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OSCE supports the 2nd International Training Board on Explosive Hazards and Responses meeting in Istanbul

OSCE - Thu, 01/11/2024 - 08:05
561526 Munira Shoinbekova, OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe

Regional co-operation and standardization of responses to explosive hazards can assist in reducing threats to human lives and property.  The 2nd International Training Board meeting took place in Istanbul, Türkiye from 14-15 December 2023. Organized by the OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe in collaboration with the OSCE's Conflict Prevention Centre, the meeting aimed to highlight the progress achieved by the OSCE's extra-budgetary project regional "Integrated Cooperation on Explosive Hazards Programme" implemented by the Programme Office in Dushanbe.

The meeting centred around discussing the roles, responsibilities, and intentions of current and future participants in the International Training Board on explosive hazards and responses. Participants addressed tasks related to explosive hazard reduction and response, training curricula, professional development of operational and educational staff, standards, and monitoring and evaluation programs in Central Asia.

The crucial aspects of explosive hazard reduction and response systems at both the national and international levels in Central Asia were discussed. Participants explored ways to strengthen cross-border collaboration in systems and procedures.

Attention was also given to international and regional co-operation, emphasizing the need to fortify cross-border explosive hazard reduction and response systems. The participants acknowledged the instrumental role played by the OSCE in supporting countries in Central Asia, especially in response to risks stemming from instability in Afghanistan.

The meeting brought 25 participants, including representatives from the Ministries of Defence of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan, the Border Troops of Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, the US Embassy in Tajikistan, OSCE Offices in Vienna, Astana, and Dushanbe, as well as agencies such as Norwegian People`s Aid, UNDP and Tajikistan’s National Mine Action Centre.

The meeting concluded by recognizing the significance of partnerships and wider perspectives in achieving effective explosive hazard reduction and response. The Regional Explosive Hazards Training Centre was highlighted as a key player in training and professional development efforts, with plans for future advancements and in-kind contributions.

Moving forward, the shared commitment to enhancing national and international systems will foster safer environments and combat illicit trafficking of small arms and light weapons, ammunition, and explosives in Central Asia.

Categories: Central Europe

OSCE Mission to BiH reaction to hate- and bias-motivated incidents

OSCE - Wed, 01/10/2024 - 19:38
Željka Šulc

SARAJEVO, 10 January 2024 - The OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina (Mission) condemns all actions and speech driven by bias or hatred and notes with growing concern the recent surge of such incidents in certain locations in Republika Srpska in conjunction with Serbian Orthodox Christmas and the unconstitutional Day of Republika Srpska, as well as in the Federation of BiH.

Following an unfortunately regular pattern, the period around Serbian Orthodox Christmas and 9 January 2024 again witnessed threats and harassment targeting non-Serb communities in some parts of Republika Srpska, including vehicle convoys and public gatherings where participants carried firearms, chanted ethnic slurs and glorified war criminals. Incidents were also observed in the Federation, including damage to property belonging to Serbs. Such displays of intimidation and aggression incite fear and divide communities trying to move forward and rebuild trust. Per data collected through the Mission’s extensive monitoring programme, despite indicators and initial evidence of bias, responsible officials rarely investigate and prosecute these instances properly or take other meaningful measures. The repetition of such incidents indicates an environment of impunity wherein institutional responses to date have done little to diminish or prevent similar acts from recurring.

That said, following the recent events in Vlasenica and Srebrenica law enforcement agencies are acting commendably and swiftly, even in the face of mounting public pressure to disregard their legal obligations. The Mission further welcomes the condemnation of these incidents. The Mission urges the relevant prosecutor’s offices to conduct thorough investigations into potential criminal charges and motives, respecting both domestic criminal legislation and binding European Court of Human Rights case law. All other legally mandated authorities should respond to these and any similar incidents promptly and appropriately, including by providing support and protection to victims and their communities.

Most importantly, it should be recognized that these episodes do not exist in a vacuum and must be examined within the wider context of hate-filled and divisive rhetoric espoused by some elected leaders, public figures and media organizations. The institutional and individual promotion of exclusion, discrimination and marginalization of citizens that do not belong to a dominant nationality, religious or political group serves as a clear endorsement of conflict and hatred. This includes continued official support for and celebration of the unconstitutional Day of Republika Srpska, further undermining fundamental human rights and the rule of law, including the authority of the judiciary. The Mission reiterates its condemnation of any contraventions of the principles of inclusivity, pluralism and democracy, the very principles serving as the foundation of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Relevant institutions and those serving in positions of power and influence, including elected officials, must work for everyone in their areas of responsibility, irrespective of background or religious beliefs. As all persons are equal in the eyes of the law, officials are obligated not only to refrain from but actively and decisively denounce any bias-motivated incidents and crimes and hate speech. Indeed, they must work to strengthen social cohesion rather than weaken it and ensure zero legal, social or cultural tolerance for those aiming to attack or marginalize certain groups or individuals in society. In short, leaders and institutions must ensure the safety, security and well-being of everyone living in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Categories: Central Europe

Decision not to invite OSCE observers to parliamentary elections contrary to Belarus' international commitments

OSCE - Mon, 01/08/2024 - 18:32

WARSAW/COPENHAGEN, 8 January 2024 – It is deeply regrettable that the Belarusian authorities have decided not to invite observers for the country’s forthcoming parliamentary elections from OSCE states through the OSCE’s Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) and Parliamentary Assembly (OSCE PA), leaders of both institutions said today, adding that the decision contradicts the principle of transparency, which is essential for holding genuinely democratic elections.

"We are profoundly concerned that the decision not to invite OSCE states through ODIHR to observe Belarus’ parliamentary elections will prevent the country’s citizens and institutions from benefiting from an impartial, transparent, and comprehensive assessment,” said ODIHR Director Matteo Mecacci. “This is contrary to the commitments made by Belarus, and goes against both the letter and the spirit of collaboration on which the OSCE is based.”

“The Belarusian government's decision to shirk its obligation to invite OSCE observers is concerning, and goes against the best interest of the Belarusian people,” said OSCE PA President Pia Kauma. “I deeply regret that the Assembly is being denied the opportunity to contribute to democratic development through our observation processes, which we have done in Belarus since 1995, and urge for greater openness of the Belarusian authorities.”

Elections are a central element of the democratic process, and ODIHR observes elections throughout the OSCE region using a comprehensive methodology that has been developed over many years and is used in the same way in every country. ODIHR already began engaging in consultations with Belarus in October 2023 to reach an agreement on the deployment of a pre-election needs assessment mission, an initial and crucial step in determining whether to deploy an election observation and in what format. Following the 2020 presidential election, the parliamentary elections on 25 February 2024 will be the second time that ODIHR is unable to observe elections in Belarus due to the lack of a timely invitation from the national authorities.

All OSCE states have repeatedly recognized the value of ODIHR’s observation and the effectiveness of its comprehensive and objective methodology. They have also committed to inviting observers from other OSCE participating States and the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly to observe, as well as following up swiftly on ODIHR’s election assessment and recommendations. Parliamentary observers from the OSCE PA put their political expertise and personal experience in electoral processes at the disposal of the OSCE through election observation work conducted across the OSCE region.

While ODIHR will not be able to observe the forthcoming parliamentary elections, the Office continues to watch the unfolding events in Belarus from all the areas covered by its mandate.

Categories: Central Europe

OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina statement ahead of 9 January

OSCE - Thu, 01/04/2024 - 11:59
Željka Šulc

SARAJEVO, 4 January 2024 – The OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina (Mission) emphasizes that the official sponsorship and support by the government of Republika Srpska of the celebration of the so-called “Day of Republika Srpska” on 9 January not only constitutes an act of discrimination. The 26 November 2015 ruling of the Constitutional Court of Bosnia and Herzegovina determine this is clearly unconstitutional, as it directly contravenes the constitutions of both Bosnia and Herzegovina and of Republika Srpska itself.

According to the Constitutional Court’s ruling, the designation of 9 January as the “Day of Republika Srpska” violates the Constitution of Bosnia and Herzegovina by privileging one ethnic group while discriminating against others. It should be recalled that the Constitutional Court also determined that such a practice violates the equality and non-discrimination protections provided by the Constitution of Republika Srpska.

In the same ruling, the Constitutional Court further found that the official and institutional marking of 9 January as the Serbian Orthodox Patron Saint’s Day of Republika Srpska prioritizes the cultural heritage, traditions and customs of one ethnic  group while neglecting others and is thus discriminatory.

The Mission calls upon the government of Republika Srpska to fully uphold the rule of law, which must include respect for the decisions of the Constitutional Court of Bosnia and Herzegovina as final and binding. Any failure to comply with and implement the decisions of the Constitutional Court constitutes a criminal offence. 

The Mission remains committed to supporting all authorities throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina in fulfilling their legal obligations to ensure equality, non-discrimination and the rule of law. Doing so, thereby fostering an atmosphere of mutual respect and appreciation, would create a brighter future for all people of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Categories: Central Europe

OSCE Statement on war against Ukraine deplores civilian deaths, calls for end to misery and suffering

OSCE - Tue, 01/02/2024 - 21:57

VALLETTA/VIENNA, 2 January 2024 - The Chairperson-in-Office of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), Minister for Foreign and European Affairs and Trade of Malta Ian Borg and OSCE Secretary General Helga Maria Schmid made the following statement on the continuing and intensifying aerial attacks by Russia in its war against Ukraine:

“The new year has depressingly begun in the same way that the last one ended. Death and destruction have stolen the lives of women, men, boys and girls and destroyed essential infrastructure.

Every day, it is civilians who consistently pay the price in this terrible conflict. They should never be the victims of deadly drone and missile attacks.

Together, we deplore in the strongest possible terms these ongoing attacks and urgently call for an immediate end to the unrelenting violence that does nothing but propagate a vicious cycle of misery and suffering. We call for this war to end now.” 

Categories: Central Europe

Malta takes over OSCE Chair

OSCE - Sun, 12/31/2023 - 23:42

VALLETTA/VIENNA, 1 January 2024 - Today, Malta takes over as the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office with a focus on strengthening the Organization’s resilience and effectiveness.

"While it is a great honour to assume the Chairpersonship of the OSCE in 2024, it is also with a deep sense of responsibility and duty that Malta has taken on this role," said Ian Borg, Malta’s Foreign Minister and the new OSCE Chairperson-in-Office.

“Amidst the ongoing complex and critical challenges to security, the OSCE's relevance and survival remain crucial” Minister Borg noted. "The decision to appoint the Chair for this year, though made at the eleventh hour, demonstrated a collective ambition to save our Organisation," he added.    

“The OSCE continues to have a crucial role to play as a unique security organization and a platform for dialogue. Malta, as Chairperson-in-Office, will continue to work on safeguarding and upholding the fundamental principles and commitments enshrined in the Helsinki Final Act and the Charter of Paris,” Minister Borg affirmed.

"The absence of full respect for our shared values and commitments undermines trust, the possibility of meaningful dialogue, and the prospects of peace and security in our region."

The Chairperson-in-Office emphasized that Malta will build upon the work of past Chairpersonships by supporting resolutions to ongoing conflicts in the OSCE area, placing human rights and the security of people at the centre of its endeavours while also providing support for the OSCE presence on the ground.

“Throughout the Chairpersonship, Ukraine will remain a priority. Malta will continue to emphasize the need to end Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine while seeking solutions to assist Ukraine and its people,” Minister Borg stressed emphasized.

“Malta believes in the importance of preserving the OSCE as an inclusive organization of diverse participating States, unique in gathering Euro-Atlantic and Euro-Asian communities, as well as fostering relations with Mediterranean and Asian Partners for Co-operation.”

At the core of its overarching priorities, the Maltese Chairpersonship will seek to strengthen the resilience of people across all three dimensions of comprehensive security. As Chair, Malta will strive to incorporate an inclusive approach by giving a voice to gender and youth perspectives, as well as increasing the engagement of women and youth in building peace and security.

As Chairperson-in-Office of the OSCE and as an elected member of the United Nations Security Council until the end of 2024, Malta will be at the forefront of multilateral efforts to strengthen cooperation with a view to building back confidence and trust.

Malta looks forward to working closely with the OSCE Secretary General, as well as with the heads of the autonomous institutions: the Director of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights, the OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities, and the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media.

Minister Borg will officially inaugurate Malta’s Chairpersonship at the OSCE Permanent Council meeting in Vienna on 25 January 2024.

Categories: Central Europe

OSCE Chairman-in-Office and Secretary General condemn air strikes across Ukraine

OSCE - Fri, 12/29/2023 - 15:15

SKOPJE/VIENNA, 29 December 2023 – The OSCE Chairman-in-Office, Minister of Foreign Affairs of North Macedonia Bujar Osmani, and OSCE Secretary General Helga Maria Schmid made the following statement after air strikes hit cities across Ukraine and left at least 18 people dead and over 130 wounded:

“Once again, people are bearing the brunt in the war against Ukraine. In the middle of the holiday period, civilians across the country had to shelter while their cities came under attack. Dozens of families are left mourning in the rubble.

We renew our urgent call to stop this senseless violence and the tragic suffering it continues to inflict on the Ukrainian people.”

Categories: Central Europe

ODIHR opens election observation mission in Azerbaijan

OSCE - Thu, 12/28/2023 - 10:30

BAKU, 29 December 2023 – The OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) today opened an election observation mission for the 7 February early presidential election in Azerbaijan, following an official invitation from the national authorities.

The mission is headed by Eoghan Murphy and consists of a core team of 11 international experts based in Baku and 26 long-term observers, who will be deployed throughout the country from 5 January. ODIHR also plans to request 280 short-term observers, to arrive several days before election day.

The mission will assess the conduct of the election for its compliance with OSCE commitments and other international obligations and standards for democratic elections, as well as with national legislation.

Observers will closely monitor all key aspects of the election. This includes the conduct of the campaign, also on social networks, the work of the election administration at all levels, election- related legislation and its implementation, respect for fundamental freedoms, media coverage and the resolution of election disputes. They will also assess the implementation of previous ODIHR election recommendations.

Meetings with representatives of state authorities and political parties, civil society, the media and the international community form an integral part of the observation.

An interim report will be published during the course of the observation to update the public and the media. The day after the election, a statement of preliminary findings and conclusions will be presented at a press conference. A final report with an assessment of the entire election process and containing recommendations will be published some months after the election.

For further information on ODIHR’s election observation activities in the country, please visit: https://www.osce.org/odihr/elections/azerbaijan

Media contacts:

Egor Tilpunov, Media Analyst: egor.tilpunov@odihr.az or +994 55 220 16 20

Katya Andrusz, ODIHR Spokesperson: +48 609 522 266 (Warsaw mobile), or katya.andrusz@odihr.pl

Categories: Central Europe

ODIHR observers to Azerbaijan’s early presidential election to hold press conference on Friday

OSCE - Wed, 12/27/2023 - 10:25

BAKU, 27 December 2023 – Observers from the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) will hold a press conference on the opening of the observation mission to the forthcoming early presidential election in Azerbaijan on Friday, 29 December.

What: 

  • An introduction to the role of the ODIHR election observation mission and its planned activities

Who: 

  • Eoghan Murphy, Head of the ODIHR observation mission

When: 

  • 12:00 local time (GMT +4) on 29 December 2023

Where:

  • Baku Conference Room, Hotel Holiday Inn, 5 Keykab Khanim Safaraliyeva St, Baku

Registration:

  • No registration is necessary, but only questions from journalists will be taken.

For further information on ODIHR’s election observation activities in Azerbaijan, please visit: Elections in Azerbaijan | OSCE

Media Contact:          

Egor Tilpunov, Media Analyst: egor.tilpunov@odihr.az or +994 55 220 16 20

Categories: Central Europe

Uzbekistan 2023 constitutional referendum and early presidential election: ODIHR observation missions final reports

OSCE - Fri, 12/22/2023 - 15:39
561293 Public Affairs Unit, OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights Katya Andrusz

Following the 2023 constitutional referendum and early presidential election in Uzbekistan, the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) has published final reports with recommendations to assist the country in bringing its electoral process closer in line with international standards for democratic elections.

The 9 July early presidential election was technically well prepared but took place in a political environment lacking genuine competition, ODIHR’s report states. Ongoing reforms provided some improvements in line with previous ODIHR recommendations, but more extensive changes are needed to provide a good legal basis to hold democratic elections. The low-key campaign lacked meaningful engagement with voters, and candidates did not voice alternative political views. Election day itself was calm, but serious irregularities were observed, and important safeguards were often not followed during voting, counting and tabulation.

The 30 April constitutional referendum was technically well prepared, but the process lacked genuine political pluralism, says ODIHR’s report. The Central Election Commission carried out its tasks efficiently, but the lower-level commissions lacked neutrality and independence. The authorities organized an extensive voter information campaign on referendum day procedures and promoted some recent amendments, but the media did not provide impartial and balanced information, undermining voters’ ability to make an informed choice. In the polling stations visited, the voting process was calm, but serious violations were observed during voting and counting.

Key recommendations from both reports include:

  • Reviewing the legal framework on the fundamental freedoms of association, peaceful assembly and expression;
  • Revising legislative and administrative requirements for the registration of political parties;
  • Replacing criminal sanction for defamation with civil remedies in line with international standards;
  • Limiting additions to the voter list on election day and ensuring effective safeguards against multiple voting;
  • Revising nomination and appointment of election administration staff to ensure their independence;
  • Ensuring that any restrictions to social networks and websites are transparent, clearly defined by law, subject to judicial oversight and conform to the strict tests of necessity and proportionality;
  • Amending legislation to allow for citizen election observation by independent non-governmental civil society organizations;
  • Taking measures to ensure that all votes are counted and reported accurately and honestly.

ODIHR deployed a Limited Referendum Observation Mission on 28 March 2023 to observe the constitutional referendum, and an Election Observation Mission on 8 June 2023 to follow the early presidential election. All 57 participating States across the OSCE region have formally committed to following up promptly on ODIHR’s election assessments and recommendations.

Categories: Central Europe

Transforming the Criminal Justice Chain to Address Violence Against Women and Girls

OSCE - Fri, 12/22/2023 - 10:30
561191 Mirvete Islam, OSCE Mission to Skopje

Addressing violence against women and girls requires an effective response across the entire criminal justice chain. This starts with the first encounter with the police, ensuring gender-sensitive policing and victim-centred investigations, and culminates in a fair judgment delivered by a court of law operating within a robust legal framework.

During the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), the OSCE Mission to Skopje organized a roundtable with representatives from state institutions and civil society to discuss how to counter GBV in North Macedonia. The forum provided a platform for participants to address key issues, advocate for changes, and present actionable recommendations to make zero tolerance for violence a reality.

Prof. Elizabeta Gjorgievska, First Lady, emphasized the troubling escalation in feminicide cases and the need for a whole-of-society approach, including comprehensive education, public awareness, and behavioural changes.

Ms. Jovana Trenchevska, Minister of Labour and Social Policy, highlighted the complexity of GBV, emphasizing the necessity of education, combating stereotypes, and encouraging reporting.

Collaboration and coordination among institutions and civil society, particularly local women’s rights organizations, is crucial to enhancing efforts to counter GBV.

“The Mission is working alongside institutions to improve access to justice for victims and survivors of gender-based violence. And civil society remains our crucial partner in this fight,” said the Head of the OSCE Mission to Skopje, Ambassador Kilian Wahl.

There are currently eleven women shelters for victims/survivors in the country. Recognizing the importance of the international community's involvement at grassroots levels, Ami Larsson Jain, Ambassador of Sweden, emphasized the need to work together with NGOs to increase the focus on prevention efforts, the importance of consent, as well as challenging harmful norms at an early age.

A robust legal framework serves as the cornerstone in strengthening the fight against GBV. The Mission played a crucial role in the ratification of the Istanbul Convention and amendments to the Criminal Code, criminalizing various forms of GBV. The current focus of the Mission is on ensuring the rigorous and consistent implementation of these new provisions, further reforms to criminalize all forms of GBV and adoption of the new Law on Gender Equality.

Continuous training for police officers is essential, especially in identifying various forms of GBV recently criminalized by the amended Criminal Code.

Since 2018, the Mission has worked closely with the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MoIA) of North Macedonia to introduce gender-sensitive policing through a mentoring program. The Gender Mentoring Program fosters inclusivity and responsiveness when dealing with crime, especially related to GBV.

Ms. Biljana Jeremic, the Head of the Domestic Violence Unit at the MoI / SIA Skopje, stressed the need to improve risk assessment and provide adequate protection measures for victims. In tandem with the mentoring program, the Mission provides Advanced Interviewing Skills Training to police officers to enhance their ability to conduct better risk assessments and risk management in cases of GBV.

Shifts in the criminal justice chain are necessary to catalyse behavioural changes. “Equality between women and men decreases the prevalence of violence against women. It is critical that we continue supporting the creation of a more just and equal society,” emphasized Head of Mission, Ambassador Kilian Wahl.

Moving forward, the Mission will continue to focus on supporting actionable recommendations, sustainable solutions, and ongoing cooperation across societal sectors while fostering a culture of zero tolerance for violence.

Categories: Central Europe

Kyrgyz Republic studies the experience of Hungary in the field of personal data protection with the support of the OSCE

OSCE - Fri, 12/22/2023 - 09:35
561170 Chyngyz Zhanybekov Aida Almazbekova

BUDAPEST, 6-7 December 2023 - The State Personal Data Protection Agency under the Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic and the Agency's Training Center staff participated in a study visit to Hungary. Supported by the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek, this visit aimed to share best practices and experiences in the field of personal data protection in cyberspace and response to cyber incidents.

During the visit, the delegation from the Kyrgyz Republic studied the methods and technologies applied by Hungary for effective information protection in the digital environment. The exchange of experience and knowledge contributes to the improvement of the personal data protection system in the country.

In addition, co-operation between the Agency and the Hungarian National Authority for Data Protection and Freedom of Information stimulates the cybersecurity development, while strenghthening bilateral relations between Hungary and the Kyrgyz Republic.

This initiative was carried out in accordance with the Memorandum of Understanding signed between the Agency and the Hungarian National Authority for Data Protection and Freedom of Information on 13 February 2023.

Within its mandate, the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek is committed to enhancing the security of cyberspace and promoting digitalization in the Kyrgyz Republic.

Categories: Central Europe

Criminal intelligence analysis: OSCE delivers training programme for Albanian State Police

OSCE - Thu, 12/21/2023 - 16:37
561155 Communication and Media Relations Section David Dadge

From 11 to 22 December 2023, the OSCE Secretariat’s Transnational Threats Department and the OSCE Presence in Albania delivered in Tirana, Albania a training programme for 40 junior analysts from the Albanian State Police Intelligence and Criminal Archives Directorate.

The analysts learned about the OSCE model of intelligence-led policing and basics of criminal intelligence analysis, focusing on the practical application of a wide range of analytical tools.

"The Albanian State Police considers intelligence-led policing key to success in the fight against crime and intelligence analysis as one of the most important elements in its police operations. This is why, within the framework of the criminal police reform, we focus on the capacity-building of the police personnel,” said Neritan Nallbati, Director of the Criminal Police Department.

The training programme not only laid a solid foundation for improved intelligence-led policing capabilities within the Albanian State Police, but also paved the way for future initiatives. To ensure sustainable capacity-building and consolidate the participants’ knowledge, the OSCE will organize two more advanced courses for the same group in early 2024. They will focus on strategic risk assessment and advanced criminal intelligence analysis, and provide participants with specialized skills essential to their roles.

This multi-stage capacity-building initiative aligns with the recent restructuring of the Albanian State Police Intelligence and Criminal Archives Directorate. The restructuring resulted in the creation of the information analysis sector, consisting of junior analysts operating at central and local levels who required specialized training.

The training programme was part of the OSCE extrabudgetary project "Building intelligence-led policing capacities at regional and national levels in the OSCE area", funded by Germany.

Categories: Central Europe

OSCE provides technical equipment to the General Police Inspectorate of Moldova

OSCE - Thu, 12/21/2023 - 16:10
561149 Communication and Media Relations Section David Dadge

On 18 December 2023, the OSCE Transnational Threats Department (TNTD) participated in an event to mark the 33rd anniversary of the Moldovan Police at the invitation of the General Police Inspectorate of the Ministry of Internal Affairs. During the event, the police underscored the need for an integrated approach to tackle the hybrid threats Moldova is facing.

On 19 December 2023, TNTD officials handed over technical equipment to strengthen the Moldovan General Police Inspectorate’s data and crime analysis capabilities.

“This project has empowered the Inspectorate with the necessary computer equipment and software to support our ability to develop analysis and act. As we combat transnational organized crime, this technology is critical to our operational capacities, said Viorel Cernăuteanu, Head of the Moldovan General Police Inspectorate upon receiving the equipment.

The OSCE will continue supporting Moldovan law enforcement in enhancing their abilities to investigate criminal activities related to transnational organized crime, including the trafficking of small arms and light weapons and stockpiles of conventional ammunition, thus contributing to security and stability in the country and the wider region.

The technical equipment was provided as part of the extra-budgetary project “Support to the Law Enforcement Agencies in Moldova in Response to the Security Challenges in the Region”, which is funded by Germany, the United States and Poland. This project is jointly implemented by the OSCE Transnational Threats Department and the Forum for Security Co-operation Support Unit.

Categories: Central Europe

BiH needs an inclusive, comprehensive, and transparent review of its electoral legislation

OSCE - Thu, 12/21/2023 - 14:49
Željka Šulc

Sarajevo, 21 December 2023 - The OSCE Mission to BiH deeply regrets the lack of progress in delivering crucial amendments to the BiH Election Law so far, despite years of negotiations and numerous rounds of discussions and calls the elected leaders of BiH to finally deliver on their democratic obligations.

As we approach the 2024 elections and beyond, Bosnia and Herzegovina needs an inclusive, comprehensive, and transparent review of its electoral legislation, primarily to improve election integrity, prevent electoral fraud and thus safeguard the democratic rights of its citizens. 

The necessary amendments have been clearly and repeatedly enumerated and recommended, including by the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR), in its 2022 Election Observation Mission Final Report, by the Council of Europe’s Group of States against Corruption (GRECO) and the European Commission for Democracy through Law (Venice Commission).

While technical fixes are important, they are not enough if the system remains broken in many other ways. 

Due to systemic gaps in legislation, sub-legislation and existing practices that ODIHR has identified in their Reports, a number of irregularities do occur - before, during and after Election. These gaps might well call into question the overall validity of the elections and influence the outcome where the difference of votes is small.

Based on the recommendations from ODIHR’s country reports following the last election cycles, the following deficiencies must be addressed as a matter of uttermost urgency:

  1. A comprehensive review of the legal framework should be undertaken to address all outstanding ODIHR recommendations, eliminate existing gaps and inconsistencies. In line with international good practice, the comprehensive review process should be open, inclusive and consultative and take place well before the next elections.
  2. In order to ensure timely formation, impartiality and professionalism of Polling Station Commissions and increase stakeholders’ trust, the authorities should review the system of appointment of these commissions. This could be achieved by limiting eligibility to nominate their members only to the parties represented in the state parliament, or those drawn from a permanent roster of trained people maintained by the Central Election Commission.
  3. The consistent application of procedural safeguards and all other measures aimed at preventing electoral corruption, fraud and irregularities, should be considered including creating legal pre-conditions for piloting and full application of new technologies in elections.  
  4. Authorities should provide adequate and effective allocation of funds to ensure the functionality of the Central Election Commission as an institution, including in non-election years, and to cover all the costs associated with the organization of the elections. The Central Election Commission should be provided with the necessary resources to hire sufficient and qualified staff, including in its audit, legal and IT departments, and to develop its IT infrastructure. In this sense, we were disappointed to see that the Council of Ministers has so far failed to approve the 2024 BiH institutions budget, which includes the necessary financing for the 2024 local elections. We want to see this remedied as soon as possible. Therefore, we hope that the Council of Ministers will reconvene at their earliest convenience in order to adopt the necessary allocation of sufficient financial resources, allowing for timely elections.
  5. Authorities should ensure that members of the election administration are not recalled for arbitrary reasons and that they are able to conduct their duties without fear of retribution or intimidation, including based on gender, and should promptly investigate and respond to such cases.
  6. To ensure the equality of the vote, the boundaries of multi-member constituencies and their relevant number of mandates should be reviewed periodically and well in advance of the next elections, in line with the national legislation, international standards and good practice.
  7. To increase the transparency of campaign finance and accountability for financial violations, the regulatory framework should prescribe proportionate and dissuasive sanctions for violations.

Once appropriately amended, the Election Law must then be implemented properly and equitably.

I urge, once again, the responsible authorities to ensure the integrity and transparency of the 2024 Local Elections, and take concrete steps to minimize electoral fraud.    

It is responsibility of the politicians to restore the trust in the integrity of elections in BiH and thus ultimately in democracy.

Citizens of BiH deserve this.

Categories: Central Europe

OSCE Presence in Albania presents preliminary findings of public survey, training need assessment on environmental governance

OSCE - Wed, 12/20/2023 - 16:07
561074 Baseline assessment on the inspection, investigation and punishment of environmental contraventions and crimes in Albania

Effective and functional environmental governance relies on enhanced institutional technical expertise and proactive public engagement. Recognizing the intricating aspects of environmental challenges, the OSCE Presence is working with environmental compliance and enforcement agencies to enhance their technical resources to address environmental violations and increase the role and participation of citizens in environmental governance.

Against this backdrop, as part of its ongoing efforts, the OSCE Presence has taken the lead in undertaking two significant documents, such as a public survey on environmental governance and a training need assessment across the institutional chain dealing with environmental violations. 

On 19 December 2023, the Presence unveiled and discussed the preliminary findings of both reports with 30 participants such as prosecutors, environmental inspectors, police officials, civil servant officials, and civil society organizations. The technical discussion further elaborated and deepened the findings, which will guide and support the Presence’s work in designing advanced and targeted training programs for institutions and public environmental awareness-raising campaigns.

Opening the event, Head of the OSCE Presence’s Department on Governance in Economic and Environmental Issues Aleksandar Maskovic said: “The insights discussed here will help to discuss future training programs and also contribute to the development of a robust and co-ordinated strategy among all stakeholders.”

Anila Leka, a prosecutor from the General Prosecution Office, underlined the importance of building capacities of prosecutors on environmental violations which fall in line with the efforts to revise the whole criminal code of Albania.

The survey on environmental governance indicated that 86% of respondents have shown high interest to contribute for the environmental governance in Albania. The survey tackled other relevant issues such as the nexus of environmental violations with corruption and gender. The obtained results will support the Presence and other relevant stakeholders to design and initiate targeted environmental campaigns.

The training need assessment underlined the importance of systematic training programs for civil servant of institutions dealing with environmental violations. It shed light on the current state of affairs, identified gaps in knowledge and skills, and ultimately pave the way for strategic interventions that will empower relevant stakeholders in their efforts to combat environmental crimes effectively.

The public survey and training need assessment are developed under the extra-budgetary project to enhance environmental governance and security in Albania implemented by the OSCE Presence in Albania and supported by the governments of Norway, France and Italy.

Categories: Central Europe

OSCE launches Project PROTECT in Uzbekistan at national awareness-raising workshop on critical infrastructure protection from terrorist attacks

OSCE - Wed, 12/20/2023 - 13:40
561047 Communication and Media Relations Section David Dadge PROTECT: Project on the Protection of Vulnerable Targets from Terrorist Attacks

From 13 to 15 December 2023, national experts from eight offices and government ministries in Uzbekistan joined an interactive workshop on the protection of critical infrastructure from terrorist attacks. The event served as the first activity in the OSCE’s newly-launched initiative called Project PROTECT. It was organized by the OSCE Secretariat’s Transnational Threats Department (TNTD), with support from the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan.

“Project PROTECT on the Protection of Vulnerable Targets from Terrorist Attacks” seeks to strengthen national approaches across the OSCE area to protecting vulnerable targets from terrorist threats and other hazards. As part of Project PROTECT’s capacity-building efforts, this workshop was designed to raise awareness on, and build a common understanding of, the need to protect critical infrastructure from terrorist attacks in a human rights-compliant manner, gather good practices from Uzbekistan, and identify priorities for future project activities in the country.

“Uzbekistan considers co-operation with the OSCE part of an important international partnership, contributing to the mutual benefit of both Uzbekistan and Europe and promoting meaningful collaboration,” said Erkin Salikhov, Chairman of the Committee on Issues of Defense and Security of the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis of Uzbekistan, during his opening remarks. “Collaboration between Uzbekistan and the OSCE contributes to security, stability, and economic development in the region, as well as promoting democratic reforms and protecting human rights,” he added.

“Project PROTECT looks forward to bringing communities together at the national level – similar to today’s event – and across the region,” said Daniel Golston, Project PROTECT Lead at TNTD. “This will help us learn from one another, support the development of critical infrastructure protection frameworks that are appropriately tailored to the national context, and address evolving terrorist threats - all while being equally respectful of human rights and fundamental freedoms,” he added.  

During the workshop, participants explored core concepts for effective critical infrastructure protection from terrorist attacks, including physical security practices, insider threat mitigation, risk management frameworks, business continuity management, and infrastructure interdependencies. They also discussed the importance of partnerships within and outside government, including with civil society and the business community. Among those joining the event were representatives from the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism.

This workshop was organized with financial support from Germany. Moving forward, the OSCE will support the design of nationally tailored actions under Project PROTECT in Uzbekistan.

Categories: Central Europe

Role of women in organized crime in focus at OSCE workshop for law enforcement in Central Asia

OSCE - Tue, 12/19/2023 - 16:15
560924 Communication and Media Relations Section David Dadge Understanding the Role of Women in Organized Crime

On 18 and 19 December, the OSCE Transnational Threats Department, in co-operation with the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan, organized a regional workshop to present and discuss the findings of the OSCE assessment report on ‘Understanding the role of women in organized crime’ in the context of Central Asia. The workshop was held in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.

The event brought together 30 representatives from the Ministries of Internal Affairs of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. The objective was to enhance their understanding of how women are recruited into organized crime, the roles they play within these criminal networks, as well as how and why they leave lives in organized crime across Central Asia. The workshop further showcased best practices from across the OSCE area on gender-sensitive organized crime prevention initiatives.

The workshop explored the OSCE assessment report findings on the role of women in organized crime. It also facilitated a regional dialogue on emerging trends and challenges in light of security developments in Afghanistan and its effect on organized crime and its actors, including women, across the Central Asian region.

Sergei Sizov, Acting Head of the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan underscored the importance of understanding the role of women in organized crime during the workshop. “Only by better understanding the role of women in organized crime and by recognizing their agency, can we 1) fully understand the organized crime landscape and its actors, 2) effectively prevent and combat the phenomenon and 3) provide women with access to organized crime prevention and exit initiatives,” he said.  

The workshop helped to improve information sharing and the exchange of good practices on organized crime prevention and exit among practitioners and policy makers in the region, while also serving as a platform for discussion and identifying training needs.
Categories: Central Europe

Voters had political alternatives in Serbia’s elections but they were marred by overwhelming ruling party advantage, international observers say

OSCE - Mon, 12/18/2023 - 15:06

BELGRADE, 18 December 2023 – Although Serbia’s early parliamentary elections offered voters a choice between political alternatives and freedoms of expression and assembly were generally respected, pressure on voters as well as the decisive involvement of the President and the ruling party’s systemic advantages undermined the election process overall, international observers said in a statement today.

The joint observation mission from the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR), the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly (OSCE PA), the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE), and the European Parliament (EP) found that the legal framework is adequate to carry out democratic elections. However, there are still numerous issues to address, and in these elections, observers noted the misuse of public resources, the lack of separation between the official functions and campaign activities, and intimidation and pressure on voters, including cases of vote buying.

“While the elections were technically well-organized, they unfolded in the midst of a socially and politically divided landscape,” said Reinhold Lopatka, Special Co-ordinator and leader of the short-term OSCE observer mission. “The decisive involvement of the President dominated the electoral process, and the use of his name by one of the candidate lists, together with bias in the media, contributed to an uneven playing field.”

Yesterday’s elections took place against the background of high polarization and intense competition between opposing political agendas. In the run-up to the election, a number of concerns were voiced about the intimidation and harassment of civil activists, human rights defenders, and journalists.

“Serbian voters have once again been called to the polls, regretfully reinforcing the ‘culture of early elections’, the unlevel playing field these create, and the political instrumentalization of electoral cycles,” said Stefan Schennach, Head of the PACE delegation. “This further undermines public trust in democratic institutions and electoral processes. Terminating parliamentary mandates ahead of time also prevents parliaments from working properly, preparing thorough and inclusive legislation and holding the executive to account, which is key in a parliamentary democracy.”

Some 6.5 million voters were registered to take part in yesterday’s early elections. The election administration prepared for voting day efficiently and transparently, considering the challenges posed by the short timeline and the local and regional elections taking place the same day. However, the frequent number of early elections in recent years have undermined trust in the country’s democratic institutions. Election day was smooth overall, but there were a number of procedural deficiencies, including frequent cases of overcrowding, violations of the secrecy of the vote, and numerous instances of group voting.

OSCE PA Head of Delegation, Farah Karimi, noted: “Serbia has conducted its third parliamentary election in just under four years, a frequency that has diminished the public’s trust in the democratic process and the institutions governing it, and the election campaign has been marked by extreme divisiveness.” Concerns were raised pertaining to free speech, and the treatment of activists, LGBTI individuals, human rights defenders, and journalists, who have faced intimidation and harassment.

The domination of the President in the campaign, despite the fact that he was not a candidate in yesterday’s elections, gave his party an unjustified advantage. In addition, a number of earlier recommendations to improve oversight mechanisms and introduce a campaign expenditure limit remain unaddressed, which reduces transparency and increases opportunities for high campaign spending, potentially further undermining the chances of the opposition.

“The electoral campaign took place against the background of Russia’s ongoing war of aggression in Ukraine. The information manipulation remains a concern in Serbia even though it was not the predominant topic of the elections,” said Klemen Grošelj, Head of delegation from the European Parliament. “The low level of political debate, the pressure on the voters, the emphasis on personally discrediting opponents, the harsh rhetoric used during the campaign and, in general, the political life of Serbia, are all very worrying elements.”

While Serbia has a large number of media outlets and the media covered all candidates in line with the law, the diversity of views was greatly reduced by the high degree of polarization and strong influence of the government on most of them. At the same time, media reporting was dominated by the ruling parties and positive coverage of the President. The oversight body responsible for electronic media was not effective in stopping violations during the election period. Observers also noted numerous reports about critical journalists who were verbally insulted by state officials, as well as co-ordinated attacks on journalists by pro-government media.

“While the Serbian authorities organized the elections efficiently on a tight schedule, the opposition’s lack of access to the media and absence of genuine analytical reporting impacted voters’ ability to make an informed choice,” said Ambassador Albert Jónsson, who headed ODIHR’s election observation mission. “Measures are also lacking to prevent misuse of public office and resources, and, in practice, the line between official duties and campaign activities was blurred.”

The international election observation mission to the early parliamentary elections in Serbia totalled 361 observers from 45 countries, made up of 254 ODIHR-deployed experts, and long-term and short-term observers, which comprised 71 from the OSCE PA, 23 from PACE, and 13 from the EP.

For more information, please contact:
Katya Andrusz, ODIHR: +48 609 522 266 or katya.andrusz@odihr.pl
Nat Parry, OSCE PA: +45 601 08 177 or nat@oscepa.dk
Sylvie Affholder, PACE: +33 7 60 19 75 05 or sylvie.affholder@coe.int
Raffaele Luise, EP: +32 477 85 52 67 or raffaele.luise@europarl.europa.eu

Categories: Central Europe

OSCE hosts roundtable on preventing sexual exploitation in the context of major sporting events

OSCE - Mon, 12/18/2023 - 10:32
560653

Promising initiatives to address risks of human trafficking for sexual exploitation in the context of major sporting events have been implemented in several OSCE participating States, including France, Germany, Ukraine, the United Kingdom, and the United States. 

On 15 December, the OSCE hosted an interactive roundtable in Vienna, gathering civil society organizations, national anti-trafficking experts, law enforcement, sports organizations, as well as local authorities and international organizations who have developed awareness-raising campaigns to advance the fight against trafficking. Participants shared good practices and experiences that will serve as an inspiration for future initiatives, particularly ahead of the UEFA Euro 2024 in Germany and the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games in France.

In 2003, the OSCE Action Plan recommended that participating States raise awareness by “addressing, also through the media, the need to reduce the demand for the activities of persons trafficked for sexual exploitation.” Sporting events also offer a unique opportunity to reach out to a large audience through awareness-raising campaigns as a prevention measure and to tackle the scale of the demand that enables trafficking for the purpose of sexual exploitation.

Categories: Central Europe

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