OSCE

579559 Communication and Media Relations Section

Throughout October, the OSCE Transnational Threats Department has held a series of activities promoting cybersecurity good practices and general cyber hygiene as part of the OSCE’s contribution to the global Cybersecurity Awareness Month initiative.

This year’s activities, which marked the OSCE’s fifth participation in the global initiative, were an opportunity to raise awareness of the OSCE’s cyber/ICT security confidence-building measures (CBMs) and discuss emerging cyberspace issues. They include a social media campaign, webinars with renowned international experts, and the publication of a new OSCE cyber/ICT security factsheet.

The activities supported the priorities of the Maltese OSCE Chairpersonship on cyber/ICT security, from comprehensively enhancing resilience against cyber threats and supporting the implementation of relevant CBMs, to strengthening the OSCE’s women, peace and security agenda.

The first webinar focused on the impact artificial intelligence has on relations between states in cyberspace. The speakers explored the intersection of artificial intelligence with diplomacy, cybersecurity and international relations, discussing both the current and potential challenges of AI in these fields.

The second webinar showcased "National Cybersecurity Awareness Raising Platforms" to emphasize the critical role of national initiatives in promoting good cybersecurity practices and ensuring greater cyber resilience. The speakers shared effective strategies that actively engage the public and promote individual responsibility.

The third webinar examined how to better include gender considerations in cyber capacity-building and addressing gender dynamics in cybersecurity to create inclusive policies and practices. The speakers provided several recommendations, including setting gender markers for projects, fostering cross-sectoral stakeholder collaboration and creating concrete tools for education, training and early mentorship.

The 2024 OSCE Cybersecurity Awareness Month activities were part of the “Activities and customized support for the implementation of OSCE cyber/ICT security confidence-building measures” project, with the financial support of the United States of America.

579553 Communication and Media Relations Section

On 30 and 31 October, the OSCE Transnational Threats Department's Border Security and Management Unit in close co-operation with the Spanish National Police hosted an interactive training course on gendered aspects of transnational threats in Madrid. The event brought together 27 first- and second-line border security officers from Albania, France, Greece, Italy, Malta, Montenegro, Spain and Tunisia.

Experts from the European Union Advisory Mission to Ukraine, the Office of the OSCE Special Representative and Co-ordinator for Combating Trafficking in Human Beings, the Spanish National Police and members of the OSCE-led Mobile Training Team conducted the course sessions.

“I would like to stress also that National Police has made a constant effort to introduce a gender perspective in its daily work, among other things, by including more and more professional women in identification of crimes”, said Chief Superintendent Eulalia González Peña, Deputy Director of the Technical Cabinet, Spanish National Police, in her opening remarks.

Ambassador Alena Kupchyna, OSCE Co-ordinator of Activities to Address Transnational Threats, emphasized that “Cross-border crimes impact men, women, boys, and girls differently and have challenged border and law enforcement agencies across the OSCE area and beyond in responding to different gender-specific needs and experiences of those affected”.

The course addressed the nexus between organized transnational crimes and gender and examined the impact of gender-based biases and stereotypes on the effectiveness of border services. Participants engaged in discussions on the role of women and men in terrorism and violent extremism, including the push and pull factors for both genders to participate in these crimes.

The training course also introduced gender-sensitive and trauma-informative interviewing techniques to improve the identification of victims and potential perpetrators of cross-border crimes.  The session on communication at the borders introduced the possible indicators and signs of deception in non-verbal communication with perpetrators of cross-border crimes.

During the interactive session, participants analysed the gendered dynamics of human trafficking and how men and boys can be silent victims. They also engaged in exercises addressing harmful biases and stereotypes.

This training course was conducted under the OSCE initiative aimed at strengthening border security in the Mediterranean region.

VALLETTA/VIENNA, 31 October 2024 – The 31st Ministerial Council of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) will take place on 5 and 6 December 2024 in Malta. Hosted at the invitation of the OSCE Chair-in-Office, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign and European Affairs and Trade of Malta, Ian Borg, the event will gather foreign ministers from the 57 OSCE participating States.

Media representatives are invited to cover the proceedings, which will be held at the Malta Fairs & Conventions Centre (MFCC) in Ta’ Qali, Malta.

Advance accreditation of media representatives is mandatory. Journalists have the option to register for virtual participation and they will be granted remote access to the Media Centre via Zoom.

Members of the media wishing to attend the Ministerial Council - either virtually or in person - must register online no later than Friday, 22 November, at 17:00 hrs here.

To register, please complete the required information and upload a passport photo and a copy of a valid Press ID. Media representatives will be notified once the registration process is approved in the system. Please note that those registering to attend virtually will also need to be accredited and will also be notified once the registration process is approved. All personal information provided during registration will be processed in compliance with GDPR regulations.

Media badges can be collected upon presentation of a valid government issued ID (e.g. passport) and press ID at the Information Desk at the Hotel Excelsior (Great Siege Road, Floriana, Malta) on the following dates:

Wednesday, 4 December: 12:00-20:00

Thursday, 5 December: 07:00-11:00

Media badges cannot be picked up at the Ministerial Council facility and must be collected prior to going to the MFCC.

Detailed information about media facilities, virtual participation, instructions for accreditation, media pool modalities and booking of hotels is available here.

Members of the media who require a visa to travel to Malta are required to apply for their visa in a timely manner. Prior to their departure, travellers must ensure that they have a valid passport which expires at least six months after their date of departure.

Visa requirements can be found here: https://consularplus.gov.mt/visa-advice?lang=en.

Visa application forms can be found here: https://foreign.gov.mt/schengen-visa-applications/

Please refer any visa-related queries to visa.mfet@gov.mt.

Further updates and details, including media pool opportunities and operational guidelines for the Media Centre, will be regularly posted on the official Event Page: https://www.osce.org/event/mc_2024 

For any queries on the media components of this year’s Ministerial Council, please contact: pressoscemcmt.mfet@gov.mt.

Follow the news about the Ministerial Council:

• Twitter/X OSCE Chairpersonship 2024: https://x.com/OSCE24MT 
• Facebook OSCE Chairpersonship 2024: https://www.facebook.com/OSCE24MT/
• LinkedIn OSCE Chairpersonship 2024: https://www.linkedin.com/company/malta-osce24/posts/?feedView=all

As the OSCE's principal decision-making body, the Ministerial Council offers a key platform for foreign ministers to review and address pressing security challenges across the Euro-Atlantic and Eurasian regions, as well as to evaluate the organization's work across its mandate.

THE HAGUE, 30 October 2024 - The 2024 Max van der Stoel Award will be presented to Natur og Ungdom from Norway in The Hague, the Netherlands, on Wednesday, 6 November.

Paul van den IJssel, Ambassador for International Organisations, will present the Award on behalf of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands.

Natur og Ungdom was selected as the winner of the 2024 Max van der Stoel Award in recognition of its efforts to give young people of all backgrounds in Norway a voice in environmental policy.

Gytis Blaževičius and Elisabeth Myrland from Natur og Ungdom, the former OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities Kairat Abdrakhmanov, the Netherlands Ambassador for International Organisations Paul van den Ijssel, and the Permanent Representative of Norway to the OSCE Ellen Svendsen will address the event. OSCE Chair-in-Office and Foreign Minister of Malta Ian Borg will provide a video address.

The Max van der Stoel Award - a prize of €50,000 - has been organized by the HCNM and sponsored by the Dutch Foreign Ministry every two years since 2003. It is presented to a person, group or institution, in recognition of their extraordinary and outstanding achievements in improving the position of national minorities across the OSCE countries.

Event material can be found here.

The full event programme is available here.

Media representatives who wish to attend the in-person event at the Peace Palace in The Hague on 6 November 2024 starting at 15:30 should send their name, contact details and the name of the media organization they represent to Michelle Pirotta, michelle.pirotta@osce.org, before 15:30 on 5 November.

It will also be possible to follow the ceremony live, here:

Follow the discussion on X using the hashtag #MvdSAward.

579520 OSCE Centre in Ashgabat

Media literacy and methods of teaching media literacy skills were in focus of an OSCE-organized train-the-trainer course that took place on 29 and 30 October 2024.

The OSCE Centre in Ashgabat organized the course to provide support in preparing a pool of national trainers on media literacy and contribute to the implementation of the National Human Rights Action Plan for 2021-2025 (NHRAP). The train-the-trainer course brought together representatives of Turkmenistan’s national media and institutions involved in the implementation of NHRAP.

The training course highlighted general approaches to media literacy, its role and challenges related to the modern media sphere. International experts elaborated on the classification of hate speech, disinformation and misinformation and offered participants an opportunity to analyze examples of these phenomena.

“The 2024 OSCE Chairpersonship of Malta included media literacy in its priorities for this year and organized a conference to discuss the interlinkage between media literacy and democracy,” said John MacGregor, Head of the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat at the opening of the training course.

“Indeed, media literacy skills are needed today as never before to efficiently exercise our human rights to freedom of expression and access to information both on- and offline,” stressed MacGregor.

Participants explored methods of delivering training activities and practiced planning their training courses. International experts expanded on the methodology of factchecking, its concept and formats, as well as signs of fake news and verification algorithms.

“I am confident that our participants have a huge potential to become national trainers and take lead in implementing OSCE commitments related to the freedom of the media and freedom of expression,” concluded MacGregor his opening speech.

579685 Munira Shoinbekova, OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe

The OSCE Officer-in-Charge/Acting Secretary-General Ms. Kate Fearon visited Tajikistan and the OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe on 24-25 October 2024 to join the celebrations of the 30th anniversary of the OSCE's presence in Tajikistan.

During her visit, Ms. Fearon opened the annual Partnership Platform meeting alongside the First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Tajikistan, Ismatullo Nasredin. They discussed annual project planning with government partners and outlined a strategic outlook for the upcoming year’s activities.

Ms. Fearon engaged in substantial discussions with First Deputy Minister Nasredin about enhancing co-operation to address various challenges and emphasized the impact the OSCE is making on the ground. She also met with young diplomats, discussing regional security and the added value of the OSCE. Additionally, Ms. Fearon visited Tajikistan’s National State University, where she interacted with students studying international relations and international law. A significant dialogue meeting with the First Deputy Minister of Education and Science, Mr. Jurazoda Jamshed Habibullo, focused on advancing the joint media curriculum project at universities in Tajikistan.

Throughout her meetings and public engagements, Ms. Fearon highlighted the excellent co-operation between Tajikistan and the OSCE, reaffirming the OSCE's continued commitment to deepening its engagement with Tajikistan and addressing comprehensive security aspects.

579460 Munira Shoinbekova, OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe

From 24 to 26 October 2024, the OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe (POiD), in collaboration with the Ministry of Energy and Water Resources Management (MEWR), organized a three-day training session designed to enhance regional water co-operation and to deepen understanding of national and international water law. The training was held in Kulyab and engaged 20 professionals from various departments of the MEWR in the Khatlon region.

The training provided participants with a comprehensive understanding of the legal frameworks that promote peaceful co-operation among nations and facilitate effective water resource management for mutual socio-economic and environmental benefits. Participants examined regional and interstate agreements and explored mechanisms to enhance water co-operation in Central Asia. Additionally, they developed their communication and conflict-resolution skills through role-playing, active listening exercises, case studies, and group discussions.

This event aligned with previous initiatives by the POiD in water resource management and reflects its ongoing commitment to strengthening the capacity of water professionals. It also supports the Government of Tajikistan in implementing its water sector reform programme and is consistent with the OSCE's commitments in this area.

579454 Munira Shoinbekova, OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe

On 22-23 October 2024, the OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe (POiD) facilitated a two-day meeting in Khujand for five Aarhus Centres (ACs). This event aimed to share experiences and exchange information related to the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) Convention on Access to Information, Public Participation in Decision-making, and Access to Justice in Environmental Matters, commonly known as the Aarhus Convention.

The meeting highlighted the successful activities of the Khujand AC and provided a detailed overview of its operations, human resources, and project management tools. It also included the annual coordination meeting of the ACs, which focused on developing plans for 2025 per the Roadmap and Strategic Plan for Tajikistan's ACs.

This event aligned with POiD’s commitment to assist Tajikistan in promoting the principles of the Aarhus Convention, supporting sustainable environmental practices, and enhancing public participation in environmental decision-making processes.

VIENNA, 29 October 2024 – The Economic and Environmental Dimension Implementation Meeting (EEDIM) began at the Vienna Hofburg today, providing a platform for reviewing the implementation of commitments in the field of water management.

Organized by the Office of the Co-ordinator of Economic and Environmental Activities (OCEEA), under the guidance of the 2024 OSCE Chairmanship of Malta, the event convened officials from OSCE participating States and practitioners to bring to the fore examples of best practice.

“Water management is a key pillar of our efforts to build sustainable and resilient societies,” said Ambassador Natasha Meli Daudey Permanent Representative of Malta to the OSCE and Chair of the Permanent Council. “As climate change intensifies, so do water-related security challenges. This meeting allows us to review progress and identify areas for further co-operation. Malta, with its extensive experience in managing water scarcity, is committed to sharing best practices and reinforcing the OSCE’s collective role in addressing these critical issues.”

The focus of this year’s EEDIM is on water management, including good governance, climate change adaptation and mitigation, sustainable management and conservation of water resources, and disaster risk reduction in the OSCE area.

"Collaboration among OSCE participating States is essential; sharing best practices and lessons learned strengthens our collective response to water challenges and fosters mutual trust," said Bakyt Dzhusupov, Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities.

With its broad geographic reach and comprehensive approach to security, the OSCE serves as a crucial platform for dialogue and cooperation in addressing both emerging and ongoing challenges, including those related to water security. Given the cross-border nature of water management, the OSCE promotes collaboration among participating States to build resilience and advance sustainable water management, particularly in regions where scarcity presents critical risks.

EEDIM is held annually to review the implementation of the commitments undertaken by OSCE participating States within the second dimension through various Ministerial Council decisions.

For more information about EEDIM 2024, please click here 
For more information about the OSCE’s work on water management, please click here

579427 Communication and Media Relations Section

Senior officers from Ukraine’s State Border Guard Service were in London this week for a study visit organized by the OSCE’s Transnational Threats Department from 21 to 25 October 2024. During the visit, five representatives, including two women and three men, participated in the Biometrics Institute’s Annual Congress, shared good practices on border control and illegal migration management through site visits to London Heathrow Airport and an Immigration Removal Centre, and strengthened co-operation through bilateral meetings with UK Border Force and UK Visas and Immigration.

The OSCE has enjoyed a longstanding relationship with the Biometrics Institute and had the opportunity to facilitate a speaking engagement for forensic document experts from the State Border Guard Service at the Annual Congress. On the first day of the Congress, Major Oleksii Markovskyi, Chief of the Document Examination Unit, gave a keynote address on the use of biometric identification methods in forensic expert investigations on fraudulent documents.

Forensic experts from the State Border Guard Service (SBGS) also participated in a Joint Expert Group Briefing following the Congress, enabling them to engage with other professionals on the use and analysis of biometrics. Meanwhile, senior administration officials in the delegation visited London Heathrow Airport, where they met with UK Border Force representatives and received an overview of border control operations, including passport checks upon arrival and integration of automated border control e-gates at airports. Following their visit to London Heathrow Airport, the Administration officials had the opportunity to tour an Immigration Removal Centre, where they gained insights into temporary detention facilities and removal procedures.

The study visit concluded with a follow-up visit to the National Document Fraud Unit, where initial discussions were held on certifying SBGS forensic experts in biometric chip authentication and detecting forgery or tampering, in accordance with international standards and a meeting with UK Visas and Immigration on visa assessment processes, including overview of the UK routing tool, and risk analysis in visa application procedures. The OSCE will build on this co-operation by facilitating biometric chip certification for forensic experts from the SBGS in April 2025, in line with the Sectorial Qualification Framework (SQF).

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

579409 Participants of the National Forum on Multilingual Education held on 25 October in the National Library of the Kyrgyz Republic. OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities The Hague Recommendations Regarding the Education Rights of National Minorities OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities discusses inter-ethnic policy and multilingual education with Government of Kyrgyzstan OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities' office organizes Regional School on Multilingual and Multicultural Education in Osh, Kyrgyzstan Central Asia Regional School on Multilingual and Multicultural Education organized by OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities opens in Almaty Multilingual education: Creating equal chances for everyone

Policymakers, educators and international experts discussed the future of multilingual education in Kyrgyzstan at the National Forum on Multilingual Education in Bishkek on 25 October 2024. The event was organized by Kyrgyzstan’s Education Ministry of Education with support from the office of the OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities.

Participants explored potential policy avenues to improve and expand multilingual education in Kyrgyzstan. Multilingual education is an excellent tool that can help promote integration in diverse societies while supporting educational excellence. When education is based first in a child’s mother tongue, and additional languages are gradually introduced, children from different linguistic backgrounds have the opportunity to develop academic proficiency in their mother tongue, which is a prerequisite for their overall educational success.

“Multilingual education is one of the most effective ways to foster integration in our diverse societies. It is not just an educational approach that generates excellent results in the classroom; it is also a powerful tool to increase social cohesion, cultural understanding and economic opportunity.” said Ambassador Marek Szczygiel, Director and Officer-in-Charge of the OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities during his online address.

Participants also had the opportunity to discuss how international best practices employed in other countries of Asia, particularly in Singapore and Mongolia, could be adapted for use in Kyrgyzstan. The day included the presentation of a draft roadmap for multilingual education from 2025 to 2030, aimed at ensuring quality and inclusive education across the country.

The National Forum was the final segment in a series of activities in October, dubbed the “Month of Multilingual Education”. This included an event on learning the Kyrgyz language through multilingual education and a study tour for members of parliament and government officials, supported by the office of the High Commissioner on National Minorities. During the study tour, participants visited schools and kindergartens providing multilingual education in the Osh and Chuy regions of Kyrgyzstan. Participants were then able to share their first-hand experiences at the Forum, demonstrating how multilingual education supports social cohesion by providing children from different linguistic backgrounds the opportunity to learn in an inclusive environment.

“Seeing children interact and learn in multiple languages is truly inspiring. It shows us that multilingual education is not just an abstract policy but a real opportunity to empower the next generation to embrace diversity and thrive together.” said Aigul Omorova, Lecturer at the Republican Institute for Advanced Training and Retraining of Teaching Staff

As part of its engagement on multilingual education across the OSCE area, and in Central Asia in particular, the office of the High Commissioner on National Minorities is committed to supporting Kyrgyzstan in developing an education system that provides academic excellence and strengthens social cohesion by embracing the country’s linguistic diversity.

579424 Munira Shoinbekova, OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe

From 22 to 26 October, in the Khovaling district, the OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe assisted the Ministry of Internal Affairs in conducting a working group meeting to review and revise the draft Law on Police. The working group consisted of 17 representatives from the Ministries of Interior, Justice, and Finance. They examined a report submitted by an international consultant, which assessed the existing draft law's provisions and included recommendations to address potential shortcomings.

The objective of the meeting was to produce a final draft of the Law on Police, which is scheduled to be presented at a roundtable event that will include government agencies and international partners on 27-28 November 2024 in the Khovaling district.

This activity is part of the OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe’s ongoing efforts to support the Government of Tajikistan and civil society in the police reform process and the development of the law enforcement sector.

TASHKENT, 28 October 2024 – Uzbekistan’s 27 October parliamentary elections took place amid ongoing reforms, including amendments to the Constitution, but the political environment remained constrained, not providing voters with a genuine choice, international observers said in a preliminary statement released today. Despite the ongoing reforms, fundamental freedoms remain disproportionally limited both by legislation and in practice, the statement says.

"These elections were held under a new mixed electoral system, reflecting significant constitutional amendments and a revised electoral code as part of Uzbekistan's ongoing reform efforts," said Mr. Azay Guliyev, Special Co-ordinator and leader of the OSCE short-term observers. "While these reforms represent progress in enhancing human rights provisions, significant challenges remain in the realization of fundamental freedoms, particularly the rights to association, peaceful assembly and freedom of expression."

While the election-related laws have gradually evolved and the elections were technically well-prepared, significant challenges in meeting international standards persist in such areas as political party registration, the right to stand, campaign finance transparency, citizen observation, and the publication of polling station results. 

All five registered political parties were able to campaign freely and with legally enforced equal conditions, but their campaigns were low-key and devoid of real challenges to the policies of the ruling party or to each other. Media coverage was limited by restrictions on free expression, resulting in minimal access for voters to diverse viewpoints. Positively, women were well represented among candidates and in election administration.

“In a landscape where the five registered parties share a common support for government policies, voters were not presented with genuine alternatives. This further highlights a need to foster a more dynamic and competitive political environment to truly represent citizens’ voices,” said Sargis Khandanyan, Head of the OSCE PA delegation. “At the same time, the increased gender quota for parliamentary candidates marks a positive development. We are hopeful that this will further boost women's participation in public and political life in line with OSCE commitments.”

The changes to election-related laws include a revised electoral system, new party list registration rules, modified rules on election management bodies, and an increased gender quota, but the relatively short timeframe for implementing these changes raised questions about compliance with international good practices.

The country’s media-related laws contain broad and insufficiently defined provisions, including on religious extremism, disturbances of public order and false information and, as such, do not provide legal clarity and unduly restrict the right to freedom of expression. Defamation and insult remain criminalized, while imprisonment is still foreseen for public slander and insulting the president. In addition, undue external interference on media editorial freedom and a limited advertising market stifle open discussion and independent journalism, and result in reported widespread self-censorship. State-owned broadcast and print media provided free airtime and space for contestants in line with the law. Private television channels organized election debates, but provided only limited news coverage and virtually no analysis of the campaign.

Election preparations at all levels were administered efficiently, and the Central Election Commission held regular live-streamed sessions and swiftly published its decisions, contributing to transparency. Despite previous ODIHR recommendations, the independence of lower-level election commissions remained negatively affected by the prominent role of Mahallas, which are local self-governing bodies  closely aligned with state and local administration in various aspects of the electoral process.

Election day was calm and orderly, but marred by numerous cases of identified violations and malfeasance, as well as procedural and technical problems. Important safeguards were repeatedly disregarded during voting, counting and tabulation, challenging the integrity of the process and undermining transparency.

“Uzbekistan’s authorities have partially addressed some prior ODIHR recommendations through recent legislative changes,” said Douglas Wake, Head of the Election Observation Mission from the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights. “Nevertheless, given the problems that our observers identified in yesterday's voting, counting and tabulation, much more must be done to enhance transparency and confidence in the officially announced turnout and results. ODIHR looks forward to further co-operation with Uzbekistan’s authorities, including on the recommendations that will come in our final report.”

A total of 875 candidates were registered from the five registered political parties. The laws retain burdensome requirements for party registration, as well as broad legal grounds for denying registration and the suspension of party activities. The legal framework also does not allow for independent candidates, thus limiting pluralism and political competition.

For these elections, the gender quota for women was increased from 30 to 40 per cent.  Women hold 47 of the 150 seats in the outgoing Legislative Chamber and comprised 45 per cent of candidates. Furthermore, the Speaker of the Senate, one of seven Deputy Speakers of the Legislative Chamber, and one of four Deputy Prime Ministers are women. Despite ongoing efforts to increase women's participation in public and political life, however, women remain underrepresented in decision-making positions. Only two out of 27 ministers and three out of 12 members of the Supreme Judicial Council are women. All regional governors (Hokims) are men.

The regulations for campaign finance lack clarity and do not facilitate transparency, not providing for effective oversight and public scrutiny. Funding for campaign purposes is allocated exclusively from the state budget, and only to registered political parties with an approved list of candidates.

International organizations, political parties, Mahallas and accredited media are entitled to observe elections. The CEC registered 851 international observers. Despite previous ODIHR recommendations, the legislation does not contain provisions for citizen election observers.

For further information, contact:

Thomas Rymer, press adviser, ODIHR election observation mission, thomas.rymer@odihr-uzbekistan.org

Anzhelika Ivanishcheva, media officer, OSCE PA, anzhelika.ivanishcheva@oscepa.dk

TBILISI, 27 October 2024 –While voters were offered a choice between 18 candidate lists and candidates could generally campaign freely, Georgia’s parliamentary elections were marred by entrenched polarization and concerns over recently adopted legislation and its impact on fundamental freedoms and civil society, as well as highly divisive campaign rhetoric and widespread reports of pressure on voters, 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), the NATO Parliamentary Assembly (NATO PA), and the European Parliament (EP) noted deepening political divisions, as well as a significant imbalance in financial resources and the many advantages taken by the ruling party contributed to an already uneven playing field. In the run-up to the elections, numerous civil society organisations reported on the stigmatizing impact of the ‘law on transparency of foreign influence’, together with incidents of attacks and intimidation. This, along with potential sanctions for not complying with the law, has also impacted their ability to carry out their work free from undue pressure.

“Imbalances in financial resources, a divisive campaign atmosphere, and recent legislative amendments were of significant concern throughout this election process,” said Pascal Allizard, Special Co-ordinator and leader of the OSCE short-term observer mission. “Yet the engagement shown on election day—from the active voter participation, robust presence of citizen and party observers, and rich diversity of voices—gives the sign of a system that is still growing and evolving, with a democratic vitality under construction.”

Observers found the legal framework to be adequate for holding democratic elections. However, some previous positive changes were reversed by recent amendments, and several longstanding recommendations remain unaddressed. While the earlier amendments were adopted following inclusive public discussions, frequent revisions, including a number made shortly before the elections and without broad cross-party support, undermined its stability, and raised concerns about the potential for misusing the changes to gain political benefit.  At the same time, the effectiveness of campaign finance oversight was undermined by limited enforcement and concerns over the impartiality and political instrumentalization of the oversight body.

“These elections were marked by high polarisation of the political and media landscape, hate speech against the opposition and the civil society and antagonism towards the office of the President,” said Iulian Bulai, Head of the PACE delegation. “The quality of the elections reflected the pre-electoral period. Given the cases of vote-buying, widespread climate of pressure and party-organised intimidation before and during the elections, especially in rural areas, questions about the impartiality of state institutions, we express our concerns about the electoral conditions, in particular the uneven playing field which undermines trust in the outcome and explains the reactions to the election results. These issues need to be addressed by the authorities.”

Despite a constitutional obligation to ensure gender equality, legal changes made this year have undermined this aim and led to a significant decline in the number of women on party lists for these elections. Party programmes lacked messages specifically targeting women and featured few women in their campaigns. At the same time, women politicians in Georgia continue to face deeply rooted stereotypes and even violence.

“While we commend the largely peaceful election, the decline in female candidates due to the removal of gender quotas is a setback for diversity, especially as women’s active participation at polling stations highlights their vital role and demand for greater representation,” said Pia Kauma, Head of the OSCE PA delegation. “With the recent adoption of the Law on Transparency of Foreign Influence, I hope its implications for freedom of association and expression will be re-evaluated in the next parliament to protect civil society's vital work in Georgia and ensure all voices are heard.”

The election administration organized the elections efficiently, but the public perception of its impartiality was harmed by concerns about recent changes over its nomination and decision-making processes, as well as perceived links between members without formal political affiliation and the ruling party. For the first time, electronic devices were used in most polling stations, and the election administration made a significant effort to educate voters on their use ahead of election day.  Election day was generally well organized procedurally and orderly, but it was marked by a tense environment. The secrecy of the vote was frequently compromised and there were reports of intimidation and pressure on voters.

“Respect for the shared values of individual liberty, democracy and the rule of law is an essential condition for becoming a NATO member. This election was yet another critical test for Georgia’s democracy, and its aftermath will be another,” said Faik Öztrak, Head of the NATO PA delegation. “It is now my duty to report back on these elections – from election administration to intimidation and pressure on voters – so that the Assembly can explore how to best support the Georgian people, who have demonstrated again and again that they want a democratic Georgia in the EU and NATO.”

The campaign was competitive although subdued, but the language and imagery used were highly divisive. During the campaign, ruling party representatives made public statements about their intention to ban key opposition parties after the elections. Observers also noted reports of intimidation, coercion and pressure on voters, particularly on public sector employees and other groups, raising concerns about the ability of some voters to cast their vote without fear of retribution.

“We continue to express deep concerns about the democratic backsliding in Georgia. The conduct of yesterday’s election is unfortunately evidence to that effect,” said Antonio López-Istúriz White, Head of the EP delegation. “We will continue to closely follow the situation in Georgia to see if the next government chooses to realign with EU values and norms and reverse the negative tendencies of the last months.”

Georgia’s media scene is diverse but highly polarized, and depends on financing by political actors. Media monitoring carried out by the observation mission showed clear political bias across all outlets, while legal obligations for impartial news coverage on commercial television were ignored. Although the public broadcaster’s coverage of candidates was mostly positive or neutral in tone, it devoted significantly more time to the ruling party than to other parties. In addition, the safety of journalists remains a major concern following a series of recent assaults, intimidation and pressure.

“While the campaign offered voters a wide choice in the run-up to Georgia’s parliamentary elections, which was good to see that is not enough to bring an election in line with international democratic principles,” said Eoghan Murphy, who headed the ODIHR election observation mission. “The deep polarisation in the country, the undue pressure on voters and civil society, and the tension that we saw on election day demonstrate that much work is still needed.”

The international election observation mission to the parliamentary elections in Georgia totalled 529 observers from 42 countries, composed of 380 ODIHR-deployed experts, long-term, and short-term observers, 60 parliamentarians and staff from the OSCE PA, 39 from PACE, 38 from the NATO PA, and 12 from the EP.

For more information, please contact:

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

Anna Di Domenico, OSCE PA: anna.didomenico@oscepa.dk  or +45 60 10 83 80

Sylvie Affholder, PACE: Sylvie.AFFHOLDER@coe.int or +33 623888647

Svitlana Svyetova, NATO PA: ssvetova@nato-pa.int or +32 478 554 816

Cristina Castagnoli, EP: cristina.castagnoli@europarl.europa.eu or +32 470 880872

579334 Communication and Media Relations Section

The OSCE hosted a high-level meeting in Vienna on 25 October, focusing on the strategic advancement of police canine capabilities for the prevention and detection of illicit trafficking of Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) in South-Eastern Europe.

The meeting was part of ongoing efforts to further strengthen the region's capacities to prevent and detect illicit and trafficked SALW. Participants reviewed the progress accomplished to date under the framework of the OSCE’s Comprehensive Programme on Supporting Efforts to Prevent and Combat Illicit Trafficking of SALW and Conventional Ammunition in the region. Common challenges were discussed and an agreement was reached on how to further enhance co-operation and resource mobilization to sustain these efforts.

Representatives from South-Eastern Europe stressed the impetus police canine units could add in combating SALW trafficking. Against this backdrop, strategic planning for the coming years was highlighted, particularly focusing on ensuring the necessary structural and operational support to further enhance their effectiveness.

“The combatting of illicit SALW remains a strategic priority for the Albanian Government. We are grateful to the OSCE for its continued support and expertise in addressing these challenges. Strengthening our capacities to counter illicit SALW trafficking brings us closer to meeting international standards, enhancing security for both Albania and the Western Balkan region.” said Besfort Lamallari, Deputy Minister of Interior, Albania

"We are pleased with the exchanges and conclusions of this High-Level Meeting on the Strategic Advancement of Police Canine Capabilities in South-Eastern Europe. Together with our partners and beneficiaries, we have laid the groundwork for future cooperation, ensuring that police canine units can advance and become a crucial tool in enhancing regional security and combating illicit SALW, both in each jurisdiction, and across the region," said Shawn Decaluwe, Deputy Director for the Conflict Prevention Centre’s Operations Service.

Participants re-emphasised their shared commitment to reducing illicit trafficking and enhancing canine capabilities. Participants underscored their readiness for sustained political and financial support as a precondition for maintaining the progress made and to further expanding canine capabilities, particularly through regional co-operation, training, and resource development.

The event brought together senior officials, including Deputy Ministers of Interior, Deputy Police Directors, Police Canine Unit Command representatives, Presidents of SALW Commissions from South-Eastern Europe and international partners and donors from France, the European Union, Germany and the United States of America.

“Today’s meeting represents a unique opportunity for all of us to reaffirm our shared commitment to combating illicit SALW trafficking through enhanced canine capabilities. That is why I, thank you for your partnership, and assure you that we will remain a dedicated partner in this process” said Ambassador Rasa Ostrauskaite, Permanent Representative of the European Union to the OSCE.

“This topic is of such significance that France will continue to provide not only its financial contributions but also make its specialized structures available for specialized trainings,” added Ambassador Olivier Caron, France’s Special Envoy for Counterterrorism and the Fight against Organized Crime of France.

579322 Communication and Media Relations Section Understanding the Role of Women in Organized Crime

On 15 October, the OSCE Transnational Threats Department and the Office of the Special Representative and Co-ordinator for Combating Trafficking in Human Beings held a side event on the margins of Twelfth Session of the Conference of Parties to the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime.

Drawing on the findings and recommendations of the OSCE report on “Understanding the role of women in organized crime”, the side event unpacked how women can better be identified, included and supported in prevention and exit initiatives. Discussions focused on examining risk factors and vulnerabilities that drive women’s recruitment into organized crime, including victimization and sexual exploitation in the context of human trafficking. Reflecting the whole-of-society approach that underpins gender-inclusive approaches to organized crime, the side event brought together over 40 participants including policymakers, criminal justice practitioners, academia and civil society.

“OSCE data is crucial to better understanding the role of women in organized crime,” said Ambassador Alena Kupchyna, Co-ordinator of OSCE Activities to Address Transnational Threats, in her opening remarks.“ This evidence can support participating States to better identify, include and support women in organized crime prevention and exit initiatives.”

Dr Kari Johnstone, OSCE Special Representative and Co-ordinator for Combating Trafficking in Human Beings, underscored that “for victims of human trafficking who have committed criminal acts related to being trafficked as a means to escape their own exploitation, it is essential to adopt a human-rights-based approach and to apply the non-punishment principle to strengthen protection for survivors, as well as improve the investigation and prosecution of these cases.”

This side event emphasized the importance of taking a comprehensive approach to women’s agency in organized crime groups, covering recruitment, sexual exploitation, gender stereotypes, and exit pathways. This marks a significant step towards improving the recognition of women’s role in organized crime and the subsequent need to implement a human-rights centered approach in prevention and exit initiatives.

The side event was co-sponsored by the Permanent Missions of the Kyrgyz Republic and Sweden to the United Nations in Vienna.

TASHKENT, 25 October 2024 – International observers will hold a press conference to present their preliminary conclusions following the parliamentary elections in Uzbekistan.

What:

• A press conference of the international election observation mission for the parliamentary elections in Uzbekistan
• The press conference can be attended in person or via Zoom (details below)
• You can also follow the livestream at https://www.osce.org/odihr/elections/uzbekistan/573727

Who:

• Mr. Azay Guliyev, Special Co-ordinator and leader of the short-term OSCE observers
• Mr. Sargis Khandanyan, Head of the delegation from the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly (OSCE PA)
• Mr. Douglas Wake, Head of the election observation mission from the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (OIDHR)

When:

• 15:00 local time  (GMT +5), on 28 October 2024

Where:

• The Le Grand Plaza Hotel,  2 Uzbekistan Ovozi Street, Tashkent

Registration:

• No registration is necessary if you are attending the press conference in person, but only questions from journalists will be taken

To take part via Zoom, please register with Thomas Rymer, ODIHR election observation mission press adviser, thomas.rymer@odihr-uzbekistan.org, and, Pietro Tesfamariam, media analyst, pietro.Tesfamariam@odihr-uzbekistan.org, by 11:00 local time on 28 October.

For further information, contact:

• Thomas Rymer, press adviser, ODIHR election observation mission, thomas.rymer@odihr-uzbekistan.org
• Anzhelika Ivanishcheva, media officer, OSCE PA, anzhelika.ivanishcheva@oscepa.dk

579289

With the aim to empower aspiring women in cybersecurity, the OSCE Presence in Albania, in partnership with the National Cybersecurity Authority, organized a workshop featuring testimonies and panel discussions from successful women leaders in the field, on 24 October 2024.

The event provided a platform for these motivational women to share their personal journeys, discussing the challenges they faced and the opportunities available in the cybersecurity landscape.

"We believe that cybersecurity represents not only a challenge for which we should all be prepared, but also a big opportunity to empower youth to become active part of this important sector", said Brunilda Halili, National Community Safety Officer of the Presence.

The workshop culminated in a hands-on cyber drill designed specifically for women students, aimed at enhancing their technical skills and confidence. Thirty-eight participants engaged in practical exercises that equipped them with essential capabilities for a future in cybersecurity.

In the end of the interactive cyber drill, a 3rd year student of Information Technology at the Polytechnic University of Tirana, Xhorxhia Prenga, said: "Until today, I've been undecided about my future in the IT field. Today I decided that I want to continue my Master studies in cybersecurity, because now I understand the impact of this field in the society, and the many possibilities I will have to further advance my professional career in this dynamic field".

The event was part of the Presence’s project "Supporting national authorities and communities to effectively prevent and address safety and security issues – Phase II".

579280 Edil Baisalov, Deputy Chairperson of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic speaks in front of 500 participants of the Green Economic Forum 2024. Chyngyz Zhanybekov Aida Almazbekova

Bishkek, 23 October 2024 – Over 500 participants from Central Asia gathered at the Green Economic Forum 2024 to set priorities for advancing sustainable development across the region. The event brought together government officials, international experts, and business leaders to explore strategies for green economic growth, environmental sustainability, and regional co-operation.

Key discussions focused on renewable energy, eco-friendly construction, waste management, and green financing. The forum provided a platform for knowledge sharing and collaboration, helping governments and businesses identify joint actions for green projects, ahead of the upcoming UN Climate Change Conference (COP-29) in Baku.

In his opening remarks, Edil Baisalov, Deputy Chairperson of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic, emphasized the forum’s importance in linking economic growth with environmental protection. “The green economy is not just a concept, it is a solution for achieving a balanced, long-term development that safeguards our natural resources,” noted Baisalov.

Ambassador Alexey Rogov, Head of the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek, underscored the significance of regional collaboration. “Promoting a green economy is essential for achieving sustainable development goals in the face of climate change. Today’s discussions fosters stronger partnerships between businesses, governments, and industry associations, paving the way for innovative solutions in Central Asia,” Ambassador Rogov stated.

The forum also provided an opportunity for local businesses to showcase their eco-friendly products/ solutions at the exhibition held during the event. Entrepreneurs exchanged contacts and ideas, facilitating regional business connections and laying the groundwork for future contracts, which will boost cross-border collaboration on green innovations.

The forum's outcomes contribute to shaping national strategies and policies, driving the region's transition towards a low-carbon and resource-efficient economy.

579247 OSCE Centre in Ashgabat

Interagency co-operation and co-ordination in corruption risk assessment and implementation of the United Nations Convention Against Corruption’s (UNCAC) were addressed at an OSCE-organized seminar that took place in Ashgabat on 23 and 24 October 2024.

The seminar presented best practices of OSCE participating States in strengthening inter-agency co-operation in preventing and combating corruption.

An international expert from Moldova provided the participants with a comprehensive overview of the principles and requirements of the United Nations Convention against Corruption and of the process of self-assessment of the implementation of the Convention.

“Corruption, as a key threat to good governance, democratic processes and fair business practices, also poses a major impediment to progress in trade and connectivity,” said Olivera Zurovac-Kuzman, Economic and Environmental Officer of the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat.

“The OSCE Centrе in Ashgabat is actively collaborating with the Government of Turkmenistan on anti-corruption and related issues and stands ready to support efforts to improve public administration, promote transparency and accountability, and foster inter-agency co-operation and co-ordination in preventing and combating corruption,” stressed Zurovac-Kuzman.

Participants shared their views on how to enhance inter-agency co-operation and co-ordination of actions on key areas of the UN Convention against Corruption and examined parallel financial investigations as a tool to counteract and fight corruption. Special attention was paid to identification, tracing and seizure of criminal assets, pre-seizure planning and management of seized and confiscated assets.

The two-day event brought together representatives of Ministry of Finance and Economy Turkmenistan, Ministry of Adalat (Justice), State Customs Service, Central Bank, and Mejlis (Parliament), as well as the Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs and other relevant institutions.