Central Europe

The OSCE Transnational Threats Department (TNTD) contributed to the 2021 Kuban Cyber-Security Conference held online and in-person in Krasnodar, Russia on 23 and 24 June 2021. The purpose of the conference was to provide an open platform for dialogue between representatives of state authorities, businesses, experts and youth on topical issues related to protection against cyber threats.

The conference is organized by the Administration of the Krasnodar Territory; the Analytical Agency for Computer Security, a non-profit organization; the Association for Digital Development and Communications of the Krasnodar Territory; and the Kuban State Technological University.

Szilvia Toth, OSCE Cyber Security Officer, took part in a panel discussion dedicated to the development of common approaches to cooperation in the field of international information communication technology (ICT) security. She presented the OSCE’s efforts in developing and implementing cyber/ICT security Confidence-Building Measures. She also announced that a Russian language version of OSCE’s e-learning course about the measures will be published in July 2021.

Denise Mazzolani, Deputy Head of the OSCE’s Strategic Police Matters Unit, contributed to a plenary session on “Countering the Criminal Use of ICTs: Prospects for International Cooperation”. She focused on the OSCE’s work to enhance the criminal justice response to cybercrime, while upholding human rights, fundamental freedoms and the rule of law.

During her presentation, Mazzolani explained how the OSCE has a mandate to facilitate capacity building and the exchange of information and best practices in investigating cybercrime and dealing with cyber evidence at regional and national levels. She also emphasized that the OSCE, in its endeavours to enhance co-operation on cyber issues and cybercrime, complements the efforts of other international organizations to avoid duplications, reinforce synergies and capitalize on previous experiences.

SOFIA, 24 June 2021 – Valiant Richey, OSCE Special Representative for Combating Trafficking in Human Beings, on the last day of his three-day official visit to Sofia, reported that Bulgaria has developed sound initiatives that focus its anti-trafficking efforts on prevention.

During the visit, Richey met with anti-trafficking stakeholders from throughout the country, including Deputy Prime Minister and Chair of the National Commission for Combating Trafficking in Human Beings Boyko Rashkov. Richey met high-level government officials from the Interior Ministry, the General Directorate for Organized Crime, the Justice Ministry, the Supreme Court of Cassation, the Supreme Prosecutor’s Office of Cassation, the Foreign Affairs Ministry, the Labour and Social Policy Ministry, and the Commission for Anti-Corruption and Illegal Assets Forfeiture. He also met with members of civil society and the Ombudsman, and visited a shelter for adult victims of trafficking.

At a joint press briefing with Deputy Prime Minister Rashkov, Richey praised Bulgarian authorities for their focus on preventing the exploitation of Bulgarians abroad, a solid legal framework for combating human trafficking and an established track record in recovering proceeds from the crime. “Challenges that still remain are in implementation and the culture of impunity. Human trafficking is a serious crime, a security threat and a grave violation of human rights. Traffickers must be held accountable for the harm they cause with punishments that reflect the gravity of the crime,” said Richey.

"The penalties in Bulgaria are quite liberal,” said Deputy Prime Minister Rashkov. “We need to focus on sanctions because suspended sentences are often imposed. These punishments do not have the needed preventive effect on perpetrators." Rashkov added that suspended sentences are not helpful for victims’ recovery and overcoming the psychological traumas; it deprives them of confidence and a sense of security.

Richey noted that better data collection is needed to help assess the scale of human trafficking and the impact of current anti-trafficking measures. “I hope this visit will also serve to foster additional political will to prioritize efforts and financial resources to enhance and sustain victim support services and facilitate the prosecution of traffickers.”

The Special Representative conducts multiple country visits each year to help increase the capacity of OSCE participating States in addressing human trafficking, to share recommendations and collect best practices for fighting this heinous crime. A report detailing the findings of his visit will be released later in 2021.

SDGs SDGs:  16 - Peace, justice and strong institutions

Summary

• In Donetsk region, the SMM recorded 179 ceasefire violations, including 115 explosions. In the previous reporting period, it recorded 77 ceasefire violations in the region.
• In Luhansk region, the Mission recorded 71 ceasefire violations, including 26 explosions. In the previous reporting period, it recorded 89 ceasefire violations in the region.

• The SMM continued monitoring the disengagement areas near Stanytsia Luhanska, Zolote and Petrivske. It recorded ceasefire violations near the disengagement area near Zolote and inside and near the disengagement area near 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 Mission’s freedom of movement continued to be restricted. Its unmanned aerial vehicles again experienced instances of GPS signal interference.*

490958 Communication and Media Relations Section Asian Partners for Co-operation SDGs SDGs:  17 - Partnerships for the goals

How international co-operation can lead to a more stable, predictable and safe cyberspace, was the focus of the 3rd Inter-Regional Conference on Cyber/ICT Security. The Republic of Korea and the OSCE organized the event, held in Vienna in a virtual setting on 22 and 23 June, with the participation of 280 governmental and non-state representatives.

The event took place closely after the adoption of the UN Open-Ended Working Group and the UN Group of Governmental Experts consensus reports on cybersecurity. Speakers emphasized that these reports have affirmed and strengthened the “acquis” of international ICT security for the first time since 2015. This includes a much greater degree of recognition of the role of regional organizations in raising awareness about the UN framework on responsible state behaviour in cyberspace and its practical implementation.

The Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea, Choi Jongmoon, described inter-regional co-operation on confronting common cyber threats as “indispensable.” OSCE Co-ordinator of Activities to Address Transnational Threats Alena Kupchyna emphasized the role regional organisations play — such as the OSCE — “and how cross-regional exchanges can establish new avenues for collaboration and mutual learning”.

Participants agreed that more can be done to build trust and encourage practical co-operation between regions. Speakers shared ideas on how to bolster such co-operation, whether formally, under UN auspices, or informally, through joint cybersecurity exercises, capacity-building initiatives and joint regional implementation of specific confidence-building measures (CBMs).

The 16 CBMs adopted by OSCE participating States, due to their practical and depoliticized nature, are a proven tool for strengthening inter-State collaboration. CBMs are adapted to regional needs and serve as good examples for cross-regional adaptation, facilitating transparency, co-operation and exchange of best practices.

The importance of a multi-stakeholder approach to cybersecurity was highlighted throughout the conference. Panellists emphasized the role that these sectors play in securing critical infrastructures, education and capacity building. They called for the facilitation of non-governmental participation in multilateral discussions, highlighting what these actors can bring to the table.

In a discussion on addressing gender-perspectives in cyber policy, speakers presented innovative ideas and recommendations on how to incentivize and ensure meaningful participation of women in cyber/ICT security, through capacity-building activities and role models. Practical proposals on the implementation of individual OSCE CBMs in a more gender sensitive manner were particularly interesting.

Deputy Minister for Multilateral and Global Affairs of the Republic of Korea Ham Sangwook closed the conference with the statement: “Co-operation between regions is becoming concrete and contributing to the enhancement of regional and international cyber stability.”

VIENNA, 24 June 2021 – The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, Teresa Ribeiro, today stated that the recently adopted laws in Belarus seriously contradict international human rights standards on freedom of expression and freedom of the media, including the OSCE commitments of the country.

“The recent legal regulations adopted by the Belarusian authorities are detrimental to the already dire state of freedom of expression and freedom of the media in the country,” Ribeiro said. “I call on the national authorities to repeal these excessively restrictive provisions and undertake a comprehensive reform of the national legislation to bring it in line with applicable international standards and the OSCE commitments of the Republic of Belarus.”

The Representative’s comments follow legal analyses commissioned by her Office and prepared by independent experts of the then draft laws “On amending legislation in the sphere of mass media”, “On amending the Law of the Republic of Belarus “On Mass Events in the Republic of Belarus” and “On Amending the Codes Related to Criminal Liability Issues”. As per established practice, the experts analysed the laws, which were enacted in late May 2021, in the context of the provisions of the Constitution of the Republic of Belarus, as well as in the context of relevant international standards and OSCE commitments on freedom of the media.

The analysis of first two documents, undertaken by media lawyer Dmitry Golovanov, concludes that the newly introduced amendments contain a prevailing potential of excessive restrictions on the right to freedom of expression and freedom of the media. The analysis underlines that the amendments lack sufficient balancing provisions to prevent the unjustified application of restrictive measures for the mass media, which will inevitably narrow the space for freedom of information.    

While the law “On Amending the Codes Related to Criminal Liability Issues” concerns a broad range of existing and new crimes, expert Dr. Elena Sherstoboeva focused on the provisions that affect the right to freedom of expression and freedom of the media. She studied, amongst others, the provisions related to extremism, defamation, artistic freedom and privacy. The analysis concludes that the law poses serious new challenges to the exercise of the aforementioned rights, as it significantly increases already disproportionate criminal penalties for existing crimes; provides excessively harsh punishment for new offenses; and – as it largely fails to comply with international standards on proportionality, legality and necessity – poses the risk of arbitrary application.

“The legal reviews offer important recommendations aimed at addressing the most problematic matters of free speech in Belarus. As always, my Office stands ready to assist and provide further, so much needed expertise,” Ribeiro added.

The Executive Summaries (in English) and full legal analyses (in Russian) are available at:

https://www.osce.org/representative-on-freedom-of-media/490493

https://www.osce.org/representative-on-freedom-of-media/490499

Earlier, the Representative commissioned and presented to the authorities a Legal Review of Resolution No. 578 of the Council of Ministers of the Republic of Belarus, adopted on 2 October 2020, which governs accreditation rules and procedures for foreign journalists in Belarus: https://www.osce.org/representative-on-freedom-of-media/481264

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

KYIV, 24 June 2021 – The Special Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office in Ukraine and in the Trilateral Contact Group (TCG), Ambassador Heidi Grau, made the following statement to the press after the regular meetings of the TCG ‎and its Working Groups held through video conferencing:

“In recent weeks, the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) has observed a deterioration of the security situation in the disengagement areas. Also, the Mission continues to record the use of heavy weapons deployed in violation of the withdrawal lines. In addition, there are continued restrictions and other impediments to the freedom of movement of the OSCE SMM as well as targeting its unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). This precludes an effective implementation of the Mission's mandate.

Ceasefire violations were in the focus of the Security Working Group and the TCG. I regret to say that it was not possible to agree on concrete measures that could improve the security situation. The participants exchanged proposals for a joint document on the coordination and verification mechanism, however they could not reach consensus. An attempt to advance the discussion with regard to demining was also ineffective.

The Political Working Group continued informal consultations. Nevertheless, for quite some time now it has not been possible to find a constructive approach and fulfil the task of the TCG to develop an action plan in full compliance with the Minsk agreements. I would like to note that in this case procedural issues prevail over discussion of concrete measures.  

The participants of the Humanitarian Working Group had an in-depth discussion as regards the exchange of conflict-related detainees, paying particular attention to the aspect of “procedural clearance”. The remaining obstacles to the simultaneous opening of the new crossing points near Zolote and Shchastia in the Luhansk region were also duly considered.

Discussions in the Economic Working Group focused on water supplies, pension payments and property rights. Particular attention was also paid to environmental issues, in particular the possible establishment of an expert group on flooded mines. In this context, the participants were able to agree on a number of important procedural issues.

On their last day of duty in the TCG, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Ambassador Pierre Morel, Coordinator of the Political Working Group and Ambassador Toni Frisch, Coordinator of the Humanitarian Working Group. In the course of the past six years, their diplomatic skills coupled with outstanding commitment and creativity, were crucial in facilitating progress on key aspects of the Minsk agreements.”

SDGs SDGs:  16 - Peace, justice and strong institutions

Summary

• In Donetsk region, the SMM recorded 77 ceasefire violations, including 36 explosions. In the previous reporting period, it recorded 254 ceasefire violations in the region.
• In Luhansk region, the Mission recorded 89 ceasefire violations, including 24 explosions. In the previous reporting period, it recorded 36 ceasefire violations in the region.
• Small-arms fire was assessed as directed at an SMM mini-unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) near non-government-controlled Kalynove-Borshchuvate, Luhansk region.*

• The SMM continued monitoring the disengagement areas near Stanytsia Luhanska, Zolote and Petrivske. It recorded ceasefire violations close to the disengagement areas near 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 three entry-exit checkpoints and the corresponding checkpoints of the armed formations in Luhansk region.
• The SMM’s freedom of movement continued to be restricted, including at checkpoints of the armed formations near Novoazovsk and Siedove, in southern Donetsk region. Its UAVs again experienced multiple instances of GPS signal interference.*

491226

From 21 to 23 June, the OSCE Programme Office in Nur-Sultan supported a training seminar on countering poaching in Ust-Kamenogorsk organized in partnership with the Law Enforcement Agencies Academy (LEAA).

Some 27 representatives, including twenty men and seven women of the LEAA, the Okhotzooprom, a wildlife protection service, and the Forestry and Wildlife Committee attended the event. Three law-enforcement practitioners conducted the seminar — a legal expert, a mediator and a psychology specialist. The seminar focussed on aspects of resolving possible conflict situations with poachers.

During the seminar, participants reviewed legally allowable circumstances when firearms can be used and crisis management methods with potential violators. The training seminar involved a conflict management simulation exercise and a self-defence training session for Okhotzooprom officials conducted by a martial art coach.

The event is part of the Programme Office’s multi-year efforts to build the capacities of environmental authorities of Kazakhstan by supporting their fight against poaching.

SARAJEVO, 23 June 2021 - The OSCE Mission to BiH and the Ministry of Security hosted a national capacity-building workshop in Sarajevo for representatives from the Aarhus Centers and civil society organizations (CSO) across Bosnia and Herzegovina. Enhancing knowledge, increasing skills, and promoting awareness in  disaster risk reduction (DRR) was the focus of the workshop.

Participants discussed the proposal of the 2021–2025 BiH DDR Strategy. The elaborated proposal of the Strategy, developed today, is expected to be submitted to the Security Ministry by the end of July, for consideration and inclusion into the draft Strategy.

In order to adequately address a growing number of disasters, the Mission supports BiH in meeting its commitment to strengthen its DRR capacity and strategic framework in line with the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction.

By fulfilling this obligation, BiH would progress toward achieving the global Sustainable Development Goals 11 and 13 — to make human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable and to combat climate change and its impacts.

“The OSCE commitments prioritize disaster risk awareness and highlight the significance of community-based DRR that is gender-, age-, and disability-sensitive,” said Dr. Susan Penksa, Head of Security Co-operation at the OSCE Mission to BiH. “The OSCE DRR Decision encourages multi-stakeholder partnerships wherever possible, including collaboration with Aarhus Centres and other competent CSOs who are key partners for raising awareness on the potential risks of disasters. I am proud of the impact of OSCE assistance in improving governance and transparency in the field of DRR. ”

The economic impact of the devastating floods and landslides in 2014 was estimated to have reached EUR 2 billion. Sustainable use and effective management of ecosystems and natural resources is critical to decreasing widespread and calamitous effects of future natural hazards.

Kunduz Rysbek

From 14 to 19 June 2021, Alexey Rogov, Head of the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek, visited the Jalal-Abad and Osh provinces to meet with local partners to discuss areas of co-operation.

Rogov visited the Public Environmental Center in the city of Mailuu-Suu, established in 2015 with OSCE and UNDP support. The Center provides an opportunity to engage all stakeholders in the rehabilitation of local uranium legacy sites. During a meeting with city mayor Nurlanbek Umarov, Rogov reaffirmed OSCE’s continued support to promote safe and sustainable economic and environmental development principles in Mailuu-Suu.

Rogov visited the Entrepreneurship Support Centers (ESC) in Osh and Jalal-Abad, which the OSCE helped set up in 2018 and 2019 respectively. The ESC aims to boost small and medium-sized enterprises (SME), including female entrepreneurship, by providing legal and business consultations, including through its tailor-made online mini-MBA courses. Stimulating SMEs is especially important to speed up economic recovery in Kyrgyzstan’s provinces during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.  

Rogov also met with Jalal-Abad province Governor Absattar Syrgabaev, who praised the OSCE supported Jalal-Abad – Namangan Business Forum that took place in early June. The Forum aimed to deepen cross-border trade links between Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan. Recognizing the importance of local self-government’s role in fostering sustainable development, Rogov discussed capacity-building activities for representatives of the Jalal-Abad Regional Development Fund and local business community with Jalal-Abad city mayor Ernisbek Ormokov.

During the meeting with representatives of Women Initiative Groups (WIGs) in Osh, Rogov discussed on-going co-operation, including OSCE’s support to WIGs and local self-government bodies, in developing a Joint Action Plan on strengthening cross-border security. The latter activity is also part of the new National Action Plan on the implementation of the UNSCR 1325.

Rogov also visited the Osh Aarhus Centre, established with the OSCE support, which works to provide a platform for dialogue to engage citizens, local government and the private sector on environmental challenges.   

Trafficking in persons is not just a transnational crime; it is a tragic loss of personal freedom. This was at the centre of a discussion between Rogov and the Programme Office’s local partner, the International Protection Support Center in Osh.

The trip ended with a meeting between Rogov and representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kyrgyz Republic in the south, to discuss further co-operation in southern provinces of the country.

Rogov expressed readiness to continue supporting activities, across all of Kyrgyzstan and across all three dimensions, within the Programme Office’s mandate and in line with OSCE commitments.

SDGs SDGs:  16 - Peace, justice and strong institutions

Summary

• In Donetsk region, the SMM recorded 254 ceasefire violations, including 117 explosions. In the previous 24 hours, it recorded 91 ceasefire violations in the region.
• In Luhansk region, the Mission recorded 36 ceasefire violations, including 17 explosions. In the previous 24 hours, it recorded no ceasefire violations in the region.
• The SMM followed up on reports of a woman injured due to the detonation of an explosive object in non-government-controlled Pervomaisk, Luhansk region.

• The SMM continued monitoring the disengagement areas near Stanytsia Luhanska, Zolote and Petrivske. It recorded ceasefire violations inside and in areas close to the disengagement area near 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 four 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 checkpoints of the armed formations near Horlivka, Starolaspa, Nova Marivka, Donetsk region as well as at a border crossing point outside government control near Dovzhanske, Luhansk region. Its mini-UAVs again experienced multiple instances of GPS signal interference.*

SKOPJE, 22 June 2021 — OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, Swedish Minister for Foreign Affairs Ann Linde concluded a visit to North Macedonia. She commended the country’s reform-oriented agenda, which focuses on fighting organized crime and corruption, promoting media freedom and fostering social cohesion.

“The country has made significant progress in passing key reform legislation in recent years,” said Linde. “Implementing reforms is hard and I encourage the Government to focus on completing the reform agenda. North Macedonia’s commitment so far demonstrates political responsibility and maturity,” Linde said.

During her visit, Linde met with Prime Minister Zoran Zaev and Foreign Minister Bujar Osmani. She also met with the Parliament and representatives of civil society.

Linde recognized the Government’s focus on accountability and anti-corruption. “Implementation of the new anti-corruption strategy will be vital to ensure transparency and integrity and to restore public trust. The cross-party support for and adoption of the National Strategy for Prevention of Corruption and Conflict of Interest 2021–2025 is commendable. As the first anti-corruption document to be adopted at the highest level, it’s a good start.”

Linde said that the OSCE Mission to Skopje is particularly well-placed to engage in a strong partnership with the Government, political parties, and civil society groups. “The Mission has supported processes to increase accountability, working closely with the State Commission for Prevention of Corruption and local self-government units. The OSCE remains steadfast in its support and stands ready to increase its efforts to strengthen the country’s capabilities in the fight against corruption and organized crime.”

Linde also stressed the importance of fostering good-neighbourly relations — a demonstration of the OSCE’s values and commitments. “The steps the Government has taken so far, on its EU path and regional co-operation, both on legislative reforms as well as implementation, are promising, productive and inspiring for others,” she said.

North Macedonia will hold the 2023 OSCE Chairpersonship. Their role will start on 1 January 2022 when they join the OSCE Troika, a format of co-operation between the present, previous and succeeding Chairpersonships (in 2022, Poland, Sweden and North Macedonia).

“North Macedonia has shown how well diplomacy and conflict resolution can work. The same spirit should inspire the way forward in resolving outstanding challenges, focusing on strategic goals and priority reforms. These strengths put them in a good position to lead the OSCE in 2023 effectively,” said Linde.

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 increased 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 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. During this reporting period, 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.

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 increased from 9,306 to 9,717 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 381 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 three, compared to the same number observed last week; one person crossed into the Russian Federation while two persons crossed into Ukraine. 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, no families were observed neither crossing into the Russian Federation nor into Ukraine, compared to the previous reporting period when no families were observed crossing into the Russian Federation while just 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 (386 compared to 432 observed during the previous week). There were 194 buses bound for the Russian Federation and 192 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.

Trucks

During the reporting period, the OTs observed a slight decrease in the overall number of trucks crossing the border at both BCPs (769 compared to 788 during the previous reporting week); 450 at the Gukovo BCP and 319 at the Donetsk BCP, 423 of these trucks crossed into the Russian Federation, and 346 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, 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 just a slight increase in the overall number of tanker trucks crossing the border at both BCPs (49 compared to 47 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 decreased from 162 to 141. Of the total number of trucks scanned, all 141 trucks (100 per cent) were bound for Ukraine.

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 a slight increase in the overall number of minivans crossing the border at both BCPs (135 compared to 127 observed during the previous week); 65 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 42 occasions; the OTs assessed that 26 trains were travelling to the Russian Federation and the remaining 16 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 and Lithuanian licence plates.

On 18 June at 12:15, the OT at the Donetsk BCP observed the arrival of a white ambulance with “LPR” plates from the direction of Ukraine. The driver and two other persons were observed on board. After undergoing border and customs control procedures, the vehicle left for the Russian Federation at 12:49. The OT was unable to observe any other details from its position. 

On 20 June at 10:43, the OT at the Donetsk BCP observed a helicopter type Mi8/Mi17 coming from east and flying in a north-westerly direction. The helicopter remained inside the Russian Federation airspace during the entire time it was visible to the OT.

For trends and figures at a glance covering the period from 18 May 2021 to 22 June 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).

490541

The OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan (the PCUz) organized a two-week training course from 7 to 18 June 2021 in Tashkent. Some 100 junior and mid-level female entrepreneurs from Uzbekistan attended.

Participants are members of the Uzbekistan Business Women Association. They represent various sectors of the economy, such as the textile industry, food processing, tourism and other services. The two courses for 50 women in each one were conducted at the Westminster International University in Tashkent. 

Mathieu Lemoine, Acting Head of Mission of the PCUz, opened the certificate awarding ceremony on 18 June and said: “Economic development issues and, in particular, the promotion of women's economic empowerment are integral to the OSCE's comprehensive approach to security, stability and peace. For many years the PCUz has been successfully supporting initiatives to develop women's entrepreneurship skills and strengthen the business potential of women.” 

Training courses to enhance the skills of women managers have been organized by the PCUz since 2017. More than 400 women entrepreneurs were able to gain knowledge in business management, fundamental marketing concepts, marketing strategies, and financial management. Over the years they have built a network among business women and enterprises in the OSCE region. 

The training course is organized under the extra-budgetary project “Support to managerial capacity building of female managers” funded by Norway.

SDGs SDGs:  16 - Peace, justice and strong institutions

Summary

• In Donetsk region, between the evenings of 18 and 20 June, the SMM recorded 129 ceasefire violations, including seven explosions. In the previous reporting period, it recorded 41 ceasefire violations in the region.
• In Luhansk region, between the evenings of 18 and 20 June, the Mission recorded 68 ceasefire violations, including 45 explosions. In the previous reporting period, it recorded 45 ceasefire violations in the region.
• Small-arms fire was assessed as directed at an SMM mini-unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) near government-controlled Krasnohorivka, Donetsk region.*

• The SMM continued monitoring the disengagement areas near Stanytsia Luhanska, Zolote and Petrivske. It recorded ceasefire violations close to the disengagement area near Zolote and inside the disengagement area near 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 three entry-exit checkpoints and three corresponding checkpoints of the armed formations 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 checkpoints of the armed formations near Shevchenko and Zaichenko, southern Donetsk region. Its UAVs again experienced multiple instances of GPS signal interference.*

490421 Munira Shoinbekova, OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe

A one-month regional Explosive Ordnance Disposal course (level 2) concluded at the Regional Explosive Hazards Training Centre in Chimteppa on 18 June 2021.

The course was hosted by Tajikistan’s Defence Ministry and facilitated by the OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe in partnership with the United States Army Central (USARCENT). USARCENT instructors delivered the training course.

Three instructors from the Regional Explosive Hazards Training Centre, three officers and one medical specialist from Tajikistan’s Defence Ministry attended the training course. It aimed to develop their competencies and skills in detecting and identifying explosive ordnances as well as determining when they can be safely moved and transported.  The course also included simulation exercises providing thorough on-the-job tasks, improving the participants mentoring and monitoring skills.

In-class sessions covered topics such as operation and search of explosive ordnances; clearance equipment; management, including threat assessment; and recognition of environmental hazards in which explosives ordnances are located. Practical sessions were jointly arranged by Tajikistan’s Defence Ministry and the OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe and included safe access and transportation of ordnances to their final disposal.

Valeriu Chiveri, Head of the OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe said: “I express my sincere appreciation to the Ministry of Defense of the Republic of Tajikistan for the continuous excellent co-operation. Our partnership is to enhance the capabilities of Tajikistan and Central Asian countries to counter explosive hazards and to share knowledge and experience among the specialists in the field.” Chiveri further added that it was the first course after the pandemic with participation of all partners and thanked the governments of the US and Germany for their support in implementing the project.

Representing Tajikistan’s Defence Ministry, General Mirovar Khushvakht Mirshakar, First Deputy Head of General staff of the Ministry stressed the years of co-operation between the OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe and the Defence Ministry and the role of the experts of the USARCENT, including in the curriculum development of the training course. He emphasized that during the years the programme allowed participants from various countries to obtain knowledge in ordnance disposal.

Steven Equils, Chief of the Office of Military Co-operation at the United States Embassy in Dushanbe, noted that the US is committed to support Tajikistan’s security services and the government in the mutual goal of broader security. He highly valued the established partnership between the US government, Tajikistan’s Defence Ministry, the OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe, Tajikistan National Mine Action Centre and the German government.

The OSCE has been supporting the development of co-operative mechanisms on a technical level among states in Central Asia to address concerns and challenges stemming from explosive hazards since 2014.

VIENNA/STOCKHOLM, 21 June 2021 — The OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, Sweden’s Minister for Foreign Affairs Ann Linde, will visit North Macedonia on 21 and 22 June.

Linde’s visit will focus on the implementation of the country’s strategic reforms, the rule of law, good governance, activities in the fight against organized crime and corruption, promotion of media freedom and social cohesion. She will discuss the importance of regional stability and security, engagement and partnership with the OSCE.

North Macedonia will hold the 2023 OSCE Chairpersonship and will join the Troika as of 1 January 2022, which is a format of co-operation between the present, previous and succeeding Chairpersonships.

Linde will meet with Prime Minister Zoran Zaev and Foreign Minister Bujar Osmani.

Linde will also meet with members of parliament and representatives of civil society.

On 22 June, at 12:30, after the meeting at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, Linde will address the media.

For more information about Sweden's 2021 OSCE Chairpersonship, please visit the OSCE website: https://www.osce.org/chairmanship

Communication and Media Relations Section Alexandra Taylor

Criminal justice professionals in Albania took part in an OSCE-organized national workshop from 14 to 18 June 2021 to enhance their capacities to develop intelligence through open-source internet research. The workshop focused on the use of open source intelligence (OSINT) for financial and criminal investigations.

Participants developed their knowledge on different aspects of internet investigations such as advanced web searches, the use of internet databases, evidence capture, investigations of digital images, and other relevant topics. They also gained in-depth knowledge about the architecture of the internet and how to navigate it effectively in support of financial investigations.

OSINT can help with relevant information gathering on financial flows and assets, which, in turn, can support investigations into organized crime and corruption.

The workshop is part of the OSCE’s extra-budgetary project on Asset Recovery in South-Eastern Europe, financially supported by the United States, Italy, Germany and the United Kingdom.

YEREVAN, 21 June 2021 –Armenia’s early parliamentary elections were competitive and well-managed within a short time frame. However, they were characterized by intense polarization and marred by increasingly inflammatory language from key contestants, as well as by the sidelining of women throughout the campaign, 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), and the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE), concluded that the electoral legal framework is generally comprehensive, but some shortcomings still remain. The observers noted that while recent changes in the electoral system were broadly debated and supported by the majority of political parties and civil society groups, the fact that amendments were adopted so close to the elections caused legal uncertainty and left little time to implement the new rules or inform voters about the changes.

“Despite the limited time for the implementation of the recent amendments to the electoral code, the administration of the elections was positively assessed by the majority of our observers,” said Margareta Cederfelt, special co-ordinator and leader of the short-term OSCE observer mission. “Most of our observers also assessed election day positively, up to and including the vote count.”

National security issues dominated the political discourse in the pre-campaign and campaign periods. However, the debate was driven by increasingly aggressive language and accusations, worsening the high degree of polarization and further reducing attention to political programmes and policy.

Election day itself was generally peaceful, and observers made an overwhelmingly positive assessment of the voting processes in the polling stations visited. However, many polling stations were inaccessible for voters with disabilities, and there was frequent overcrowding. There were also some cases of interference in the voting process by party or alliance proxies. At the same time, observers found that the vote counting process went well and was highly transparent.

“The deep polarization didn’t detract from a well-run election,” said George Katrougalos, Head of the PACE delegation. “It is to be hoped that the results will be accepted by all parties across the political spectrum, and the harsh rhetoric of the campaign will be consigned to history.”

During the brief campaign period, candidates were able to campaign freely, and the fundamental freedoms key to democratic elections were generally respected. Observers noted that in some cases there was pressure on workers in both the private and public sector to take part in specific campaign events, while allegations of vote buying and the misuse of state resources continued throughout the campaign period. Despite the fact that women candidates were included in the party lists, observers noted that their visibility during the campaign was markedly low.

“While the recently introduced electoral changes have resulted in larger representation of women in the candidate lists, they remained largely absent from the public discourse during the campaign,” said Kari Henriksen, Head of the OSCE PA delegation. “It­ is important that women are not just equally represented, but are also given the opportunity to engage actively in public and political life.”

Freedom of expression is guaranteed by the constitution. However, cases of journalists being harassed in the course of their duties raises questions about respect for media freedom. The observer mission’s media monitoring found that several media outlets made a visible effort to cover a wide range of contestants, organizing debates that helped ensure voters had enough information to make an informed choice on election day. At the same time, there are long-standing concerns about the political affiliation of private broadcasters.

“All candidates could campaign freely throughout the election process, and it was good to see the election authorities deliver on their mandate professionally,” said Eoghan Murphy, Head of the ODIHR election observation mission. “But the antagonistic language we heard during the campaign was not in any way constructive for an informed public debate.”

The international election observation mission to the Armenian parliamentary elections totalled 341 observers from 37 countries, composed of 249 ODIHR-deployed experts and long-term and short-term observers, 71 parliamentarians and staff from the OSCE PA, and 21 from PACE.

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

Bogdan Torcatoriu, PACE: +33 6 50 39 29 40 or bogdan.torcatoriu@coe.int

SOFIA, 21 June 2021 – OSCE Special Representative and Co-ordinator for Combating Trafficking in Human Beings, Valiant Richey, will visit Bulgaria from 22 to 24 June. The visit is organized in co-operation with Bulgarian authorities, with a focus on the response to trafficking, relevant recommendations and exchange of good practices.

Bulgaria remains one of the primary source countries for human trafficking in the EU. The main countries of destination for Bulgarian victims of trafficking are Greece, Germany, Belgium, Netherlands, Austria, United Kingdom, France, Italy and Switzerland.

During the visit, attention will be devoted to trafficking within ethnic minorities and other vulnerable populations, including unaccompanied minors, asylum seekers and migrants passing through the territory of Bulgaria, as gaps persist in the identification of foreign victims of trafficking.

Special Representative Richey will analyze anti-trafficking efforts comprehensively. Richey will devote attention to the increased use of the internet and social networks by traffickers and will share his Office’s recommendations to tackle this growing problem. He will also discuss the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the anti-trafficking response in Bulgaria.

Country visits by the Special Representative provide a unique opportunity to consider the main challenges in a country and to provide recommendations, as well as to learn about promising practices to share with other governments.

A press briefing, where the findings will be presented, will take place on 24 June, 09:30,  at the NCCTB, meeting room 52A, G. M. Dimitrov Blvd. Please confirm your participation by 21 June on +359 2 807 80 50 or via e-mail: office@antitraffic.government.bg.  

For additional information please contact Dobromir Petrov, Senior Expert, NCCTHB on +359 884 49 15 10; e-mail: d.petrov@antitraffic.government.bg or Ernesta Rousseva, Senior Expert, NCCTHB on + 359 885 532 319; e-mail: e.rousseva@antitraffic.government.bg