developing a culture of aversion to gender discrimination and violence against women and men at all levels of society.Related StoriesTo mark World Day against Trafficking in Persons OSCE Centre in Bishkek supports public awareness raising campaignOSCE Centre in Bishkek supports summer school on topical issues of police reformOSCE Centre in Bishkek trains defence lawyers and prosecutors on right to liberty and freedom from arbitrary arrest or detention Full Article OSCE Centre in Bishkek Gender equality Central Asia Press release
vi OSCE Office in Tajikistan support Garm’s local authorities in strengthening referral mechanisms for protecting domestic violence victims By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Thu, 28 Jul 2016 10:38:05 +0000 GARM, Tajikistan, 28 July 2016 – Some 20 representatives of civil society and state agencies working to provide direct assistance to domestic violence victims learned about good practices on local referral mechanisms in other regions of Tajikistan at a workshop held today in Garm by the OSCE Office in Tajikistan. The representatives of crisis centres, the local police department, state services for social protection and medical care, the local Ombudsman’s Office, and religious leaders enhanced their knowledge of the multi-agency Working Group and how inter-agency co-operation can further assist victims of violence. They also discussed the current challenges and ways to improve the local mechanism through the use of a victim-centered approach. “It is encouraging to see multidisciplinary approaches being applied by governmental and non-governmental partners in other regions of the country,” said Viorelia Rusu, the OSCE Office’s Gender and Anti-Trafficking Officer. “OSCE-supported Women Resource Centres in the regions also play an important role, supplementing the efforts of local government in providing direct assistance services to domestic violence victims.” The event was part of the OSCE support offered to the Interior Ministry in gender mainstreaming in police reform, and was aimed at institutionalizing informal mechanisms for the referral and assistance of domestic violence victims at the local level. The OSCE Office supported similar initiatives on multi-agency working groups in the Kulyab and Djaihun regions at the end of last year and beginning of this year. Related StoriesOSCE Office in Tajikistan launches Mentoring Training Programme for women politiciansOSCE Office in Tajikistan donates audio-visual material to enhance interactive teaching at Police AcademyOSCE Office in Tajikistan’s training series highlights role of parents in the fight against terrorism Full Article OSCE Office in Tajikistan Gender equality Central Asia Press release
vi Giving women a voice in peace-building By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Fri, 08 Jul 2016 13:24:51 +0000 Article Fri, 2016-07-29 15:17 OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine Eastern Europe Conflict prevention and resolution Gender equality Enhancing the participation of women in conflict resolution and peace-building efforts is important to achieving security and stability in Ukraine. Nataliya Mariychuk, a mother of three children aged three to eighteen is nostalgic for the life she had some 1,300 kilometres away in her native city of Alchevsk, in Luhansk region but now she has adjusted to her new life. At the other end of Ukraine, in the village of Vorotsiv in Lviv region. Nataliya is one of more than a million women displaced by the conflict in eastern Ukraine. The significant number of internally displaced persons (IDPs) and the challenges involved in integrating them into their new environments prompted her to co-found the Civic Movement of Donbas IDPs. [node id="253816" preset="medium" align="left" description="Nataliya Mariychuk (c), Co-Founder of the Civic Movement of Donbas IDPs, helps individuals displaced by the conflict in eastern Ukraine integrate into their local community."] The association works with local administrative authorities in Vorotsiv to address socio-economic problems including lack of housing and recreational facilities for children. They also work to build bridges between IDPs and their host communities in western Ukraine, where tensions have risen following the influx of people from the east. “We offered the local authorities our volunteer support with initiatives such as cleaning up the local river, enhancing the road system and purchasing sports equipment for youngsters”, says Nataliya. “These efforts helped IDPs to better integrate into the local community and helped host communities see us as partners and not rivals”. Women IDPs in Ukraine The number of IDPs in Ukraine is 1.8 million, according to Ukraine’s Ministry for Social Policy as of July 2016; Of this figure, 1.1 million are women (61 per cent); Women make up 73 per cent of IDPs residing in collective centres, according to Global Shelter Cluster figures as of May 2016. Collective centres are pre-existing buildings and structures intended for the long-term stay of IDPs. They include dormitories and sanatoriums, modular-type centres and rented houses. Nadiya Kuramshina is another woman pushing the boundaries with her work. The mother of a soldier in the Ukrainian Armed Forces and the founder of the non-governmental organization (NGO) Unity of Mothers “Zakhyst” (Defence), Kuramshina works to establish contacts between women whose sons serve in the Ukrainian Armed Forces and the mothers whose son have become armed members of “Donetsk People’s Republic”. [node id="253821" preset="medium" align="left" description="Nadiya Kuramshina, founder of the Unity of Mothers “Zakhyst” (Defence) NGO, stands with other women whose sons serve in Armed Forces and formations."] “For many of us, it is important to learn the views of the other side first-hand and to talk about the things that we have in common”, says Nadiya. “With very little outside help, we are working on delivering legal and social support to soldiers who have returned from the army and face difficulties in adjusting to civilian life.” Women, Peace and Security According to journalist Tamara Zlobina, despite these accomplishments women’s achievements in Ukraine continue to be seen through a patriarchal prism emphasizing the traditional role of women as caregivers instead of focusing on their contributions to peace-building efforts. “There are strong stereotypes about the role of women in society which significantly prevents them from realizing their full potential”, she says. There are strong stereotypes about the role of women in society, which significantly prevents them from realizing their full potential. Tamara Zlobina Journalist Awareness of this fact has led international organizations such as the OSCE, through its Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM), to seek structures and foundations upon which to build and strengthen opportunities for women. This work is based on United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 (2000) on Women, Peace and Security (UNSCR 1325/2000) which recognized that men and women are affected by conflicts in different ways and that peace-building efforts must see the full involvement of both women and men. The Mission also incorporates gender perspectives into facilitating dialogue, monitoring and reporting along the lines of its mandate. Gender Dimensions of SMM’s Monitoring: One Year of Progress This report sets out the gender-mainstreaming efforts of the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) and outlines the relevant gender dimensions of the SMM’s monitoring, reporting and dialogue facilitation activities. Gender Dimensions of SMM’s Monitoring: One Year of Progress See all the links Laura Jaffrey, an SMM monitoring officer and gender focal point based in Lviv says that one approach to gender mainstreaming in the SMM’s work is to collect sex-disaggregated data. “In practical terms it involves talking with people of both sexes, of different ages and from different social spheres in order to reveal the realities faced by both women and men of different ages and backgrounds”, says Laura. [node id=253911 type="panel" preset="medium"] In practical terms, it implies talking with people of both sexes, of different ages and from different social spheres in order to reveal the realities faced by both women and men of different ages and backgrounds. Laura Jaffrey SMM Monitoring Officer Within its mandate the SMM monitors the changes in gender dynamics regarding and including the challenges faced by IDPs. Monitoring through the gender lens can shed light on specific issues encountered by women, men, boys and girls and reveal a more accurate picture of the situation on the ground, according to Laura. Breadwinners and politicians The conflict is transforming the role of women. “Due to the compulsory mobilization of men into the army, women are left to supporting the families financially”, says Tamara. Olena Cherenkova, an IDP from Luhansk, fled to Lutsk in Volyn region, with her 80-year-old mother and her teenage daughter. As her family’s sole breadwinner, Olena has gained a sense of confidence and independence which sees her challenging the traditional stereotypes of women in her work as the head of the local association of IDPs from Crimea and Donbas. [node id="253801" preset="medium" align="left" description="Olena Cherenkova (c), head of the local association of internally displaced persons from Crimea and Donbas."] On the other hand, Vira Pidhrushna saw her opportunity in politics and less than a year ago became the deputy head of the Brody village council in Lviv region. Focusing on the needs of families, her work has resulted in providing assistance to people returning to the area from combat duty in the east. “I am very proud of my party for trusting me to lead the party list in the local elections”, says Vira, acknowledging that only five of the 34 deputies in the district council are women. [node id=253811 type="panel" preset="medium"] Women will not be able to make much progress in achieving gender equality if they do it on their own, it has to be a joint effort by women and men. Nataliya Mariychuk Co-Founder of the Civic Movement of Donbas IDPs Yet both she and Nataliya from Vorotsiv village emphasize that women and men should not be competitors in their professional endeavours. “Women will not be able to make much progress in achieving gender equality if they do it on their own”, says Nataliya. “It has to be a joint effort by both women and men”. Giving women a real say in peace-building would certainly contribute to enhancing gender equality in a post-conflict society. Related StoriesLatest from OSCE Special Monitoring Mission (SMM) to Ukraine, based on information received as of 19:30, 4 August 2016Latest from OSCE Special Monitoring Mission (SMM) to Ukraine, based on information received as of 19:30, 3 August 2016OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine to hold news briefing in Kyiv tomorrow Full Article OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine Conflict prevention and resolution Gender equality Eastern Europe Article
vi OSCE Mission and OSCE/ODIHR support Montenegro’s parliament in drafting an action plan on gender sensitivity By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Wed, 20 Apr 2016 07:08:57 +0000 Mia Lausevic The first activities of an action plan to create a more gender-sensitive national parliament in Montenegro were drafted during a workshop in Podgorica on 18-19 April 2016 organized by the OSCE Mission to Montenegro in co-operation with the Parliamentary Committee for Gender Equality and the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR). The event gathered 18 participants, including members of parliament and representatives of the parliamentary service, institutions and civil society, who, led by experts, drafted the first activities of the action plan. The plan covers six key areas: leadership and commitment, gender-balanced representation, gender-sensitive legislation and policy, parliamentary services and infrastructure, gender awareness in parliamentary culture, and parliament as a promoter of gender equality. Participants set the end of the year as the goal for finalizing and putting the plan up for adoption for the new convocation of the Parliament for the first quarter of 2017. “The on-going gender mainstreaming of the Montenegrin Parliament is a significant step forward in translating our written pledges into actual reality,” said Dan Redford, Deputy Head of the OSCE Mission to Montenegro. “In particular, I am delighted to hear that the development of a roadmap and subsequent drafting of their action plan have been initiated by the parliament. This has to be the clearest indicator that its implementation has great chances of success and becoming ‘mainstream’ in the truest sense of the word.” Nada Drobnjak, Chair of the Parliamentary Committee for Gender Equality highlighted the fact that the drafting of this important document and its subsequent adoption will make the Montenegrin Parliament a leader and pioneer in the region, and beyond. In 2015, the Mission and ODIHR, in co-operation with the Committee for Gender Equality developed a roadmap towards a gender-sensitive parliament which served as the basis for the development of the action plan. The development and the adoption of the action plan is one of the measures initiated and included in the action plan for strengthening the legislative and oversight role of Montenegrin Parliament. Related StoriesOSCE Mission to Montenegro-supported campaign on benefits of composting kicks-off in PljevljaOSCE Mission to Montenegro supports seminar on strengthening co-operation between prosecutors and police on forensic evidenceOSCE Mission to Montenegro marks World Press Freedom Day: Public Service Broadcaster hosts televised debate on media freedoms Full Article OSCE Mission to Montenegro Gender equality South-Eastern Europe News
vi OSCE Mission to Montenegro marks World Press Freedom Day: Public Service Broadcaster hosts televised debate on media freedoms By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Fri, 06 May 2016 07:24:35 +0000 Mia Lausevic A televised debate hosted by the Montenegrin Public Service Broadcaster and supported by the OSCE Mission on 2 May 2016, ahead of World Press Freedom Day, raised on awareness about the threats to media freedoms and specific problems facing journalism as a profession. Taking part in the debate were Nikola Markovic, Editor-in-Chief of daily Dan; Tufik Sofitc, Acting Director of Radio Berane, journalist of daily Vijesti and weekly Monitor, and currently under police protection; Ranko Vujovic, Executive Secretary of the Media Council for Self-Regulation ; Marijana Bojanic, Executive Director of Vijesti Television; and Drasko Djuranovic, Editor-in-Chief of the daily Pobjeda. Among the issues highlighted were problems related to the polarized media industry in Montenegro, different pressures on journalists, state-financing subsidies and the media market, the social standing of journalists, and the lack of solidarity. Panellists agreed that the amended Code of Ethics for media professionals is a major step forward which has improved co-operation among the media but the focus now should be on its implementation. “In order to achieve and practice the freedom of expression, it is necessary to have a strong and independent media, and in order to have that, it is essential to ensure their sustainability,” said Bojanic. The TV debate is available in the Montenegrin language.Related StoriesOSCE Mission to Montenegro-supported campaign on benefits of composting kicks-off in PljevljaOSCE Mission to Montenegro supports seminar on strengthening co-operation between prosecutors and police on forensic evidenceHead of the OSCE Mission highlights the media’s crucial role in building democracy Full Article OSCE Mission to Montenegro Media freedom and development South-Eastern Europe News
vi OSCE Mission to Montenegro supports seminar on strengthening co-operation between prosecutors and police on forensic evidence By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Mon, 06 Jun 2016 14:17:04 +0000 Mia Lausevic Application of modern forensic standards in the judiciary with a particular focus on treatment of evidence, forensic analytics and quality control, as well as DNA analysis and crime scene investigation were the focus of an OSCE-supported seminar on 3 June 2016 in Danilovgrad, Montenegro. The OSCE Mission to Montenegro organized the event together with the Judicial Training Centre (JTC) and the Forensic Centre (FC) of the Interior Ministry’s Police Directorate. Three eminent national forensic experts held lectures for 20 representatives of prosecutor’s offices and the judiciary on how to increase the efficiency of prosecutor-led investigations through the well-prepared execution of warrants for evidence. Particular emphasis was placed on the enhancement of direct communication between the forensic services of the police and prosecutors at the very beginning of an investigation. The Director of the FC, Zoran Tomčić, underlined the necessity of improving the system of search warrants prepared by prosecutors: “The number of warrants for forensic evidence has to be reduced and prepared more effectively. In May of this year alone, the FC received 200 warrants for DNA analysis, requesting results within a disproportionate time. In some cases, warrants are not sufficiently detailed, so that the results provided by forensic expertise do not stand up as evidence at the court.” Maša Adžić, Head of the Training Unit in the JTC, said: “Good co-operation in a criminal investigation, communication between police, prosecutors and judges and their timely and professional performance are of crucial importance for a positive outcome.” Participants emphasized the need for continued training in the field of forensic evidence as well as an expansion of the content of lectures on DNA expertise to cover such topics as sampling, types of biological evidence, writing orders for expert DNA analysis and interpretation of results. They also requested the organization of a seminar on forensic expertise regarding explosions and fire.Related StoriesOSCE Mission to Montenegro-supported campaign on benefits of composting kicks-off in PljevljaOSCE Mission to Montenegro marks World Press Freedom Day: Public Service Broadcaster hosts televised debate on media freedomsOSCE Mission and OSCE/ODIHR support Montenegro’s parliament in drafting an action plan on gender sensitivity Full Article OSCE Mission to Montenegro Policing South-Eastern Europe News
vi OSCE supports study visit of Azerbaijani officials to the Netherlands on Holocaust education and remembrance By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Mon, 15 Dec 2014 09:53:41 +0000 131941 Rashad Huseynov, OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Baku Holocaust education and remembrance are the main topics of a five-day study visit of Azerbaijani officials to the Netherlands, organized by OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Baku, in co-operation with the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam, which will take place from 15 to 20 December 2014. The Azerbaijani delegation consists of eight representatives from the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Baku International Multiculturalism Centre. Thedelegation will meet representatives of the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam, the Ministry of Education, Culture and Science of the Netherlands, the Institute for Curriculum Development and HAN University of Applied Science - College of Education for Secondary School Teachers. They will also visit the Institute for War, Holocaust and Genocide Studies and the Dutch Holocaust Memorial. The main topics of discussions will include a review of the Dutch government policy regarding primary and secondary education and Holocaust education, as well as experience on improving skills of secondary school teachers in this field. Azerbaijani and Dutch experts will also exchange views on current practices regarding Holocaust remembrance activities. This visit is part of a wider project agreed between the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Baku and the Azerbaijani government aimed at strengthening tolerance and non-discrimination in Azerbaijan. As a first component of this project, an international conference on “Strengthening religious tolerance -Azerbaijan’s model, challenges in the OSCE area and beyond” took place in Baku on 17-18 November 2014. The PCiB will organize other events under this project during 2015. Related StoriesOSCE Project Co-ordinator calls for join efforts in supporting voices of moderation, promoting dialogue and restoring trustMore Muslim voices in Europe condemning anti-Semitism needed, says Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office on Combating Anti-SemitismOSCE and Press Council announce contest for reporting on domestic violence Full Article OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Baku Tolerance and non-discrimination South Caucasus News
vi OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Baku awards journalists for best articles about domestic violence By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Mon, 29 Dec 2014 11:19:43 +0000 BAKU, 29 December 2014 – The OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Baku announced today the results of a contest aiming to raise awareness of the issue of domestic violence in Azerbaijan. Prizes were awarded to the best media reports on the issue written in 2014. The evaluation committee, comprising representatives from the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Baku and the State Committee for Women, Family and Children Affairs, reviewed some 20 articles submitted by journalists from various print and online media outlets in Azerbaijan and selected three winners: - Jeyhun Musaoghlu, from Aznews.az, won first place. In his article, Musaoghlu looked into the role of media in raising awareness about domestic violence and the protection of victims, as well as the importance of ensuring gender equality to reduce domestic violence; - Aynur Elgunesh, from Var.az, won second place. She investigated current challenges in implementing the law on the prevention of domestic violence and highlighted the importance of co-operation between government agencies and civil society organizations in the operation of shelters for victims of domestic violence; - The third place winner is Fuad Huseynzade, from Interfax-Azerbaijan. He investigated the main reasons that lead to domestic violence and analysed socio-economic and psychological aspects of this phenomenon in Azerbaijan. The winners of the competition received monetary rewards as follows: first place: – 1500 AZN (approx. 1430 Euros), second place – 1200 AZN (approx. 1150 Euros) and third place – 1000 AZN (approx. 955 Euros). They will also receive certificates from Ambassador Alexis Chahtahtinsky, OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Baku. This contest was part of a project supporting the implementation of the law on the prevention of domestic violence in Azerbaijan.Related StoriesMore Muslim voices in Europe condemning anti-Semitism needed, says Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office on Combating Anti-SemitismOSCE and Azerbaijan discuss cybersecurityOSCE trains legal professionals on preventing domestic violence Full Article OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Baku Human rights South Caucasus Press release
vi Co-operation matters! OSCE interactive campaign seeks global vision of security and co-operation By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Fri, 17 Apr 2015 10:05:51 +0000 VIENNA, 17 April 2015 – In a new interactive campaign launched today, the OSCE is inviting members of the public to send in photos, videos and social media messages on how we can work together to make security a reality and promote peace through co-operation. The campaign “Co-operation matters” aims to show that everyone, as part of a global community, has a stake in efforts to make the world a safer and more peaceful place. It is part of a series of events commemorating the 40th anniversary of the signing of the Helsinki Final Act, the key founding document that brought the OSCE into being and guides its comprehensive approach to security to this day. The public can get involved by using the hashtags #WeCooperate and #OSCE and submitting their entries via Twitter, Instagram, or directly to the campaign webpage and/or the OSCE Facebook page. The best entries will be published on the website with prizes of a gadget reflecting different areas of security and cooperation every two weeks and a visit to an OSCE event for the best overall entry. Details of the campaign as well as the rules for taking part are available on the campaign webpage. Related StoriesMentoring is effective in promoting women’s participation in public and political life, say participants of OSCE expert workshop in SkopjeWinners of OSCE design contest challenge violent extremism with creative cartoonsOSCE organizes field study in sustainable energy for the OSCE Mediterranean Partner Countries. Full Article OSCE Observer Mission at the Russian Checkpoints Gukovo and Donetsk OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Baku OSCE Presence in Albania OSCE Centre in Ashgabat OSCE Programme Office in Astana OSCE Centre in Bishkek OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina OSCE Mission in Kosovo Secretariat OSCE Mission to Montenegro OSCE Mission to Moldova OSCE Mission to Serbia OSCE Mission to Skopje OSCE Office in Tajikistan OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Ukraine OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan OSCE Office in Yerevan Press release
vi OSCE and Press Council announce contest for reporting on domestic violence By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Fri, 15 May 2015 08:33:55 +0000 102982 Rashad Huseynov, OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Baku The OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Baku and the Azerbaijani Press Council are pleased to announce two contests for media reports highlighting the problems of domestic violence in Azerbaijan. The first contest is for the articles published in newspapers and online media, the second one for TV reports. An evaluation committee comprising the representatives of the OSCE, Press Council and the State Committee for Family, Women and Children Affairs will award prizes for the best reports produced from 1 May 2015 to 30 November 2015. The deadline for entries is 30 November 2015. The results will be announced in December 2015. The competition is open to media representatives only. The authors of the winning articles and reports will receive certificates and cash prizes: first place - 1500, second – 1200 and third – 1000 AZN. Each contest also includes an award for the best report from young journalists – 1000 AZN. These contests are part of the PCiB’s project on supporting the implementation of the law on the prevention of domestic violence. Questions about the contest may be directed to Zhala Azizova, National Project Officer, at zazizova@osce.org and Avaz Rustamov, representative of the Press Council, at evez.rustemov@gmail.com.Related StoriesMore Muslim voices in Europe condemning anti-Semitism needed, says Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office on Combating Anti-SemitismOSCE Project Co-ordinator calls for join efforts in supporting voices of moderation, promoting dialogue and restoring trustOSCE supports study visit of Azerbaijani officials to the Netherlands on Holocaust education and remembrance Full Article OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Baku Gender equality South Caucasus News
vi OSCE Chairperson-in-Office stresses the importance of dialogue during his visit to Azerbaijan By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Mon, 01 Jun 2015 16:40:13 +0000 BAKU, 1 June 2015 – OSCE Chairperson-in-Office and Serbia’s Foreign Minister Ivica Dačić started his official trip to the South Caucasus today with a visit to Baku. He was received by President llham Aliyev and discussed with him the potential for progress towards a comprehensive peace agreement for the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, as well as co-operation between the OSCE and Azerbaijan. During his visit, Dačić also had meetings with Foreign Minister Elmar Mammadyarov, Speaker of Parliament Ogtay Asadov, as well as representatives of political parties and of the Azerbaijani community of Nagorno-Karabakh. Dačić expressed concern about the unprecedented number of service personnel and civilians reported killed and wounded in the first four months of the year, and stressed the need for all involved to honour the ceasefire agreement. “There is no alternative to a peaceful settlement,” he said. “Serbia’s own experience confirms that it is only through dialogue that a sustainable, peaceful solution can be found, one which would put the region on the path of co-operation, the only way forward in our increasingly interconnected international community,” he said. Dačić emphasized his full support for the efforts of the Co-chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group and his Personal Representative, Ambassador Andrzej Kaspryzk, directed towards promoting dialogue between the parties. He stressed that, besides offering tools for advancing democratic reforms in its participating States, the OSCE is a good platform for joining forces in addressing transnational threats. “The Organization stands ready to continue to work with Azerbaijan to help boost the country’s capacities to combat such threats,” Dačić said, “as well as to pursue its domestic reform agenda.” Dačić also visited the premises of the OSCE Project Co-ordinator’s in Baku, where he discussed with mission members ongoing programmatic activity. The Chairperson-in-Office was accompanied by Ambassador Kaspryzk and his Special Representative for the South Caucasus, Ambassador Angelo Gnaedinger. Later today, Dačić will depart for Tbilisi where he will hold high-level talks tomorrow. He will conclude the visit to the region on 3 June in Yerevan.Related Stories68th IPRM meeting takes place in ErgnetiUrgent steps needed towards full respect for ceasefire in eastern Ukraine, says OSCE Chairmanship Special Representative and Chief MonitorOSCE Chairperson-in-Office Steinmeier, in Moldova, calls for swift and full implementation of confidence-building measures Full Article Chairmanship OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Baku Conflict prevention and resolution South Caucasus Azerbaijan Press release
vi Human rights in legislative processes in focus at OSCE and OHCHR-supported training course for advisors and experts of Kyrgyz parliament By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Fri, 15 Jul 2016 09:05:55 +0000 BISHKEK, 15 July 2016 – The OSCE Centre in Bishkek and the Regional Office for Central Asia of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR ROCA) completed a training course in Bishkek today for 35 advisors and experts of the Kyrgyz parliament on promoting human rights in the legislative process. The two-day training course aimed at enhancing the knowledge of parliamentarians on human rights principles. National and international experts shared their know-how with participants on the international human rights standards, and the United Nations Human Rights Treaty System and its mechanisms. They also discussed the role of parliamentarians in promoting and protecting human rights, the principles of equality and non-discrimination as well as the relations between the state and other actors. “Today’s training course is an important step towards ensuring that new laws will be drafted in compliance with these principles for the continuous democratic development of Kyrgyzstan,” said Daniele Rumolo, Senior Human Dimension Officer at the OSCE Centre in Bishkek. “Following the successful organization of parliamentary elections in October 2015, it is necessary that Kyrgyz authorities continue to meet their obligations and implement the relevant OSCE commitments on human rights.” Ryszard Komenda, OHCHR ROCA Regional Representative, said: “It is critical that advisors and experts working closely with members of the parliament are fully versed in and committed to international and national human rights standards in order to propose and adopt legislation that is in full compliance with them. This training course represents one way in which OHCHR supports Kyrgyzstan to protect and promote human rights.” The training course is part of the OSCE Centre’s project on strengthening democratic governance in Kyrgyzstan.Related StoriesOSCE Centre supports the 3rd training for prosecutors on effective investigation of cases of torture in KyrgyzstanTo mark World Day against Trafficking in Persons OSCE Centre in Bishkek supports public awareness raising campaignOSCE Centre in Bishkek supports summer school on topical issues of police reform Full Article OSCE Centre in Bishkek Human rights Central Asia Press release
vi Athletes discuss gender-based violence at OSCE-supported event in southern Kyrgyzstan By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Tue, 26 Jul 2016 12:57:36 +0000 OSH, Kyrgyzstan, 26 July 2016 – Some 25 athletes and sport trainers today discussed gender-based violence at an OSCE-supported roundtable discussion attended by a world amateur boxing champion (1986) and former member of parliament, Orzubek Nazarov. At the event organized by the Ensan-Diamond NGO with support of the OSCE Centre in Bishkek, participants discussed how violent behaviour at training venues might impact social relationships further in life. Gender equality, gender-based stereotypes and promoting positive images of masculinity without resorting to violence, were among the main topics of the discussion. “Preventing gender based-violence and promoting gender equality is at the centre of OSCE human rights commitments and comprehensive approach to security,” said Anete Erdmane, OSCE Human Dimension Officer at the Osh Field Office. “The initiative aims at supporting Kyrgyzstan in achieving positive change through dialogue and engagement with men.” Jamilya Kaparova, director of Ensan-Diamond, said: “The nature of sports training and overall culture of masculinity can contribute to an increased aggression among athletes. Such behaviour can result in gender-based violence and negatively affect family and community members. To reach out to this important audience and promote positive role models, we have invited Mr. Nazarov who has been an outspoken advocate for gender equality.” The roundtable discussion follows a similar event which also took place in Osh in November 2015. The initiative was held in line with the OSCE’s efforts to assist Kyrgyzstan in implementing its National Action Plan for 2015-2017 on gender equality. The National Action Plan foresees developing a culture of aversion to gender discrimination and violence against women and men at all levels of society.Related StoriesTo mark World Day against Trafficking in Persons OSCE Centre in Bishkek supports public awareness raising campaignOSCE Centre in Bishkek supports summer school on topical issues of police reformOSCE Centre in Bishkek trains defence lawyers and prosecutors on right to liberty and freedom from arbitrary arrest or detention Full Article OSCE Centre in Bishkek Gender equality Central Asia Press release
vi OSCE/ODIHR Director Link welcomes Kyrgyzstan’s review of Askarov’s case, calls on Kyrgyz authorities to implement UN Human Rights Committee decision By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Fri, 08 Jul 2016 12:50:51 +0000 WARSAW, 9 July 2016 ─ Michael Georg Link, Director of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR), today welcomed the decision by the Supreme Court of Kyrgyzstan to reconsider the case of human rights defender Azimjan Askarov, and again called on the Kyrgyz authorities to heed a decision of the UN Human Rights Committee calling for Askarov’s release. A Supreme Court hearing is scheduled to review Mr. Askarov’s case on Monday, 11 July. “I welcome Kyrgyzstan’s openness to reviewing Azimjan Askarov’s case, and my Office stands ready to support the Kyrgyz authorities in their implementation of OSCE commitments related to human rights,” said Director Link. “Kyrgyzstan is obligated under both international law and its own Constitution to quash Askarov’s conviction and immediately release him.” On 21 April 2016, the UN Human Rights Committee decided in favour of a complaint filed by Askarov, finding that he had been arbitrarily detained, held in inhumane conditions, tortured and mistreated, and prevented from adequately preparing his trial defence. The Committee called on Kyrgyzstan to immediately release him, overturn his conviction, and provide him with compensation for the violations of his human rights. Article 41.2 of the Kyrgyz Constitution requires authorities to implement the Human Rights Committee decision. “Mr. Askarov’s ongoing detention is not only unlawful, as the UN Human Rights Committee made clear, but also inhumane, in light of the serious deterioration of his health,” the ODIHR Director said. “We look forward to Mr. Askarov’s release and the restoration of his rights, including his access to urgently needed medical care outside of confinement.” Askarov was reportedly subjected to ill-treatment during his initial detention by police and during his trial. Despite very serious health concerns, he was denied access to adequate medical treatment by detention officials. Since then, he has been held at Penal Colony No. 47, in Bishkek, where his health has reportedly deteriorated further.Related StoriesAfter violent attempted coup, Turkish authorities must strengthen, not weaken, rule of law and independence of judiciary, says ODIHR Director LinkOSCE/ODIHR Director concerned about reported rise of hate incidents in the United Kingdom, supports calls for tolerance in a challenging timeOSCE/ODIHR final report on early parliamentary elections in Serbia recommends comprehensive review of legislation and ensuring the level playing field for contestants Full Article Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights Human rights Central Asia Press release
vi OSCE workshop in Kosovo focuses on improving the recording of hate crimes By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Tue, 12 Jul 2016 19:31:03 +0000 A two-day workshop on ways to improve the recording of hate crimes was organized on 11 and 12 July in Prishtinë/Priština by the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR), the OSCE Mission in Kosovo and the Kosovo Police. In addition to reinforcing their understanding of the OSCE’s approach to hate crime, workshop participants identified a series of additional improvements in the way local authorities monitor and record hate crimes. Participants also agreed to establish a permanent national mechanism to co-ordinate hate crime data collection. "Police recording is the key point of entry for information about hate crimes into the criminal justice system. But, the police cannot operate alone," said Ales Giao Hanek, ODIHR Hate Crime Officer. "Co-ordination between all the agencies concerned is crucial, and political support will be required to make the changes identified and agreed upon by participants." Workshop participants included Kosovo Police specialists responsible for recording and managing crime statistics from all eight policing districts. Police and Prosecution Service focal points on hate crimes took part, as well as representatives from the Kosovo Judicial Institute. This workshop follows up on an event held in May 2015, which mapped hate crime data collection in Kosovo.Related StoriesOSCE/ODIHR final report on the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia’s postponed early parliamentary elections recommends continuing electoral reform processOSCE/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 OSCE Mission in Kosovo Tolerance and non-discrimination South-Eastern Europe News
vi After violent attempted coup, Turkish authorities must strengthen, not weaken, rule of law and independence of judiciary, says ODIHR Director Link By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Thu, 21 Jul 2016 09:22:14 +0000 WARSAW, 21 July 2016 - Michael Georg Link, Director of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR), today underlined that the principles of rule of law, democracy and respect for human rights need to be upheld in Turkey, following the attempted coup. “Any attempt to overthrow democratically elected leaders is unacceptable and is to be condemned. In responding to these unconstitutional events, however, all actions by the Turkish authorities must not exceed the legal framework of the Turkish Constitution and Turkey's international human right commitments,” said Director Link. “In investigating these events and holding responsible those who have attempted the coup, the authorities must ensure that human rights standards, due process, fair trial rights and respect for the independence of the judiciary are respected. Talk by authorities of a possible reintroduction of the death penalty and the summary firing of thousands of judges are clearly crossing the line of existing legal standards." The ODIHR Director’s statement follows reports that thousands of judges and prosecutors across the country were detained, arrested or dismissed from their positions immediately after the failed coup attempt. “These actions raise serious concerns regarding the Turkish authorities' respect for the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary. Also the newly announced three-month state of emergency cannot legitimize disproportional measures, such as, among many others, the recently announced work-travel ban on academics,” Director Link said. At the OSCE summit in Istanbul in 1999, OSCE participating States agreed to promote the development of independent judicial systems. This principle is further stressed in other OSCE commitments that call upon participating States to respect judges’ freedom of expression and association, guaranteed tenure and appropriate conditions of service, and the discipline, suspension and removal of judges according to law. “ODIHR is ready to offer any assistance to Turkey in this challenging moment. Putting those who attempted the violent coup on trial is crucial,” said Director Link. “ODIHR is available to monitor these trials, in line with its existing and proven methodology. A Turkish invitation to the OSCE to monitor these trials would demonstrate Turkey's compliance with international standards, even in times of a state of emergency.”Related StoriesOSCE/ODIHR Director Link welcomes Kyrgyzstan’s review of Askarov’s case, calls on Kyrgyz authorities to implement UN Human Rights Committee decisionOSCE/ODIHR final report on early parliamentary elections in Serbia recommends comprehensive review of legislation and ensuring the level playing field for contestantsOSCE workshop in Kosovo focuses on improving the recording of hate crimes Full Article Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights Press release
vi 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
vi On World Anti-Trafficking Day, OSCE calls for comprehensive, co-ordinated and victim-centred approach to combatting modern-day slavery By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Sat, 30 Jul 2016 06:36:19 +0000 VIENNA / WARSAW, 29 July2016 – To combat human trafficking, a comprehensive, co-ordinated and victim-centred approach that includes creating opportunities for regular and safe migration, as well as protecting the human rights of migrants, is urgently needed by all state actors, civil society and multilateral organizations, said senior OSCE officials today ahead of World Anti-Trafficking Day on 30 July. Multiple and complex security challenges such as armed conflict, the spread of violent extremism and radicalization leading to terrorism and climate change, have recently pushed millions of people into mass, mixed migration flows throughout the OSCE region, putting an increasing number of them at risk of being trafficked. OSCE Secretary General Lamberto Zannier emphasized that “effective and early identification of potential victims and the fight against the impunity of perpetrators need to be at the core of any resilient security governance strategy. This is particularly important within the context of mixed migration flows, which expose already vulnerable individuals to trafficking syndicates.” “Human trafficking is a grave violation of the human rights of its victims – human beings who are exploited, most often for profit,” said Michael Georg Link, Director of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR). “A victim-centred approach, placing the protection of all human rights at the heart of efforts to prevent and end trafficking, is essential if we are to ensure that anti-trafficking measures do not further threaten the safety, dignity and rights of those we are responsible to help and protect.” OSCE Special Representative and Co-ordinator for Combating Trafficking in Human Beings Madina Jarbussynova stressed that crisis situations are placing strenuous challenges on already vulnerable groups within and around the OSCE region. “As we join the efforts of the United Nations on this World Day against Trafficking in Persons to raise awareness and promote the protection of rights and dignity of all, any protective measures should first and foremost be conducted in the best interest of potential victims, especially amongst irregular migrants, asylum seekers, internally displaced persons and unaccompanied minors.” Focusing on the complex nexus between trafficking and conflict situations, Ambassador Jarbussynova will on Monday start a week-long official visit to Ukraine to raise awareness of human trafficking threats. Related StoriesOSCE Chairperson-in-Office Steinmeier and Secretary General Zannier offer condolences on passing of Nobel Peace Prize laureate Elie WieselOSCE Secretary General and Europol Director discuss need to address threat of trafficking children migrantsStrong multilateral institutions, confidence-building instruments key in addressing divisions, say participants of OSCE Security Days in Berlin Full Article Secretary General Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights Combating human trafficking Western Europe and North America Austria Press release
vi 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 By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Tue, 02 Aug 2016 08:28:11 +0000 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 StoriesAfter violent attempted coup, Turkish authorities must strengthen, not weaken, rule of law and independence of judiciary, says ODIHR Director LinkOSCE workshop in Kosovo focuses on improving the recording of hate crimesOSCE/ODIHR Director Link welcomes Kyrgyzstan’s review of Askarov’s case, calls on Kyrgyz authorities to implement UN Human Rights Committee decision Full Article Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights Human rights Roma and Sinti issues Tolerance and non-discrimination Press release
vi OSCE Representative welcomes revision of Law of War manual in USA improving protection for journalists By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Mon, 25 Jul 2016 11:07:09 +0000 VIENNA, 25 July 2016 – OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media Dunja Mijatović today welcomed the revision of United States Department of Defense’s Law of War Manual, which better recognizes the status and role of journalists under the law of war. “Updating the manual and deleting problematic provisions which could endanger members of the media covering armed conflicts was a much-needed and welcome step,” Mijatović said. “Journalists are civilians and should be treated and protected as just that.” The first version of the Law of War Manual, released in June 2015, provides guidelines for members of the US military. The manual said that journalists in general are to be considered civilians, but that they also may be “members of the armed forces, persons authorized to accompany the armed forces, or unprivileged belligerents”. The term “unprivileged belligerents” could have allowed military commanders to detain journalists indefinitely outside the rules of war without charge or trial. The original version of the manual also included provisions which likened war reporting to spying, and censorship. In the updated version of the manual, these provisions have been abolished. “Working as a journalist in a conflict zone is a very dangerous job. This revised manual is one of many efforts needed to improve journalists’ safety,” Mijatović said. 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 StoriesDemocratic governments must ensure media freedom and journalists’ safety, OSCE Representative urges TurkeyOSCE Representative condemns murder of journalist Pavel Sheremet in UkraineOSCE Representative mourns photojournalist killed in Turkey, expresses concern for media freedom Full Article Representative on Freedom of the Media Safety of journalists Media freedom and development Western Europe and North America United States of America Press release
vi OSCE Representative condemns incidents directed at journalists and independent voices in Bosnia and Herzegovina By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Fri, 29 Jul 2016 14:46:40 +0000 VIENNA, 29 July 2016 – Continuing intimidation and violence against journalists and independent voices is unacceptable and could further weaken media freedom and freedom of expression in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH), Dunja Mijatović, OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, said today. “I am following with great concern the extremely worrying situation in the country which could lead to self-censorship,” Mijatović said. “People engaged in investigative reporting and expressing different opinions, even provocative ones, should play a legitimate part in a healthy debate and their voices should not be restricted.” Mijatović noted that the latest events open a very worrying chapter on the safety of journalists. They include: • Verbal attacks on writer and journalist Nenad Veličković; • Verbal attacks on Borka Rudić, General Secretary of the Association of BiH Journalists; • Verbal threats on journalist Mirjana Radanović; • Threats and insults against journalists of FTV Mreža magazine; • Threats against Dragiša Sikimić, editor-in-chief and the owner of the web portal MojaHercegovina.info; • Verbal and physical assaults on BN TV, ATV and HIT TV crews; • A physical attack on a BN TV camera operator; • An assault on Nermin Bisa, editor-in-chief of 24sata.info; • Verbal threats against freelance journalist Vuk Bačanović; and • Offensive and discriminatory verbal attacks on Selma Učanbarlić, a journalist from the Centre for Investigative Reporting. “This trend needs to be immediately reversed. Public condemnation at the highest level is needed in order to send a clear message that such threats, including hate speech, against journalists, academics and writers are not tolerated in a democratic society,” Mijatović said. “Investigations into these incidents, which include death threats transmitted by social media, need to be commenced immediately.” 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. For PDF attachments or links to sources of further information, please visit http: www.osce.org/fom/257086Related StoriesUN Special Rapporteur and OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media deplore crackdown on journalists and media outlets in TurkeyOSCE Representative welcomes revision of Law of War manual in USA improving protection for journalistsDemocratic governments must ensure media freedom and journalists’ safety, OSCE Representative urges Turkey Full Article Representative on Freedom of the Media Media freedom and development South-Eastern Europe Bosnia and Herzegovina Press release
vi OSCE media freedom representative urges protection for journalists reporting on civil unrest in Armenia By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Mon, 01 Aug 2016 14:20:05 +0000 VIENNA, 1 August 2016 – At the end of the siege of police headquarters in Yerevan, OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media Dunja Mijatović today sought reassurance from the foreign minister of Armenia that journalists’ rights and safety during times of civil unrest would be protected. Mijatović wrote to Foreign Minister Edward Nalbandian indicating that the Government “should implement practical steps to ensure restraint on the part of law enforcement representatives toward members of the media and suggested steps should be taken by the authorities to guarantee that the press is not targeted by the police or thugs. The police should be protecting journalists and members of the media.” According to reports, on 29 July media reporting on the forced dispersal of demonstrators in the Sari Tagh district and other events were attacked, beaten and had their equipment destroyed. In some cases the attackers were uniformed police; in others, civilians armed with metal rods. Those attacked include: reporter Aghvan Asoyan and camera operator Albert Galstyan from Armenia TV; journalist Mariam Grigoryan and camera operator Davit Harutyunyan from Arajin Lratvakan; reporters Karlen Aslanyan and Hovhannes Movsisyan and camera operator Garik Harutyunyan of Azatutyun; reporter Robert Ananyan and camera operator Tigran Badalyan from A1+ TV; camera operator Marut Vanyan from the Lragir.am news website; journalists Sargis Kharazyan and Mkrtich Karapetyan from CivilNet; reporter Hovik Grigoryan of Panorama.am; and camera operator Tigran Gasparyan who works for Life.ru. Mijatović also noted in the letter the statement published by the Armenian media NGOs of 21 July about the police attacks on journalists that took place in Yerevan days and weeks earlier. The victims included: Gevorg Tosunyan, a journalist from iravaban.net; Artak Hambardzumyan, a reporter from Azatutyun; Arthur Hayrapetyan, a reporter from 4news.am; and Tehmine Yenoqyan , a reporter from lragir.am. 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 StoriesOSCE Representative welcomes revision of Law of War manual in USA improving protection for journalistsDemocratic governments must ensure media freedom and journalists’ safety, OSCE Representative urges TurkeyOSCE Representative condemns murder of journalist Pavel Sheremet in Ukraine Full Article Representative on Freedom of the Media Safety of journalists Media freedom and development South Caucasus Armenia Press release
vi Students launch exhibition against domestic violence as part of OSCE Presence in Albania campaign By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Wed, 25 May 2016 12:17:09 +0000 Joana Karapataqi, OSCE Presence in Albania An exhibition of paintings, photographs, installations, poetry and writing by students of the Petro Nini Luarasi High School in Tirana on the theme of domestic violence, was unveiled by the students and the OSCE Presence in Albania on 24 May 2016 in the capital. The exhibition, held under the slogan #MosHesht (Don’t be silent), builds on a campaign against domestic violence first launched by the OSCE Presence in Tirana four years ago, and extended to other cities such as Korça, Elbasan and Gjirokastra, to bring together the police, civil society, citizens and youth, to discuss and react to this phenomenon. A higher number of domestic violence cases has been reported to the police since the start of the campaign, indicating increased public awareness of the problem and trust in the authorities. According to statistics, on average 15 women die every year as a result of domestic violence; domestic violence accounts for about 60% of the reported crimes against persons in Albania. “Civic engagement is more than just identifying issues of public concern. It is about citizens working to address them in a constructive manner. It is about action,” said Deputy Head of the OSCE Presence Robert Wilton at the launch of the exhibition. “You took on the slogan of the campaign #MosHesht. You reacted through your paintings, pictures and poetry and sent a strong message to your fellow students, to us and to the society. This is a brilliant example of the kind of citizen engagement needed for a democracy to thrive.” General Director of the Albanian State Police, Haki Çako, commended the students saying that through the exhibition they help raise the awareness of the problems that domestic violence victims face. He said that trust in the police is an important part of the overall solution. The event is as part of the OSCE Presence in Albania’s ongoing campaign on countering domestic violence. The Presence has also extensively worked in raising the capacities of the Albanian State Police on addressing this problem through various training programmes.Related StoriesYoung people in Albania say NO to corruptionOSCE Chairperson-in-Office Steinmeier visits Albania, reiterates support for Albanian institutions and its citizensAlbania justice reform adoption welcome, says OSCE Presence in Albania Full Article OSCE Presence in Albania Gender equality South-Eastern Europe News
vi OSCE Chairperson-in-Office Steinmeier visits Albania, reiterates support for Albanian institutions and its citizens By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Thu, 16 Jun 2016 11:45:42 +0000 247171 Joana Karapataqi, OSCE Presence in Albania Holger Dreiseitl OSCE Chairperson-in-Office and German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier visited Tirana on 14 June 2016, where he expressed the OSCE’s commitment to a long-term partnership and support for Albania’s institutions and its citizens. “The Presence is doing good work and has our full support,” said Steinmeier. He also thanked the Presence for the good co-operation with the Albanian authorities. Steinmeier met the Acting Head of the OSCE Presence in Albania, Robert Wilton. Wilton thanked Steinmeier for the German OSCE Chairmanship’s leadership in regional co-operation, dialogue, youth and tackling transnational threats. “There is still essential OSCE work to be done together with our partners in Albania to achieve our common vision for collective security, fully-functioning democracy and the respect for fundamental human rights. The OSCE Presence and Albania are moving forwards together.” During his visit Steinmeier met Prime Minister Edi Rama, Foreign Minister Ditmir Bushati, and opposition Democratic Party Chair Lulzim Basha. He also had a meeting with students of the Tirana University. The OSCE Presence works very closely with partner institutions in Albania, to support activities in a variety of areas including border management, more efficient courtrooms, modern and internationally-compatible policing, and a stronger relationship between active citizens and their democratic institutions.Related StoriesYoung people in Albania say NO to corruptionStudents launch exhibition against domestic violence as part of OSCE Presence in Albania campaignOSCE field operations in Tajikistan and Albania work together to support women’s participation in political life Full Article Chairmanship OSCE Presence in Albania Conflict prevention and resolution South-Eastern Europe News
vi OSCE Office in Tajikistan holds workshop to improve local referral mechanisms for protection of domestic violence victims in Sughd region By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Wed, 13 Jul 2016 13:38:15 +0000 KHUJAND, Tajikistan, 13 July 2016 – A two-day workshop for civil society and police officers on improving the local referral mechanisms for the protection of domestic violence victims concluded today in Khujand. The workshop brought together some 23 representatives of crisis centres, the police, state services for social protection and the Committee of Women and Family Affairs from the Sughd region of Tajikistan. Participants exchanged good practices on inter-agency co-operation to assist victims of violence in the region, discuss current challenges and ways to improve the current mechanism of the multi-disciplinary approach. “This is an opportunity for the OSCE-supported Women’s Resource Centres from the regions to share the experiences and plans for further activities on strengthening women’s rights in the region,” said Viorelia Rusu, the OSCE Office’s Gender and Anti-Trafficking Officer. Within separate sessions, participants from the crisis centres shared experiences related to the rehabilitation and protection of domestic violence victims, and police inspectors discussed the provisions of the updated Instructions on dealing with domestic violence cases. Police officers also received copies of the new Manual on Countering Domestic Violence, published by the OSCE Office in Tajikistan. “We learned from similar meetings organized earlier in Khatlon region that such discussions, including on concrete cases, contribute to a better co-ordinated and victim-centered, multi-agency approach in protecting domestic victims at the local level, and it harmoniously compliments the Ministry’s plans on gender mainstreaming into police reform,” said Ali Bobonazarzoda, National Co-ordinator on Police Reform under the country’s Interior Ministry. The event is part of the annual activities of the Office’s Gender and Anti-Trafficking Unit aimed at strengthening the current local protection mechanisms for victims of domestic violence and human trafficking. Related StoriesOSCE Office in Tajikistan support Garm’s local authorities in strengthening referral mechanisms for protecting domestic violence victimsOSCE Office in Tajikistan donates audio-visual material to enhance interactive teaching at Police AcademyOSCE Office in Tajikistan’s training series highlights role of parents in the fight against terrorism Full Article OSCE Office in Tajikistan Gender equality Central Asia Press release
vi OSCE Office in Tajikistan support Garm’s local authorities in strengthening referral mechanisms for protecting domestic violence victims By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Thu, 28 Jul 2016 10:38:05 +0000 GARM, Tajikistan, 28 July 2016 – Some 20 representatives of civil society and state agencies working to provide direct assistance to domestic violence victims learned about good practices on local referral mechanisms in other regions of Tajikistan at a workshop held today in Garm by the OSCE Office in Tajikistan. The representatives of crisis centres, the local police department, state services for social protection and medical care, the local Ombudsman’s Office, and religious leaders enhanced their knowledge of the multi-agency Working Group and how inter-agency co-operation can further assist victims of violence. They also discussed the current challenges and ways to improve the local mechanism through the use of a victim-centered approach. “It is encouraging to see multidisciplinary approaches being applied by governmental and non-governmental partners in other regions of the country,” said Viorelia Rusu, the OSCE Office’s Gender and Anti-Trafficking Officer. “OSCE-supported Women Resource Centres in the regions also play an important role, supplementing the efforts of local government in providing direct assistance services to domestic violence victims.” The event was part of the OSCE support offered to the Interior Ministry in gender mainstreaming in police reform, and was aimed at institutionalizing informal mechanisms for the referral and assistance of domestic violence victims at the local level. The OSCE Office supported similar initiatives on multi-agency working groups in the Kulyab and Djaihun regions at the end of last year and beginning of this year. Related StoriesOSCE Office in Tajikistan launches Mentoring Training Programme for women politiciansOSCE Office in Tajikistan donates audio-visual material to enhance interactive teaching at Police AcademyOSCE Office in Tajikistan’s training series highlights role of parents in the fight against terrorism Full Article OSCE Office in Tajikistan Gender equality Central Asia Press release
vi OSCE Office in Tajikistan donates audio-visual material to enhance interactive teaching at Police Academy By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Fri, 29 Jul 2016 07:34:17 +0000 DUSHANBE, 29 July 2016 – The OSCE Office in Tajikistan today donated audio-visual equipment to the Police Academy of Tajikistan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs with the aim of supporting the Academy’s lecturers to use interactive teaching techniques on the investigation of crimes related to the trafficking of human beings. The equipment includes a computer, a projector, a screen, speakers, a printer, and an Uninterruptible Power Supply device (UPS). An external hard disk drive was also donated to allow for the storing of an electronic library of thematic video films and other informational resources in this field. “This equipment will improve the teaching of the Course on Combating Trafficking in Human Beings, and will therefore enable the police to more effectively address this serious social problem,” said Fabio Piana, Deputy Head of the OSCE Office in Tajikistan. Karim Soliev, the first Deputy Director of the Police Academy, thanked the OSCE for its continued support in building the capacity of future law enforcement staff and Police Academy cadets in combating human trafficking and domestic violence in Tajikistan. “This equipment is of great help to lecturers who will now be able to apply more interactive teaching techniques,” he said. In previous years, the OSCE has provided expert support to the Police Academy, including the development of the Lecturer’s Guidelines on teaching this specialized and compulsory 20-hour course. The OSCE has also trained the team of lecturers on modern interactive teaching techniques and has recently updated the Course on Combating Trafficking in Human Beings with regard to new legislation in this field.Related StoriesOSCE Office in Tajikistan support Garm’s local authorities in strengthening referral mechanisms for protecting domestic violence victimsOSCE Office in Tajikistan’s training series highlights role of parents in the fight against terrorismOSCE Office in Tajikistan organizes workshop on verifying the authenticity of security documents Full Article OSCE Office in Tajikistan Combating human trafficking Central Asia Press release
vi OSCE workshop in Kosovo focuses on improving the recording of hate crimes By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Tue, 12 Jul 2016 19:31:03 +0000 A two-day workshop on ways to improve the recording of hate crimes was organized on 11 and 12 July in Prishtinë/Priština by the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR), the OSCE Mission in Kosovo and the Kosovo Police. In addition to reinforcing their understanding of the OSCE’s approach to hate crime, workshop participants identified a series of additional improvements in the way local authorities monitor and record hate crimes. Participants also agreed to establish a permanent national mechanism to co-ordinate hate crime data collection. "Police recording is the key point of entry for information about hate crimes into the criminal justice system. But, the police cannot operate alone," said Ales Giao Hanek, ODIHR Hate Crime Officer. "Co-ordination between all the agencies concerned is crucial, and political support will be required to make the changes identified and agreed upon by participants." Workshop participants included Kosovo Police specialists responsible for recording and managing crime statistics from all eight policing districts. Police and Prosecution Service focal points on hate crimes took part, as well as representatives from the Kosovo Judicial Institute. This workshop follows up on an event held in May 2015, which mapped hate crime data collection in Kosovo.Related StoriesPolice, prosecutors confront hate crime against people with disabilities at OSCE/ODIHR workshop in CroatiaOSCE/ODIHR event at European Parliament highlights role of civil society coalitions in responding to anti-Semitism, discrimination and intoleranceOSCE/ODIHR delivers workshop on understanding and countering hate crime for civil society organizations in Romania Full Article Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights OSCE Mission in Kosovo Tolerance and non-discrimination South-Eastern Europe News
vi 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 By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Tue, 02 Aug 2016 08:28:11 +0000 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 StoriesOSCE/ODIHR Director concerned about reported rise of hate incidents in the United Kingdom, supports calls for tolerance in a challenging timeOSCE/ODIHR Director Michael Link expresses shock over Orlando shootings, commends calls for unity in face of hatred and terrorOSCE workshop in Kosovo focuses on improving the recording of hate crimes Full Article Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights Human rights Roma and Sinti issues Tolerance and non-discrimination Press release
vi OSCE Centre supports strengthening aviation security in Turkmenistan By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Thu, 12 May 2016 12:28:17 +0000 ASHGABAT, 12 May 2016 – OSCE-organized practical training courses for some 43 officials from the Aviation Security Service and Aviation School of Turkmenistan Airlines, as well as the Transport Police Service of the Interior Ministry, the State Customs Service and State Border Service on X-ray for baggage and passenger screening at airports, concluded today in Ashgabat. International experts from the United Kingdom delivered two identical training courses on international regulations addressing aviation security, state-of-the-art search techniques and the recognition of firearms, explosive devices and prohibited items. “In our turbulent times, ensuring aviation security remains a challenging task for governments, law-enforcement bodies, aviation personnel and other involved parties,” said Richard Wheeler, Political Officer of the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat. “Organized as part of the Centre’s project to enhance infrastructure security, these activities acquire a special importance as Turkmenistan is actively preparing for the 5th Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games, which will be held in September 2017. The Games will attract a large number of sportsmen, media, sports officials and fans. It is our strong belief that the training courses on X-ray screening will help the relevant officials manage the increased passenger flow while ensuring the observation of efficient security procedures.” During the training courses, participants also discussed the operation and safety of modern X-ray machines, X-ray image interpretation and screening of people and baggage. Special emphasis was placed on gender-specific screening. Practical exercises focused on X-ray image interpretation techniques, item recognition and consent search techniques. Both training courses were held in the premises of the Aviation School of Turkmenistan Airlines.Related StoriesCountering terrorism threats to large public events in focus of OSCE course in TurkmenistanRepresentatives from Turkmenistan discuss media reforms during OSCE-organized study visit to LatviaOSCE seminar in Turkmenistan promotes freedom of religion and belief Full Article OSCE Centre in Ashgabat Combating terrorism Central Asia Press release
vi Representatives from Turkmenistan discuss media reforms during OSCE-organized study visit to Latvia By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Wed, 22 Jun 2016 12:18:37 +0000 RIGA, 22 June 2016 – Media development and reform were in focus of an OSCE-organized study visit to Latvia that concluded today for six representatives of Turkmenistan’s print and broadcast media and the Mejlis (Parliament). Organized in close co-operation with Latvian Foreign Ministry, the three-day visit familiarized the delegation from Turkmenistan with Latvia’s experiences in implementing media reforms and enhancing national legislation in line with international standards and requirements of the modern media environment. “Media development and reform should be underpinned by the reforms of the relevant national legislation that serves to promote the freedom of the media and freedom of expression,” said Adam Walendzik, Project Co-ordinator at the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat. “In the last several years, Turkmenistan has been undertaking successive steps to reform its media legislation and we believe that this visit will facilitate the exchange of practical experiences of implementing media legislation and developing free media.” The delegation from Turkmenistan had meetings with high-level representatives of the Latvian Parliament’s European Affairs Committee and Human Rights and Public Affairs Committee, Foreign and Culture Ministries, the National Electronic Mass Media Council, and the Latvian State Radio and Television Centre. Meetings with representatives from the national news agency LETA, the News Service of the Latvian Public |Service Television, the Internet portal Delfi and newspaper Latvijas Avize familiarised participants with the practical aspects and experiences of the Latvian media’s activities. The delegation members included a member of the Mejlis of Turkmenistan, representatives from newspapers Neytralniy Turkmenistan and Turkmenistan, TV channels Altyn Asyr and Turkmenistan, as well as the State Information Agency of Turkmenistan (TDH).Related StoriesOSCE trains Turkmenistan journalists on reporting skillsOSCE Centre’s event in Turkmenistan addresses media regulation practicesOSCE seminar in Turkmenistan promotes freedom of religion and belief Full Article OSCE Centre in Ashgabat Media freedom and development Central Asia Press release
vi OSCE Mission, police to discuss how to help prevent violent extremism and radicalization in Kosovo By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Mon, 27 Jun 2016 12:34:40 +0000 PRISHTINË/PRIŠTINA, 27 June 2016 – The OSCE Mission together with the Kosovo Police will hold a two-day conference on preventing violent extremism and radicalization, starting tomorrow in Prishtinë/Priština. The conference will gather representatives of law enforcement agencies, religious communities, civil society, academia and media, and will explore a multi-disciplinary approach to addressing the threats of violent extremism and radicalization in Kosovo. Participants will also elaborate on measures taken so far to prevent violent extremism and radicalization, as well as the challenges they face. Major Fatos Makolli, Director of the Directorate against Terrorism of the Kosovo Police, and Naim Hoxha, Organized Crime Advisor at the OSCE Mission, will deliver opening remarks. Media representatives are invited to attend the opening of the conference on Tuesday, 28 June 2016, at the Hotel Sirius in Prishtinë/Priština, starting at 09:30 hrs. Related StoriesOSCE Mission assesses implementation of new Criminal Procedure Code of KosovoMini-Olympic Games 2016OSCE Mission-organized Junior Basketball Tournament Full Article OSCE Mission in Kosovo Policing South-Eastern Europe Media advisory
vi OSCE Office in Tajikistan publishes manual on countering domestic violence By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Wed, 29 Jun 2016 11:21:04 +0000 DUSHANBE, 29 June 2016 – Copies of the new Manual on Countering Domestic Violence, published by the OSCE Office in Tajikistan, were presented today to the Interior Ministry for further distribution among police inspectors dealing with cases related to this crime. The Manual aims at increasing the professional skills of Tajik law enforcement agencies and is primarily designed for police inspectors who work to promote the implementation of the law on the Prevention of Domestic Violence. The law was adopted in 2013. “Countering domestic violence is an important part of work carried out by the law enforcement on a daily basis, and the Manual equips the police inspectors with necessary tools to deal with both victims of domestic violence and the perpetrators,” said Ali Bobonazarzoda, National Co-ordinator on Police Reform under the Interior Ministry of Tajikistan. Viorelia Rusu, the OSCE Office’s Gender and Anti-Trafficking Officer, said: “Importantly, the Manual also includes aspects of referral and building local partnerships in effective protection of violence survivors.” By exploring the phenomenon of domestic violence through understanding the psychology of offenders and victims, as well as challenging stereotypes and examining aspects of gender equality, the Manual identifies the concrete role for police personnel in countering this negative social phenomenon. It also outlines the roles of police inspectors by taking a multidisciplinary and holistic approach of support and protection for the victims through close co-operation with civil society and community leaders. The Manual also provides guidance on how to work with both victims and offenders in order to prevent and address cases of domestic violence. The publication is a part of the OSCE Office in Tajikistan’s activities to implement its Gender Strategy for 2016-2018, which supplements the OSCE’s wider 2004 Gender Action Plan for the Promotion of Gender Equality. The electronic version of the Manual in the Tajik and Russian languages is available online at: http://www.osce.org/tajikistan/248201.Related StoriesTajik Ministry of Internal Affairs officials complete OSCE-organized training course on effective intervention in domestic violence casesOSCE Office in Tajikistan supports regional training courses on rights of persons in police custodyOSCE Office in Tajikistan organizes workshop for law enforcement agencies and civil society Full Article OSCE Office in Tajikistan Gender equality Policing Central Asia Press release
vi OSCE Centre in Bishkek supports workshop on crime prevention through partnerships between police, civil organizations and the public By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Fri, 08 Jul 2016 11:42:09 +0000 Ilona Asyrankulova Fifty-two representatives of Local Crime Prevention Centres (LCPCs) in Kyrgyztsan, including members of the courts of Aksakals (local elders), women and youth councils completed a two-day workshop supported by the OSCE Centre in Bishkek on 7July 2016 in Osh, with the aim of enhancing interactions between the police, civil organizations and the public. Participants improved their practical skills on analyzing security situations and applying problem-solving methods, and in strengthening effective communication with the police and other stakeholders. LCPC members learned about the development and implementation of crime prevention projects and programmes. Participants also revised the normative-legal documents that regulate LCPCs and crime prevention activities. “Preserving public order and preventing crime is the shared responsibility of the police, local self-government bodies, and local communities,” said Pavel Khalashnyuk, acting Head of Police Affairs at the OSCE Centre. “This training course seeks to strengthen this collective, consultative approach and the LCPCs’ capacity to foster community engagement in crime prevention and to strengthen the effectiveness of the partnership with police in addressing community security concerns.” The workshop was conducted at the Community Policing Training Centre by a local expert and trainers from the Main Directorate for Public Safety of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and of the Ministry’s Academy.Related StoriesOSCE Centre in Bishkek supports newly established working group on police reformOSCE Centre in Bishkek supports summer school on topical issues of police reformOSCE Centre in Bishkek enhances police investigators’ skills in crime investigation techniques Full Article OSCE Centre in Bishkek Policing Central Asia News
vi 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
vi OSCE Mission to Moldova strengthens professional skills and civic engagement among young people from both banks By feeds.osce.org Published On :: Mon, 04 Jul 2016 14:20:54 +0000 250651 Rachel Bending The OSCE Mission to Moldova held a training event on essential debate techniques for 37 high-school students and 7 teachers from both banks of the Dniester/Nistru River on 1 to 3 July 2016 in Vadul-lui-Vodă, a town by the river. The event, which gathered students from Balti, Bender, Cahul, Ceadir-Lunga, Comrat, Parcani, Tiraspol and Vulcanesti, aimed to enhance youth engagement in civic processes at the local and national levels. “This event has equipped me with skills that will be vital for both my professional and private life,” said Daria Bogdanova, a student from Tiraspol. “Engaging in debates is an excellent way to help us convey our thoughts more convincingly, search for compromise and exercise objectivity.” The training event introduced students to the Karl Popper debate format that teaches students how to conduct and participate in academic debates, demonstrate leadership, make public speeches, co-operate in teams and apply critical thinking. The aim of the event was to develop students’ analytical and debate skills in order to strengthen their professional opportunities and civic engagement. The students attending the training will apply their newly acquired knowledge and skills in a series of two debate tournaments to be held in the autumn. The training sessions and tournaments are organized as part of a one-year project implemented jointly by the OSCE Mission to Moldova and the Comrat-based NGO Piligrim-Demo that aims to actively engage young people, including those representing national minorities, in civic process at the local and national levels by developing their debate skills. Related StoriesOSCE Mission to Moldova trains lawyers from both banks of the Dniester/Nistru River on addressing discriminationPsychologists and professionals working with domestic violence victims trained at OSCE-supported events in Moldova on both banksThree-day debate training to be held for national minority youth in Moldova Full Article OSCE Mission to Moldova Democratization South-Eastern Europe News
vi 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