Central Europe

Acting Head of the OSCE Presence in Albania Clarisse Pasztory and Free Legal Aid Director Ergys Qirici signed a memorandum of understanding, on 22 February 2024, aimed at outlining areas of mutual interest and strengthening co-operation between the two institutions.

The mission of the Free Legal Aid Directorate is to guarantee equal access to justice to all people. The memorandum is an expression of the Presence’s full support for the very important work of this agency established in 2020.

As envisaged in the document, the Presence will help increase the Directorate’s capacities through targeted training on communication with vulnerable persons for civil society organizations licensed to offer free legal aid, and will support the Directorate develop resource materials for visually impaired people and foreign citizens. The Presence will also support the full establishment of a new university legal clinic at the University of Elbasan. Both initiatives aim at increasing the public access to justice.

During the signing event, the OSCE Presence provided the Directorate with a manual commissioned by the Presence containing methods and techniques to be applied by free legal aid providers when communicating and receiving vulnerable groups.

In 2022, the Presence developed a guideline on communication and reception of citizens from such groups, including minors, victims of domestic violence, minority populations (particularly Roma and Egyptian), and people with disabilities. The guide served as a resource material for a training for about 30 Free Legal Aid staff from across Albania that the Presence organized in November 2023.

The signing event took place in the framework of the Week for the Protection of Crime Victims organized by Albania’s Ministry of Justice from 15 to 22 February 2024.

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To foster Georgia’s regulatory framework against the increasing security risks revolving around virtual assets, the Office of the Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities organized a study visit for officials from the National Bank of Georgia and the Financial Monitoring Service of Georgia to Riga, Latvia, for an exchange with regulators, supervisors, and representatives from non-profit organizations and the private sector from Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania.

From 19 to 23 February, more than 15 facilitators and 10 participants from Georgia and the Baltic countries discussed Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASP) licensing processes, risk assessment, monitoring and supervision of these types of entities, practical cases, regulatory frameworks, and innovative strategies for combating illicit activities within the virtual asset and cryptocurrency space.

The exchange offered a platform for in-depth discussions on how Georgian supervisory authorities can learn from their Baltic counterparts to effectively oversee VASPs and mitigate the risks of money laundering and terrorist financing. Supporting Georgia and other Participating States on this goal through such initiatives is an ongoing commitment of the OSCE.

"With the increasing number of Virtual Assets Service Providers, national supervisory and legislative authorities should have the available information to best decide on their path for regulation. The OSCE stands ready to provide continued technical support to Georgia in its decision to regulate the sector, and we will continue to provide expertise in the area of VASP supervision to the National Bank of Georgia and other relevant authorities," highlighted Vera Strobachova-Budway, Acting Senior Economic Officer at the OSCE.

The study visit also identified current challenges and opportunities in the crypto-regulatory landscape and will serve to improve and strengthen the Georgian VASP supervision framework, as well as enhance compliance with FATF and other international standards.

Georgian participants highlighted that the study visit paved the way for a more effective and collaborative approach to VASP supervision and regulation in Georgia, and added that learning from the experiences of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania would allow their country to avoid mistakes and shape a better plan of action when it comes to virtual assets.

During the interactive sessions, facilitators from the Financial Crime Investigation Service of Lithuania, Financial Intelligence Unit of Estonia, Bank of Latvia, Lithuanian Center of Excellence in Anti-Money Laundering, Latvia's Blockchain Association, Corruption Prevention and Combating Bureau of Latvia, Economic Crime Police of Latvia, Cybercrime Police of Latvia, and the Finance Association of Latvia shared their experiences regarding the regulatory framework related to crypto-assets and the supervision of VASP. The Financial Intelligence Unit of Latvia provided the venue for the working sessions.

The study visit is part of the OSCE extra-budgetary project on “Innovative policy solutions to mitigate money-laundering risks of virtual assets”, funded by the United States of America, the United Kingdom, Germany, Poland and Romania. The project is designed to support the OSCE participating States in building national authorities’ capacities to mitigate criminal risks related to virtual assets and cryptocurrencies.

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

Experts from the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) presented the final report of the Election Expert Team deployed to Estonia for the March 2023 parliamentary elections from 19 to 22 February in Tallinn.

During the visit, the experts met with representatives from the state authorities and civil society organizations to discuss the ODIHR’s findings and recommendations on bringing election legislation and practice further into line with OSCE commitments and other international standards. The experts also discussed how ODIHR could support the implementation of the report’s recommendations if requested by the Estonian authorities.

The report’s recommendations focus on internet voting, including the transparency of processing of the internet vote, as well as issues related to campaign spending limits, transparency requirements for advertisers, comprehensive regulation of third-party campaigning, and increasing the capacity for campaign finance oversight. The report also recommends taking measures to reduce divisive rhetoric that has a negative impact on national minorities and ensure full political rights for long-term residents with undetermined citizenship.

All OSCE participating States have committed to promptly follow up on ODIHR’s election assessments and recommendations.

563130 Communication and Media Relations Section David Dadge

On 20 February, the OSCE’s Transnational Threats Department presented the concept of the reformed community policing and the results of the Public Survey on Perceptions of the Police and Police Reforms in Yerevan, Armenia. The high-level meeting was attended by the Minister of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Armenia, the Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs, and the Chairman of the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Defense and Security.

The Concept Paper and the Action Plan on Community Policing, developed by the OSCE in close co-operation with the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Armenia are aimed at presenting the vision, purpose, priorities and policy directions for improving community policing within the broader police reforms underway in the country.

In his remarks, the Minister of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Armenia Vahe Ghazaryan emphasized the importance of building the Community Police as a specialized structure to redefine the service and increase public trust.

The results of the Public Survey on Perceptions of the Police and Police Reforms in Armenia, commissioned by the OSCE to R-Insights Research Company, were also presented during the event. The findings provided insights into the public perception of the main internal safety and security threats, public trust and attitudes towards the police, perceptions and level of satisfaction with the performance of the Police in tackling certain internal security issues, public attitudes towards the ongoing police reform efforts, as well as the opinions on the engagement of women in the police.

In her speech, the Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Armenia Arpine Sargsyan underlined the importance of ensuring inclusiveness and transparency in the course of the reforms.

Both the Concept Paper and the Action Plan on Community Policing and the Public Survey on Perceptions of the Police and Police Reforms in the Republic of Armenia were developed within the framework of the project "Accountable Institutions and Human Rights Protection in Armenia" funded by the European Union, and implemented jointly with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the United Nations Children's Fund, and the United Nations Population Fund.

563106 Annie Engstroem

Alongside her eager K9 partner, the 5-month-old Belgian Shepherd (Malinois) named Ada, Kristina Shikova will be out in the field on detection duties by this summer. Kristina is training to become a police dog handler, making her the first woman in North Macedonia to hold this role.

While Ada knows how to follow Kristina’s commands with a ball, she is currently in the process of learning how to sniff cars for detection purposes. In just a few months, Ada will be able to perform her sniffer dog duties with utmost precision, particularly in detecting firearms and ammunition.

The OSCE Mission to Skopje’s efforts to enhance the Police Dog Unit's detection capacities is part of the endeavor to strengthen weapons control in South-Eastern Europe. Strengthening the detection capacities contributes significantly to the broader goal of enhancing security and reducing the proliferation of weapons in the region.

Kristina has been serving in the police force for six years, but she has wanted to work in the Police Dog Unit since she joined. When a vacancy became available, she immediately applied. "It still seems unbelievable to me, but I see it more as satisfaction rather than a job. I have always wanted to work around animals," Kristina said, reflecting on when she received the good news about her new appointment this January.

Her current training includes socialization, obedience, contact with her assigned police dog, theoretical and practical components, as well as physical tasks.  Kristina anticipates learning a lot on the job and aims to excel as a handler, progressing to the next level of becoming an instructor, actively assisting newcomers, and acting as a role model.

Drawing on her achievements, Kristina advocates for increased diversity in law enforcement and the need for more women in the police force, recognizing their role in building community trust. She encourages more women to apply to work in the Police Dog Unit, as she knows many who have the necessary drive and commitment.

The Mission actively promotes gender equality through initiatives supporting women in law enforcement, providing training and support, and advocating for the inclusion of women in the police force. Since 2018, the Mission has collaborated closely with the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MoIA) of North Macedonia to implement gender-sensitive policing through a comprehensive gender mentoring programme.

Kristina’s journey, together with her K9 partner Ada, serves as an inspiration for women considering a career in law enforcement and the Police Dog Unit—a cause that the OSCE Mission to Skopje proudly supports.

About the Efforts to Enhance SALW Detection Capacities

Enhancing detection capacities falls under the Mission’s extra-budgetary project, "Assisting the National Authorities of the Republic of North Macedonia to Decrease the Risk of Weapon Proliferation and Misuse of Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW)." Funded by Belgium, the EU, France, Germany, Norway, Slovakia, and the US, the project has led to substantial progress in enhancing the Police Dog Unit's detection capabilities in the country.

Find out more about the SALW Project here.

563082

The Constitutional Court, in co-operation with the OSCE Presence in Albania, presented the first Guide on Constitutional Court Case Law, on 21 February 2024.

Representatives from justice institutions, advocates, academics, legal community and international partners participated in the launching event, which was opened by the Constitutional Court Chair Holta Zaçaj and Acting Head of OSCE Presence Clarisse Pasztory. 

The Guide aims to enhance the quality of individual complaints, thus contributing to an increased citizens’ access to the Court and a better protection of their fundamental rights and freedoms. It will serve the judicial staff to improve their research capacities, and help the Court standardize decisions. The Guide will also help lawyers, legal professionals, law practitioners and scholars to efficiently search the Court’s case law.

The OSCE Presence supported the drafting of the Guide as part of its project “Strengthening rule of law and promoting protection of human rights in Albania through support to the Constitutional Court”, funded by the United States of America, Italy and Greece.

The Presence will continue to support the Constitutional Court in its efforts to enhance transparency, access and efficiency of its operations and strengthening institutional capacities to uphold the rule of law and protect human rights in line with international standards and OSCE commitments.

WARSAW, 21 February 2024 – The human rights situation in Belarus continues to deteriorate as those who voice dissent or stand up for the human rights of others are subject to investigation, persecution, and frequently prosecution, the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) said in a statement today.

“Human rights work can include criticism of the government and contributes to the wellbeing of any society. It is regrettable to see that this work has now been criminalized in Belarus,” said ODIHR Director Matteo Mecacci. “Many human rights defenders, activists and ordinary citizens voicing their dissent have been convicted, imprisoned and harassed. We call once again on the Belarusian authorities to respect the rights of human rights defenders and of all citizens, as the health and even life of these citizens and of their families is at stake.”

Since 2020, dozens of human rights defenders including independent journalists and citizen election observers have been arbitrarily detained, some multiple times, and many remain imprisoned in deplorable conditions, without the right to a fair trial being respected.  Hundreds of civil society organizations have been ordered to shut down or decided to cease their work amid intimidation, raids or confiscation of property. 

ODIHR is gravely concerned at the continued arrests of people merely for participating in the peaceful demonstrations of 2020-2021, or for interacting with social media content critical of the official line of the national authorities. The Office reiterates its call for the release of all citizens who have been detained unjustly.

The human rights situation has resulted in the flight of thousands of Belarusians to safety abroad, including many members of civil society and the political opposition. Recent changes to Belarusian legislation mean that some may even be arbitrarily deprived of citizenship and made stateless as a punishment for poorly defined “extremist activity”, which goes against international human rights law.

ODIHR reminds the Belarusian authorities of their international obligations and OSCE commitments to respect human rights and the rule of law, and to ensure accountability for human rights violations. ODIHR has reiterated its offer on many occasions to assist in this process by monitoring the trials of human rights defenders together with the Office’s other expertise and tools to protect the rights of all citizens.

Particularly given this context, ODIHR deeply regrets the decision of the Belarusian authorities not to issue an invitation to observe this weekend’s parliamentary elections, depriving the country’s citizens and institutions from an impartial, transparent, and comprehensive assessment by an international body. ODIHR also reiterates the importance of citizen election observers and their ability to work free from intimidation or pressure. While the Office is unable to observe the elections, ODIHR continues to follow closely the events in Belarus and their consequences for democracy and human rights from all the areas covered by its mandate.

563013 Munira Shoinbekova, OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe

On 19 February 2024, the OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe had an honor to host a visit for the esteemed representatives of Japanese delegation, Ms. Hisako Ishizaki, First Secretary of the Embassy of Japan in Austria; Ms. Tina Kapica, Advisor on International Organizations Affairs of the Embassy of Japan in Austria; Ms. Kozue Araki, Second Secretary of the Embassy of Japan in Tajikistan, and Mr. Hiroshi Takizawa, Consul/Second Secretary of the Embassy of Japan in Tajikistan within the framework of the Integrated Co-operation on Explosive Hazards (ICExH) Programme. 

The high-level Japanese delegation was warmly welcomed at the Regional Explosive Hazards Training Centre (REHTC) of Tajikistan’s Ministry of Defence by Jukka Tuononen, the Officer-in-Charge of the OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe; Colonel Anvar Khasanzoda, Deputy Head of the Engineering Troops of General Staff of Armed Forces of Tajikistan, and Colonel Sulaimon Qodirzoda, the Head of the Regional Explosive Hazards Training Centre of Tajikistan’s Ministry of Defence. 

During the visit, several delivered remarks, interventions, and comprehensive presentations provided valuable insights into various components of the Centre’s operations and ongoing training activities with a particular focus on the general strategy for sustainability of the Centre and the wider impact the Centre has been having on enhancing security and stability in the region of Central Asia. 

Interactive and engaging discussions underlined the importance of explosive hazard reduction and response subject matters as well as related training courses in Tajikistan and the wider Central Asian region.

Distinguished guests acknowledged and prized ongoing joint efforts and shared commitments of the ICExH and REHTC, together with the local, regional, and international partners in contributing to the wider regional security and stability.

562986 Munira Shoinbekova, OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe

On 15 February 2024, the OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe (POiD) had the immense privilege of hosting Ms. Rachel Schiller, the U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary for Programs and Operations in the Bureau of Political-Military Affairs and Mr. Rodney A. Robideau, the U.S. Conventional Weapons Destruction Program Manager from the U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Political-Military Affairs, Office of Weapons Removal and Abatement at the Regional Explosive Hazards Training Centre (REHTC) of the Ministry of Defence of the Republic of Tajikistan.

During their visit, the esteemed guests were warmly welcomed by the OSCE POiD Officer-in-Charge, Jukka Tuononen, and Integrated Co-operation on Explosive Hazards Programme Officer, Sonja Stanisavljevic who provided an overview of the ongoing training and upcoming project activities, which have been supported by the U.S. Government as of mid- 2013.

Major-General Sharaf Egamzod, Tajikistan’s Deputy Minister of Defence also extended a warm welcome to the delegation and highlighted the priorities of the Ministry of Defence within the framework of the training co-operation with the United States Army Central (USARCENT).

The REHTC’s Director, Colonel Sulaimon Qodirzoda, provided a comprehensive presentation of centre’s training activities.

The high-level visit coincided with the regional Explosive Ordnance Disposal Level 3 (EOD3) training, attended by participants from Kazakhstan, Serbia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. Within the framework of EOD3, the distinguished guests had the opportunity to observe and be engaged in two practical exercises, where participants showcased technical knowledge and skills obtained in hook and line techniques, as well as in the safe removal and detachment of detonators using sticky tape and ropes.

The REHTC officers also presented demining equipment, provided by the USARCENT, which is being used during the conduct of EOD training.

During the meeting, all project partners underlined the vital role of the OSCE in fostering regional co-operation and co-ordination on explosive hazards reduction in Central Asia. Such partnership has been instrumental in promoting peace, stability, and security across the region.

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

Election experts from the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) presented the final reports and recommendations of the observation missions to the 2023 early parliamentary elections as well as the presidential election in Montenegro during a visit to Podgorica from 6 to 9 February 2024.

“Last year’s elections were well-run and candidates could campaign freely, but they took place in a constitutional and institutional crisis, and we unfortunately witnessed politically motivated decision-making by the State Election Commission on a number of key decisions,” said Tamás Meszerics, Head of ODIHR’s Election Observation Mission to the presidential election.

Nina Suomalainen, Head of ODIHR’s Election Observation Mission to the early parliamentary elections, underlined that “while the efforts by Parliament to reach consensus and amend electoral legislation have been largely unsuccessful in recent years, we now look forward to seeing the current Parliament take decisive steps to improve the situation.”

The report’s findings and recommendations were presented to representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the State Election Commission, the Speaker of Parliament and the political parties represented there, the Constitutional Court, the Ministry of Interior, the Agency for Prevention of Corruption, the Montenegrin Agency for Electronic Media, the Radio and Television, civil society organizations and the international community.

ODIHR took the opportunity to reiterate that both election processes were competitive and well managed, but that some shortcomings were observed. Numerous gaps and ambiguities remain in the legal framework, undermining its effectiveness and requiring substantial review and revision. The ODIHR experts encouraged all election stakeholders to carry out comprehensive reforms following an inclusive, consultative and transparent process.

Priority recommendations in ODIHR’s observation reports included the need for electoral reforms to address the gaps and inconsistencies in election-related legislation, protecting the integrity of voter data, providing for effective oversight of media coverage of the campaign, increasing transparency in election dispute resolution, ensuring appropriate access for disabled voters to the electoral process, and making affirmative measures for women’s participation in political life more effective.

ODIHR expressed its readiness to support the authorities in providing legal and technical expertise to assist in implementing these recommendations. All OSCE participating States have committed to following up on ODIHR's election assessments and recommendations.

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On 19 February, the Office of the Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities (OCEEA) launched the Central Asian Women’s Entrepreneurship Programme titled “Strengthening the Digital Skills of Women Entrepreneurs”. The programme, initiated as part of the project on open data and digitalization, will serve as an online platform for exchange, learning, and dialogue for 21 women-led businesses from Central Asia. Through a series of workshops, women entrepreneurs will be empowered to scale their businesses through the effective use of digital technology.

The online programme will last seven weeks and will cover topics such as the use of online marketplaces, social media marketing, and digital tools for business management. It is tailored to the contexts of programme participants and is a mix of training, practical workshops, and one-on-one mentoring provided by highly skilled trainers and guest lecturers from Silicon Valley, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan.

The 21 women entrepreneurs, selected from over 90 applicants, represent a broad range of businesses. These include small bakeries, education centers, service providers, and local and handmade products shops, as well as eco-friendly and sustainable businesses, and businesses in the field of eco-agrotourism. Twice a week, the programme will invite participants from across Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan to join virtually. 

Women entrepreneurs will learn how to develop and scale up their respective businesses using the Business Canvas Model, how to create an online presence and a recognizable brand identity through the use of digital tools, and how to effectively use digital financial tools for business management.

“Women’s economic empowerment and human capital development in the digital era are key OSCE priorities,” said Vera Strobachova-Budway, Acting Head of the Economic Governance Unit/OCEEA. “Digitalization is rapidly transforming the way we do business and is having a profound impact on economic development. Women entrepreneurs must be equipped with the knowledge and skills to navigate, compete and succeed in this landscape, and this is exactly what this programme will do through a series of workshops, online training sessions, and one-on-one mentoring. By doing so, we aim to not only empower women entrepreneurs but also to catalyze economic growth, inclusion and innovation in the region.”

This activity is implemented together with InkubasiaLab, an NGO based in Bishkek specialized in developing innovative training programmes to enhance digital skills in Central Asia. It is being implemented in the framework of the cross-regional project Promoting good governance and a positive business climate in the OSCE region through digitalization and the use of open data, funded by the United States and Poland.

MUNICH/VALLETTA, 19 February 2024 — The Chair-in-Office of the OSCE, Minister of Foreign and European Affairs and Trade of Malta Ian Borg, participated in this year’s edition of the Munich Security Conference. The Munich Security Conference brings together global leaders, policymakers, and experts to discuss pressing international security challenges. 

In a series of productive meetings at the margins of the Conference, the Chair-in-Office met with various distinguished representatives of OSCE participating States including President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, President of Serbia Aleksandar Vučić, Prime Minister of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Armenia Ararat Mirzoyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan Jeyhun Bayramov, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Serbia Tanja Miščević, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Armenia Ararat Mirzoyan, Secretary for Relations with States and International Organization of the Holy See Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of Albania Igli Hasani, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Liechtenstein Dominique Hasler, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Georgia Ilia Darchiashvili, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Andorra Imma Tor Faus and Minister of Foreign Affairs and European Integration of the Republic of Moldova Mihai Popșoi.

The Chair-in-Office also met with Prime Minister Albin Kurti and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Diaspora Donika Gërvalla-Schwarz ahead of his visit to Pristina.

Throughout these discussions, Minister Borg shared the Maltese Chairpersonship's commitment to safeguard the principles set out in the Helsinki Final Act and the Charter of Paris with a vision for strengthening resilience and enhancing security across the OSCE region.

During the Conference, the Chair-in-Office also participated in a panel discussion at which he shared insights on the role of neutral countries within the international context. “From a neutral country's perspective, diplomacy is not merely a tool of foreign policy but a core principle that guides their interactions on the global stage. In Malta’s case, our steadfast commitment to dialogue and diplomacy underpinned our decision to step in as OSCE Chair-in-Office at the eleventh hour while also serving in the UN Security Council,” said Minister Borg.

As peace remains threatened in a world marked by evolving geopolitical dynamics, complex security threats, and global uncertainties, the OSCE Chair-in-Office's participation at the Munich Security Conference reaffirmed the Organization's commitment to upholding the principles of cooperative security.

Chair-in-Office, Minister Borg, emphasized that “the OSCE continues to provide a platform for dialogue, promoting stability and cooperation, and enhancing security in and between its participating States. The Maltese Chairpersonship of the OSCE encapsulates our commitment to strengthening the Organization’s resilience and capabilities to respond effectively and flexibly to the evolving security landscape.”

The Chair-in-Office’s participation at the Conference ensures that the OSCE’s unique approach to security is integrated into international security discussions, promoting a more inclusive and effective dialogue on peace and stability. With this comprehensive concept of security encompassing the politico-military, economic and environmental, and human dimensions, the OSCE remains a crucial forum for dialogue and consensus-building among its participating States.

WARSAW, 16 February 2024 – The reported death of Alexei Navalny while serving a lengthy prison sentence is a tragedy that follows years of unjust imprisonment and the denial of his rights, including to a fair trial, the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) said today.

“I am deeply saddened by the news of Alexei Navalny’s death,” said ODIHR Director Matteo Mecacci. “From the very beginning, Mr Navalny’s imprisonment was a fundamental violation of the right to voice dissent as well as the right to a fair trial.”

ODIHR calls on the Russian authorities to launch an immediate and credible investigation into the circumstances in which he died, and to allow Mr Navalny’s representatives full access to it. ODIHR condemns the imprisonment of any opposition politician merely for expressing their political views, and calls for their release from detention. Justice systems must remain independent of politics and never be instrumentalized to silence dissenting voices.

ODIHR calls on the Russian Federation to respect its obligation to ensure the health and welfare of all those in custody, and reminds the authorities that all OSCE states have committed to respect the rights of prisoners. They have also committed to guarantee the right to a fair trial and the independence of the judiciary. In particular, states have committed to guaranteeing a fair and public hearing by a competent, independent and impartial tribunal established by law.

562776 Over 40 representatives from state institutions and municipal authorities take part at the three-day Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Workshop, focused on the National Action Plan for the implementation of the Programme of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic on Countering Extremism and Terrorism for 2023-2027. Chyngyz Zhanybekov Aida Almazbekova

Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic – A three-day Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Workshop, focused on the National Action Plan for the implementation of the Programme of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic on Countering Extremism and Terrorism for 2023-2027 (the Programme), concluded on 15 February, 2024 in Bishkek.

The workshop, co-organized by the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek, the Anti-Terrorist Centre of the State Committee for National Security (ATC SCNS), and Hedayah, the International Centre of Excellence for Countering Extremism and Violent Extremism, gathered over 40 representatives from state institutions and municipal authorities tasked with executing the Programme and Action Plan for Countering Terrorism and Extremism.

During the workshop, the participants learned about M&E tools and methodologies in the execution of the Programme and practiced new approaches in the implementation of the Action Plan. Key elements included Hedayah's M&E Framework, covering methodology, resource allocation, goal setting, data collection, assessment, and indicator establishment. Participants engaged in exercises tailored to the National Action Plan, fostering deeper understanding and practical skills.

Reflecting on the importance of collaboration and objective assessment, Aibek Shamenov, Director of ATC SCNS, emphasized, "It is crucial to join efforts of state entities involved in the implementation of the Programme, as well as to have a diligent evaluation and monitoring system."

Ambassador Rogov, Head of the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek noted, “These strategic documents are aimed at creating a nationwide framework on countering violent extremism and terrorism. They provide special mechanisms to strengthen co-operation between government agencies and civil society.”

Emma Allen, Programme Manager - Research & Analysis at Hedayah, highlighted, "A key area of work for Hedayah has been supporting country’s efforts to develop, implement and monitor and evaluate their National Action Plans. We believe that supporting these Action Plans is key to building a world free of extremist threats."

The event contributes to national counter-extremism efforts, fostering collaboration and empowering stakeholders with effective strategies. By leveraging M&E best practices, the Kyrgyz Republic advances its long-term counterterrorism initiatives.

In March 2023, the Kyrgyz Republic's Cabinet of Ministers approved the Programme, outlining objectives and mechanisms to counter violent extremism and terrorism. The subsequent Action Plan, adopted in September 2023, delineated strategies for executing the Programme. The OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek supported the development of these strategic national documents.

562752 Therese Abrahamsen Edita Buçaj Fair Trial Issues for Detained Persons with Mental Health Needs

PRISHTINË / PRIŠTINA, 16 February 2024 - The OSCE Mission in Kosovo today published its latest focused report on the imposition of detention measures on defendants with mental health needs. 

The report provides an analysis of data collected from detention on remand hearings monitored by the OSCE from January to December 2022 and identifies trends in prosecution, defence and court practices.

The report notes that, in the majority of cases involving defendants with evidence of mental illnesses, no psychiatrist examination was conducted prior to ordering detention on remand, departing from Kosovo procedural law and international standards. This raised the concern of possible inhuman and degrading treatment under Article 3 of the ECHR.

The report also highlights the fact that a key medical facility in Kosovo for persons with mental illness, the Institute of Forensic Psychiatry, has a shortage of beds.  For all defendants, but especially those with mental illness, detention in a prison should be a measure of last resort. Appropriate alternatives should be considered.

“Imposing detention on defendants with mental health needs in environments deprived of any mental health care creates a risk of exacerbating their condition and thus raises serious concerns with regard to the fundament rights of these persons of particular vulnerability,” said Michael Davenport, Head of the OSCE Mission in Kosovo.

While acknowledging instances of good practice, the report underscores the need to account for a defendant’s mental health condition when deciding on the imposition of detention measures, as well as the need for providing tailored measures to address the defendant’s vulnerability.

The report concludes with recommendations for key institutions in the Kosovo judicial system, underlining the importance of specialized training for judges, prosecutors and attorneys dealing with cases involving defendants with mental illnesses.

The full report is available here: https://www.osce.org/mission-in-kosovo/562674

562734

Driven by the importance of enhancing the safety, resilience, and sustainability of supply chains between Asia and Europe, the Office of the Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities conducted a two-day field visit to the Port of Valencia for seaport experts from Azerbaijan (port of Baku), Georgia (port of Batumi), Kazakhstan (ports of Aktau and Kuryk), and Turkmenistan (port of Turkmenbashi). The visit took place from 14 to 15 February.

This initiative helped raise awareness and enhance the capacity of these ports to adopt environmentally sustainable and energy-efficient practices, thereby supporting them in their efforts to reduce the carbon footprint of their operations. It also focused on utilizing cutting-edge technologies, such as paperless port, 5G and artificial intelligence, to foster the ports’ competitiveness and their ability to facilitate trade in a sustainable and cost-efficient manner.

“Seeing first-hand the forefront of sustainability and digitalization practices at a leading port was truly an enriching experience. This field study visit has equipped me and my peers with insightful lessons to foster environmentally-friendly initiatives and embrace connectivity measures in our ports," said Andrew Danilov, Head of the Integrated Management System and Standardization Department from the Port of Batumi.

The field visit engaged participants in expert-led lectures, hands-on training sessions and on-site visits, facilitating a collaborative environment for the exchange of best practices, learning and networking among the beneficiary ports and the host port. It was organized within the framework of the OSCE project “Promoting Green Ports and Connectivity”, implemented with financial support from Germany.

562695 Munira Shoinbekova, OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe

In a meeting on 7 February 2024, Tajikistan’s Deputy Minister of Interior, Major General Nasimzoda Akbar Ghiyos met with the Officer-in-Charge of the OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe, Jukka Tuononen. As the Ministry’s main partner in promoting police reform throughout the country, the Deputy Minister thanked the Programme Office for its support of the project to expand the Mobile Police’s operational network. 

Discussions focussed on ways to improve the effectiveness of Mobile Police Reception activities and assessed the challenges involved. Major General Nasimzoda Akbar Ghiyos assured Jukka Tuononen, that the Ministry would do everything necessary to implement the project, which was developed in collaboration with the OSCE. 

The two sides recognized the positive effects that the mobile police network can have for the people of Tajikistan and agreed on mutual co-operation for its continuation. 

ERGNETI, 13 February 2024 – The 117th Incident Prevention and Response Mechanism (IPRM) took place in Ergneti today under the co-facilitation of the Acting Head of the EU Monitoring Mission in Georgia (EUMM), Tibor Kozma, and the Special Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office for the South Caucasus, Viorel Moşanu.

The EUMM and OSCE welcomed participants in the first IPRM meeting of the year and recalled their expectation for a continued commitment of the participants to the format, with regular meetings and active focus on preventing incidents. Ambassador Moşanu, now representing the 2024 OSCE Chairpersonship of Malta, also pointed to the good practice of accompanying technical meetings on water irrigation issues, in particular. He voiced his hope to sustain established efforts and initiatives.

Reflecting on security incidents and relevant developments since the last IPRM meeting, the co-facilitators highlighted the importance to focus on the safety of the conflict-affected communities – women, men, children and elderly – as a collective priority. Accordingly, they called on participants to withstand security and stability along the administrative boundary line (ABL), to ensure freedom of movement, and to fully re-open crossing points, including for regular cross-ABL traffic. Discussions also covered the security situation in Chorchana-Tsnelisi area, as well as the topic of UAVs.

Additionally, participants praised the EUMM-managed Hotline and thanked co-facilitators for the timely exchange of information in case of any crisis and incidents.

As previously, the co-facilitators encouraged participants to discontinue the practice of detentions and advocated for the release of remaining detainees.

The participants agreed to convene the next regular IPRM meeting on 20 March 2024.

562617 Munira Shoinbekova, OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe

Ten minibuses equipped to act as mobile police reception units were donated on 7 February 2024 to Tajikistan's Ministry of Interior by the OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe under the project on Mobile Police Stations, part of the OSCE’s police reform programme for the country.

The vehicles will be used to carry out community policing tasks and will create better working conditions for police officers to travel to rural areas and provide legal assistance to local citizens.

Jukka Tuononen, the Officer-in-Charge of the OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe and Colonel General Rahimzoda Ramazon, Tajikistan’s Interior Minister participated in the handover ceremony.

“The mobile police reception units will help police officers to move more quickly, to receive applications and addresses from the citizens and make the police more accessible to the public,” Tuononen said. “The OSCE will continue its co-operation and support of the Ministry in the area of community policing across the country for the benefit of the people of Tajikistan.”

Colonel General Rahimzoda Ramazon expressed his sincere gratitude to the OSCE for firming up the capacity of the Interior Ministry of Tajikistan. He emphasized the significance of the OSCE and the Ministry's collaborative initiative in implementing police reform.

By 2024, the Programme Office has already donated seventeen minibuses to the Ministry to expand the network of mobile police receptions throughout the country. The total amount of funds spent on the donated minibuses has so far amounted to 254,800 euros.

562596 Communication and Media Relations Section David Dadge

The OSCE Gender Issues Programme and the Global Network of Women Peacebuilders (GNWP) held the second “Women’s Networks WIN Together” regional conference on networks across women peacebuilders and mediators from Eastern Europe, South Caucasus and Central Asia on 5-7 February in Vienna.

Building on the momentum of the first conference held in Istanbul in June 2023, as part of the OSCE commitments under the WPS-HA Compact, over 30 women peacebuilders and mediators from Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Ukraine further discussed WPS national and regional priorities and common advocacy strategies to strengthen the women-led networks across all three regions.

The conference provided a space for inter-regional and inter-generational dialogue, cooperation and knowledge-sharing among the participants. Through training workshops, panel discussions, and bilateral meetings, the conference also served as a platform for sharing tailored messages and recommendations to OSCE participating States and the Secretariat.

“Regional networks are incredible tools to empower and protect peacebuilders and implement on the ground the Women, Peace and Security Agenda. To be impactful in our actions, we need to listen and support grassroots peacebuilders,” noted Lara Scarpitta, OSCE Senior Adviser on Gender Issues during her opening remarks. A dedicated event opened by US Ambassador to the OSCE Michael Carpenter and attended by several WIN project donors offered the opportunity to discuss challenges and opportunities faced by regional WPS networks with key recommendations shared including the need for long-term, sustainable and flexible financial support to women peacebuilders and mediators.

Women peacebuilders and mediators in the three regions face multiple barriers, from limited resources to dependency on project-based funding. Participants emphasized that protection mechanisms for women peacebuilders and mediators need to be developed, as they are often the subject of online and offline harassment and attacks.

Women peacebuilders also stressed the importance of defending the achievements of the past decades in light of recent pushback against women’s rights. “Our successes as women peacebuilders and mediators are fragile and sometimes failure seems to be more widely broadcasted than achievements,” highlighted Mavic Cabrera Balleza, Founder & Chief Executive Officer of the GNWP. “We need to reflect on and celebrate what we are contributing as individual, organizations and networks," she added.

The conference took place within the framework of the multi-year ExB project “WIN for Women and Men: Strengthening Comprehensive Security through Innovating and Networking for Gender Equality”. This project is aimed at advancing gender equality to achieve and maintain stable, prosperous, and peaceful societies in the OSCE area.