Central Europe

SDGs SDGs:  16 - Peace, justice and strong institutions

Summary

• In Donetsk region, the SMM recorded 364 ceasefire violations, including six explosions. In the previous reporting period, it recorded 395 ceasefire violations in the region.
• In Luhansk region, the Mission recorded 608 ceasefire violations, including 108 explosions. In the previous reporting period, it recorded 99 ceasefire violations in the region.
• The SMM observed damage from shelling and small-arms fire to seven civilian properties and a working school in Donetsk region, and to an apartment in Zolote-5/Mykhailivka, Luhansk region.
• The SMM continued monitoring the disengagement areas near Stanytsia Luhanska, Zolote and Petrivske. It recorded ceasefire violations inside and close to the disengagement area near Petrivske and multiple ceasefire violations close to the disengagement area near Zolote.
• The Mission facilitated and monitored adherence to localized ceasefires to enable the operation of critical civilian infrastructure.
• The SMM continued following up on the situation of civilians, including at three entry-exit checkpoints and the corresponding checkpoints of the armed formations in Luhansk region.
• The Mission’s freedom of movement continued to be restricted, including at two checkpoints of the armed formations, all in southern Donetsk region.*

Today, OSCE and Mediterranean Partners for Co-operation ambassadors discussed broadening their dialogue to include sustainable development and climate change.

Recent studies have shown how challenges like rising temperatures and sea levels, and increased water scarcity make the Mediterranean basin particularly vulnerable. These challenges will affect the region’s security, especially when compounded by other factors such as inequalities and resource constraints, which force people to abandon their homes and seek refuge elsewhere, with women and girls affected disproportionately.

Preparing the ground for further co-operation and discussion, the Partners for Co-operation shared their commitments, best practices and ways forward related to sustainable development and climate change, stressing the importance of a collective approach and the importance of dialogue.

Climate change has been part of the OSCE’s agenda since 2017, when the Madrid Declaration on Environment and Security defined a complementary role for the OSCE in addressing climate change challenges. Since then, the OSCE has provided a platform for political dialogue on climate-related security risks and implemented activities to raise awareness and build capacities for assessing and addressing potential security risks stemming from climate change.

In 2020, the OSCE Mediterranean Conference initiated a high-level discussion on the importance of environmental and climate change co-operation to advance sustainable development and common security in the OSCE Mediterranean region.

The way forward sees a strengthened dialogue within the OSCE to support climate-sensitive and gender responsive economic recovery that creates opportunities for green growth and jobs, and technological advancements. There are several ongoing projects, including one dedicated to identify the security implications of climate change and map hotspots in the OSCE region.  

VIENNA, 15 July 2021 — Poland’s OSCE Chairmanship next year will focus on supporting conflict resolution and conflict-affected populations, responding to post-COVID challenges, and embracing the OSCE’s spirit of co-operation towards implementing shared commitments, said Poland’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Zbigniew Rau in his address to the OSCE Permanent Council today.

Speaking about the guiding principles of the Polish Chairmanship, Rau recalled the Helsinki Final Act of 1975 and “its explicit envisaged intention to promote fundamental rights, economic and social progress and ensure conditions where people can live in true and lasting peace, free from any threat or attempt on their security.”

He emphasized that “it is our obligation as the OSCE to protect and support the weakest, civilians, women and children from the consequences of conflicts. We have the necessary toolbox and long-lasting experience in delivering assistance to people in need.”

The Polish Chairmanship will continue to build on the activities of previous Chairs, Rau said. “We will spare no effort in assisting participating States in fostering dialogue while guarding OSCE’s principles and commitments. Upholding the OSCE’s comprehensive concept of security in all three dimensions of security will be at the centre of our action.”

In the politico-military dimension, he pointed to arms control and confidence- and security-building measures as crucial for security in the entire OSCE area. “It is essential to continue our dialogue on increasing military transparency and risk reduction, and to emphasize the role of confidence-building measures,” Rau said, noting that Poland will pay close attention to non-military security challenges.  

In the environmental and economic dimension, the Polish Chairmanship will concentrate on the recovery and modernization of economies. Poland intends to look at the horizon beyond the COVID-19 pandemic and “how to build more resilient economies ready for future challenges,” he added.

In the human dimension, Rau underscored that the Chair’s efforts “will be guided by a human-centred perspective” and reaffirmed the Chair’s political support for the work of the OSCE institutions: the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR), the High Commissioner on National Minorities and the Representative on Freedom of the Media (RFOM).

Poland will take over the OSCE Chairmanship from Sweden on 1 January 2022 with Rau serving as OSCE Chairperson-in-Office. This is the second time that Poland will chair the Organization, with its previous Chairmanship held in 1998.

VIENNA, 14 July 2021 — How to prevent and combat the evolving threat of all forms of terrorism was discussed today at the joint meeting of the OSCE Forum for Security Co-operation (FSC) and OSCE Permanent Council.

“OSCE participating States committed themselves to not supporting terrorist acts in any way and to take appropriate measures to prevent and combat terrorism in all its forms,” said Armen Papikyan, Armenian FSC Chairperson during his opening remarks. “In light of the evolving nature of terrorism, there is a need to assess our actions and adjust our responses, particularly today, as countries remain focused on the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.”

The joint session, organized under the Armenian FSC Chairmanship and Sweden’s 2021 OSCE Chairpersonship, provided a platform for discussing recent trends and challenges related to terrorism, such as the growing use of new technology and the phenomenon of foreign terrorist fighters, and their impact on the OSCE region. It also examined how national, regional and international mechanisms can effectively prevent and combat terrorism. The role of the OSCE and participating States’ commitments in these efforts was also explored.

“We need to find effective strategies and must continue our ambition to prevent and combat terrorism in a unified way,” said Ulrika Funered, Chairperson of the OSCE Permanent Council, during her opening remarks. “This encompasses political, socioeconomic and environmental security, democracy and the rule of law and must be done in full compliance with human rights and principles of international law.”

A key part of global efforts is recognizing the potential role of new technologies for combating terrorism but also how it helps further terrorists’ operations, said Vladimir Voronkov, Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism. “To understand and address both the positive and negative impacts of new technologies, we need to establish partnerships that leverage unique entry points, capabilities, and insights from member states, regional organizations, civil society, and the private sector. It is also imperative to strengthen regional and international co-operation in this regard.”

Hrant Aghasaryan, from the National Security Service of Armenia, explained how international terrorist organizations are now spreading their efforts both online and offline, as well as expanding their activities and combat experience to other conflict zones using a range of technologies and methods, including engaging recruits, such as foreign terrorist fighters. To combat this, he called for the global community to combine its efforts and engage in “closer dialogue and co-operation to neutralize terrorist threats”.

Magnus Norell, Adjunct Scholar at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy and Senior Fellow at the European Foundation for Democracy, said: “With the large number of initiatives taken over especially the last 20 years, emphasis ought to be on implementation, such as words leading to concrete action."

“It is and will remain impossible to prevent all attacks,” said Éric Denécé, Director of the French Centre for Intelligence Studies. “But that does not mean that we are helpless in the face of this threat.” Using France as a primary example, Denécé explained how countries for decades have faced and combated terrorist threats and radicalization that leads to violence. “The fight against terrorism is a permanent and global fight, which requires realism and constancy, determination and measure.”

492802 Communication and Media Relations Section Alexandra Taylor

Twenty practitioners from South-Eastern Europe and Central Asia took part in an online interactive OSCE workshop on inclusive youth engagement in preventing and countering violent extremism and radicalization that lead to terrorism (P/CVERLT) held on 15 July 2021.

The workshop provided a platform for these active P/CVERLT practitioners to discuss challenges and best practices across the regions for reaching out to youth who feel alienated from society and are often not reached by P/CVERLT programmes.

The workshop was part of the OSCE Leaders against Intolerance and Violent Extremism (LIVE) Initiative, a flagship training programme that seeks to build the resilience and capacity of communities. LIVE promotes context-specific efforts against violent extremism developed and led by women, youth and community leaders.

The workshop was designed for graduates of the LIVE training programme to further build their skills and to provide expert support in implementing inclusive P/CVERLT programmes and initiatives. As a result, participants prepared action plans for inclusive youth engagement in their programmes.

The OSCE’s LIVE Initiative consists of three different training courses tailored to youth, women and community leaders across the OSCE area. From 2018 to 2021, the Action against Terrorism Unit of the OSCE Transnational Threats Department, in co-operation with the OSCE field operations, delivered a series of regional LIVE train-the-trainer seminars for South-Eastern Europe and Central Asia, and supported OSCE field operations in their implementation of national LIVE training courses.

SDGs SDGs:  16 - Peace, justice and strong institutions

Summary

• In Donetsk region, the SMM recorded 395 ceasefire violations, including 46 explosions. In the previous reporting period, it recorded 104 ceasefire violations in the region.
• In Luhansk region, the Mission recorded 99 ceasefire violations, including 12 explosions. In the previous reporting period, it recorded 104 ceasefire violations in the region.
• The SMM continued monitoring the disengagement areas near Stanytsia Luhanska, Zolote and Petrivske. It recorded ceasefire violations inside the disengagement area near Zolote.
• The Mission facilitated and monitored adherence to localized ceasefires to enable the operation of critical civilian infrastructure. It recorded a ceasefire violation near the Donetsk Filtration Station (DFS) during the transfer of DFS workers between Yasynuvata and the station.
• The SMM continued following up on the situation of civilians, including at three entry-exit checkpoints and the corresponding checkpoints of the armed formations in Luhansk region.
• The SMM monitored two crossing points on the border with Belarus and saw that they were open, with traffic entering and exiting Ukraine at one of them.
• The Mission’s freedom of movement continued to be restricted, including at four checkpoints of the armed formations, including three in southern Donetsk region. Its unmanned aerial vehicles again experienced instances of GPS signal interference.*

SARAJEVO, 14 July 2021 — Support to victims and assistance to local authorities in combating human trafficking was the focus of an official field visit to Bosnia and Herzegovina by Valiant Richey, OSCE Special Representative and Co-ordinator for Combating Trafficking in Human Beings, and Gudrun Kugler, Vice-Chair of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly Ad Hoc Committee on Migration.

During the three-day visit, Special Representative Richey and Vice-Chair Kugler discussed how to better implement recommendations formulated during an earlier virtual visit in March 2021. These recommendations focused on ways to improve the identification of and assistance to victims of trafficking among migrants, refugees and asylum seekers transiting the country.

“People on the move are particularly vulnerable and at a high risk of exploitation. Effectively identifying and protecting victims of trafficking is a crucial first step toward combating the crime,” Richey said.

Their discussions also focused on key steps for screening and detecting signs of exploitation, promoting economic empowerment of women as a prevention tool and granting migrant children and unaccompanied minors access to education.

“We support local authorities and civil society in building a system that will ensure identification and protection of victims of trafficking within mixed-migration flows and that will help dismantle criminal networks profiting from the exploitation of vulnerable people — children, women and men — in different ways,” said Vice-Chair Kugler. “Parliamentarians across the OSCE region are called to find ways to best combat trafficking, including prevention mechanisms and discouraging demand.”

The OSCE delegation observed that challenges persist on identification and protection of victims of trafficking in temporary reception centers for migrants. The delegation assessed the situation first hand at centers in Borici and Lipa.

Dmitry Iordanidi, Deputy Head of the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina, said that the Mission continuously monitors the situation at the local level, particularly in the Cantons that are more affected by the migrants, refugees and asylum seekers’ influx, such as Una Sana Canton and Sarajevo Canton, and is working to promote better co-ordination between different levels of authorities in addressing the issue.

The OSCE officials further called for strengthening national, regional and international co-operation to dismantle international trafficking networks and provide support to victims of human trafficking in a coherent, durable and humane way.

Echoing their call, Samir Rizvo, State Co-ordinator for Combating Trafficking in Human Beings in Bosnia and Herzegovina, said: “All national and international stakeholders have to co-operate to jointly find solutions for the identification and protection of victims in migration flows as a transnational problem.”

492778 OSCE Centre in Ashgabat

Experiences in combating illegal drugs and precursors, new trends in drug trafficking and the implications of the COVID-19 pandemic were discussed during a three-day OSCE training seminar held in Ashgabat from 12 to 14 July 2021.

Twenty representatives of Turkmenistan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs, State Border Services, State Customs Services, and General Prosecutor’s Office attended the event.

Led by international expert from Georgia, the course comprised lectures and practical exercises followed by interactive discussions. It provided insights into relevant legislative frameworks and regional developments and sought to increase the operational awareness of law enforcement, border security and customs officials for detecting and identifying illegal drugs and chemical precursors used for drug production.

The course also aimed to help improve intra-agency and interdepartmental co-ordination and contribute to border control and police agencies’ efforts to intercept and prevent illicit drug trafficking and address drug abuse problems.  

“Unquestionably, illicit drugs and new psychoactive substances are considered one of the most serious problems for communities, as well as a severe threat to health and safety of people and their social wellbeing. They disrupt public order, fuel violent crime and destabilize national economies,” said John MacGregor, Head of the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat. “I am very worried about the global illicit drug problem. Law enforcement experts say the illicit drug market has proved ‘remarkably resilient’ to the pandemic crisis, as traffickers alter the routes and smuggling methods, and create new markets for their contraband. We must now respond in new ways to deal with the illicit drug trade. To do that, we must co-operate among OSCE participating States and globally to share the best anti-trafficking techniques and experiences.”  

The event was organized within the framework of the Centre’s project, “Building Capacity of Law Enforcement and Security Officials of Turkmenistan in Countering Transnational Threats Related to Organized Crime and Terrorism.” 

SDGs SDGs:  16 - Peace, justice and strong institutions

Summary

• In Donetsk region, the Mission recorded 104 ceasefire violations, including 29 explosions. In the previous 24 hours, it recorded 218 ceasefire violations in the region.
• In Luhansk region, the SMM recorded 104 ceasefire violations, including two explosions. In the previous 24 hours, it recorded 26 ceasefire violations in the region.
• The Mission followed up on reports of a man injured by shrapnel in non-government-controlled Zolote 5/Mykhailivka, Luhansk region.
• Small-arms fire was assessed as directed at SMM mini-unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) near government-controlled Trokhizbenka and near non-government-controlled Kadiivka, Luhansk region.*
• The SMM continued monitoring the disengagement areas near Stanytsia Luhanska, Zolote and Petrivske.
• The Mission facilitated and monitored adherence to localized ceasefires to enable the operation and repairs of critical civilian infrastructure.
• The SMM continued following up on the situation of civilians, including at four entry-exit checkpoints and the corresponding checkpoints of the armed formations in Donetsk and Luhansk regions.
• The Mission visited a border crossing point and a railway station outside government control and monitored border areas outside government control, all in Donetsk and Luhansk regions.
• The SMM monitored two crossing points on the border with Belarus and saw that they were open, with traffic entering and exiting Ukraine.
• The Mission’s freedom of movement continued to be restricted, including at four checkpoints of the armed formations in southern Donetsk region.*

ERGNETI, 13 July 2021 — The 101st meeting of the Incident Prevention and Response Mechanism (IPRM) convened today in Ergneti, co-facilitated by the EU Monitoring Mission in Georgia and the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE). In view of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, all necessary sanitary precautions continued to be followed at the meeting venue.

During the meeting, participants exchanged views and had constructive discussions on the impact of the prolonged closure of crossing points and other restrictions affecting the livelihoods of the conflict-affected population, on the most recent security developments at the administrative boundary line (ABL), on current detention cases, and on the consequences of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Participants agreed to follow up on the technical meeting on irrigation issues held on 8 July 2021.

The Head of the EU Monitoring Mission in Georgia (EUMM), Ambassador Marek Szczygieł welcomed the participants’ engagement in the IPRM format as a key factor for stabilization and normalization on the ground. The co-facilitators also stressed the importance of continued dialogue and called for mutually acceptable solutions that uphold humanitarian principles and respond positively to the needs and human rights of the conflict-affected population. They reiterated that they stand ready to support all such efforts, which would pave the way for resuming freedom of movement and resolution of other issues such as irrigation water management. During the meeting, attention also focused on steps that could be taken by participants to address Women, Peace and Security issues in the IPRM format.

The participants agreed to plan for a subsequent meeting on 27 September 2021.

SUMMARY

Kamensk-Shakhtinskiy, Russian Federation. The Observer Mission (OM) continues to operate 24/7 at both Border Crossing Points (BCPs). The overall number of border crossings by persons decreased at both BCPs compared to the previous week. 

OPERATIONAL REMARKS

The OM is currently operating with 22 permanent international Mission members, including the Chief Observer (CO) and a First Responder.[1] The Mission is supported administratively by a staff member and the Chief of Fund Administration based in Vienna.

Update on COVID-19 measures

Activities have been impacted by COVID-19 and measures undertaken by the OM to ensure the safety and duty of care of its Mission members and compliance with measures set by the host country authorities. The Mission is continuing to keep the situation under review, in close contact with the OSCE Secretariat and the Chairpersonship. Following the host country’s recommendations, the observers are adhering to social distancing. Due to the preventive measures taken by the central and regional authorities, the OM is faced with certain difficulties, but is still able to continue to fulfil its mandate without any limitations in its observation and reporting activities. The vaccination process provided by the host country medical system continues on a voluntary basis. To date, 80 per cent of OM staff have now been vaccinated. The OM is fully staffed and operational.

OBSERVATIONS AT THE BORDER CROSSING POINTS

Persons crossing the border

The profile of persons crossing the border can be categorized as follows:

1. Adults travelling on foot or by car with little or no luggage.
2. Persons in military-style outfits.
3. Families (often including elderly persons and/or children) travelling on foot or by car with a significant amount of luggage.

The average number of entries/exits decreased from 10,236 to 9,693 per day at both BCPs compared to last week. During the reporting period, the majority of border crossings were to the Russian Federation, with an average net flow of 253 per day for both BCPs. The Donetsk BCP continued to experience much more traffic than the Gukovo BCP.

Responding to the COVID-19 situation, the host country closed its borders for the majority of foreigners starting from 18 March 2020. Among the exceptions of persons allowed to cross the border (which entered into force on 19 March) are Ukrainian citizens and stateless persons holding passports or identification documents proving permanent residence in certain areas of Luhansk and Donetsk regions of Ukraine. In addition, reportedly, due to the threat of the spread of COVID-19, starting from 10 April 2020, the organized passenger transport commuting between the non-government-controlled areas of Luhansk region of Ukraine and the Russian Federation was temporarily suspended and restored from 25 June.

Persons in military-style outfits

During the reporting period, the number of persons in military-style outfits crossing the border was five, compared to three last week; all five persons crossed into Ukraine while no persons crossed into the Russian Federation. These individuals crossed the border on foot.

Families with a significant amount of luggage

The OTs continued to report on families, sometimes with elderly persons and/or children, crossing the border at both BCPs with a significant amount of luggage, or travelling in heavily loaded cars. During this reporting week, 12 families were observed crossing into the Russian Federation while 15 families were observed crossing into Ukraine, compared to the previous reporting period when four families were observed crossing into the Russian Federation, while one family was observed crossing into Ukraine.

Bus connections                                         

Regular local and long-distance bus connections continued to operate between Ukraine (mostly from/to the Luhansk region) and the Russian Federation. During the reporting period, the OTs observed a decrease in the overall number of buses crossing the border at both BCPs (440 compared to 468 observed during the previous week). There were 219 buses bound for the Russian Federation and 221 bound for Ukraine.

On some occasions, the OTs noticed the bus drivers removing the itinerary signs from the windshields of their buses, while some buses did not display their route at all. The majority of long-distance buses commuting between the Luhansk region and cities in the Russian Federation had Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region.

Among the bus connections observed by the OTs, the following “irregular” route or destination was noted: Sevastopol.

Trucks

During the reporting period, the OTs observed a decrease in the overall number of trucks crossing the border at both BCPs (751 compared to 780 during the previous reporting week); 417 at the Gukovo BCP and 334 at the Donetsk BCP, 383 of these trucks crossed into the Russian Federation, and 368 crossed into Ukraine. Most of the trucks observed by the OTs had Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region; however, on a daily basis, the OTs also noted trucks registered in Belarus, Lithuania, Georgia, the Russian Federation, and trucks with “LPR” plates.

The OTs also continued to observe tanker trucks crossing the border in both directions. During the reporting period, the OTs observed an increase in the overall number of tanker trucks crossing the border at both BCPs (54 compared to 30 during the previous reporting week). These trucks were observed crossing the border at both BCPs. The trucks had the words “Propane” and “Flammable” written across the tanks in either Russian or Ukrainian. The majority of tanker trucks had hazard signs, indicating that they were transporting propane or a mix of propane and butane. All trucks underwent systematic inspection by Russian Federation officials, which could include an X-ray check. Due to the unfavorable observation position at the Gukovo BCP, the OTs continued to be unable to observe any X-ray checks.

Compared to the previous week, the total number of X-ray checks at the Donetsk BCP slightly increased from 182 to 184. Of the total number of trucks scanned, 183 trucks (99 per cent) were bound for Ukraine and the remaining one (one per cent) crossed into the Russian Federation.

Minivans

The OM continued to observe passenger and cargo minivans[2] crossing the border in both directions at both BCPs. The OTs observed minivans predominantly with Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region; however, the OTs also saw minivans registered in the Russian Federation. During the reporting period, the OTs observed an increase in the overall number of minivans crossing the border at both BCPs (142 compared to 128 observed during the previous week); 72 crossed into the Russian Federation and another 70 into Ukraine.

Trains

The OTs continued to pick up the sound of trains on the railway tracks located approximately 150m south-west of the Gukovo BCP. During the reporting week, the OTs heard trains on 30 occasions; the OTs assessed that 19 trains were travelling to the Russian Federation and the remaining 11 trains were travelling to Ukraine (more details are provided in the sections “trends and figures at a glance” below).

Visual observation was not possible because of the line of trees located between the train tracks and the BCP.

Other observations

The majority of vehicles crossing the border had Ukrainian licence plates issued in the Luhansk region or Russian Federation licence plates. A significant number of vehicles with “LPR” plates were also observed crossing the border in both directions on a daily basis. The OTs also observed vehicles with Georgian, Polish, Lithuanian licence plates, and a vehicle with” DPR” plates.

On 7 July at 13:35, the OT at the Donetsk BCP observed a group of 15 brand-new vehicles type “GAZelle” without licence plates, entering the BCP from the Russian Federation and parking at the customs control area. Out of 15 vehicles, six had an inscription “Urgent Medical Help” (in Russian) on the side. Only a driver was observed inside each vehicle. After undergoing border and customs control procedures, all vehicles left for Ukraine at 16:25.

On 8 July at 14:48, the OT at the Donetsk BCP observed a police minivan with three police officers inside, entering the BCP from the Russian Federation and parking behind the main building. At 15:24 the minivan drove back towards the Russian Federation. The OT was unable to notice any other details from its position.

On 11 July at 18:32, the OT at the Gukovo BCP observed an ambulance with Russian Federation licence plates and three passengers on board (a driver and two medics) entering the BCP from the Russian Federation and parking behind the main building. The ambulance drove back towards the Russian Federation at 19:17. The OT was unable to notice any other details from its position.

On 13 July at 01:00, the OT at the Donetsk BCP observed one minivan and one medium size truck with “LPR” plates and an inscription “LPR Post”(in Russian) entering the BCP from Ukraine. After undergoing border control procedures, the vehicles left the BCP into the Russian Federation.

On 13 July at 08:50, the OT at the Donetsk BCP observed a green helicopter type Mi-8/Mi-17, flying from north in a north-easterly direction. The helicopter remained inside the airspace of the Russian Federation the entire time it was visible to the OT.

For trends and figures at a glance covering the period from 8 June 2021 to 13 July 2021, please see the attachment here.

[1]First responders are OSCE staff or Mission members deployed for a short period of time.

[2]Cargo minivans: light commercial vehicles with a maximum authorized mass of more than 3.5 t and not more than 7.5 t; with or without a trailer with a maximum mass of less than 750 kg (small cargo vehicles that correspond to driving licence C1).

VIENNA/WARSAW, 13 July 2021 — Understanding the implications of digital technology is key to the protection and promotion of human rights in the 21st century, OSCE leaders said as a two-day online conference concluded on the opportunities and challenges of the digital age for human rights and democracy.

“Digital technologies have great potential to promote and enhance the enjoyment of human rights, democracy and the rule of law,” said Director-General Elinor Hammarskjöld for the Swedish OSCE Chairpersonship. “But we must ensure that new technologies are not misused to violate or abuse human rights, and that any measures to address security concerns or the pandemic fully respect human rights — online and offline. Unequal access to digital technologies and the internet, including the gender digital divide, threatens to exacerbate existing inequalities.”

Some 350 people representing states, civil society, international organizations and national human rights institutions across the OSCE region registered for the online meeting, organized by the OSCE’s 2021 Swedish Chairpersonship together with the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR).

Recent decades have seen a dramatic increase in digitalization, as technological innovations and digital tools have become an essential part of everyday life. Digital technologies have undoubtedly strengthened the enjoyment of human rights, and by bridging geographical divides, they have provided opportunities for democratic engagement, to build networks, and share opinions and ideas.

At the same time, new challenges have arisen as so much of human activity has gone online. Hatred can be spread via digital platforms in a matter of seconds, and tools developed to fight crime or manage borders are at times being misused by some states to stifle critical voices and violate human rights.

“The Covid-19 pandemic has accelerated the process of digitalization of human life, changing the ways in which we interact with each other. While we enjoy the benefits digital innovations have brought to humanity, we must also strengthen our safeguards against damaging effects,” said ODIHR Director Matteo Mecacci. “In particular, we must also ensure that the ever increasing use of algorithms and artificial intelligence combats rather than replicates discrimination in our societies.”

ODIHR itself has worked in recent years to leverage digital technologies in order to strengthen human rights protection and democracy across the OSCE region, including through a series of online learning tools to train civil society and human rights defenders on topics such as digital security.

This Supplementary Human Dimension Meeting (SHDM) was the third to be held this year, following meetings on media freedom and gender equality and democratic lawmaking as a cornerstone of democracy. SHDMs are a platform for the OSCE’s participating States and OSCE institutions, as well as international organizations and civil society, to exchange views and good practices in order to find common solutions for the challenges facing societies across the OSCE region.

VIENNA, 13 July 2021 — Realising the potential of young people is key to ensuring economic success and enhancing stability in the Mediterranean region and the OSCE area, said speakers at the third Meeting of the OSCE Mediterranean Partners for Co-operation Group chaired by Poland yesterday.

Around 100 participants took part in the event, during which they discussed current young people employment trends and good practices for tapping into their potential in the Mediterranean region.

According to a 2021 study by the European Training Foundation highlighted during the meeting, young people make up between 22% and 34% of the working age population in the Mediterranean region. The study also shows that the pandemic’s effect on the global economy and employment has left many young people struggling to secure and maintain gainful employment.

Participants exchanged ideas on how to identify further opportunities to actively involve youth in prosperity strengthening initiatives, and peace and security in the OSCE and Mediterranean regions.

Adam Hałaciński, Permanent Representative of Poland and Chair of the Mediterranean Partners for Co-operation Group, said: “The young people of today need our support to become courageous individuals of tomorrow. They need access to education, high-quality professional training opportunities and the labour market.” 

Hałaciński also announced a new online initiative, the Young Political Advisors Course, for young people from the OSCE Mediterranean Partnership countries. The course is being developed by the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) in close co-operation with the Mediterranean Partners for Co-operation Group and is expected to commence in autumn 2021.

Luis Cuesta, Permanent Representative of Spain and a Co-Chair of the Group of Friends of Youth and Security, noted young people’s potential to contribute to comprehensive security and their role in promoting sustainable development, emphasising the need to support youth initiatives for greening the economy. Referring to the 2017 Malaga Decalogue, Cuesta outlined ten recommendations for mainstreaming the youth agenda into responses to security challenges in the OSCE area.

James E. Donegan, Chargé d’Affaires a.i. of the United States and Co-Chair of the Group of Friends of Youth and Security, said that the OSCE’s comprehensive concept of security provides a framework for young people to have their voices heard and to shape decisions that affect them. “We look forward to working with all participating States and the OSCE’s executive structures, institutions, and autonomous bodies to promote meaningful youth participation across the region.”

Rosaline Marbinah, OSCE Special Representative on Youth and Security, warned against a further marginalization of young people in times of crisis. “Young people need to be involved in the decision-making process on the way to post-pandemic recovery and be able to contribute to prosperity and security in the Mediterranean and the OSCE region.” 

In recognition of the importance that young people play in our societies, the 2021 OSCE Mediterranean Conference (12-13 October) will continue addressing youth issues in the context of the post-pandemic recovery.

SDGs SDGs:  16 - Peace, justice and strong institutions

Summary

• In Donetsk region, between the evenings of 9 and 11 July, the Mission recorded 335 ceasefire violations, including 28 explosions. In the previous reporting period, it recorded 15 ceasefire violations in the region.
• In Luhansk region, between the evenings of 9 and 11 July, the SMM recorded 56 ceasefire violations, including 25 explosions. In the previous reporting period, it recorded 114 ceasefire violations in the region.
• The Mission followed up on reports of a man who died due to shelling in non-government-controlled Donetsk city.
• The SMM observed damage to a civilian property in non-government-controlled Yasne, Donetsk region.
• The SMM continued monitoring the disengagement areas near Stanytsia Luhanska, Zolote and Petrivske. It recorded ceasefire violations inside the disengagement area near Petrivske.
• The Mission facilitated and monitored adherence to localized ceasefires to enable the operation and repairs of critical civilian infrastructure.
• The SMM continued following up on the situation of civilians, including at four entry-exit checkpoints and the corresponding checkpoints of the armed formations in Donetsk and Luhansk regions. At the checkpoint of the armed formations south of Stanytsia Luhanska bridge the SMM saw three people receive medical attention while queuing.
• The Mission visited two border crossing points outside government control in Donetsk region and monitored a railway station and border areas outside government control in Luhansk region.
• The Mission observed no change in the security situation in east and south-east Kherson region.
• The SMM’s freedom of movement continued to be restricted, including at four checkpoints of the armed formations in southern Donetsk region. Its UAVs again experienced multiple instances of GPS signal interference.*

Nuriya Sherzodova

In the framework of the 29th Staff Course for Women Leaders, the OSCE’s Border Management Staff College (BMSC) organized a roundtable discussion on 9 July 2021 in-person and online about border security and management and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The discussion brought together representatives of government agencies, civil society, diplomatic missions, international organizations, experts in the field, and students of the 29th Staff Course for Women Leaders, from Belarus, Georgia, Lithuania, Moldova, Mongolia, Montenegro, Poland, Romania, Spain, Thailand, Tunisia, Tajikistan and Ukraine.

“This is a good opportunity to exchange views and experiences on how to address challenges related to border security management at the times of a health crisis,” said Valeriu Chiveri, Head of the OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe during his opening speech.

The roundtable event provided a platform to examine the negative consequences of travel restrictions associated with the pandemic. Key discussion topics included human rights violations, the uncertainty of border regimes, curtailed mobility and emerging cross-border threats.  

Ilgar Ibrahimli, Acting Director of the BMSC, said: “Indeed, the pandemic has amplified and accelerated existing challenges faced by border security agencies. It has also created a “new reality”, which the whole world needs to adjust to”.

Keynote speaker, Pier Rossi-Longhi, Senior Regional Immigration and Border Management Specialist at the International Organization for Migration (IOM), noted the importance of keeping the right balance between security and the sustained adherence to the human rights of the most vulnerable people while introducing new procedures at the border crossing checkpoints.

Other contributors to the discussions included Denise Mazzolani, Deputy Head of the OSCE Strategic Police Matters Unit, Tatiana Kotlyarenko, Adviser on Anti-Trafficking Issues, at the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights, Anne Althaus International Migration Law Specialists at IOM, Gianna Sanchez, Anne Althaus International Migration Law Specialists at IOM, Inesa Nicolaescu, Associate Border Security Officer at the OSCE Transnational Threats Department. and Cameron Walter, Associate Programme Officer at the OSCE Transnational Threats Department.

The conducted roundtable was the second in a series of three roundtable discussions, covering various aspects of international cooperation in the context of border security and management. The subsequent one will focus on Countering Cyber/ICT security threats to Border Security and Management.

SOFIA, 12 July 2021 – Bulgaria’s early parliamentary elections were competitive and fundamental freedoms were generally respected, international observers said in a statement today. The campaign environment was dominated by mutual accusations of corruption between the former ruling party and the provisional government, as well as by efforts by law-enforcement to curb vote-buying, the statement says.

The elections were conducted under a legal framework which, though overall adequate, was substantially revised shortly before the elections, straining electoral preparations and affecting legal certainty, the observers said. The technical aspects of the elections were managed efficiently, despite the compressed timeframe, the COVID-19 pandemic and the late adoption of some important procedural regulations.

“These elections have taken place amid persistent public mistrust in the political establishment, mostly stemming from widespread allegations of corruption and an unsuccessful attempt to form a government following the elections in April,” said Artur Gerasymov, special co-ordinator and leader of the OSCE short-term observers. “Moreover, political influence and the high concentration of media ownership had a negative effect on editorial policies and on media pluralism overall. The lack of comprehensive journalistic reporting limited voters’ ability to make an informed choice.”

The activities of the provisional government and of the former ruling party, GERB, dominated media coverage, overshadowing that of the campaign and of other contestants. The lack of investigation of attacks on journalists, coupled with the criminalization of defamation, contributes to self-censorship.

“Yesterday’s process in polling stations was well organized, but an election is not to be assessed by election day alone. The recent significant amendments, introduced very quickly and just a short time before the elections, brought mandatory machine voting, without carrying out a study on its use in the April 4 elections,” said Alfred Heer, Head of the delegation from the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE). “While the use of new technologies in electoral processes can be considered as a positive development, nevertheless the PACE delegation is convinced that new technologies alone cannot restore Bulgarians’ trust in a truly democratic electoral process and cannot, on their own, exclude cases of political corruption, scandals and other long-standing problems. The Assembly, through its monitoring procedure, and the Venice Commission remain ready to co-operate with Bulgaria to improve the legal framework and electoral practices.”

Amendments to election laws in May introduced mandatory machine voting for most voters, established a new Central Election Commission (CEC), and removed limitations on establishing polling stations abroad.  The change to voting only with voting machines at polling stations with at least 300 registered voters, both in-country and abroad, was introduced as an effort to reduce the opportunity for electoral malfeasance, including vote-buying.

There were concerns, however, that the lack of timely and comprehensive voter education on machine voting might have dissuaded some elderly voters and others with limited computer literacy from voting. While machine-printed result sheets served as official results, the law does not include a mechanism for verifying the machine tallies, thus affecting transparency.

In the polling stations visited on election day, voting was generally in line with prescribed procedures. Machine voting was generally uninterrupted, with malfunctions requiring the voting to continue with the use of paper ballots reported in only 0.5 percent of polling stations.

“Despite the short timeframe for preparations, the establishment of a new Central Election Commission and the expanded use of voting machines, the elections were generally well administered,” said Elona Gjebrea Hoxha, Head of the delegation from the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly. “However, with the broadened use of these technologies, there will also be a need for further voter education, in order to increase proficiency and confidence in election voting technology.”

“Responding to long-standing allegations of vote-buying, a widespread but elusive problem, has received unprecedented government attention, with the Minister of Interior providing public updates on the cases of vote-buying under investigation.” said Tana de Zulueta, Head of the limited election observation mission from the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights. “At the same time, legislative shortcomings and limited reporting requirements and enforcement reduced the transparency and accountability of campaign finance.”

In a generally inclusive process, the election administration registered some 5,086 candidates from 23 parties and coalitions, and 29 per cent of candidates were women. Although the election administration carried out its duties adequately and met most legal deadlines, there were some concerns that the CEC’s partisan composition and lack of institutional capacity to match its legal powers affected efficient decision-making on contentious issues.

CHISINAU, 12 July 2021 – Moldova’s early parliamentary elections were well managed amidst an improved legal framework and voters were offered a wide choice of alternatives, but concerns over the impartiality of the election authorities undermined trust while inadequate campaign finance rules left potential breaches unaddressed, 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 forms a sound basis for democratic elections to take place. However, further improvements are needed, particularly to legislation dealing with complaints and appeals, as well as campaign finance oversight.  

"On top of some longstanding challenges, Moldova has been through many crises in recent years, and these early elections took place in the context of a broader political cycle, characterized by instability and political deadlock," said Ditmir Bushati, Special Co-ordinator and leader of the short-term OSCE observer mission. "Today, a new process begins. We now look forward to working closely with our colleagues in the new Moldovan parliament to find solutions to the shortcomings we have identified and deliver concrete results for the people of Moldova."

Election day itself was calm and transparent, and the process was found to be overwhelmingly positive despite isolated cases of overcrowding. The deeply polarized environment did not prevent substantial campaign themes from being discussed, including the economy, the fight against corruption, social and welfare issues, and judicial reform. The media played an important role during the campaign period. Numerous television debates broadcast nationwide allowed all parties to communicate their policies as well as provided information to voters. However, the bias of major media outlets due to their party affiliation weakened media safeguards on political pluralism.

“We compliment the Moldovan people on these elections, which ran smoothly and peacefully despite the deep polarization and negative campaigning that preceded election day. Serious work now lies ahead to form a government that is able and willing to undertake the reforms that Moldovans are asking for, particularly concerning the deeply-rooted corruption and the lack of independence of the judiciary,” said Stefan Schennach, Head of the PACE delegation. “Democracy will only flourish with a comprehensive media reform that provides clear rules on transparent media ownership and forms the basis for balanced and informative journalism.” 

Candidates were able to campaign actively despite pandemic-related restrictions. Observers also noted that while campaign finance rules are in place to ensure the transparency of both campaign contributions and expenditure, their enforcement is lax and investigations into potential violations are inadequate. At the same time, the impartiality of the judicial and election authorities was called into question by their handling of electoral disputes.

“I am glad that Moldova could organize and run these important elections efficiently and smoothly, as was clearly observed in polling stations, despite the continued challenge of the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Pia Kauma, Head of the OSCE PA Delegation. “However, when looking at the electoral process as a whole, some shortcomings, including on campaign finance oversight and election dispute resolution, need to be addressed to enhance transparency and further reinforce trust in the system.”

The campaign atmosphere was generally calm, and the fundamental freedoms key to democratic elections were largely respected. Towards the end of the campaign, the sharp criticism and personal insults intensified, but did not tip over into incitement to hostility or violence. Preparations were managed well, efficiently and transparently by the election administration. At the same time, doubts over the impartiality of the Central Election Commission (CEC) were a concern. Trust in the CEC was undermined by decisions that appeared to be lacking in neutrality, including on the number of polling stations set up abroad as well as for Transnistrian voters.

“We have observed a vibrant campaign in the run-up to this vote, and Moldova clearly has a sound basis to hold democratic elections, both in terms of legislation and technical preparation,” said Tamas Meszerics, Head of the ODIHR election observation mission. “More is still needed though to ensure a process that is fully in line with the democratic commitments the country has signed up to, building trust with the people of Moldova in the long term.”

Voters could choose from a broad range of political alternatives. In addition, extensive online training offered by the national election authorities for all members of the local election administration was interactive and efficient overall, while the national voter information campaign was comprehensive and inclusive.

“We call on all stakeholders to show political maturity and responsibility and give priority to the country's interests. The result of this election should be a starting point from which the new government should accelerate genuine and ambitious reforms,” said David McAllister, Head of the EP delegation. “We will follow post-electoral developments closely and we'll be ready to support the people of Moldova in implementing all the necessary reforms.”

The international election observation mission to Moldova’s early parliamentary elections totalled 313 observers from 41 countries, consisting of 221 ODIHR-deployed experts and long-term observers, 59 parliamentarians and staff from the OSCE PA, 22 from PACE, and 11 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 60 10 81 77 or nat@oscepa.dk

Cristina Castagnoli, EP: +32470880872 or cristina.castagnoli@europarl.europa.eu

Ivi-Triin Odrats, PACE: +33 607067773 or Ivi-Triin.ODRATS@coe.int

SDGs SDGs:  16 - Peace, justice and strong institutions

Summary

• In Donetsk region, the Mission recorded 15 ceasefire violations, including nine explosions. In the previous reporting period, it recorded 86 ceasefire violations in the region.
• In Luhansk region, the SMM recorded 114 ceasefire violations, including 53 explosions. In the previous reporting period, it recorded 43 ceasefire violations in the region.
• The Mission saw damage due to small-arms fire to an inhabited apartment building in non-government-controlled Zolote 5/Mykhailivka, Luhansk region.

• The SMM continued monitoring the disengagement areas near Stanytsia Luhanska, Zolote and Petrivske.
• The Mission facilitated and monitored adherence to localized ceasefires to enable the operation and maintenance of critical civilian infrastructure.
• The SMM continued following up on the situation of civilians, including at four entry-exit checkpoints and the corresponding checkpoints of the armed formations in Donetsk and Luhansk regions.
• The SMM’s freedom of movement continued to be restricted, including at checkpoints of the armed formations in southern Donetsk region. Its UAVs again experienced instances of GPS signal interference.*

CHISINAU, 10 July 2021 – International election observers will hold a press conference to present their findings on Monday following the early parliamentary elections in Moldova.

NB Due to social distancing requirements, only a limited number of journalists can attend the press conference in person. All others will have the opportunity to watch and ask questions via Zoom. Broadcast media wishing to film the press conference will be prioritized for personal attendance.

What:

• A news conference of the international election observation mission to the early parliamentary elections in Moldova
• The press conference can be attended in person or via Zoom (details below)
• You can also follow the livestream on www.facebook.com/osce.odihr  and www.oscepa.org

Who:

Statements will be made by:

• Ditmir Bushati, Special co-ordinator and leader of the short-term OSCE observer mission
• Stefan Schennach, Head of the PACE delegation
• David McAllister, Head of the EP delegation
• Pia Kauma, Head of the OSCE PA delegation
• Tamas Meszerics, Head of the ODIHR election observation mission

When:

• 15.30 local time (GMT +3) on 12 July 2021

Where:

• Raut meeting room, Radisson Blu Leogrand Hotel, Chisinau

Registration:

• To take part via Zoom, please register by 10:00 local time on 12 July using this link.

The international election observation is a joint mission of 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). The mission totals 314 observers from 41 countries, including 221 ODIHR-deployed experts, long-term and short-term observers, 60 parliamentarians and staff from the OSCE PA, 22 from PACE, and 11 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 60 10 81 77 or nat@oscepa.dk

Cristina Castagnoli, EP: +32470880872 or cristina.castagnoli@europarl.europa.eu

Ivi-Triin Odrats, PACE: +33 607067773 or Ivi-Triin.ODRATS@coe.int

SDGs SDGs:  16 - Peace, justice and strong institutions

Summary

• In Donetsk region, the Mission recorded 86 ceasefire violations, including 81 explosions. In the previous reporting period, it recorded 75 ceasefire violations in the region.
• In Luhansk region, the SMM recorded 43 ceasefire violations, including four explosions. In the previous reporting period, it recorded ten ceasefire violations in the region.
• The Mission saw recent craters near and damage to inhabited houses in government-controlled Avdiivka, Donetsk region.
• Small-arms fire was assessed as directed at an SMM mini-unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) near government-controlled Novoluhanske, Donetsk region.*

• The SMM continued monitoring the disengagement areas near Stanytsia Luhanska, Zolote and Petrivske.
• The Mission facilitated and monitored adherence to localized ceasefires to enable the operation of critical civilian infrastructure.
• The SMM continued following up on the situation of civilians, including at five entry-exit checkpoints and four corresponding checkpoints of the armed formations in Donetsk and Luhansk regions.
• The SMM’s freedom of movement continued to be restricted, including at a checkpoint of the armed formations near Novoazovsk, southern Donetsk region. Its UAVs also again experienced instances of GPS signal interference.*