Central Europe

578731 Communication and Media Relations Section

The OSCE Transnational Threats Department, with the support of the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan, organized a customized workshop on 17 October that focused on building a national cyber incident classification system, which is used to classify different types of cyber incidents.

The workshop combined the knowledge and expertise gathered in previous workshops and tailored them toward the national implementation of a cyber incident classification system for Uzbekistan. The event brought together 25 cyber/ICT security experts from the Cybersecurity Centre of Uzbekistan and experts from Switzerland and the private sector who shared their experiences. With the exponential increase in cyber incidents, the experts emphasized that creating a cyber/ICT incident classification system is essential to enabling the proper prioritization and management of incidents, particularly those affecting critical infrastructure.

“The classification of cyber incidents is key as it enhances crisis communication and crisis management. It builds up mutual understanding and cooperation at national and international levels, as well as facilitating the exchange of best practices. The development of compatible classifications can also help partners to build a common vision of a what a cyber incident can be and how governments should deal with it, ultimately enhancing the protection of critical infrastructure.” said Maxime Gehringer, Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of France to Uzbekistan.

“Today we organize a workshop with the OSCE which is very useful for your future career. I am convinced that this workshop will be useful for your daily activities. On behalf of the government of Uzbekistan and our Centre of Cybersecurity I highly appreciate our colleagues from the OSCE and the Embassy of France for offering us such an excellent opportunity to further develop our capacities,” added Rustam Yunusov, Deputy Director of the Cybersecurity Centre of Uzbekistan.

“Cyber threats are becoming more complex and dangerous, especially when they target critical infrastructure. It is therefore essential that we establish robust systems for classifying and managing cyber incidents. Such systems not only help us assess the severity of incidents but also enable us to prioritize responses and engage the appropriate stakeholders efficiently,” emphasised Sergei Sizov, Senior Project Officer with the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan.  

“Since the start of this project, we had three sub-regional workshops on national cyber incident classification at which we raised awareness and provided a platform for exchanges. Participants sharing their practical experiences build cumulative knowledge on classification of cyber incidents,” added Szilvia Toth, Cyber Security Officer at the OSCE Transnational Threats Department.

Participants also engaged in a table-top exercise to explore practical applicability of the OSCE’s 16 cyber/ICT security confidence-building measures (CBMs). These are practical measures which address misperceptions and misunderstandings in cyberspace by fostering transparency, communication and co-operation between States. The exercise focused on how CBMs can prevent escalatory trajectories in a cyber incident and underlined the importance of cross-border co-operation when protecting critical infrastructure.

The workshop is part of the “Facilitation of the development and implementation of national cyber incident severity scales (NCISS) and related measures to protect critical infrastructures” project, which is funded by France and Germany.

578692

On 15 and 16 October, the OSCE Secretariat with the support of the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek and other OSCE Field Operations in Central Asia organized an international seminar that initiated the establishment of the Association of Women in Border and Law Enforcement Agencies in Central Asia. The international seminar, held in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, builds on OSCE’s ongoing efforts to empower women officers and strengthen regional security.

The event brought together 30 representatives from the Ministries of Internal Affairs, State Committees of National Security, Border Guard Services, Police Services and Prosecutors Offices of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan.

The event’s main goal was to initiate the creation of the Regional Association of Women in Border and Law Enforcement Agencies in Central Asia. The Regional Association will promote gender equality and inclusivity in the security sector by encouraging greater participation of women. This strategy is designed to enhance the effectiveness of border and law enforcement agencies in detecting and preventing crimes, while also building public trust and contributing to the overall safety and security in the region.

”Our Programme Office has supported the creation of the Kyrgyz Association of Women in Security Sector since 2011. Bringing this concept to the regional level will not only increase cross-border co-operation and joint efforts towards a gender-sensitive security sector but will also foster trust and rapport from people in the region and ultimately lead to more safety and security,” emphasized Ambassador Alexey Rogov, Head of the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek.

Elmira Ashimbekovna Isakova, Deputy Head of Legal Support at the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Kyrgyz Republic, stated that "This seminar is a unique platform for sharing experiences, ideas, and achievements among women who play key roles in maintaining law and order in Central Asia."

“In the OSCE, we understand the transformative impact this Association can have - not only in empowering women officers, but also in strengthening regional security,” emphasized Siv-Katrine Leirtroe, Head of the OSCE Transnational Threats Department’s Border Security and Management Unit.

Dr. Lara Scarpitta, OSCE Senior Adviser on Gender Issues, highlighted that “The underrepresentation of women not only hinders gender equality, but it also weakens security and stability for all. Promoting gender equality within border and law enforcement agencies allows to address the specific needs of women officers and of a large portion of our society. In these efforts, the OSCE remains a unique platform to promote regional approaches and networking opportunities for women to unite their voices.”

Participants elaborated on possible priorities and activities of the Regional Association, which will be shared with their national authorities for consideration and further action. They have also actively engaged in networking and knowledge-sharing, building connections with each other and the agencies they represented.

This event builds on the recommendations from the OSCE regional conference on Women's Participation in Law Enforcement in Central Asia and at the Annual Meeting of the OSCE Gender Equality Platform in Border Security and Management, which took place in 2023. The International  Seminar was organized as part of several extra-budgetary projects, including the Gender Issues Programme’s “WIN for Women and Men” project, the Conflict Prevention Centre’s “Support, capacity-building and awareness-raising for Security Sector Governance and Reform within the OSCE: Phase III” and the Transnational Threat Department’s Border Security and Management Unit’s programme.

578605 Communication and Media Relations Section

From 14 to 18 October, the OSCE’s Transnational Threats Department, in partnership with experts from Greece’s Hellenic Police, conducted an intensive five-day advanced training course in Sofia, Bulgaria on identifying forged documents and impostors at border crossing points. Fifteen officers from Bulgaria's Border Police, including nine men and six women, alongside two male instructors from the Academy of the Ministry of Interior of Bulgaria participated in the advanced training.

Participants were instructed on substrates, security inks, and printing techniques. The experts also provided an overview of new trends in the forgery of documents and refreshed participants’ knowledge on the international regulations for the issuance of travel documents. The training concluded with a detailed session on biometric chip technology in passports and techniques for comparing a traveler's facial features with the passport’s biometric data.

To reinforce practical skills, participants analysed both genuine and forged travel and identification documents using Doculus Lumus magnifiers, which were donated by the OSCE. This hands-on approach enabled them to detect forgery techniques and better identify individuals using stolen identities.

A second round of training will be conducted next week, from 21 to 25 October, with a new cohort of fifteen officers (11 men and four women) and two instructors (two women) using the same curriculum.

Looking ahead, a Training of Trainers course will take place in 2025, with a smaller cohort of participants from both training groups to ensure ongoing knowledge transfer and skill development.

This project supports OSCE participating States and Partners for Co-operation in their efforts to reduce the number of people that manage to illegally cross borders using a fake or stolen identity or by posing as an impostor. The project is made possible through the generous financial support of the U.S. Mission to the OSCE.

578587 Public Affairs Unit, OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights Katya Andrusz

The critical role of men in supporting gender equality was discussed at an event organized by the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) CHANGE project and OSCE Gender Issues Programme’s WIN project during this year’s Warsaw Human Dimension Conference.

“Advancing gender equality has been a key area of ODIHR’s work since its foundation more than 30 years ago,” said Tea Jaliashvili, ODIHR Director’s Alternate/First Deputy Director. “The vital role that men and boys play in achieving this objective has not always been taken into account in the past, making our discussions even more important.”

“Men have a pivotal role to play in challenging the attitudes, behaviours and social norms that perpetuate gender inequality and allow violence against women to persist. After all, how can we expect to succeed if 50 per cent of the population do not stand in solidarity with women in the pursuit of equality?” emphasized Lara Scarpitta, OSCE Senior Adviser on Gender Issues and Head of the Gender Issues Programme.

During the event, which was also supported by the Delegations of Ireland and Norway to the OSCE, international experts discussed the need to balance men's engagement with continued support for traditional advocates for gender equality. They shared experiences and insights and identified opportunities to increase men’s engagement and strengthen support for gender equality initiatives across the OSCE region.

“Men must be active allies in this fight, working alongside women to challenge toxic behaviours and standing against all forms of violence. We must engage men and boys in education, prevention, and in promoting respect and equality,” said Liliana Palihovici, OSCE Special Representative on Gender.

“Unconscious bias of decision-makers and employees in public administration, that is not addressed sufficiently through education and in society, much more often than ill intent, affects people’s individual experiences. If mistrust and lack of understanding of the different perspectives is at least part of the problem, then surely dialogue is a key part of the solution,” said Wojciech Brzozowski, Poland’s Deputy Ombudsman and Professor at Warsaw University.

The event was also an opportunity to present the forthcoming OSCE policy and practice recommendations for engaging men in gender equality and ODIHR Sarajevo Recommendations on Engaging Male Politicians as Critical Actors for Gender Equality in Politics.

VIENNA, 15 October 2024 – Deepening co-operation to ensure sustainable, strengthened security among the OSCE’s 57 participating States and the Asian Partners Co-operation Group is the focus of the 2024 Asian Conference taking place in Vienna on 15 and 16 October.

The event is co-hosted by North Macedonia, the 2024 OSCE Asian Partners for Co-operation Group Chair and Japan, an Asian Partner for Co-operation of the OSCE. The Conference provides an opportunity for states across Asia and the OSCE region to address issues of common concern and identify areas for deeper co-operation.

“It is an an honour for North Macedonia to Chair the OSCE Asian partners for co-operation group in the course of 2024. Being a firm believer in partnerships and collaboration, a steadfast supporter of multilateralism and a devoted contributor towards peace and security, no effort were spared in this endeavor,” said Zoran Dimitrovski, North Macedonia’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade.

“In the light of today’s challenges, it is important, now more than ever, to discuss our partnerships and collaborative solutions. In an interconnected world, the geographical distance is relative. We are facing challenges of a same nature, coping with consequences of same effect. This is why it is important to engage together and expand cooperation to address the evolving security landscape effectively,” he added.

Conference participants discussed a range of opportunities and challenges facing the OSCE area and ways that Asian partners and OSCE participating States can learn from their experiences.

“Japan became the first OSCE Partner for Co-operation in 1992. This longstanding contribution to the OSCE is based on the firm belief that peace and stability in the Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific is closely linked to each other,” emphasized Yoshifumi Tsuge, State Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan.

“Regional and interregional partnerships have always been at the heart of Malta’s understanding of security,” said Christopher Cutajar, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry for Foreign and European Affairs and Trade of Malta, speaking on behalf of Malta’s OSCE Chairpersonship.

“As early as 1975, Malta insisted that the OSCE could not adopt an inward-looking approach in its efforts to build and strengthen European security. It was Malta’s conviction that led the OSCE to recognize that sustainable security in Europe is inextricably linked to the stability and prosperity of its neighbouring regions. This forward-thinking perspective remains the cornerstone of Malta’s engagement today and guides our dialogue with the OSCE’s Asian Partners for Co-operation,” he added.

Topics under consideration include promoting women’s empowerment and women’s equal participation in the security sector and peace processes, finding common solutions to climate change, and strengthening institutions to protect rule of law, human rights, and fight corruption.

The OSCE Asian Partners for Co-operation Group includes Afghanistan, Australia, Japan, Republic of Korea and Thailand.

578494 Public Affairs Unit, OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights Katya Andrusz

Greater efforts are required to address inequalities and the needs of Ukrainian Roma impacted by the war in Ukraine, agreed participants at an event organized this week by the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) during the Warsaw Human Dimension Conference.

“The human rights challenges experienced by Ukrainian Roma remain a matter of importance for ODIHR,” said Tea Jaliashvili, ODIHR Director’s Alternate/First Deputy Director. “We continue to make significant efforts to support both states and civil society in assisting Roma communities from Ukraine.”

ODIHR is continuing its work to provide a platform for discussion between the Ukrainian government, Roma civil society, and the international community, on the challenges facing the Roma community since 24 February 2022.

“The war has brought so much harm to the civilian population, including Roma, who were already suffering from unequal treatment and hardship. The Ukrainian Government continues to implement tailored policies to protect the rights of Roma despite the difficult circumstances,” emphasised Ihor Lossovskyi, Deputy Head of the State Service of Ukraine for Ethnic Affairs and Freedom of Conscience.

Participants in the event, which was organised under the auspices of ODIHR’s Advancing the Human Dimension of Security in Ukraine project, emphasised that forcibly displaced Roma often face prejudice and discrimination, while women suffer particularly from intersectional discrimination and exploitation. To address these concerns, Roma civil society, the international community and the Ukrainian authorities need to join efforts to ensure that the rights of Roma are respected without discrimination and with dignity.

“Promoting and protecting Roma rights is not only an act of justice for Roma, but an indicator of equality in society overall,” said Janush Panchenko, a Roma human rights advocate from Ukraine. “The war has worsened already existing inequalities and forced Roma into profound exclusion. It is a collective duty to prevent further marginalisation.”

ODIHR provides a forum for dialogue between OSCE states and civil society to ensure the protection of Roma communities at risk. The Office has continued to provide a platform for discussion between the Ukrainian government, Roma civil society, and the international community on challenges facing Roma since the war began, and ODIHR has also carried out human rights monitoring of displaced Roma, including women, in Ukraine as well as neighbouring countries.

The Office’s mandate to improve the situation of Roma and Sinti also includes promoting dialogue between OSCE states and civil society to ensure the protection of Roma communities, in line with the 2003 Action Plan on Improving the Situation of Roma and Sinti within the OSCE Area. In December 2023, ODIHR published its five-yearly report on progress made by OSCE states towards Roma inclusion and the many challenges that remain.

578236 Public Affairs Unit, OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights Katya Andrusz

More tailored support is needed for Roma women’s civil society organizations and activists, participants said at an event organized by the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) during the Warsaw Human Dimension Conference last week.

“Defending the human rights of Roma women is a collective responsibility, and it should not fall on the shoulders of Roma women’s activists only,” said Tea Jaliashvili, ODIHR Director’s Alternate/First Deputy Director. “Striving towards prosperous societies means embracing diversity and equality in all its forms and supporting those in need.”

Roma women’s civil society plays a crucial role in ensuring respect for the rights of Roma women, which are often violated by intersectional forms of discrimination. Limited funding and a long-standing lack of assistance hinder Roma women from achieving their full potential, leading to their ongoing exclusion.

“The deteriorating socio-economic climate and political challenges are making the work of civil society ever more difficult. And Roma feminist advocates struggle with additional barriers, from cultural bias to sexism, racism and classism,” said Carmen Gheorghe, representing E-Romnja, a Roma feminist non-profit organization.

The event brought together Roma women advocates and representatives, as well as delegations of OSCE states, to discuss the key challenges facing Roma and Sinti women in the OSCE region and the organizations advocating for their needs.

“Introducing intersectionality in the legal work of our organization led to better support for Roma women,” said Ðorđe Jovanović on behalf of the European Roma Rights Centre. “We need both mainstream human rights groups and women’s organizations as allies to be able to tackle the full range of disparities experienced by Roma women.”

During the event, participants called upon governments across the OSCE region to provide systemic support as well as putting legal and policy measures in place to support Roma women. Increased funding is essential, along with opportunities for collaboration, training, and empowerment. Particular focus should be paid to Roma women at higher risk of marginalisation and exploitation, such as women with disabilities, displaced people, youth, and the elderly.

ODIHR’s mandate to improve the situation of Roma and Sinti also includes tailored support for Roma and Sinti women. ODIHR will continue this by strengthening partnerships with OSCE states and civil society to ensure better protection of the rights of Roma women.

In December 2023, ODIHR published its five-yearly report on progress made by OSCE states towards Roma inclusion and the challenges that remain. The report describes the lack of adequate support in fulfilling the socio-economic and political rights of Roma and Sinti women, and recommends more targeted measures to tackle intersectional inequalities.

VIENNA, 14 October 2024 – The 2024 Asian Conference will take place in Vienna on 15 and 16 October 2024. This annual event is co-hosted by North Macedonia, the 2024 OSCE Asian Partners for Co-operation Group Chair and Japan, an Asian Partner for Co-operation of the OSCE.

The Conference will address, among other topics, the promotion of women’s empowerment and women’s equal participation in the security sector and peace processes, identifying solutions to the challenge of climate change, and strengthening and protecting the rule of law and human rights as essential factors for sustainable peace and security.

The meeting will include opening remarks by by Zoran Dimitrovski, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade of North Macedonia, Yoshifumi Tsuge, State Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, and Christopher Cutajar, Permanent Secretary, Ministry for Foreign and European Affairs and Trade of Malta, on behalf of the 2024 Maltese Chairpersonship of the OSCE.

The Conference’s opening remarks will be livestreamed on 15 October from 14:00 to 15:00 (CEST) via https://www.osce.org/live

The conference brings together the OSCE’s 57 participating States and the OSCE Asian Partners for Co-operation Group includes Afghanistan, Australia, Japan, Republic of Korea and Thailand.

578209 Ambassador Alexey Rogov, Head of the OSCE Programme Office in Bihskek speaks at the Organic Expo 2024.

20 - 22 September, Kyrgyzstan – Bishkek hosts the Organic Expo 2024 - a significant milestone in Central Asia’s agricultural development. This regional event aimed to promote sustainable practices, organic farming, and preservation of biodiversity in mountainous areas.

The Organic Expo brought together over 200 farmers, entrepreneurs, government officials along with 50 experts and speakers from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Mongolia, Russia, and Germany to take active part in a diverse agenda encompassing organic agriculture, ecology, climate change, and sustainable development.

To enhance regional organic agriculture and strengthen co-operation among Central Asian countries a practical three-day Regional Forum was conducted as a side event to the Expo. Keynote speakers underscored that organic farming is crucial for food security, boosting export potential, and combating climate change.

Head of the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek, Ambassador Alexey Rogov stated, "This forum is a vital step toward promoting organic agriculture as the backbone of a sustainable economy in Central Asia."

Organic Expo 2024, supported by the Ministry of Water Resources, Agriculture, and Processing Industry of Kyrgyzstan, the Secretariat of the Special Representative of the President for the Implementation of the Five-Year Programme for Mountain Region Development, and international organizations, contributed to the exchange of agricultural practices in the region. The Expo fostered a unified approach to achieving sustainable development goals by promoting innovative, eco-friendly farming methods and strengthening collaboration across the region.

578152 For Media inquires

From 30 September to 11 October, the OSCE Programme Office in Astana (Office) organized an advanced Training of Trainers, for a group of ten new Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (hereinafter – UAV) instructors of Kazakhstan’s National Security Committee Border Service in Lenger, Turkistan province. With the Office’s support, the Border Service established a Centre of Excellence for UAV operations in Lenger, where future capacity-building activities are planned to be held with the OSCE’s support.

This training event marks the beginning of a series of support activities aimed to strengthen the development of aerial monitoring capabilities of the Border Service in combating the illicit trafficking of small arms and light weapons (hereinafter – SALW) and explosives across Kazakhstan’s “green borders” – i.e., areas between official border control points, often covered with vegetation or only remotely accessible. 

The ability to monitor these areas effectively is crucial for ensuring national security, preventing and countering illicit cross-border activities, making the training event for UAV instructors a vital step in ensuring sustainable border security management and national ownership. Based on the OSCE’s accumulated experience in the use of UAVs, including their use within the framework of the Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (March 2014 – March 2022), the Office aims to assist Kazakhstan’s authorities in ground monitoring by means of advanced technology.

Jaroslaw Kurek, Project Manager at the Office, noted during the opening of the training event that “together with partners from Kazakhstan’s Border Service we have launched today the UAV Centre of Excellence in Lenger. It is a milestone for our co-operation within the framework of our work on countering the trafficking of small arms and light weapons. By handing over specialized equipment and knowledge sharing, the OSCE Programme Office in Astana provides critical advisory support in establishing sustainable UAV operations of the Border Service”.

During the two-weeks long training event, OSCE-supported experts shared their expertise on UAV technology, air navigation principles, aviation meteorology, flight planning, operational strategies, mapping, and post-flight procedures. Practical exercises with small fixed-wing and quadcopter UAVs were conducted both during day and night settings, as well as in conditions of limited visibility. UAV flight simulators were also employed, with the Office providing critical technical support by handing over specialized ICT equipment and two training UAVs for use in the classrooms and practical training area of the Centre.

Yuri Fenopetov, Acting Head of Office ad interim, highlighted during the closing ceremony: “we have heeded the request of our national partners in tackling evolving security challenges of today. It is with pleasure that, in line with our mandate, we can launch the active phase of our co-operation, here, in Lenger. The Centre of Excellence will serve as a platform for future generations of border service officers – to attain the necessary skills and knowledge in ensuring the sustainable use of new technologies when safeguarding the country’s borders. As the OSCE, we are ready to continue this support with concrete steps, hand-in-hand with our partners”.

In line with recommendations of the OSCE’s Technical Assessment Report on “Development of UAV monitoring capabilities for the Border Service of the Republic of Kazakhstan”, the Office will continue to provide advisory support in establishing sustainable UAV operations. This includes drafting regulations, developing a training centre concept, and creating a UAV service and maintenance plan for 2024-2030.

This activity was held within the framework of the Office’s extrabudgetary project “Addressing Contemporary Safety and Security Risks in the Republic of Kazakhstan”, supported by the government of Federal Republic of Germany.

578158

The pressing challenge of managing energy systems with wise foresight and balancing immediate energy security concerns with long term climate and energy goals was at the core of this year’s edition of the Vienna Energy Security Dialogue. Titled “Energy security in the long run: managing energy systems with wise foresight”, the event took place on 8 October in partnership with the World Energy Council (WEC) Austria, the Federation of Austrian Industries, and Ernst and Young Austria.

Over 220 policymakers, scientists, academia, civil society and industry representatives gathered to discuss the increasing complexities of global energy security against major geopolitical shifts and the growing challenges posed by climate change. Together, they explored insights and strategies to address these challenges, offering an well-rounded perspective on managing energy systems for a sustainable and resilient energy future.

“The questions and energy security challenges we are facing are vast and complex, and they cannot be addressed in isolation,” said Ambassador Bakyt Dzhusupov, Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities. “This calls for the urgent need to understand how to strike the right balance between risks and opportunities, as well as to harmonize short-term energy security and overall societal development needs with long-term climate and energy goals,” he added.

Since its inception in autumn 2018, the Vienna Energy Security Dialogue has become a leading annual international forum for energy stakeholders to share experiences and ideas on building safe, affordable, efficient and environmentally sound energy systems.

Gerhard Gamperl, Secretary General of WEC Austria, highlighted the increasing need for a long-term vision that incorporates foresight, resilience, and adaptability. “This all requires collaboration across sectors and borders, sharing knowledge, and leveraging collective expertise to foresee potential challenges and devise proactive strategies,” he said.

Throughout the event, experts shared their insights into the current energy landscape and the main challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

Speakers covered a range of topics, including the geopolitics of stable supply, the oil and gas sector, balancing power supply and demand, regulatory frameworks for a clean transition, climate risk considerations for energy system planning, green financing and insuring, and implementing digital and data driven solutions to enhance energy security in the long run.

Additionally, the event included an interactive panel on energy education, efficiency and inclusivity for enhanced energy security that welcomed two Young Energy Professionals of WEC Austria and two mentees of OSCE-GWNET Mentoring Program on Empowering Central Asian Women in Renewable Energy to share their experience on engaging youth and women in the energy sector, as well as empowering communities in the energy transition.

In closing, Ms. Sylvie Goyet, Head of Environmental Activities at the OSCE, said that “the dialogue at the event underscored the central role of energy in our overall security landscape and therefore the critical need to develop energy systems within a security and efficiency perspective.”

For additional information, please visit 7th Vienna Energy Security Dialogue: Energy security in the long run: managing energy systems with wise foresight

Munira Shoinbekova, OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe

The OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe conducted a three-day practical training course entitled "Open-Source Intelligence (OSINT) and Online Investigations: Introductory Level" from 8 to 10 October 2024 in Dushanbe. The training was designed for 20 officers from the Drug Control Agency (DCA) of Tajikistan and was led by an international expert. The primary objective of the course was to enhance the participants' capacity to gather, analyze, and utilize publicly available online information.

This training holds significant importance for the DCA as it provides officers with essential tools to investigate cybercrimes associated with illicit drug trafficking, terrorism, and organized crime. By enhancing their capacity in OSINT, the officers will be better prepared to address the evolving challenges of online criminal activities. The knowledge and techniques acquired during the training will substantially enhance their ability to ensure public safety and contribute to more effective law enforcement operations in Tajikistan.

The OSCE remains committed to supporting law enforcement agencies in Tajikistan through such capacity-building initiatives, which are vital for strengthening regional security and co-operation.

578116 Marina Živaljević

In the last decade, a pronounced form of environmental crime has been present in Montenegro and the region, including illegal activities in forestry, land, stone, riverbeds and sand exploitation, destruction of nature’s biodiversity, as well as illegal construction, which poses a significant threat to natural resources and public health. In the fight against environmental crime, a holistic approach, co-operation and data exchange amongst institutions is of key importance.

This was conclusion of the regional workshop “Fighting Environmental Crime in Montenegro and the Balkans region”, organized by the Environment Protection Agency of Montenegro, the French Embassy in Podgorica, and the OSCE Mission to Montenegro from 8 to 10 October at the Plavnica Eco Resort.

The event gathered around 50 representatives of the police, judicial and prosecutorial institutions, international organizations and NGOs from the region, as well as from Bulgaria, Greece and France, who discussed the ways of fighting against crimes that affect the environment and institutional co-operation and coordination in addressing environmental crimes.

Opening the event, Stephen Harmon, the OSCE Mission’s Security Co-operation and Governance Programme Manager, stated that the OSCE worked with Montenegrin institutions to strengthen their capacity and efficiency in addressing environmental crime. “We supported the ‘Environmental crime in Montenegro’ analysis, which detailed environmental crimes in the country, together with recommendations on how to combat them. “A long time ago we were given one task, to be stewards of this world, our home the only one we will ever have. Our efforts have been poor at best. We are gathered here to renew our commitment in unity to that task,” said Harmon.

The Ambassador of France to Montenegro, Anne-Marie Maskay, said that the country’s diverse ecosystems, including national parks, rivers, and coastal areas, were under siege from various forms of environmental crime. “While Montenegro has made substantial progress in establishing a legal framework to protect its environment, significant gaps remain. The implementation of this framework is often incomplete due to insufficient resources, lack of trained personnel, and also corruption that hamper the effective monitoring and enforcement of environmental regulations,” said Ambassador Maskay. She added that more stringent laws were necessary that specifically addressed environmental crime, but also underscored the need to establish specialized environmental police units.

Zoran Brđanin, Director of the Police Directorate, stated that police analysis, intelligence and operational data and initiated investigative criminal and misdemeanour proceedings show the presence of environmental crime in Montenegro. “It is precisely for this reason that the Police Directorate recognized this form of crime in the latest update of the Serious and Organized Crime Threat Assessment - SOCTA and included it in the list of national priorities. In the coming period, the Police Directorate will implement proactive investigative measures and actions to prove criminal acts related to the abuse of official position and provision of logistical support to persons who carry out criminal activities in forestry. In addition, conventional measures and actions and will be intensified during the wood cutting season,” said Brđanin.

Milan Gazdić, Director of the Environment Protection Agency of Montenegro, stated that activities such as illegal logging, wildlife smuggling and hazardous waste disposal disrupt ecosystems and undermine the efforts for sustainable development. “This workshop provides an opportunity to strengthen co-operation among all actors. With the knowledge and commitment of all present, I am convinced that we will make significant progress in the fight against environmental crime,” said Gazdić, adding that one of the key results in Montenegro will be the formation of the National Working Group, which represents an important step towards improving the efficiency of environmental protection in Montenegro.

This three-day regional workshop was a follow-up on the event the Mission organized in June, when representatives of Montenegrin institutions gathered to discuss their co-operation in promoting environmental protection and addressing environmental crimes.

578128 Public Affairs Unit, OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights Katya Andrusz

Recommitting to advance gender equality in politics was the topic of discussion at the annual Women’s Power Breakfast organized by the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) at the margins of the Warsaw Human Dimension Conference this week. ODIHR also presented the latest gender-responsive governance toolkit.

“We urgently need men’s involvement to advance women’s political participation,” said ODIHR Director’s Alternate, Tea Jaliashvili. “They play a fundamental role in creating an environment where women are listened to and empowered to bring change, and so are the political parties – gatekeepers of democracy.”

The event was joined by representatives of OSCE governments, European umbrella NGOs and international experts, who agreed that equal political participation of women and men is a precondition for further developing democratic institutions and gender-responsive governance.

“Today, many people see the presence of 60 per cent of young women among university students as ‘female dominance’, while 60 per cent of men among members of parliament are seen as gender equality obtained. This leads me to the conclusion that, for many, male-dominated institutions are still seen as ‘natural’,” said Drude Dahlerup, professor at Stockholm University.

ODIHR has been active in promoting the political participation of women across the OSCE region over the last thirty years. The Office has developed numerous tools to assist political parties, parliaments, governments and civil society in advancing gender equality.

From October 9 to 11, the OSCE hosted the "Virtual Asset Service Providers regulation support framework" workshop, bringing together various practitioners from Ukraine, Moldova, and Armenia. The event, held in Vienna, was built around strengthening knowledge and best practices on the regulation of Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs). Organized by the Office of the Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities (OCEEA), the event aimed to enhance the participants’ ability to mitigate money laundering and terrorism financing risks within the evolving digital asset ecosystem.

The workshop, led by two of the leading OSCE experts on financial regulation, took the participants through high-level discussions and interactive activities.

“This workshop is a vital step in building the capacity of financial regulators to address the growing risks posed by virtual assets,” said Vera Strobachova-Budway, Acting Head of the Economic Governance Unit at OCEEA. “The skills and knowledge shared here will contribute significantly to the development of robust regulatory frameworks,” she added.

The workshop contained modules highlighting key issues in VASP compliance practices, including information on anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorism financing. The training session provided hands-on tools for supervising VASPs and analysing suspicious activity, equipping participants with advanced skills in identifying and mitigating risks. One interactive component included participants simulating crypto theft through an application on their mobile phone.

The workshop is crucial in the formation of new best practices in virtual asset management and the formalization of varying expertise and regional perspectives on the topic. Already, there is a material application: one attendee is currently assisting with the drafting of a law aimed at regulated virtual assets.

By strengthening knowledge and existing practices between regional regulators and financial professionals, the workshop supported the OSCE participating States in developing robust policies that align with existing international standards. The insights gained during the workshop will support ongoing efforts to create a transparent and functional virtual asset regulatory framework.

This workshop was organized within the framework of the extra-budgetary project “Innovative Policy Solutions to Mitigate Money-Laundering Risks of Virtual Assets”, implemented by the Office of the Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities. The project is financially supported by Germany, Italy, Poland, Romania, the United Kingdom and the United States.

578101

The first Mediterranean regional simulation-based training exercise for anti-trafficking practitioners from OSCE participating States and Partners for Co-operation concluded today in Vicenza, Italy, at the premises of the Centre of Excellence for Stability Police Units (CoESPU).

In the framework of this week-long training, more than 50 anti-trafficking practitioners from Italy, Malta, Spain, Algeria, Egypt and Tunisia came together to solve complex cases of human trafficking. The training scenario incorporated complex and diverse migratory flows across multiple States, demonstrating how criminal groups exploit the vulnerability of migrants and displaced persons to traffic them into labour exploitation, sexual exploitation or forced criminality. The training brought together a wide range of professionals from across the anti-trafficking ecosystem, including prosecutors, labour inspectors, social workers, criminal and financial investigators, lawyers, NGO workers and migration officers. Participants were trained on their individual roles, as well as on how to effectively co-operate with their counterparts in the identification of trafficking victims and detection, investigation and prosecution of human trafficking crimes. In this context, the practitioners had the chance to practice and master their skills in multi-agency collaboration, applying victim-centred and trauma-informed approaches.

“With Mediterranean security indivisible from security within the OSCE region at large, the Mediterranean regional simulation-based training exercise demonstrated the lasting value and continued collaboration between the OSCE, participating States, and Mediterranean Partners for Co-operation, and how strengthening efforts to combat trafficking in human beings contributes to improved security across the wider region,” said Dr. Kari Johnstone, the OSCE’s Special Representative and Co-ordinator for Combating Trafficking in Human Beings, in her closing remarks.   

First implemented in 2016, the OSCE’s simulation-based trainings remain a highly relevant training tool to enhance the capacity of OSCE participating States and Partners for Co-operation to promptly identify and assist presumed victims of trafficking in human beings as well as investigate and prosecute perpetrators through the use of a multi-agency, victim-centred, trauma-informed, gender-sensitive and human rights-based approach. 

This activity was implemented with the financial support from the Governments of France, Germany, Ireland, Luxembourg, Liechtenstein, Malta, Monaco, Switzerland and the US, as well as the Republic of Italy, which also provided in kind contributions.

For more information on simulation-based trainings, please visit Simulation-based training | OSCE

578077 Marina Živaljević

In Montenegro, the majority of people with disabilities think that election management bodies do not offer enough support, which makes voters with disabilities feel left out. 54 per cent of them said they faced barriers while voting in the 2023 elections. A further 45 per cent of voters thought polling station staff did not know how to approach and communicate with them.

These are some of the findings in the report titled “People with Disabilities – Voting in Elections”, prepared by the OSCE Mission to Montenegro following the 2023 presidential and parliamentary elections. The report examines the views and experiences of 94 voters with disabilities, who agree that more must be done to make elections accessible for everyone.

When asked how things could be changed for the better, some respondents said people with disabilities should be trained about their voting rights. Election management bodies must understand the needs of people with disabilities to be able to support them to vote. Some of them believe that a register of persons with disabilities should be established, while some suggested introducing amendments to legislation to improve their voting experience, including having a designated Member of Parliament.

Giovanni Gabassi, Acting Head of the OSCE Mission to Montenegro said that this report provided useful suggestions as to what can be done to help people with disabilities have a more positive electoral experience.  “Removing barriers is essential in ensuring that everyone can freely exercise their constitutional right to vote independently and in secret. People with disabilities do not feel supported in voting and standing as candidates. They struggle with access to political and voting information. The Mission is resolute in supporting election management bodies and disability NGOs in improving the accessibility of elections”, said Gabassi.

The Mission to Montenegro thanks all voters with disabilities who spoke about their experience of voting in the 2023 elections, as well the Association of Youth with Disabilities and the Union of the Blind for the long-standing partnership and contribution made in preparing the report.

578044 Public Affairs Unit, OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights Katya Andrusz

Dialogue and partnership across religious or belief communities play an invaluable role in strengthening human rights and security, participants agreed at the launch of a new guide entitled Belief, Dialogue and Security by the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) during the Warsaw Human Dimension Conference this week.

“Dialogue is essential to respond to the ever-changing challenges to human rights and democracy and finding ways to work together peacefully,” said Susan Kerr, ODIHR’s Senior Adviser on Freedom of Religion or Belief. “Our thanks go to the many people from across the OSCE area who helped make the guide’s recommendations relevant to all OSCE states.”

Interfaith and interreligious dialogue can help to combat fear, prejudice and hatred by promoting mutual understanding. Participants noted that meaningful dialogue is only possible when based on freedom of thought, conscience, religion or belief and underscored the need for governments to demonstrate real commitment to protecting this right for all. They concluded that states must be even-handed in engaging with religious and belief communities, and work hard to build trust if they are to fully realise the potential of dialogue and joint action.

“Full respect for human rights, equality and the autonomy of religious and belief communities should be central to every dialogue. It is the obligation of every stakeholder involved, but primarily of the state, to respect fundamental human rights. The success of the Council of Religions, which has been functioning under the Ombudsperson’s umbrella in Georgia for almost two decades, is an excellent example of this. The equality of every member has been the key to its success and can inspire other interfaith and inter-religious dialogue initiatives,” said Mariam Gavtadze from Georgia’s Tolerance and Diversity Institute.

The new guide was made possible by the knowledge and experience of ODIHR’s panel of experts on freedom of religion or belief. The launch brought together state representatives, civil society, and members of religious and belief communities to discuss dialogue and joint action partnerships in the OSCE area. The discussions illustrated the benefits of the guide's practical recommendations, which are designed to assist OSCE states in implementing their commitments to interfaith dialogue and freedom of thought, conscience, religion, or belief.

578095 Communication and Media Relations Section

Twenty-eight border and customs officers participated in a training course held from 7 to 11 October in Astana, Kazakhstan. The course was organized by the OSCE Transnational Threats Department in close co-operation with the OSCE Programme Office in Astana, and with the support of the Permanent Mission of Kazakhstan to the OSCE.  

The week-long training focused on enhancing the capacity of frontline officers from Kazakhstan on how to react in crisis situations, strengthening their understanding of human behaviour and interviewing skills when screening passengers at border-crossing points while adhering to fundamental human rights.

At the opening session, Dr. Volker Frobarth, Head of the Programme Office in Astana stressed that: “It is essential to note that this work is particularly important in the context of regional security. In this regard, the OSCE, in general, and our Office, in particular, highlight the great importance of strengthening borders and enhancing their security by co-operating with the border security and management services of its participating States”.

“The skills you already possess, combined with those you will refine or develop during this week, such as crisis management, passenger screening, and advanced interview techniques, are crucial for enhancing Kazakhstan’s capacity to detect and respond effectively to these threats,” emphasized Monika Iwersen, Ambassador of Germany to Kazakhstan.

Through a blend of interactive real-life scenario-based exercises and theoretical insights, participants discussed how to effectively prepare and respond during various stages of a border crisis. They also practiced interviewing techniques and risk assessment methods to detect suspicious behavior during passenger screening, while identifying and preventing cross-border movement of potential perpetrators of serious and organized crime.

“Foreign terrorist fighters and high-risk individuals continue to pose a serious threat to international peace and security, and the OSCE’s training programme is tailored to support participating States’ ongoing efforts to prevent and address such threats,” highlighted Siv-Katrine Leirtroe, Head of the Transnational Threats Department’s Border Security and Management Unit.

This OSCE-led MTT deployment marks its fourth engagement in Central Asia, following successful training courses in Uzbekistan, Tajikistan (with the Border Management Staff College), and Kyrgyzstan conducted throughout 2024. The courses were delivered by MTT experts from Turkish National Police, Border Police of North Macedonia, a former FBI agent, a representative from INTERPOL, and a security-sector expert from Serbia, along with Ms. Aruna Turlubekova, Head of the Profiling Division of Kazakhstan’s Aviation Security Service, who provided an insightful overview of Kazakhstan's profiling efforts in the national context.

These courses are implemented as part of the extrabudgetary project “Training and Deployment of OSCE Mobile Training Team to Better Address Challenges in Identifying the Cross-Border Movement of Foreign Terrorist Fighters and Other Cross-Border Crimes in the OSCE Area–Phase II” funded by Germany and the United States.

578182 Communication and Media Relations Section

On 11 October 2024, North Macedonia, as Chair of the Asian Partners for Co-operation Group, organized the fourth OSCE Asian Partners for Co-operation Group meeting in collaboration with Australia. This meeting centered on the theme "Global Economic Engagement in the Indo-Pacific for Peace, Prosperity, and Security."

The meeting gathered representatives from OSCE participating States and Asian Partners for Co-operation, who emphasized the growing importance of economic security in the Indo-Pacific region and its role in reinforcing global peace and stability. Opening remarks were delivered by Ms. Adelina Marku, Deputy Chief of Mission of North Macedonia to the OSCE, H.E. Ambassador Ian Biggs, Permanent Representative of Australia to International Organization’s in Vienna, Ms. Elizabeth Abela Hampel, Representative of the OSCE Chairpersonship and Mr. Ralf Ernst, Deputy Co-ordinator/Head for Economic Activities, of the Office of the Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities.

The thematic discussion, moderated by H.E. Ambassador Florian Raunig, Permanent Representative of Austria to the OSCE, focused on how economic engagement on trade and governance in the Indo-Pacific can enhance regional and global peace, and the economic security of the interconnected OSCE and Indo-Pacific regions.

Contributions included insights from Professor Shiro Armstrong, Director of the Australia-Japan Research Centre at the Australian National University, Ms. Chanunya Bandhukul, Executive Director Bureau of America, Pacific and International Organizations Department of Trade Negotiations at the Ministry of Commerce of Thailand, Ms. Lina Viltrakiene, Counsellor of the External Economic Relations and Economic Security Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Lithuania, and Mr. Greg Malkoun, Director, Countering Foreign Interference and Foreign Arrangements Scheme Outreach Section at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Australia, , who discussed the challenges and opportunities in strengthening economic resilience and supply chain diversification in an increasingly interconnected global economy.

Participants in the OSCE Asian Partners for Co-operation Group meeting reaffirmed the need for continued co-operation between OSCE participating States and Asian Partners, to share best practices and develop joint strategies for economic resilience, thus advancing the OSCE’s comprehensive approach to security.