Central Europe

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In the heart of the picturesque Talas province, nestled within the north-western part of Kyrgyzstan's magnificent landscapes, lives a remarkable woman with a mission to preserve the Kyrgyz traditional art. Nuria Isakova, a 54-year-old mother of four and grandmother to ten, has embarked on a journey of economic empowerment that is not only transforming her own life but also igniting a beacon of hope for women across the country.

With a background in education as a teacher of Russian language and literature, Nuria's life took a different turn when she discovered her true passion – the art of Kyrgyz folk artisanship. Her hands, guided by the spirit of tradition, are now busy crafting exquisite works of art through felting, knitting, crocheting, and the intricate embroidery of Kyrgyz culture known as "kerme saima." Her creations span a breath-taking array of panels, clothing, accessories, shoes, outerwear, and intricate handwoven braids, known as "өrmөk."

Nuria's journey into the world of handicrafts began during her childhood visits to her grandmother's village. It was there, amidst the beauty of rural life, that she absorbed the rich tapestry of Kyrgyz folk art. Despite these early influences, the demands of family life put her creative spirit on pause for many years.

It was not until a decade ago, when the world of stable internet connection and free time beckoned, that Nuria reignited her passion. She scoured websites, discovering diverse folk art traditions from around the globe. Yet, her main achievement was yet to come. In 2022, following a life-changing trip to India, Nuria launched her YouTube channel, where she enthusiastically shares her expertise and conducts free masterclasses. Today, with more than 2000 subscribers and over 180 published videos, she has achieved the incredible feat of monetization, solidifying a partnership agreement.

Nuria's dedication knows no bounds. She teaches traditional artisanship in both Kyrgyz and Russian and is currently learning English to reach an even wider audience. Her YouTube channel showcases not just her artistic talent but also her skills in video production, a testament to her unwavering commitment to preserving and passing on traditions.

At the core of Nuria's mission lies the noble aim of preserving Kyrgyz folk artisanship. By teaching others, especially women from remote villages, she offers them an opportunity to engage in handicrafts, enabling them to generate income from the comfort of their homes. Her work is not just about achieving financial independence; it also acts as a bridge between generations, ensuring that the tradition is passed down without interruption.

Nuria's journey towards economic empowerment received a significant boost when she joined the "Economic Empowerment of Women in the Talas Region" programme led by the Talas Entrepreneurship Support Centre and supported by the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek. This transformative programme equipped her with invaluable knowledge on self-presentation, business planning, financial management, legal documentation, marketing, and much more. In recognition of her dedication, Nuria has received professional camera equipment and a laptop, a testament to the program's commitment to supporting her artistic endeavors.

In closing, Nuria Isakova shares a simple yet profound message with all who seek inspiration: "Love what you do and believe in yourself!" Her journey exemplifies the power of determination, the preservation of culture, and the boundless potential of women to thrive in the world of entrepreneurship.

Join Nuria in her journey of artistry, empowerment, and community building through her social channels:

Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@kyrkkyz

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nuria_isakova/

*Since 2017 the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek has been supporting the development of SMEs across Kyrgyzstan. Notably, to date the Programme Office helped establish and continues to support the operation of Entrepreneurship Support Centres in Batken, Jalal-Abad, Issyk-Kul, Osh and Talas provinces. In 2020-2021 on the basis of the two ESCs in Batken and Issyk-Kul provinces, the Programme Office has developed a women’s entrepreneurship support project, which has won the 2022 OSCE Gender Champion Award in the Best Initiative category. The Programme Office’s team remains committed to supporting sustainable development of women and men’s SMEs in the provinces of the host state.

ERGNETI, 12 September 2023 – The 114th Incident Prevention and Response Mechanism (IPRM) was held in Ergneti today under the co-facilitation of the Head of the EU Monitoring Mission in Georgia (EUMM), Dimitrios Karabalis, and the Special Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office for the South Caucasus, Viorel Moşanu.

The EUMM and OSCE commended the sustained commitment of the participants to the IPRM format. The co-facilitators voiced their strong support for freedom of movement as populations living on both sides of the South Ossetian administrative boundary line (ABL) continue to face obstacles that isolate them from each other, restrict their livelihood opportunities, hinder their family relations, as well as affect their religious practice. The co-facilitators underlined how these obstacles particularly affect women, children, and the elderly.

The EUMM and OSCE welcomed that the security situation remained relatively stable in the last two months, including during and around the 2008 war anniversary. During the IPRM, the role of co-facilitators in contributing to maintaining stability was highlighted. IPRM participants also discussed challenges faced by the conflict-affected communities, including recent security incidents and detentions. The EUMM and OSCE positively noted that some cases of long-term detentions had been solved recently. The co-facilitators encouraged participants to discontinue the practice of detentions and advocated for the release of remaining detainees.

Participants welcomed today’s constructive discussions on various topics of concern, such as access to electricity and irrigation, including the views of technical experts. Participants also stressed the importance of the EUMM-managed Hotline to defuse tensions and facilitate the exchange of information.

The participants agreed to convene the next regular IPRM meeting on 1 November 2023, as well as to hold a separate technical meeting to continue engagement on irrigation and access to water.

SKOPJE/VIENNA, 12 September 2023 – The OSCE Chairman-in-Office, Minister of Foreign Affairs of North Macedonia Bujar Osmani, and Secretary General Helga Maria Schmid reinforced their repeated calls for the immediate release of three Ukrainian OSCE officials that have been in detention Donetsk and Luhansk for more than 500 days.

“OSCE officials should never be arrested or detained because of the work they do in carrying out their mandate. These detentions are an inhumane act and a blatant violation of their rights,” said Chairman-in-Office Osmani.

“Our message to those responsible is clear – the detained must be freed immediately and unconditionally,” he underscored.

“It has been over 500 days of terrible suffering – first and foremost for our detained Ukrainian officials, but also for their families and loved ones. This must stop now. Every day that passes is another day too long,” said Secretary General Schmid.

“We are sparing no effort and will continue to use every channel and every opportunity to secure their release until our colleagues are free,” she stressed.

Background information

Three OSCE officials – Vadym Golda, Maxim Petrov and Dmytro Shabanov – were detained in April 2022 in Donetsk and Luhansk where they had been performing their official duties – as mandated by all 57 participating States.

In September 2022, Maxim Petrov and Dmytro Shabanov were “sentenced” to 13 years in prison as a result of so-called “legal proceedings”.

In addition to the continued efforts of OSCE Chairman-in-Office Osmani and OSCE Secretary General Schmid, both publicly and in private, the OSCE remains in close contact with relevant stakeholders, including other international organizations, to facilitate the release of detained OSCE officials.

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The OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek is providing support for a comprehensive training course on safety regulations for working on glaciers in the Kyrgyz Tian Shan and Pamir-Alay regions. This initiative aims to enhance the safety and efficiency of glaciological activities conducted in these critical areas.

One of the primary focal points of this endeavor is the Kara-Batkak glacier, a vital reference point for glaciological monitoring within the Kyrgyz Republic. Stretching over 4 kilometers and spanning altitudes from 3,360 to 4,800 meters, this glacier has been under comprehensive observation since 1956. Since 2006, the Tian-Shan High Mountain Scientific Centre (TSHMSC), operating under the Institute of Water Problems and Hydropower of the National Academy of Sciences, has undertaken the responsibility of monitoring this glacier.

The core objective of these ongoing observations is to elucidate the dynamics of glacial changes, ultimately facilitating forecasts of climatic shifts within the Kyrgyz Republic and Central Asia as a whole. However, the Kara-Batkak glacier poses inherent dangers, making it one of the most challenging sites for glaciological monitoring.

Acknowledging the paramount importance of equipping personnel with the skills for safe and autonomous glacier navigation, the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek has taken the initiative to support a specialized training course. This training, conducted on the Kara-Batkak glacier in the Jeti-Oguz district of the Issyk-Kul province was conducted from 31 August to 5 September, 2023. The training course brought together participants from various relevant organizations, including the Institute of Water Problems and Hydropower of the National Academy of Sciences of the Kyrgyz Republic, Kyrgyz Hydromet (Kyrgyz Hydrometeorological Service), Central Asian Institute of Applied Geosciences, and the TSHMSC itself.

Upon the conclusion of the training consultants will draft comprehensive safety guidelines tailored specifically for glacier-related work. These guidelines will subsequently undergo scrutiny by the TSHMSC management and receive approval from the relevant government authorities, further fortifying safety standards and protocols within the region's glaciological community.

OSCE’s support for this training course underscores its commitment to promoting safety and facilitating scientific endeavors in the challenging and vital field of glaciology within the Kyrgyz Republic and across the Central Asian region.

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The Kyrgyz Association of Women in the Security Sector in collaboration with the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek has successfully completed a three-day training course aimed at addressing gender-based and family violence.

This training program had a dual focus: it concentrated on international gender equality standards and the enhancement of gender-sensitive legislative policies within the Kyrgyz Republic. Moreover, it provided law enforcement agencies with the necessary tools and knowledge to effectively prevent and respond to domestic violence, ultimately contributing to the creation of a safer and more equitable society.

The participants in this program included representatives from the Ministry of Internal Affairs, Ministry of Health, experienced law enforcement professionals, and members of civil society. These individuals are now well-prepared to apply and disseminate the knowledge they have gained.

A central pillar of this training was the vital role played by Mobile Police Reception (MPR) units in preventing family violence. The MPRs possess significant potential for preventing gender-based violence (GBV) due to their extensive reach and rapid response capabilities. Serving as a crucial first line of defense, they actively engage with communities, providing immediate assistance.

The OSCE reaffirms its strong commitment to comprehensive security, with a central focus on preventing gender-based violence. By harnessing the capabilities of agencies like the MPR and equipping them with the necessary tools and knowledge to respond effectively, the OSCE takes significant strides towards the creation of safer, more inclusive societies.

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The Office of the OSCE Special Representative and Co-ordinator for Combating Trafficking in Human Beings and the Council of Europe’s Anti-Trafficking Division  organized a joint roundtable in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina on 7 to 8 September 2023, which focused on strengthening the role of the private sector, particularly financial institutions, in preventing and combating human trafficking.

The event brought together some 50 representatives of financial intelligence units, law enforcement agencies, prosecutor’s officers, anti-trafficking coordination bodies, financial and other private sector institutions, financial regulators, trade unions, and academia from Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia.

Opening the meeting, the Head of the Council of Europe Office in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bojana Urumova, said: “In order to fight human trafficking, the money trail needs to be followed. Financial investigations are extremely important and require the collaboration of the public and private sectors.”

“Fighting human trafficking, money laundering, corruption and terrorism financing are among the key priorities of our office, which is implementing projects in these areas  based on the recommendations of relevant Council of Europe monitoring bodies,” she added.

Acting OSCE Coordinator for Combating Trafficking in Human Beings Andrea Salvoni called for stronger partnerships to effectively address human trafficking in financial flows.

“Strong cooperation between and among financial institutions, law enforcement, and government agencies is crucial to share intelligence and coordinate actions. For this, it’s key to establish legislative frameworks that allow for information sharing,” he said.

During the roundtable, promising practices were presented by speakers from Belgium, Canada, Cyprus, Latvia, the Netherlands, Europol, Western Union, Bank Santander, and Finance Against Slavery and Trafficking (FAST). The OSCE study “Following the Money: Compendium of Resources and Step-by-step Guide to Financial Investigations into Trafficking in Human Beings” was also presented as a valuable resource.

The roundtable aimed at raising awareness of the role of financial institutions in combating human trafficking and promoting cross-sectoral co-operation frameworks. It also introduced a new OSCE study on Bosnia and Herzegovina's legal and institutional framework, offering concrete recommendations to combat human trafficking and labour exploitation in supply chains. Based on working groups’ sessions, participants launched the preparation of a sample human trafficking typology paper, which is an alert and guidance system for financial institutions to identify human trafficking in financial flows.

PODGORICA, 8 September 2023 — OSCE Secretary General Helga Maria Schmid concluded her visit to Montenegro today. During her visit, she met with high-level government officials and representatives of civil society organizations.  

On Friday morning, Secretary General Schmid met with President of Montenegro Jakov Milatović, and Prime Minister and Coordinator of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dritan Abazović.

“In our meetings, I underlined the productive partnership the OSCE and in particular our Mission has built with state institutions: we work together on a range of security and human rights issues such as the fight against organized crime and trafficking in human beings, strengthening the rule of law and the accountability of institutions, on women empowerment, freedom of media and hate speech, and much more. I also highlighted our commitment to continue to support the Montenegrin authorities in their reform journey as defined by their priorities and our OSCE principles”, said Secretary General Schmid.

The Secretary General also visited the OSCE Mission to Montenegro, where she met with Head of Mission Dominique Waag and Mission staff, commending their dedication and professionalism. She concluded the day with a site visit to a women’s shelter in Podgorica run by NGO Women’s Safe House that the Mission supports.   

Secretary General Schmid said, “It was extremely important for me to see first-hand the indispensable work that Women’s Safe House is doing. Gender-based violence knows no borders, making it a global challenge that demands collective action”. She commended the partnership the OSCE Mission has forged with the Women’s Safe House, ensuring that survivors of violence have a safe environment with professional support.

Secretary General Schmid also met with representatives of civil society organizations to exchange views about their work in support of the rule of law, human rights, gender equality and the safety of journalists.

During her trip to Montenegro, Secretary General Schmid attended the OSCE Regional Heads of Field Operations Meeting, which convened Heads of OSCE Missions from the region, representatives from the OSCE 2023 Chairpersonship and institutions, as well as external guests, to discuss the work of the OSCE in South-Eastern Europe and areas for future co-operation in the region.

On 5-7 September 2023, the OSCE Secretariat’s Transnational Threats Department, with the support of the OSCE Mission in Kosovo (OMiK) and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), organized a three-day training course in Pejë/Peć on how to use financial intelligence to effectively cut off terrorism financing channels.

Participants learned about proactive and reactive analytical techniques and investigative methods for financial investigations, as part of comprehensive counter-terrorism investigations.

The training module emphasized the importance of collecting, handling, and using financial intelligence in counter-terrorism investigations. A team of local trainers, previously trained by the OSCE and supported by international experts, delivered sessions on the analysis of financial information and application of analytical techniques in counter-terrorism operations. They also actively involved inter-agency teams in exercises on the intelligence cycle, grading of intelligence, and data and network analysis.

Edward Anderson, Director of the Department of Public Safety and Security at OMiK, highlighted during his opening remarks that stemming the flow of funds to terrorists and terrorist networks should be at the forefront of counter-terrorism efforts and thanked all participants for their dedicated work.

The course represents the second module of the OSCE-UNODC training programme on countering the financing of terrorism. The aim of the programme is to build the operational framework of local bodies to prevent terrorists from moving, using, and raising funds for terrorist purposes, in line with international commitments and standards. The course was organized with the financial support of the United States.

SKOPJE /WARSAW /COPENHAGEN, 7 September 2023 - The OSCE Chairman-in-Office, Minister of Foreign Affairs of North Macedonia Bujar Osmani, OSCE Parliamentary Assembly President Pia Kauma and the Director of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights Matteo Mecacci, condemn the Russian Federation’s holding of so-called “elections” in Ukraine’s temporarily occupied territories.

Any elections in territories within Ukraine’s internationally recognized borders can only be held in line with national legislation and international standards and can only be organized by the legitimate authority mandated by Ukrainian law, the Ukrainian Central Election Commission. The organization of elections in temporarily occupied territories violates the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine, which is counter to the fundamental principles of the OSCE, the UN Charter and international law. The “results” of any such “elections” organized by the Russian Federation in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine will have no validity under international law.

The OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) continues to assist the Ukrainian authorities in preparing for the conduct of elections when voters are able to participate in elections safely and elections can be held in accordance with Ukrainian law and international standards. 

Media contacts:

Boni Cvetanovska, OSCE 2023 Chairpersonship of North Macedonia: boni.cvetanovska@mfa.gov.mk  / +436766372643

Katya Andrusz, ODIHR Spokesperson: katya.andrusz@odihr.pl  / +48 609 522 266  

Nat Parry, Head of Communications and Press: nat@oscepa.dk / +45 60 10 81 77

Developing strategies for the inclusion of women in formal negotiation processes was the focus of a side event organized by OSCE 2023 Chairpersonship of North Macedonia with the Secretariat's Gender Issues Programme during the Chairpersonship’s Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Conference in Tetovo on 5 September.

Opening the event, Dr. Lara Scarpitta, Senior Adviser on Gender Issues in the office of the OSCE Secretary General, highlighted that “in times of conflict and post-conflict, women’s role in peacebuilding is still not fully recognised despite their incredible efforts in defending women’s rights and supporting their communities. For sustainable peace, we must redouble efforts to include women, especially those at the grassroots level, in all peace and security discussions”.

Two keynote speakers, Radmila Shekerinska, former Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense of the Republic of North Macedonia and Catherine Fearon, Deputy Director of the OSCE Conflict Prevention Centre and founding member of the Northern Ireland Women’s Coalition, shared their experience being engaged in formal peace negotiation processes, reflected on the challenges they experienced and showcased some of the key achievements made by women in peace processes.  

“Progress on women’s participation is too little, too weak and not changing the reality for our sons and daughters,” Shekerinska said while stressing that women’s participation increases the chances of a sustainable settlement to be achieved.

The keynote speeches were followed by a panel discussion among prominent women peace leaders from grassroots civil society organizations, who are also the Gender Issues Programme’s WIN project partners, from Afghanistan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia and Ukraine. They stressed some of the key challenges of women peacebuilders on the ground, including the lack of access to decision-making, lack of funding and safety concerns including personal attacks.  

The panellists recommended that concrete actions should be taken to include women from the grassroots level in decision-making, flexible funding made available for their work, their safety and security better protected, and more spaces and resources for exchange and support to existing networks established. They also highlighted the importance of including young women peacebuilders in capacity-building and networking activities. The recommendations of women peacebuilders were further discussed during the plenary session of the Conference.

VIENNA, 7 September 2023 – Teresa Ribeiro, the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, issued a communiqué today on the use of digital surveillance technology on journalists. The document underscores the significant negative impact such technology can have on media freedom within the OSCE region.

The escalating use of digital surveillance technology, including on journalists, raises alarming questions about privacy breaches, the confidentiality of journalistic sources and its overall potential to stifle media freedom. By monitoring journalists’ communication and gathering confidential and sensitive information, those employing digital surveillance technology severely impede the ability of the media to function safely. This poses a substantial threat to media freedom, democratic societies, and overall security.

“While state authorities have the unquestionable right, and even obligation, to safeguard public security, it is imperative that the use of digital surveillance technology on journalists be exercised with utmost caution. For secure and democratic societies, journalists and other media professionals must be able to operate without constraints, interference, or fear for their safety,” the Representative stated. “I therefore urge the OSCE participating States to abstain from using digital surveillance technology on journalists, unless there exists a clear and immediate threat to public security.”

In such cases, the use of this technology on journalists must adhere to stringent criteria, be deemed necessary within a democratic society and proportional to achieving the legitimate aim, the communiqué states. “However, there are also certain forms of surveillance technology that are so extremely invasive and pervasive that it is difficult to envision their use on journalists to be compatible with the principles of freedom of expression and media freedom that we have established within the OSCE region,” Ms Ribeiro added.

The Representative concluded that the implementation of stringent measures is vital. This includes mandating effective and binding prior authorization of any surveillance on a journalist granted by an independent authority under judicial control. Additionally, such surveillance must be limited in duration and scope, applicable only to the most severe offenses. Utilizing digital surveillance technology should be carefully justified and integrated into a robust rule-of-law framework, accompanied by a meaningful redress mechanism.

See the Communiqué on the Use of Digital Surveillance Technology on Journalists here: https://www.osce.org/files/f/documents/9/4/551605.pdf

The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media observes media developments in all 57 OSCE participating States. She provides early warning on violations of freedom of expression and media freedom and promotes full compliance with OSCE media freedom commitments. Learn more at www.osce.org/fom, Twitter: @OSCE_RFoM and on www.facebook.com/osce.rfom

Munira Shoinbekova, OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe

On 6 September 2023, The OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe (the Office) supported the Ministry of Health and Social Protection in organizing the second meeting of the Working Group on Regulation Mechanisms to Prevent Domestic Violence. The event was attended by 28 (16 men, 12 women) representatives of Tajikistan's government and civil society organizations with roles in the field of preventing and combatting domestic violence, and providing support services to victims.

The meeting aimed to present and discuss the findings of an OSCE-commissioned analysis of the legislative framework related to domestic violence prevention and correctional measures for perpetrators. The discussion included recommendations for amending Tajikistan’s normative framework to regulate and institutionalize correctional services for domestic violence perpetrators.

Domestic violence in an enduring social problem in Tajikistan. The meeting is part of the Office’s ongoing support to the Government of Tajikistan and civil society organizations in improving the mechanisms for prevention and combatting of domestic violence, including by ensuring the provision of timely and professional support services to survivors and behavioral change programs to perpetrators. Since 2021, the Office has piloted three consultation rooms in Levakant, Khujand, and Dushanbe, where trained psychologists and social workers work with perpetrators to help them change their abusive behaviour and prevent further violence.

TETOVO, 6 September 2023 - Strengthening global partnership and taking collective action to further promote gender equality across the OSCE region was the focus of the first Chairpersonship’s Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Conference, which took place on 5 and 6 September in Tetovo, North Macedonia.

The Conference, initiated and organized by OSCE 2023 Chairpersonship of North Macedonia, convened OSCE leaders, ambassadors and high-level officials from the OSCE participating States and partner countries at a two-day event, hosted by the OSCE Chairman-in-Office, Minister of Foreign Affairs of North Macedonia Bujar Osmani. They were joined by representatives from the private sector, academia, civil society and other international organizations, discussing how participating States and partners can work together to make societies more inclusive by creating new opportunities for women’s economic, social and political empowerment.

The conference addressed specific challenges, from bringing women’s perspectives in peace and security to the forefront and ensuring their participation in peacebuilding and conflict management, to supporting women’s leadership across all fields of political and public life.

“It is more important than ever as we deal with even more complex threats to peace, stability and security in the OSCE region to ensure that women are playing meaningful roles, in decision-making, and across all the walks of life, including in the political and security sectors. We need practical actions,” said the OSCE Chairman-in-Office, Minister of Foreign Affairs of North Macedonia Bujar Osmani.

In her opening remarks, OSCE Secretary General Helga Maria Schmid reiterated that “promoting women’s inclusion in all aspects of political and public life is today more important than ever.  As the OSCE, we are taking action, for example with our Networking Platform for Women Leaders including Peacebuilders and Mediators.”

“It is crucial to include women’s equal voices, participation, and representation in all spheres of foreign policy to accelerate transformative change in the advancement of gender equality as envisioned in the 2030 Agenda. The time for action to guarantee peace and gender equality through Foreign Policy is now,” said Elisa Fernandez, UN Women Deputy Regional Director for Europe and Central Asia.

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Issyk-Kul, 3-4 September

The Eurasian Group (EAG) on Combating Money Laundering and Terrorism Financing (AML/CFT) convened its third annual forum in Issyk-Kul, Kyrgyzstan.

Money laundering and terrorism financing continue to pose significant threats to international security and stability. These criminal activities undermine the rule of law, economic resilience, and contribute to the proliferation of violence and extremism. The Eurasian Forum serves as a crucial platform for the exchange of expertise and best practices in the field of AML/CFT and the development of joint measures to strengthen the international AML/CFT framework.

The forum deliberated on key aspects of combating organized crime and ensuring financial security, including discussions on international standards, national experiences, and emerging trends in the detection and investigation of money laundering and terrorism financing-related crimes, including the use of virtual assets. The OSCE actively participates in international efforts in AML/CFT. The EAG provides support to its member-states in developing and implementing national AML/CFT programs and raising public awareness about AML/CFT risks.

Notably, the OSCE has been a valuable partner in assisting the Kyrgyz Republic in strengthening its AML/CFT system, including the development and enactment of a robust legal framework and the enhancement of the capacity of government agencies and financial monitoring bodies. Kyrgyzstan has made significant progress in this domain, bolstering its legislative framework, establishing an internal control system within financial institutions, and providing training to financial institution staff and government authorities in the detection and prevention of suspicious transactions.

"This progress has been made possible through the collaborative efforts of the Government of the Kyrgyz Republic, with the support of the OSCE and other international partners," noted Ambassador Alexey Rogov, Head of the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek. The Eurasian Group Forum is supported by the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek, the State Financial Intelligence of the Kyrgyz Republic, the EAG Secretariat, and the International Training and Methodological Centre for Financial Monitoring.

Munira Shoinbekova, OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe

From 28 August to 1 September 2023, the OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe (the Office) organized a five-day training of trainers for the Institute for advanced training under the General Prosecutor’s Office in Dushanbe. The training brought together 8 participants, including seven management and teaching staff of the Institute for advanced training of prosecutors in Tajikistan and a representative from the General Prosecutor’s Office.

The aim of the training was to enhance the participants’ capacity to train prosecutors on effective prosecution and monitoring of domestic violence cases. The training was based on a draft-training module on “Prevention, identification and investigation of domestic violence related crimes”, developed with the support of the Office. The event also aimed to improve the trainees’ understanding of gender equality, domestic violence, the particularities of investigating and prosecuting domestic violence cases, the immediate measures needed for ensuring the timely protection of victims, and the related national and international legal framework.

The training is part of the Office’s support for the General Prosecutor’s Office of Tajikistan to institutionalize the training of prosecutors in the field of investigation and prosecution of domestic violence cases. The Office will continue supporting Tajikistan  to fulfil its OSCE commitments related to prevention and combatting violence against women, including domestic violence.  

Željka Šulc

The scourge of domestic violence in Bosnia and Herzegovina demands an urgent response. 

On August 29, the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina hosted a distinguished gathering of ministers and other key leaders from across the country.  We were pleased to host the Speaker of the BiH Parliament, the President of the High Judicial and Prosecutorial Council of BiH, the Federation Minister of the Interior, Cantonal Ministers of Justice and Interior, police representatives from relevant agencies and others together around one table. Their joining us in such numbers reflected our shared recognition of a serious problem facing this country: the terrible scourge of domestic abuse.  We spoke not as bureaucrats but as people facing a challenge that harms many among us. 

Put simply, the OSCE has as its mission promoting security in the broadest sense, and security is still an issue when half of the population is subject to domestic violence – and according to our data, half the adult women in Bosnia and Herzegovina have experienced domestic violence and 84 percent of such violence goes unreported.

I was in Tuzla last week talking to the authorities there about their responses to the most recent violent incidents.  The authorities shared with us their innovative approaches to proactively tackling this problem, but let us be clear: that victim was not alone, and this is certainly not just a problem for Tuzla or Gradačac.  There are victims in big cities and small towns across this entire country.  We all know this.

When recent incidents such as those in Gradačac, Živinice, and Bijeljina happen, we all express our horror and sympathy for the victims and their families.  And that is appropriate – it is a very human reaction – but it is not enough.  There must be action.  And action is possible.  Domestic violence is a scourge that touches every ethnic and religious and linguistic group across the country.  It is a shared challenge calling for shared action.

To start, it is of the highest importance that both Entities of BiH have harmonized their Criminal Codes and their laws on Protection against Domestic Violence with the Istanbul Convention. The RS has done so, the Federation should undertake immediate steps to do the same.

But that is simply not sufficient.

We must examine and address why the system breaks down, why victims do not turn to it for support, why under-reporting remains so prevalent. We also cannot understate the complexity of domestic violence, which involves issues of justice, safety, access to support services, gender norms and stereotypes, equality, and the normalization of violence. 

Therefore, combatting domestic violence requires a similarly complex response that is nuanced, multi-sectoral, and committed, a response that is gender-sensitive, victim-centric, and trauma-informed. Such responses must also account for the many forms domestic violence takes – physical, psychological, emotional, sexual, and economic – and for the diversity of victims, who span all ethnic, social, and economic divides. 

The discreet but interconnected parts of the institutional system must work in concert to recognize the signs of domestic violence, ensure the availability and suitability of response and reporting mechanisms and protective measures, and strengthen judicial responses to end impunity.  In doing so, all members of society – of all genders – must cultivate a culture of respect and equality.   

Our invitation to come together outlined several recommendations for immediate, strategic, and systemic action, and, reached  agreement on concrete, forward-looking commitments

We must first commend the Entity Ministries of Interior for their commitment to conduct training via the respective police academies, including through curricula reform, that enable future police officers to respond to domestic violence and gender-based cases promptly and effectively.  Our Mission will assist the Entity Ministries in this important process wherever possible.

The Entity and Cantonal Ministries of Interior committed themselves to continue planning and implementing mandatory specialized trainings for in-service police officers. I think many would agree that it is important for those trainings to engage prosecutors as well.  We hope this process will be well underway before November, and the Mission will collaborate very closely with authorities on this.  

We very much welcome the initiative by Cantonal Ministries of Interior to harmonize  and to make  stricter the existing cantonal legislation and regulations on issuance, possession and control of firearms.  I was impressed with the forward-leaning approach to this issue that Canton Tuzla is taking, but of course, these measures can only be effective if implemented more broadly.  We will have to ensure that firearms are seized from the perpetrators following a report of domestic violence. Some measures are already in place, but a more efficient implementation of these procedures is of the essence.

Tthe High Judicial and Prosecutorial Council of BiH has committed to ensuring effective training to improve the justice sector response to domestic violence, including the proper application of the relevant legal provisions.  We appreciate their willingness and again here, my mission stands ready to help in the implementation.

Let me be very clear that by agreeing these new efforts we do not in any way mean to diminish the work already being done by dedicated individuals across this country.  We deeply respect the important work being done at shelters and at relevant agencies.  We simply believe that if we have the will, it is possible to do more.

I have no illusions that these additional steps can stop this scourge completely.  Here and around the world – including in my own country – this will continue to be a challenge for our societies.  But the fact that we can’t solve everything doesn’t mean we shouldn’t try to do something.  If what we agreed to do leads to even one less person murdered, one less person living in fear, I believe our efforts were  worth it.

I am grateful that we were able to approach this challenge not as diplomats or ministers or high officials but as human beings.  Our partners in the relevant ministries across this country happen to be human beings in positions to make a positive difference in other people’s lives. 

This is not a political issue, but it requires action by political institutions.  We at OSCE will do everything we can to support their efforts. 

SKOPJE, 4 September 2023 – On 5 and 6 September 2023, the OSCE Chairman-in-Office, Minister of Foreign Affairs of North Macedonia Bujar Osmani, will host the OSCE Chairpersonship’s Conference on Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment in Tetovo, North Macedonia.

The conference will bring together high-level officials from the OSCE participating States and partner countries along with representatives of the private sector, academia, civil society and other international organizations.

The two-day event will provide an opportunity to review the implementation of the existing commitments with regard to gender equality and women’s empowerment across the OSCE region, while also taking stock of achievements and considering possible ways forward.

The Conference will start with a high-level opening panel that includes key note speeches by the OSCE Chairman-in-Office, Minister of Foreign Affairs of North Macedonia Bujar Osmani and Secretary General Helga Maria Schmid.

It will be followed by three working sessions reflective of the OSCE’s work on gender equality across the three dimensions, and a closing session. The working sessions will also be supplemented by several side events.

The high-level opening session starting at 15:00 CEST will be live-streamed on www.osce.org/live for media and the general public to follow remotely.

For more information, please contact Boni Cvetanovska (boni.cvetanovska@mfa.gov.mk), Press and Communication Team, OSCE 2023 Chairpersonship of North Macedonia.

Follow @OSCECiO and @Bujar_O to join the discussion.

Promotion of the Guidelines on Communication with Persons with Disabilities held in Široki Brijeg Željka Šulc

ŠIROKI BRIJEG, 4 September 2023 – The OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Institution of Human Rights Ombudsman of Bosnia and Herzegovina organized the promotion of the Guidelines for Improvement of Everyday Communication with Persons with Disabilities in Široki Brijeg today.

These Guidelines, published in 2022 by the Institution of Human Rights Ombudsman of Bosnia and Herzegovina (the Ombudsman Institution), aim to improve everyday communication with persons with disabilities (PwDs), in public institutions and bodies, companies, legal entities and individuals who contribute to social integration of PwDs.

Representatives of the Ombudsman Institution, West Herzegovina Canton (WHC) civil society organizations gathering PwDs and promoting their rights, as well as executive, legislative and judicial authorities in WHC had the opportunity to exchange views and agree upon activities ahead.

Ioannis Piliouris, Head of the OSCE Field Office in Mostar, commended the continuous efforts and partnership with the Mission of all gathered in pursuing issues that PwDs face in everyday life and in advocating for improvement of their access to rights. “This includes issues pertaining to the removal of architectural barriers, inclusion of the civil sector in the process of creation of relevant legislation, successful advocacy by the Mission regarding the adaptation of official webpages for the use of persons with visual impairment, exchange of good practices with the organization Los Rosales Mostar towards the opening of Kutak Srece café in Široki Brijeg, now employing 10 young persons with disabilities.”

Communication is a human rights issue,encompassing the right to receive and impart information. As such, freedom of expression is a key prerequisite to enjoy other human rights.

Nives Jukić, BiH Human Rights Ombudsperson, explained that these guidelines are their contribution to improve the position of persons with disabilities, as they are a guide for all public bodies and companies on how to communicate with persons with disabilities. “Unfortunately, in Bosnia and Herzegovina, persons with disabilities face numerous barriers in their everyday life, from architectural to communication, due to which they are exposed to various forms of discrimination, and they should have equal rights and opportunities for full participation in all areas of life“.

Elaborating on how different categories and types of disabilities exist, the Chairwoman of WHC Association of PwDs, Zora Mikulić, explained the need for initiating improvements in the future. “We expect from today’s meeting new ideas and guidelines, for instance, the establishment of a committee for employment of PwDs and the introduction of sign language at Cantonal level,” she concluded.

It is important to promote awareness about relevant best practices in combating discrimination, and to call for the development of adequate policies, programmes and strategies at all levels.

The Mission will continue to support efforts of all actors and organizations that advocate for the enjoyment of rights of PwDs.

WARSAW, 4 September 2023 – The OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) today opened a limited election observation mission for the 15 October 2023 parliamentary elections in Poland, following an invitation from the national authorities.

The mission is led by Douglas Wake and consists of 11 international experts from seven OSCE participating States, who will be based in Warsaw.  In addition, ODIHR 20 long-term observers will be deployed throughout the country from 8 September.

The mission will assess the elections for their compliance with OSCE commitments and other international obligations and standards, as well as with national legislation. Observers will follow voter registration, candidate registration, campaign activities, the work of the election administration and relevant state bodies, implementation of the legislative framework, political and campaign finance and the resolution of election-related disputes. They will also assess how prior ODIHR recommendations have been considered. As part of the observation, the LEOM will conduct a comprehensive monitoring of the media.

Meetings with representatives of national authorities, political parties, as well as with representatives from the judiciary, civil society and the media will take place throughout the observation. For election day itself, a delegation from the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly (OSCE PA) and the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) will join efforts with the ODIHR mission.

While mission members will observe in a number of polling stations across the country to follow election day procedures, in line with ODIHR’s methodology for limited election observation missions, the mission will not carry out systematic or comprehensive observation of the voting, counting and tabulation on election day.

An interim report will be published to update the public and the media during the course of the observation. The day after the elections, a statement of preliminary findings will be presented at a press conference. A final report summing up the observation of the entire electoral process will be published some months after the election process has ended.

Further information on ODIHR’s election observation activities in Poland is available here: https://www.osce.org/odihr/elections/poland

Media contacts:

Ivan Godarsky, media analyst: ivan.godarsky@odihr-leom.pl

and +48 697 330 843

or

Katya Andrusz, ODIHR Spokesperson, at katya.andrusz@odihr.pl and +48 609 522 266  

551353 Jeff Bieley Edita Buçaj

The OSCE Mission in Kosovo concluded today its fourth edition of the multiethnic tennis camp organized in co-operation with the municipality of Gračanica/Graçanicё, gathering youth from different communities for practice and games.

20 youth from Kosovo Albanian, Kosovo Serb and Kosovo Ashkali communities from the municipalities of Prishtinë/Priština, Obiliq/Obilić and Gračanica/Graçanicë participated in this edition and learned about tennis under the guidance of Coach Marija Djordjevic. During camp days, they practiced for pre-qualification games at the tennis courts in Gërmia/Grmija Park and learned necessary tennis skills, which they showed at the final match in Gračanica/Graçanicë.

After three final matches, the winners Marija Crvenković, Luka Filić and Viktor Radić were awarded with medals by the Head of OSCE Mission in Kosovo, Ambassador Michael Davenport, Mayor of Gračanica/Graçanicë, Liljana Šubarić and the Director of Culture, Youth and Sports, municipality of Gračanica/Graçanicё, Dušan Cvejić.

“The OSCE has long been committed to supporting institutions in fostering better inter-community relationships and dialogue. Sport is a great way to build bridges, enhance understanding and promote respect, while also challenging stereotypes,” said Head of OSCE Mission in Kosovo, Ambassador Michael Davenport.

Mayor of Gračanica/Graçanicë, Liljana Šubarić, thanked the OSCE for organizing this activity and for recognizing the municipality efforts.

“The municipality proved for the fourth year now that it stands for co-operation. We think that the best way to strengthen inter-municipality co-operation is through the youth".

The Director of the Youth Center in Obiliq/Obilić, Zelushe Kelmendi, participant of every edition, emphasized that this tournament enables young people to socialize and break down barriers between different communities.

This is the fourth consecutive year the OSCE Mission supports the tennis camp, building on previous years’ successes. Besides providing an opportunity for a healthy and supportive learning environment for young players, the camp helps young players cross language barriers and interact with each other.

The OSCE Mission in Kosovo is mandated with human rights protection and promotion, democratization and public safety sector development. It places emphasis on empowering youth through inter-ethnic dialogue and activities, recognizing their potential for promoting lasting peace and security.