Central Europe

597937 OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities Address by Christophe Kamp, OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities conducts high-level visit to Kazakhstan Central Asia Regional School on Multilingual and Multicultural Education organized by OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities opens in Almaty

OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities Christophe Kamp visited Astana and Almaty, Kazakhstan, from 14 to 20 September 2025.

In Astana, the High Commissioner discussed matters related to his mandate with government officials, including Chairman of the Senate Maulen Ashimbayev, Culture and Information Minister Aida Balayeva, Public Education Minister Gani Beisembayev, Deputy Foreign Minister Arman Issetov and Head of the Secretariat of the Assembly of the People of Kazakhstan Marat Azilkhanov. The discussions highlighted Kazakhstan’s openness to international engagement and its proactive approach to maintaining inter-ethnic harmony and promoting inclusive policies.

In his speech to the VIII Congress of the Leaders of World and Traditional Religions in Astana, chaired by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Kamp said: “Every act of inclusion is an early investment in peace. Youth exchange and the participation of women belonging to minorities are not side projects; they are core infrastructure for security.”

The High Commissioner also delivered guest lectures on “Language, Identity and Social Cohesion: The OSCE HCNM Perspective on Integration Policy” at Nazarbayev University in Astana and KIMEP University in Almaty, engaging students and academia in discussions about integration policies within Kazakhstan’s diverse society.

Kamp visited Rozybakiev Gymnasium No. 153, a Uyghur school in Almaty, where he met with the principals and staff of Uyghur schools in Almaty, and the Almaty and Zhetysu regions, to discuss experiences and lessons learned from multilingual education in Kazakhstan.

He also met with representatives of the Almaty City Secretariat of the Assembly of the People of Kazakhstan and ethnic cultural associations. The High Commissioner commended the Assembly of the People as an exemplary institutional framework for inter-ethnic dialogue, noting its unique role in facilitating engagement between the state and diverse ethnic communities while providing structured channels for minority participation in national discourse.

597872 Željka Šulc

Tuzla, 23 September 2025 - Ambassador Rick Holtzapple, Head of the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina, attended the official opening ceremony of the Centre for Verification of Deactivated Firearms at the Ministry of Interior of Tuzla Canton.

The opening of this state-of-the-art facility, developed under the OSCE’s project “Addressing Security and Safety Risks of Illegal Possession, Misuse and Trafficking of SALW and their Ammunition in BiH,” marks a milestone in strengthening public safety and security for BiH citizens. Equipped with advanced equipment provided through the Project, the Centre will enable BiH law enforcement agencies to more effectively verify and certify deactivated firearms, preventing their criminal misuse.

“The Centre is not only a contribution to Bosnia and Herzegovina’s security but also a vital step in enhancing safety and security across Europe. For communities and businesses across the country, this means greater trust and stronger security in homes and neighborhoods”, Ambassador Holtzapple emphasized. He highlighted the value of the progress achieved thanks to the Mission’s longstanding partnership with the Ministry of Interior and the Police Administration of Tuzla Canton.

Mr. Dževad Korman, Director of the Police Administration of Tuzla Canton thanked for the support of the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina and donor countries, through which the necessary financial resources were secured for the construction and equipping of the Center with the most modern equipment for verifying deactivated firearms. “This will enable the Police Administration to consistently implement the Law on Weapons and Ammunition in the Tuzla Canton,” he added.

Representatives of Germany, France, Czech Republic and U.S. also attended the ceremony, providing indispensable financial support for the creation of the Centre.

Lieutenant Colonel (GS) Marc Abendroth, German Defense Attaché in Bosnia and Herzegovina, on behalf of the donors underlined: "We are proud to back this OSCE initiative, which strengthens the capacities of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s institutions, making the country safer and more secure." He added that Bosnia and Herzegovina and partner countries can implement the German-French Western Balkan roadmaps framework and together strengthen European safety and security.

The Centre contributes to Bosnia and Herzegovina’s implementation of the OSCE’s long-standing principles in arms control and co-operative security, while reaffirming the OSCE’s commitment to helping the country reduce small arms risks and strengthen stability at home, in the region, and across the wider OSCE area.

Ongoing Mission support to BiH also includes study visits, joint training, and practical exchanges to expand verification capabilities nationwide. Moreover, the Mission continues to work with authorities to harmonize firearms laws across all jurisdictions in Bosnia and Herzegovina and fully integrate them with international standards.

597863 Željka Šulc

Sarajevo, 23 September 2025 – As cyber threats continue to grow in complexity and cross national and sectoral boundaries, addressing them requires co-ordinated action and collaboration. To meet this challenge, the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina organized a conference and panel discussion “Supporting Awareness Raising on Cybersecurity Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Best Practice,” in Sarajevo. The event brought together decision-makers from BiH institutions, the private sector, academia, and civil society organizations to engage in dialogue and explore practical solutions for enhancing cybersecurity co-operation.

Recognizing the need for joint approaches in cyberspace, the OSCE participating States adopted Cyber/ICT Confidence-Building Measure (CBM) No. 14, which encourages the promotion of public-private partnerships and the sharing of best practices to address common security challenges.

Zahid Movlazada, Deputy Head of the OSCE Mission to BiH, noted that Bosnia and Herzegovina has made important strides, but significant work still lies ahead. “Bosnia and Herzegovina remains the only country in South-East Europe without a state-level cybersecurity strategy and a Computer Emergency Response Team. Adopting such a strategy and establishing a CERT would provide the country with the tools and mechanisms needed to withstand a future increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence, cyber espionage, critical infrastructure disruptions, ransomware, and information warfare."” He invited participants to join forces across sectors, institutions, and borders to find solutions together and strengthen the country’s resilience.

The conference aimed to promote public-private partnerships in cybersecurity by presenting their value and practical mechanisms for development. It also sought to advance the implementation of OSCE CBM 14 by showcasing global, regional, and local case studies of effective partnerships and highlighting lessons learned from successful collaborative initiatives. Through these discussions, participants identified common goals and concrete steps toward strengthening BiH’s digital resilience.

Emina Merdan, former Ambassador of Bosnia and Herzegovina to the European Union and Head of the EU Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stressed that a range of technical skills and knowledge is required to detect, defend against, respond to, and recover from ICT incidents. “In this context, public-private sector partnerships and co-operation, including regular dialogue and the exchange of good practices, can contribute to building trust. While governments play the primary role in implementing confidence-building measures—both domestically and at the state level, as well as by promoting and engaging internationally, and are responsible for planning and allocating resources and adopting appropriate policies—the private sector, including technology companies and cybersecurity firms, is crucial for implementing these measures due to its technical expertise and resources, and can collaborate with governments to enhance the security of ICT products and services, as well as participate in the exchange of information and best practices.”

This conference was organized as part of the Mission’s project “Building Sustainable Cybersecurity Capacities in BiH” and forms part of wider efforts to strengthen the country’s cybersecurity resilience.

597845 Training participants capturing moments together during the session.

Bishkek, 16 September 2025 – The OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek (POiB), in co-operation with the OSCE Secretariat, OSCE CPC project in support of the implementation of UNSCR 1540 (2004), funded by the EU through UNODA and the Ministry of Economy and Commerce of the Kyrgyz Republic, is convening the Annual National Round Table on the Coordination of the Implementation of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1540 (2004). The event will take place from 16 to 19 September 2025 in the Issyk-Kul region.

The Round Table is organized within the framework of the POiB project “Strengthening National Capacities to Implement Non-Proliferation and Arms Control Commitments.” It highlights the long-standing partnership between the Government of the Kyrgyz Republic and the OSCE in advancing non-proliferation and arms control objectives, in line with the country’s international obligations.

The high-level event will bring together representatives of government institutions, the interagency working group on UNSCR 1540, national experts, and international partners. Discussions will focus on strengthening interagency coordination, improving the national legislative and regulatory framework, and enhancing institutional capacities to prevent the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMD).

Participants will review progress under the current National Action Plan (2022–2025), reflect on achievements and challenges, and identify priorities for the next phase (2026–2030). In a broader context, the Round Table will serve as a platform to exchange good practices, assess existing gaps, and explore opportunities for further international support in fulfilling Kyrgyzstan’s non-proliferation commitments.

Their contributions of experts will provide valuable international perspectives and foster the exchange of best practices, lessons learned, and avenues for enhanced cooperation in implementing UNSCR 1540 and related instruments, including the Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention and the Chemical Weapons Convention.

By providing a structured forum for dialogue, the Round Table contributes to the effective implementation of UNSCR 1540 and reinforces the joint commitment of the Kyrgyz Republic, the OSCE, and international partners to regional and global security.

597913 Munira Shoinbekova, OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe

From 15 to 19 September 2025, the OSCE Programme Office in Astana, OSCE Centre in Ashgabat, OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek, OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe, OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan, in partnership with the Regional Environmental Centre for Central Asia (CAREC) and the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, launched the 15th Central Asian Leadership Programme on Environment for Sustainable Development. The programme gathered a new generation of young leaders dedicated to advancing environmental sustainability and co-operation in the region.

This year’s edition, held under the theme “Enhancing Young Leaders’ Capacities in Public Speaking and Media Engagement for Promoting Sustainable Solutions”, focuses on strengthening youth leadership skills to effectively communicate environmental challenges and solutions to diverse audiences. The programme reflects the urgency of addressing climate change and environmental vulnerabilities that increasingly affect the region, including water scarcity, land degradation, and the spread of misinformation.

The 2025 programme brings together 23 young professionals from across Central Asia to strengthen their competencies in public speaking, personal branding, countering disinformation, media content development, science-business-policy communication, and data visualization, with a series of practical simulations and group work exercises.

By fostering regional co-operation and cross-sectoral dialogue, the initiative underlines the OSCE’s commitment to empowering youth and promoting environmental security. The programme not only provides knowledge and skills but also creates long-lasting networks for collaborative action on sustainable development.

The event reaffirmed the OSCE’s dedication to supporting the next generation of leaders who will play a pivotal role in advancing environmental sustainability, fostering dialogue, and driving positive change across Central Asia.

597779 Željka Šulc

SARAJEVO, 21 September 2025 – The Law School of the University of Sarajevo, the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina, and the European Union in BiH successfully held the Fifth Media Law School on Safety and Protection of Journalists: From Online Threats to Physical Attacks from 17 to 21 September in Sarajevo.

Seventeen law students from public law faculties across BiH participated in the five-day program. They engaged in discussions on key topics in media law, took part in a simulated trial, and worked on a hypothetical case, gaining valuable practical experience. Their dedication and commitment earned them three European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS) credits toward their law degrees.

Harun Išerić, Senior Assistant at the Law Faculty of the University of Sarajevo, stressed that through such programs, students are trained to work with the specificities of media law, helping to create an environment conducive to freedom of expression. “The school is a pioneering initiative that will soon evolve into a master’s program in media law, confirming that the Faculty of Law at the University of Sarajevo remains a driving force in the emergence and development of media law in BiH.”

Ferdinand Koenig, Head of Communications and Spokesperson of the EU in Bosnia and Herzegovina, noted that they are very pleased the Media Law School has reached its fifth edition. He stated: “Brave and committed legal professionals are the first line of defence of freedom of expression, media freedom and fundamental rights more widely. It is welcome that young law students in Bosnia and Herzegovina are showing such a great interest in media law. A greater practical knowledge and understanding of EU and international standards in media freedom, in particular those commitments Bosnia and Herzegovina is a signatory to and obliged to respect, will support these students in becoming better legal professionals after they graduate.”

Ivo Lupis, Head of the Human Dimension Department at the OSCE Mission to BiH, highlighted the continuing risks faced by journalists in BiH, including verbal and physical attacks, online threats, and legal harassment. He stressed that “what this country needs are future lawyers, legal professionals and citizens who will stand up for, and defend, freedom of expression and media freedoms.” Lupis noted that these fundamental rights are central tenets of our collective interest and work. He concluded: “When journalists are safe, citizens are better informed, and democratic accountability is stronger.”

The Media Law School is part of broader efforts by the OSCE Mission and the EU to promote and protect media freedom in BiH.

597768 Communication and Media Relations Section Young Women 4 Peace: empowering new generations to lead change and promote stability in Central Asia

Eighteen young women peacebuilders from Central Asia and Afghanistan came together in Vienna this week for the final regional event of the Young Women 4 Peace (YW4P) Initiative, a flagship programme of the OSCE Gender Issues Programme, funded by the European Union.

From 17–19 September, participants summed up two years of intensive training, cross-border collaboration, and high-level dialogue designed to strengthen their skills to lead in peace and security efforts. from the group represented Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and Afghanistan (residing in Central Asia).

On 18 September, the young leaders met with OSCE Secretary General Feridun H. Sinirlioğlu, who reaffirmed the Organization’s commitment to women’s empowerment in peacebuilding. They also attended the OSCE Permanent Council to gain first-hand insights into gender and security policymaking processes.

The showcase event on 19 September brought together ambassadors, EU representatives, senior officials from Central Asia, and OSCE experts.

In her opening remarks, Dr. Lara Scarpitta, OSCE Senior Adviser on Gender Issues, underscored the unique challenges young women face in shaping peace:

“We believe in the transformative power of young women’s leadership. Their voices are essential to building inclusive and lasting peace across the region,” said Dr. Scarpitta.

Speaking on behalf of the EU, Irène Mingasson, Head of Unit at the European Commission’s Service for Foreign Policy Instruments, highlighted the unwavering support: ”Women and young people are vital drivers of peace and security. It is our role to help them achieve just that. We need to work collectively to break down the barriers that hamper that potential.”

The highlight of the event was the presentation of the participants’ collaborative projects, addressing issues such as education for girls from rural areas, cross-border youth dialogue, climate action, and advocacy for Afghan refugees. A dynamic panel, Youth Voices 4 Peace: Celebrating Women, Peace and Security in Action, fostered open discussion with diplomats and decision-makers.

The event also featured a regional exchange with Central Asian authorities working on gender equality and youth policies, exploring how young women’s insights can shape more responsive and inclusive security policies.

Funded by the European Union and implemented by the OSCE Gender Issues Programme under the WIN for Women and Men project, the YW4P Initiative will continue through end-2025. More than just a leadership programme, the initiative has built a community of trained, motivated, and connected young peacebuilders ready to contribute meaningfully to policy and practice, and it has become a platform for fostering cross-sector cooperation between civil society, state institutions, and international partners, amplifying shared values on empowering young women in building inclusive and lasting peace.

597747

Circular economy with a focus on the role and opportunities of women’s entrepreneurship was discussed at an OSCE supported seminar that took place in Ashgabat on 18 and 19 September 2025.

The OSCE Centre in Ashgabat organized the event to present international experiences in implementing a circular economy as a tool to strengthen sustainable economic development, modernize business infrastructure and promote small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs), with a particular emphasis on women-owned SME`s.

The seminar brought together representatives of the Mejlis (Parliament) of Turkmenistan, Ministry of Finance and Economy, Ministry of Trade and Foreign Economic Relations, Ministry of Environmental Protection and other relevant ministries and institutions, as well as representatives of the Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs of Turkmenistan, women entrepreneurs and university teaching staff.

The seminar was conducted in a hybrid format with an international expert delivering presentations remotely while participants attended in-person. The expert shared insights into the circular economy as a tool for achieving sustainable development goals focusing on its advantages and key stakeholders. Participants looked into the principles, strategies and approaches of the circular economy and discussed business models of the circular economy

“The circular economy is not just an alternative, it is a necessity,” said Olivera Zurovac-Kuzman, Economic and Environmental Officer of the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat. “Our discussions focused on how resource efficiency, waste reduction, and closed-loop systems can drive sustainable development, aligning closely with the OSCE values, which include fostering peace, economic growth and environmental stewardship across our participating states.”

The seminar included sessions on facilitating the transition to a circular economy and implementing circular practices at the enterprise level. Lively discussions centered on women's entrepreneurship in the context of the circular economy

“Empowering women within this framework is not just beneficial, but essential. Across the globe, there are inspiring examples where the circular economy has supported women entrepreneurship, stressed Zurovac-Kuzman.

“These examples demonstrate how supporting female entrepreneurs promotes diversity and inclusivity, unlocking new potentials for strengthening the economy through sustainable development,” she concluded.

597744

Representatives from South-Eastern European countries gathered in Vienna to advance public participation and transboundary dialogue in environmental impact assessment (EIA).

The OSCE, together with Italy’s Ministry of Environment and Energy Security, organized the Consultative Workshop “Strengthening public participation and transboundary dialogue in environmental impact assessment in South-Eastern Europe” on 8-9 September. The event brought together National Focal Points to the Espoo and Aarhus Conventions, Aarhus Centres, international experts, and representatives of UNECE and the International Association for Impact Assessment (IAIA).

Participants explored key provisions of the Conventions and the Protocol on Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA). They also examined the practical challenges of conducting transboundary EIAs, shared experiences on improving public participation in decision-making, and exchanged good practices from across the region.

Discussions covered:

• lessons learned from organizing public hearings in South-Eastern Europe;
• integrating climate proofing into infrastructure projects;
• EIA requirements of financial institutions; and
• the role of Artificial Intelligence in environmental reporting and permitting.

Opening the workshop, Bakyt Dzhusupov, Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities, highlighted the importance of inclusive participation and transboundary co-operation, stressing that “the most effective way to sustain transboundary cooperation is through multilateralism and joint action to achieve shared goals”.

Representatives from Italy’s Ministry of Environment and Energy Security, Anna Maria Maggiore and Chiara Landini, underlined that evolving regulatory, environmental, and socio-political dynamics demand adaptability. “Transboundary consultations are part of this logic, highlighting the need to establish effective mechanisms of coordination and cooperation between all actors involved,” they said.

Elena Santer, Secretary to the Espoo Convention and the Protocol on SEA, said that “collaboration between countries and good faith in consultations under the provisions of the Conventions remain essential, even when significant impacts on the environment are not initially anticipated”.

The workshop outcomes, together with priorities identified during the discussions, will feed into the updated “Action Plan to support effective application of transboundary EIA and SEA procedures in South-Eastern European countries”.

VIENNA/HELSINKI, 18 September 2025 - The OSCE Chairperson-in-Office’s Special Envoy, Ambassador Terhi Hakala, has concluded her official visit to Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, and Kyrgyzstan. The aim of the visit was to strengthen OSCE partnerships in the region.

In all three countries, Special Envoy Hakala met with representatives of the host country governments, the international community as well as civil society.

“It was a privilege to visit all three countries in a region which, also due to my previous assignments, has a special meaning for me. I was encouraged to witness the ongoing strengthening of regional co-operation among the Central Asian participating States, as there is a clear recognition of the advantages of working together on shared challenges and opportunities in the region,” said Special Envoy Hakala.

In all three countries, Special Envoy Hakala met with the teams from the OSCE field operations, commending their commitment and valuable work on the ground. She also visited OSCE project sites on the ground, meeting with their staff and beneficiaries.

“The Finnish OSCE Chairpersonship is a devoted advocate of the work of the OSCE field operations, as they continue their valuable work in supporting host countries in implementing our shared OSCE commitments. We are particularly proud of the achievements of the two flagship projects in the region – the OSCE Academy in Bishkek and the OSCE Border Management Staff College in Dushanbe – and hope to see them continue their important work and evolve further in the coming years,” said Special Envoy Hakala.

During her meetings with civil society in the three countries, the Special Envoy discussed the OSCE’s engagement on crucial issues such as the rule of law, human rights, democratic reforms, gender equality, and youth inclusion. During its OSCE Chairpersonship, Finland has consistently highlighted the role of civil society, including at the Helsinki+50 Conference, which was held in July to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Helsinki Final Act.

597624

An OSCE-organized training course on media literacy for representatives of Turkmenistan’s national media and state institutions of the National Human Rights Action Plan for 2021-2025 took place on 16 and 17 September 2025.

The training course was delivered by two national trainers who successfully completed a series of train-the-trainer courses on media literacy organized by the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat in 2024-2025. An international expert from Kazakhstan facilitated the event remotely.

The trainers introduced the concept of the media and information literacy focusing on the current trends in the modern media environment and five UNESCO laws of media and information literacy.

In his opening speech, William Leaf, Head of the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat referred to the Policy Manual “Spotlight on Artificial Intelligence and Freedom of Expression” published in 2021 by the Office of the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media.

“The Manual highlights the importance of promoting awareness and digital literacy to empower individuals to better manage their own media consumption,” said Leaf.

“Earlier this year, the Centre organized the first training course delivered by three national trainers and we are proud to contribute to the creation of the pool of national experts on media literacy and the practical implementation of the media freedom-related provisions of the National Human Rights Action Plan for 2021-2025,” he added.

The training course also presented international and national legal frameworks related to media and information literacy and exposed participants to the instruments of media literacy and fact-checking. Participants explored the formats of fact-checking and work with Artificial Intelligence in state institutions. They also practised writing press releases with the use of AI tools and discussed the rights and responsibilities of social media users.

Henriikka Ahtiainen Wilhelmina Hindström

Anu Juvonen, the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office’s Special Representative on Civil Society, concluded a visit to Georgia. During her visit from 7 to 11 September, Juvonen met with government officials, civil society representatives, and members of the diplomatic community to assess the state of civic space in Georgia.

Upon concluding her visit, she reaffirmed international concern, echoing the recent statement by the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR), and noting the alarming pace at which space for civil society in Georgia  is narrowing.

“I was particularly surprised by the speed with which the space for civil society actors is closing,” Juvonen said. “I regret that the repression against civil society actors, peaceful protesters and independent journalists continues despite earlier calls on the Georgian authorities to make alternative choices. Every day is a new opportunity to change the course of action. We encourage Georgia to follow and implement OSCE commitments related to civil society and the media, including freedom of expression, freedom of assembly and association as well as political participation.”

The OSCE has relevant expertise at its disposal and stands ready to help Georgia meet these commitments.

Juvonen emphasized that Finland, as Chair of the OSCE in 2025, places strong importance on safeguarding civic space and ensuring an enabling environment for civil society.

“Free civil society is a cornerstone of democratic society. To limit the free civic space is to weaken the societal resilience against multiple security threats,” she stated.

VIENNA, 18 September 2025 – Today, Switzerland’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis outlined the country’s priorities as the incoming 2026 OSCE Chair-in-Office to the Permanent Council.

Switzerland has set out its vision for a more secure OSCE region, emphasizing peace, dialogue, innovation, and respect for fundamental rights as it prepares to assume the Chairpersonship of the OSCE. “In the face of war in Europe, Switzerland is committed to a just peace in Ukraine, based on international law and the Helsinki principles,” said the Swiss Foreign Minister. “We will use our mediation experience to promote dialogue, trust, and security.”

“We will foster cooperation on cybersecurity, politico-military instruments and conflicts prevention,” he added. Minister Cassis also underscored the importance of strengthening inclusive multilateral diplomacy, anticipating technologies for a safe and humane future, promoting democracy, rule of law and human rights and enhancing the OSCE’s ability to act.

Delivering comprehensive security across all dimensions will remain at the center of the Swiss Chairpersonship. 

The OSCE, with its comprehensive approach to security, including human rights, democracy and the rule of law, is well placed to tackle these issues.

“We approach our Chairpersonship with the conviction that despite tensions the OSCE remains indispensable. Switzerland will address this need to preserve the basic instruments – missions, election observation – and to ensure their financing,” said Cassis.

Switzerland will hold the Chairpersonship of the OSCE next year. The detailed programme of the Swiss Chairpersonship will be presented to the participating States in January 2026.

WARSAW/HELSINKI, 17 September 2025 - Media representatives are invited to register for the Warsaw Human Dimension Conference (WHDC), hosted by Finland’s OSCE Chairpersonship with support from the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR).

The largest annual human rights conference in Europe, the10-day conference this year carries special significance as the OSCE marks the 50th anniversary of the Helsinki Final Act. The WHDC will bring together governments, civil society, and international organizations to discuss current developments and their impact on fundamental freedoms across the OSCE region.

What:

• Some 1800 participants from governments and civil society from across the OSCE region will spend two weeks debating the most pressing human rights challenges.

When:

• 6 October – 17 October 2025
• Keynote speeches will be held from 2.00pm on 6 October 2025

Where:

• Sofitel Victoria Warsaw, Królewska St. 11, Warsaw
• All plenary sessions will be livestreamed here (in English and Russian)

Who:

• Elina Valtonen, OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Finland
• Maria Telalian, Director of the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR)
• Jan Braathu, OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media
• Christophe Kamp, OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities
• Michael O’Flaherty, Commissioner for Human Rights of the Council of Europe
• Berit Lindeman, Secretary General of the Norwegian Helsinki Committee

How:

• Advance accreditation is mandatory
• Please register for your press accreditation here.
• Press accreditation forms will be accepted until 29 September 2025
• Please bring valid press credentials for registration onsite

More information:

• The full agenda can be found on the conference webpage.
• Follow #OSCE25FI and #WarsawHDC

597621 Communication and Media Relations Section

At busy international airports around the world, travellers pause briefly at an automated border gate. With a quick scan of their faces and a soft beep from their biometric passports, the gate opens. What seems like a simple interaction is powered by sophisticated cryptographic systems and secure digital chips, technologies that four Ukrainian forensic document experts explored in depth during a specialized training course organized by the OSCE Transnational Threats Department, in co-operation with IDcentre, a professional training institute in Eindhoven, the Netherlands from 15 to 18 September.

Today, over one billion biometric passports, also known as ePassports, are in use worldwide by more than 140 countries. These passports contain tiny digital chips that hold important personal and biometric data, such as fingerprints and facial images. Understanding how these chips securely store and protect information is critical for border security and preventing fraud.

During the course, participants learned the basics of cryptography, the science of secure communication, and how digital authentication methods ensure the chip data is genuine and has not been tampered with. They practiced using industry-standard tools like smart card readers and specialized software to read and verify biometric chips.

The sessions also featured an introduction to the International Civil Aviation Organization’s Country Signing Certification Authority (CSCA). The CSCA is a central component of the global Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) for ePassports, allowing countries to digitally sign and verify the authenticity of electronic travel documents, which is essential for preventing passport fraud and ensuring secure international travel.

Participants emphasized the importance of the training for the overall development of the country’s forensic center: “As the Main Forensic Center continues to strengthen its examination capabilities, it is essential that our experts keep pace with technological advancements. With most modern travel documents now containing encrypted RFID chips, our specialists must be equipped to verify their authenticity using advanced methods. Completing this course enhances our technical expertise, improves the accuracy and reliability of forensic conclusions, and enables our team to more effectively detect document fraud, including tampering and cloned chips.”

The training concluded with a certification aligned with European standards, helping to harmonize border security practices across the region.

The training course was part of an ongoing extrabudgetary project supporting the OSCE participating States and Partners for Co-operation in reducing illegal border crossings by using a fake or stolen identity. This project is funded by the United States.

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Thanks to an initiative of the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan, more than 150 women from Karakalpakstan have enhanced their IT and digital literacy skills. They also successfully acquired practical expertise in e-commerce and digital marketing, laying a solid foundation for the further development of their own businesses based on digital technologies.

The training sessions, which were attended by women from Nukus and nearby districts, concluded with an award ceremony held at the local branch of IT Park Uzbekistan — a modern and rapidly growing innovation hub in the capital of Karakalpakstan.

This marks the fourth initiative jointly implemented by the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan and IT Park Uzbekistan since 2022. Over this period, more than 500 women from various regions of the country have taken part in the training programs.

"Empowering women is one of the OSCE’s key priorities. Providing women with digital skills opens new opportunities for personal and professional development and contributes to the sustainable development of the region, as well as improving overall quality of life," said Antti Karttunen, OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan.

Participants of the trainings highly appreciated the opportunity provided.

“This training was a major step forward for me,” said training participant Mehrinur Uzakbayeva. “Before, I hardly used a computer, but now I confidently navigate digital tools, have learned to sell online, and promote products through social media. What’s especially valuable is that such initiatives create new opportunities for women to unlock their potential. The training gave me not only knowledge but also the motivation to grow my business – and maybe even create jobs for other women in the future.”

Such efforts clearly demonstrate how targeted support and quality education can empower women to contribute meaningfully to the sustainable development.

597576 Wilhelmina Hindström

Finland today chaired its first meeting of the OSCE Forum for Security Co-operation (FSC), outlining the priorities it will pursue in the months ahead. Support for Ukraine, Finland emphasized, will remain a cross-cutting priority at the heart of its work.

Antti Häkkänen, Finland’s Minister of Defence, addressed the meeting as he outlined the country’s priorities as FSC Chair.

“What is on the line here is not only the fundamental rights of Ukraine as a sovereign country, but also the future of European security and the integrity of the international order. By standing with Ukraine, we also uphold the principles of the OSCE and send a message to anyone posing a threat to international peace and security,” said Häkkänen.

Finland’s programme builds on themes advanced during its current OSCE Chairpersonship, with a continued focus on strengthening resilience and comprehensive security.

“The FSC serves as a vital platform for promoting accountability. It is essential that we continue to hold Russia responsible for its breaches of international law. In doing so, we reaffirm our shared commitment to the principles of international peace and security,” Häkkänen added.

Upcoming discussions will examine how co-operation between civil society and armed forces can reinforce national defence, particularly in light of today’s complex challenges.

Another priority will be addressing sexual and gender-based violence as a weapon of war, emphasizing the importance of international humanitarian law and accountability, including the responsibility of commanders to prevent and respond to such crimes.

Marking the 50th anniversary of the Helsinki Final Act, Finland will also lead a reflection on the enduring significance of its principles for co-operative security across the OSCE region.

The Women, Peace and Security agenda will remain central to Finland’s efforts as FSC Chair. Ensuring women’s meaningful participation in security policy and of integrating gender perspectives into the OSCE’s work will be key elements for achieving sustainable peace.

597537 Maid Konjhodžić Edita Buçaj

Prishtinë / Priština, 12 September 2025  

As part of ongoing efforts to enhance public safety and emergency preparedness, the OSCE Mission donated 11 automated external defibrillators (AEDs) to the Kosovo Police to support life-saving interventions in critical situations.

AEDs are essential medical devices that can significantly increase survival rates during sudden cardiac arrest, a condition where every second is crucial. Police officers, often the first on the scene of emergencies, will now have immediate access to this vital equipment.

The AEDs will be strategically placed across police facilities, including the Kosovo Special Police Unit, ensuring officers are equipped to respond quickly and effectively.

“Equipping police stations with life-saving AEDs is a vital step toward faster emergency response,” said Bertram Welsing, Director of the Department for Security and Public Safety at the OSCE Mission in Kosovo. “These devices not only enhance the safety of the public but also protect the health of police officers who serve communities daily.”

Building on last year’s support, the OSCE Mission, together with the EULEX Medical Unit, provided the training for trainers for ten Kosovo Police officers to become trainers in Basic Life Support (BLS) and AED use this August. An additional group of ten officers will be trained as BLS/AED trainers later this month, ensuring sustainable knowledge transfer within the police force.

“Supporting the Kosovo Police Department for Medical Services with professional AEDs and comprehensive training is essential for both police personnel and the wider community,” said Colonel Hilmi Pacolli, Director of Kosovo Police Personnel and Administration. “By certifying trainers within the police, we are strengthening emergency preparedness across the force.”

This initiative represents a significant advancement toward a safer, more responsive police service in Kosovo. Enhanced emergency response capacity means the Kosovo Police are better positioned to protect lives when every second counts.

VIENNA, 17 September 2025 – Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, who heads Switzerland’s Federal Department of Foreign Affairs, will be outlining the country’s priorities as the incoming OSCE Chair-in-Office for 2026 on Thursday, 18 September 2025.

In his presentation to the OSCE Permanent Council, Councillor Cassis will outline Switzerland’s priorities. By assuming the Chairpersonship of the OSCE, Switzerland is fulfilling its responsibility for peace and security in Europe and emphasizing the importance of dialogue, inclusion, and co-operation in managing crises and conflicts. This is consistent with the objectives set out in its Foreign Policy Strategy 2024–2027.

Follow the Federal Councillor’s remarks by joining us online tomorrow, 18 September at 10:00 (CEST) at osce.org/live.

Please note that the remarks will be delivered in French, however the text of the remarks as delivered in English will be made available here following the meeting.

Switzerland will take over the OSCE Chairpersonship from Finland on 1 January 2026 with Federal Councillor Cassis serving as OSCE Chair-in-Office. The Chairpersonship programme will be presented in January 2026.

VIENNA/HELSINKI, 17 September 2025 — OSCE Chairperson-in-Office Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen concluded her two-day visit to Belgrade and Prishtinë/Priština, where she engaged in discussions with high-level officials on fostering security, safety and stability across the region.

In Belgrade, Chairperson-in-Office Valtonen met Prime Minister Đuro Macut, Minister for Foreign Affairs Marko Đurić and Speaker of the National Assembly Ana Brnabić. She also visited the OSCE Mission to Serbia and met with Acting Head of Mission Carolina Hidea and Mission staff, expressing praise for their unwavering dedication to fulfilling the Mission’s mandate. Minister Valtonen also met with civil society representatives on the topics of the rule of law, human rights, media freedom and safety of journalists, and freedom of expression. She also visited the Café-bar 16, run by the Center for Youth Integration – a project of the OSCE Mission to Serbia.

“It is truly inspiring to see how the OSCE’s and Field Operations’ work drives positive change in the region. The Missions work together on joint projects and initiatives such as youth connectivity, media literacy and journalism exchanges. This is key for regional progress and collaboration on peace and security issues,” said Valtonen.

Chairperson-in-Office Valtonen also travelled to Prishtinë/Priština, where she met with President Vjosa Osmani-Sadriu and with representatives from civil society, including from the OSCE Dialogue Academy Network of Alumnae, an exchange platform that brings together young women from Prishtinë/Priština and Belgrade. In addition, the Chair visited the OSCE Mission in Kosovo and met with Head of Mission in Kosovo Gerard McGurk and Mission staff, commending their contributions to stability and promoting the rights of all communities.