Central Europe

SDGs SDGs:  16 - Peace, justice and strong institutions

Summary

• The SMM recorded one ceasefire violation in Donetsk region (the same as during the previous reporting period) and again no ceasefire violations in Luhansk region.
• From 00:01 on 27 July until the end of the reporting period, the SMM recorded a total of 123 ceasefire violations.
• The Mission continued monitoring the disengagement areas near Stanytsia Luhanska, Zolote and Petrivske. An SMM long-range unmanned aerial vehicle observed people inside the latter two areas during night hours.
• The Mission facilitated and monitored adherence to localised ceasefires to enable repairs to as well as the maintenance and operation of critical civilian infrastructure.
• The Mission continued following up on the situation of civilians amid the COVID-19 outbreak, including at entry-exit checkpoints and corresponding checkpoints in Donetsk and Luhansk regions.
• The SMM saw a convoy of trucks with Russian Federation licence plates in non-government-controlled Donetsk city.
• The Mission’s freedom of movement continued to be restricted.*

COPENHAGEN, 31 July 2020 –The OSCE Parliamentary Assembly President, George Tsereteli, expressed his deep concerns about recent reports of ceasefire violations in Donetsk region right after the agreement of the Trilateral Contact Group regarding additional measures to strengthen the ceasefire as of 27 July 2020. President Tsereteli underlined the importance of maintenance of cessation of military actions and urged sides to respect ceasefire orders and to fulfil their commitments foreseen by the Minsk Agreements.

“The ceasefire agreement achieved during the meeting of the Trilateral Contact Group was a significant step toward the implementation of the Minsk agreements,” President Tsereteli said. “Sustainable political solution of the conflict in eastern Ukraine should be based first and foremost on the end of armed clashes. For the people in conflict zones, who are most affected by military operations, this long-awaited silence was a signal of hope for an end of their suffering in sight.”

Expressing his regret over the escalation of the situation in Eastern Ukraine and violation of ceasefire agreements, as reported by the OSCE Special Monitoring Mission in Ukraine, President Tsereteli called for the sides to refrain from provocative actions and respect international commitments.

“I am very disappointed that ceasefire support measures were violated so quickly,” Tsereteli stated. “Comprehensive settlement can be achieved only through mutual trust in agreements. Disrespect to the ceasefire commitments puts future negotiations and conflict resolution efforts at risk. All words stated by conflict sides should match their actions. I encourage conflict sides to immediately stop ceasefire violations and stay dedicated to their obligations.”

At the same time President also highlighted the efforts taken in the framework of the Trilateral Contact Group stressing out that “only results-oriented diplomatic dialogue based on political will to implement Minsk Agreements can put an end to the conflict.”

Anna Vorobeva OSCE Mission to Moldova

Recognizing that human rights will be key to building back sustainable and equal societies in the post-pandemic recovery, the OSCE Mission to Moldova organized online webinars on human rights in times of COVID-19 for a coalition of public agencies, which promote and protect rights of national minorities in Moldova, from 27 to 30 July 2020.

"In times of public emergency like the coronavirus pandemic, it is all the more important that human rights are scrupulously respected and actively protected - for everyone without discrimination.  Human rights are not some 'extra', but are central to individual and collective health and well-being," said Professor Frederick John Packer, Director of the Human Rights Research and Education Centre at the University of Ottawa, who led the webinars.

The four online sessions focused on the impact of the pandemic and ways to strengthen the protection of human rights, including the right to health, right to information, women’s rights as well as the right to equality and non-discrimination. During the discussions, the participants underlined that responses to the pandemic should be inclusive because a society is only as strong as its most vulnerable members, including elderly people, persons with disabilities, homeless, migrants and ethnic or national minorities. Therefore, groups that are most at risk or disproportionately affected require special measures and protection.

“In the current difficult times, we, as public officials from the human rights institutions, need to be well prepared to make use of international human rights standards and make recommendations to the state authorities, so that no one is left behind,” said Rodica Jereghi from the Council for Preventing and Eliminating Discrimination and Ensuring Equality (Equality Council).

More than 30 representatives of the Agency for Interethnic Relations, the Ombudsperson’s office, and the Equality Council participated in the webinars. Over the past two years, the Mission has been working with these three agencies to improve their co-operation and capacity in protecting the rights of national minorities in Moldova – key to promoting tolerance and inclusivity, which are important enabling factors for the Transdniestrian settlement process.

To mark the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, an online roundtable discussion on combating this crime in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic was co-organized by the OSCE Project Coordinator in Uzbekistan and partners on 29 July 2020. The event brought together 90 representatives and experts in the field of combating human trafficking and forced labour from more than 50 government agencies and non-governmental organizations, as well as international organizations.

The event was co-organized with the UN Office for Drugs and Crime’s (UNODC) Regional Office for Central Asia (ROCA), the Academy of the General Prosecutor's office, the National Commission on Combating Human Trafficking and Forced Labour, and the National Centre for Human Rights of Uzbekistan.

Opening the discussion, the Chairperson of the Senate of the Oliy Majlis (national parliament) and the National Commission on Combating Human Trafficking and Forced Labour, Tanzila Narbaeva noted that the fight against human trafficking has risen to the level of state policy in Uzbekistan, and the participation of representatives of ministries and state departments in the event reflected the importance of this issue.

The OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan, Ambassador John MacGregor noted, “in the face of a security threat like COVID-19, we must stay united. Joining efforts against trafficking in human beings is not only the duty of law enforcement agencies, but also requires the participation of every person and the whole society to ensure the security and safety for the most vulnerable.”

Ashita Mittal of ROCA referred to UNODC's global research, drawing attention to the fact that victims of human trafficking are even more at risk in the context of the pandemic. The socio-economic consequences of the pandemic pose a serious threat not only to current victims, but also to people at risk of becoming victims of human trafficking, for example, those who have lost their jobs due to the economic slowdown.

Participants discussed providing rehabilitation services at the national level to human trafficking victims, providing practical assistance to victims by diplomatic missions and consulates of the Republic of Uzbekistan, and emphasized the importance of sharing experiences.

Anti-trafficking Adviser at the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR), Tatiana Kotlyarenko presented key findings of the joint ODIHR and UN Women Policy Survey Reports and Recommendations on “Addressing Emerging Human Trafficking Trends and Consequences of the COVID-19 Pandemic”.

The discussion also explored Uzbekistan’s progress in combating human trafficking in recent months and the need to strengthen co-operation between state bodies and civil society organizations in addressing this crime, particularly in light of the new edition of the law "On combating human trafficking".

ERGNETI, 30 July 2020 - The 96th Incident Prevention and Response Mechanism (IPRM) took place today in Ergneti, co-facilitated by Ambassador Marek Szczygieł, Head of the EU Monitoring Mission in Georgia (EUMM) and Ambassador Rudolf Michalka, Special Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office for the South Caucasus. In the wake of COVID-19, this first regular meeting of the Ergneti IPRM since August 2019 was accompanied by all the necessary precautionary health measures, and was held in a positive and constructive atmosphere.

The participants welcomed the new co-facilitator, Ambassador Szczygieł, to the IPRM and wished him success in his new assignment. The participants discussed several issues pertaining to stabilization and normalization on the ground, including the impact of the prolonged closure of the controlled crossing points along the administrative boundary line (ABL) on local communities’ freedom of movement and livelihoods; the security situation in the Chorchana-Tsnelisi area; recent detention cases; as well as other unresolved significant incidents. They also addressed issues pertaining to cross-ABL irrigation infrastructure management.

The co-facilitators welcomed the participants’ commitment to resume regular dialogue in the IPRM format, while commending the active use of the EUMM-managed hotline. The important role of the hotline and OSCE facilitation in lowering tensions, resolving incidents, and facilitating dialogue was underscored. Recalling instances where existing communication channels were used effectively, the co-facilitators emphasized the importance of timely information exchange through all available platforms in order to prevent incidents and reduce tensions along the ABL.

The co-facilitators also pointed out issues relating to the concerns of the conflict-affected population, and called on the participants to continue using the IPRM format for discussing a range of important practical issues. The co-facilitators further acknowledged the exacerbating effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on stabilization and normalization, and expressed hope for further constructive and co-operative steps towards improving human security in local communities and maintaining general stability on the ground.

The participants agreed to plan for a subsequent meeting on 24 September 2020, situation permitting.

SDGs SDGs:  16 - Peace, justice and strong institutions

Summary

• The SMM recorded one ceasefire violation in Donetsk region (compared with ten in the previous reporting period) and again no ceasefire violations in Luhansk region.
• From 00:01 on 27 July until the end of the reporting period, the SMM recorded a total of 122 ceasefire violations.
• The Mission continued monitoring the disengagement areas near Stanytsia Luhanska, Zolote and Petrivske. An SMM long-range unmanned aerial vehicle observed people inside the latter two disengagement areas during evening hours.
• The Mission facilitated and monitored adherence to localised ceasefires to enable repairs to and maintenance of critical civilian infrastructure.
• The Mission continued following up on the situation of civilians amid the COVID-19 outbreak, including at entry-exit checkpoints and corresponding checkpoints in Donetsk and Luhansk regions.
• The Mission’s freedom of movement continued to be restricted.*

SARAJEVO, 30 July 2020 – The Head of the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH), Kathleen Kavalec and the BiH Minister for Human Rights and Refugees, Milos Lucic today signed a Memorandum of Understanding on mutual co-operation in promoting the freedom of expression and media in the country.

Emphasizing the valuable and consistent co-operation with the BiH Ministry for Human Rights and Refugees, Kavalec said: “The Memorandum of Understanding, signed today will allow for the creation of a methodology for gathering and exchanging information on violations of freedom of expression and media, in line with international obligations and standards. This should contribute in policy-making that will safeguard this freedom and protect media professionals in BiH.”

“Freedom of expression is the catalyst of all human rights. The professional media are one of the pillars of democracy and the key factor in promoting and respecting human rights in BiH,” said Minister Lucic. “We are aware that a lot of work is ahead of us. We are determined to devote ourselves to this area in full capacity, and, with the support of our partners, such as the OSCE Mission to BiH, we have no doubts in a positive result for the benefit of the respect for all human rights and of the protection of media professionals in BiH.​”

The OSCE Mission to BiH and the BiH Ministry for Human Rights and Refugees reiterated their commitment to address the challenges related to media freedom and freedom of expression in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

SUMMARY

On 30 July at 06:37 (Moscow time), the ninety-fifth[1] Russian convoy arrived at the Donetsk Border Crossing Point (BCP). A total of nine vehicles were checked by Russian Federation border guards and customs officers prior to their crossing into Ukraine. All nine vehicles had crossed back into the Russian Federation by 11:47 on 30 July.

DETAIL

Leaving the Russian Federation

On 30 July at 06:37, the Observer Mission observed the arrival of a Russian convoy at the gate of the Donetsk BCP. The convoy consisted of nine vehicles: one escort car and eight cargo trucks. Seven trucks belonged to Russian Ministry of Emergency Situations (MES) and one civilian truck with MES cover. All eight cargo trucks bore the inscription “Humanitarian aid from the Russian Federation” (in Russian). At 06:37, the vehicles entered the customs control area. Once the convoy arrived, the vehicles were visually checked from the outside by Russian Federation border guards and customs officers. The truck drivers rolled up/opened the tarpaulins of the trucks and the border guards and customs officials performed a visual observation from the outside. One dog was present and used by Russian Federation border guards to check the vehicles from the outside. One Russian Federation border guard took photos and videoed the convoy crossing.

Four Ukrainian border guards and four customs officers were observed accompanying their Russian counterparts; they also performed a visual observation of the vehicles from the outside (without entering the trucks’ cargo space). By 06:50, all of the vehicles had left the BCP towards Ukraine.

Returning to the Russian Federation

At 11:38, the convoy returned and queued in the customs area. The Russian Federation border guards and customs officers visually checked the returning convoy from the outside. Ukrainian representatives – four border guards and one customs officer – were present during this check. The Ukrainian officials also performed visual checks of the trucks from the outside. One dog was present and used by Russian Federation border guards to check the vehicles from the outside. By 11:47, all nine vehicles had crossed back into the Russian Federation.

[1]Based on the Observer Mission’s counting, this convoy is considered the ninety-fifth convoy that has crossed into Ukraine through the “Donetsk” or “Gukovo” BCPs. However, so far all these convoys crossed through the “Donetsk” BCP.

VIENNA / WASHINGTON, D.C. / WARSAW, 30 July 2020 - On the occasion of World Day Against Trafficking in Persons today, high-level OSCE officials have highlighted the need to redouble efforts to combat human trafficking, particularly against the backdrop of the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Chair of the Permanent Council, the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly Special Representative on Human Trafficking Issues, the OSCE Special Representative and Co-ordinator on Combatting Trafficking in Human Beings and the First Deputy Director of the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) call on OSCE participating States to intensify anti-trafficking efforts and partner with other countries and with civil society to protect victims, prosecute perpetrators and to prevent the crime from happening in the first place.

Despite this year marking the 20th anniversary of the Palermo Protocol, the first international instrument to set out a framework for the prevention, suppression and punishment of trafficking in human beings, the officials said that human trafficking remains pervasive.

“Trafficking in human beings remains, up to this day, a scourge and grave concern for the safety of our citizens, for the security of our societies and the rule of law in our countries. We have a collective responsibility, particularly in times of crisis like this, to renew and intensify our efforts to combat the exploitation of people by traffickers,” said Chair of the Permanent Council Igli Hasani. “Passing a law does not suffice. Strong and targeted capacity-building, training and proper financing of law enforcement, prosecutors and judges is crucial for enabling fiercer actions against this heinous crime and for delivering justice.”

The ILO estimates there are about 25 million victims of human trafficking globally, and the COVID-19 pandemic and resulting economic impact pose unprecedented challenges for the most vulnerable in our communities. Traffickers are shifting their methods of recruitment and exploitation, particularly to online platforms, and many support services are reducing their operations due to lockdown measures and lack of funding. As a result, vulnerable individuals already living in precarious circumstances are now at an even greater risk of becoming victims of human trafficking.

OSCE PA Special Representative Chris Smith said, “We must act to protect our children. The COVID-19 pandemic has increased the vulnerability of children to becoming victims of trafficking and sexual exploitation. Today, with most schools closed, children are spending more of their time online where they are vulnerable to being groomed by sexual predators and lured into trafficking situations. And while sex tourism may be on hold during the shutdown of the travel industry, sexual predators are at home and online, seeking to groom children so that they can meet and abuse them in person when travel restrictions are lifted. One way we can fight this and protect our children now is by education to keep them safe online and by developing age-appropriate training tools for children, parents and educators.”

Following the adoption of the Palermo Protocol, the OSCE adopted its own comprehensive commitments on combatting human trafficking, translating the groundbreaking principles and provisions of Palermo into action at the regional level. Twenty years later, much has been accomplished. Most OSCE participating States now have legislation and national policies designed in accordance with the provisions contained in those international instruments. Moreover, the international community and national governments have developed strong expertise and capacities, and international for a, like the OSCE, serve as platforms to share those practices and experiences. Nevertheless, more needs to be done.

“The current widespread impunity for traffickers in human beings means too many of them are still running their “businesses” and recklessly exploiting human lives, while survivors are wrestling with the consequences of their exploitation.”, said OSCE Special Representative on Combatting Trafficking in Human Beings Valiant Richey. “Exploitation violates the dignity of those who suffer it, creates trauma that can last a lifetime, and frays the fabric of our communities. It is time to prioritize political and financial resources to seriously address this crime and turn a culture of impunity into a culture of justice.”

Katarzyna Gardapkhadze, on behalf of ODIHR said: “In the current pandemic situation and its aftermath, states and communities need effective guidance to address trafficking in human beings with a human rights, gender-sensitive, trauma-informed and victim-centred approach. ODIHR and UN Women are responding to this need today, on World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, with the launch of policy recommendations for Addressing Emerging Human Trafficking Trends and Consequences of the Covid-19 Pandemic.”

458461 Andrii Dziubenko

To mark the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons on 30 July 2020, the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Ukraine together with Ministry of Social Policy of Ukraine, the International Organisation for Migration’s Mission in Ukraine and the NGO A21 organized an open-air exhibition entitled “Expectations vs Reality” in Kyiv.   

The exhibition presents nine stories of people who suffered from various forms of human trafficking, so that visitors can learn more about the nature and impact of this crime. It will be on display for two weeks in the National Taras Shevchenko Park in Kyiv, before travelling across the country and being exhibited in the country’s 17 regional centres by mid-December.

The campaign also includes the launching of thematic social media pages “Work Safe” on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/work.safe.ua/) and Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/work_safe_ua/), which will be used to share stories about human trafficking and its victims, as well as safety guidance that could help people avoid the traps used by traffickers. It will also provide advice on where and how victims can get assistance. Since mid-July, when the pages were launched, they have already reached over 200,000 web users in Ukraine.

Separately, the OSCE Project Co-ordinator has developed a web-based quiz for people planning to travel for work abroad (https://quiz.cthb.in.ua/). It prompts people to respond to practical questions in situations simulating risks of trafficking, and thus learn the rules for safe employment.     

“Many international organizations, including the OSCE, have warned that the COVID-19 pandemic and its consequences are making more and more people vulnerable to trafficking. People lose their jobs in quarantine, or their salaries decline, so they are more likely to respond to risky offers that they would otherwise decline,” said Henrik Villadsen, the OSCE Project Co-ordinator, as he opened the exhibition in Kyiv. “We cannot combat this type of criminal activity by enhancing law enforcement alone. People need to know how to minimize risks, and what to do in case they are in a situation of trafficking.”

In April this year, the Co-ordinator also produced and distributed awareness-raising posters to regional social service providers, which warn of how the impact of the pandemic can make people vulnerable to human trafficking, but also to cybercrime and increased domestic violence.

This awareness-raising campaign is part of project implemented by the OSCE Project Co-ordinator with the financial support of Global Affairs Canada and the United States Mission to the OSCE.

We, the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH), Office of the High Representative, Delegation of the European Union to BiH and EU Special Representative in BiH and US Embassy in BiH welcome and commend today’s unanimous adoption of the Law on Peaceful Assembly by the Brcko District Assembly.

Having worked closely the past few months with the Government’s working group that prepared the draft, we see its adoption as an affirmation of the commitment of the authorities in the District to advance the protection of the fundamental rights and freedoms of its residents as the relevant international human rights standards were incorporated into the law. 

Freedom of peaceful assembly is a fundamental right, which strengthens democracies, and we stand ready to assist all other authorities in BiH to improve their relevant legislation in line with European and international standards. In this sense, we cite the Brcko District law as an important example of best practice and a model for human rights-compliant legislation in this field. 

VIENNA, 29 July 2020 - The Special Representative of the Albanian OSCE Chairperson-in-Office for the Transdniestrian Settlement Process, Ambassador Thomas Mayr-Harting welcomed yesterday’s meeting in Condrita between Moldovan President Igor Dodon and Transdniestrian leader Vadim Krasnoselsky.

“It is encouraging that this meeting took place and that the Sides focused on issues of particular relevance for the well-being of people living on both banks of the river, such as freedom of movement, the integration of telecommunication networks, improved internal banking connectivity and the establishment of a new trolleybus line between Bender, Varnita and the Severny district,” the Special Representative stated today in Vienna. “I hope this encounter will pave the way for further constructive and forward-looking dialogue between the Sides and lead to concrete results and mutually acceptable solutions in the coming months.”

“I am confident that all efforts that improve the lives of the people on both banks can count on the full support of the international community, in particular the mediators and observers participating in the 5+2 talks. For their part, the Albanian OSCE Chairmanship as well as the OSCE Mission to Moldova, under the leadership of Claus Neukirch, will also remain fully engaged,” Mayr-Harting concluded.

SDGs SDGs:  16 - Peace, justice and strong institutions

Summary

• The SMM recorded fewer ceasefire violations in Donetsk region, compared with the previous reporting period, and again no ceasefire violations in Luhansk region.
• From 00:01 on 27 July until the end of the reporting period, the SMM recorded a total of 121 ceasefire violations.
• The Mission continued monitoring the disengagement areas near Stanytsia Luhanska, Zolote and Petrivske. SMM long-range unmanned aerial vehicles observed people in the disengagement area near Zolote during evening hours.
• The SMM again saw weapons in violation of withdrawal lines as well as beyond respective withdrawal lines but outside of designated storage sites at the airfield in non-government-controlled Peremozhne, Luhansk region.
• The Mission facilitated and monitored adherence to localised ceasefires to enable repairs to and maintenance of critical civilian infrastructure.
• The Mission continued following up on the situation of civilians amid the COVID-19 outbreak, including at entry-exit checkpoints and corresponding checkpoints in Luhansk region.
• The SMM observed a calm situation in south-east Kherson region.
• The Mission’s freedom of movement continued to be restricted.*

SDGs SDGs:  16 - Peace, justice and strong institutions

Summary

• Following the meeting of the Trilateral Contact Group on 22 July, which reached agreement regarding additional measures to strengthen the ceasefire as of 00:01 on 27 July, the SMM recorded 111 ceasefire violations, all in Donetsk region, including 21 explosions.
• The Mission continued monitoring the disengagement areas near Stanytsia Luhanska, Zolote and Petrivske. An SMM long-range unmanned aerial vehicle spotted people inside the latter two disengagement areas during evening and night hours.
• The SMM saw 22 weapons in violation of withdrawal lines, of which all but one were seen at the airfield in non-government-controlled Peremozhne, Luhansk region.
• The Mission facilitated and monitored adherence to localised ceasefires to enable repairs to and maintenance of critical civilian infrastructure.
• The SMM continued following up on the situation of civilians amid the COVID-19 outbreak, including at entry-exit checkpoints and corresponding checkpoints in Donetsk and Luhansk regions.
• The Mission’s freedom of movement continued to be restricted.*

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 18 permanent international staff members, including the Chief Observer (CO). 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 Chairmanship. Following the host country recommendations, the observers are applying a self-isolation regime between shifts at the border checkpoints and 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.

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 8,853 to 8,556 per day at both BCPs compared to last week[1].

During the reporting period, the majority of border crossings were to the Russian Federation, with an average net flow of 458 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 has closed its borders for the majority of foreigners starting from 18 March. 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, 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 seven, compared to 13 last week. Three persons crossed into the Russian Federation and four 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, eight families were observed crossing into the Russian Federation while another three families were observed crossing into Ukraine, compared to the previous reporting period when six families were observed crossing to the Russian Federation, while another six families crossed 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 (137 compared to 176 observed during the previous week). There were 69 buses bound for the Russian Federation and 68 bound for Ukraine.

Trucks

During the reporting period, the OTs observed just a slight increase in the overall number of trucks crossing the border at both BCPs (897 compared to 896 during the previous reporting week); 487 at the Gukovo BCP and 410 at the Donetsk BCP, 513 of these trucks crossed into the Russian Federation and 384 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 the Russian Federation, Lithuania, Belarus, Ukraine, and trucks with “LPR” plates.

The OTs also continued to observe tanker trucks crossing the border in both directions. During the reporting week, the number of tanker trucks slightly increased from 53 to 58. 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 the Russian Federation officials, which could include an X-ray check. Due to the unfavourable observation position at the Gukovo BCP, the OTs continued to be unable to observe any X-ray checks.

During the reporting period, the X-Ray vehicle at the Donetsk BCP was not operating. No X-ray checks were observed.

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. Compared to the previous week, the number of cargo minivans significantly decreased from 187 to 122 vehicles, 60 crossed into the Russian Federation and another 62 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 24 occasions; the OTs assessed that 13 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 cars with licence plates registered in Poland and Georgia.

On 27 July, at 13:10, the OT at the Gukovo BCP observed an ambulance with Russian Federation licence plates entering the BCP from the Russian Federation and parking next to the main building. At 13:20 the ambulance drove back towards the Russian Federation. The OT was unable to notice any other details from its position.

On the same day at 20:40, the OT at the Donetsk BCP observed two white minivans with “LPR” plates arriving at the BCP from Ukraine. The minivans had the sign “LPR Post” displayed on the sides (in Russian). After undergoing border control procedures, the vehicles left the BCP into the Russian Federation at 21:47.

For trends and figures at a glance covering the period from 23 June to 28 July 2020, please see the attachment here.

[1]Based on data received from the Regional Representation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation.

[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 which correspond to driving licence C1).

Information for Google Short title:  ODIHR and UN Women launch report on human trafficking Short description:  The ODIHR and UN Women policy recommendations aim to tackle emerging human trafficking during an post COVID-19 458206 Public Affairs Unit, OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights Addressing Emerging Human Trafficking Trends and Consequences of the COVID-19 Pandemic

To mark World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) and the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN Women) released a joint report on 30 July 2020 offering expertise and policy recommendations on how to combat trafficking in human beings during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Around the globe, this global health emergency has created new risks and challenges to victims and survivors of trafficking. It has also worsened and exposed the vulnerabilities of at-risk groups, especially women and children, to trafficking in human beings. The joint publication, Addressing Emerging Human Trafficking Trends and Consequences of the COVID-19 Pandemic, is aimed at providing governments, policy and lawmakers, civil society and international organizations and the private sector with effective guidance to prevent and combat trafficking in human beings. Moreover, the report promotes a human rights, gender and age-sensitive, trauma-informed and victim-centred approach now and after the pandemic.

The report is based on data collected through a global survey of survivors of trafficking and frontline organizations from over 100 countries, including 48 OSCE participating States, as well as in consultation with a panel of experts from governments, international organizations and survivor leadership. It analyzes the emerging challenges and risks in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic as well as the emergency measures implemented in response. At its core, the publication offers concrete policy recommendations to address these trends and impacts in the short- to long-term, in a manner consistent with international standards and OSCE commitments and the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

The policy recommendations cover a wide range of key areas, including:

• the need to strengthen the identification of victims of trafficking
• accessibility of services to victims and survivors of trafficking
• access to remedies including justice and information
• addressing specific needs of women, girls and children
• support and capacity building for both governmental and non-governmental frontline stakeholders

This publication builds on dynamic collaboration between UN Women and ODIHR in ensuring a gender-sensitive approach to all work related to combatting trafficking in human beings. It was developed as part of ODIHR’s mandate to assist OSCE participating States in implementing longstanding OSCE human dimension commitments on combatting trafficking in human beings.

SDGs SDGs:  16 - Peace, justice and strong institutions

Summary

• Compared with the previous reporting period, between the evenings of 24 and 25 July, the SMM recorded fewer ceasefire violations in Donetsk region and more in Luhansk region.
• Between the evenings of 25 and 26 July, the SMM recorded a similar number of ceasefire violations in Donetsk region and fewer ceasefire violations in Luhansk region, compared with the previous 24 hours.
• The SMM corroborated reports of injuries due to shelling to a mother and a son and damage to their house in non-government-controlled Oleksandrivka, Donetsk region.
• The SMM saw craters near civilian properties in non-government-controlled Vesele, Donetsk region.
• The Mission continued monitoring the disengagement areas near Stanytsia Luhanska, Zolote and Petrivske. An SMM long-range unmanned aerial vehicle spotted people inside the disengagement area near the latter two areas during evening and night hours.
• The Mission facilitated and monitored adherence to localised ceasefires to enable repairs to and maintenance of critical civilian infrastructure.
• The Mission continued following up on the situation of civilians amid the COVID-19 outbreak, including at entry-exit checkpoints and corresponding checkpoints in Donetsk and Luhansk regions.
• The SMM observed a calm situation in south-east Kherson region.
• The SMM’s freedom of movement continued to be restricted.*

COPENHAGEN, 27 July 2020 – Following an announcement stating Poland's intention to withdraw from a treaty on combating violence against women, the leaders of the OSCE PA’s human rights committee expressed concerns over the ongoing developments.

On 26 July 2020, Poland’s Justice Minister Zbigniew Ziobro told a news conference his ministry would initiate efforts to withdraw from a European treaty on combating violence against women, known as the Istanbul Convention, due to its “ideological nature”.

Following this announcement, the officers of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly’s General Committee on Democracy, Human Rights and Humanitarian Affairs, Chair Kyriakos Hadjiyianni (MP, Cyprus), Vice-Chair Michael Georg Link (MP, Germany), and Rapporteur Kari Henriksen (MP, Norway) issued the following statement:

“We are deeply concerned with recent developments in Poland and its possible withdrawal from the Istanbul Convention, which is a powerful human rights instrument. The persistence of gender-based violence in all its forms – including domestic and sexual violence – is one of the most pervasive human rights violations throughout the OSCE region. It is deeply disturbing that women across the OSCE region continue to suffer from gender-based violence, which often is unreported and rarely leads to convictions when reported, thereby encouraging a culture of silence and impunity for offenders. We stress once again that gender equality is crucial for sustainable development and peace. We call on Polish authorities to reconsider withdrawal from the convention. Matters of interpretation as well as disputes should be discussed and addressed within its framework.”

The officers noted that the Resolution on Preventing and Combating Gender-Based Violence in the OSCE PA Berlin Declaration of 2018 calls on all OSCE participating States “to pass legislation consistent with international norms and standards that addresses domestic and sexual violence, harassment, including workplace harassment and abuse of authority” and underscores that “participating States should address prejudice and violence to ensure that women can exercise their fundamental human and political rights.”

The Council of Europe Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence, which came into force on 1 August 2014, has been signed by 45 countries and the EU and ratified by 34 countries. The Convention sets comprehensive and legally binding standards to prevent gender-based violence, protect victims, and punish perpetrators, and characterizes violence against women as a violation of human rights and a form of discrimination. 

Domestic violence in the OSCE region surged this year during months of lockdown aimed at fighting the coronavirus.

In a OSCE PA Parliamentary Web Dialogue  “Gendered Impacts of COVID-19”, held on 15 June 2020, the OSCE PA Special Representative on Gender Issues Hedy Fry (MP, Canada), presented her new report, which details the ways in which the pandemic is affecting issues including gender-based violence, as well as issues related to the women, peace and security agenda and women’s political leadership.

For more on the OSCE PA’s response to the COVID-19 crisis, please click here.

458107 Communication and Media Relations Section

The OSCE launched a new project on 24 July 2020 aimed at increasing and supporting the participation of women at all levels of policing, with the first pilot activities taking place in Montenegro. The project was developed to raise awareness at policy and police levels about the under-representation of women in the police across the OSCE area.

The launch saw the first meeting of the Steering Group. This  online meeting brought together representatives of the OSCE Secretariat, the OSCE Mission to Montenegro, the Ministry for Human and Minority Rights, the Ministry of Interior, the Police Directorate, civil society and international partners from the Norway Center for Integrity in the Defence (CIDS) and the Geneva Centre for Security Sector Governance (DCAF). This Steering Group will ensure local ownership and co-ordination of activities at the national level with all relevant stakeholders and seek to avoid overlapping.

Arnar Jensson, the manager of the project, underlined the benefits of increasing the number of women police officers for effective policing and highlighted the role the OSCE could provide play in further enhancing women’s role in the Montenegrin Police.

Following this meeting, a situational analysis and needs assessment are to be conducted over the course of the following months. Based on the main findings of these analyses, a set of tailored, concrete recommendations will be proposed to the national authorities.

The project is led by the Strategic Police Matters Unit of the OSCE Secretariat’s Transnational Threats Department and implemented in co-operation with the OSCE Mission to Montenegro, with financial support from the Italian government. 

SDGs SDGs:  16 - Peace, justice and strong institutions

Summary

• Compared with the previous reporting period, the SMM recorded fewer ceasefire violations in both Donetsk and Luhansk regions.
• Small-arms fire was assessed as directed at an SMM mini-unmanned aerial vehicle near Orikhove, Luhansk region.
• The Mission continued monitoring the disengagement areas near Stanytsia Luhanska, Zolote and Petrivske. It saw people within former positions during night hours inside the latter two disengagement areas.
• The SMM saw weapons in violation of withdrawal lines on both sides of the contact line.
• The SMM observed recently dug trenches near government-controlled Orikhove and non-government-controlled Holubivske, Luhansk region.
• The Mission facilitated and monitored adherence to localised ceasefires to enable repairs to and maintenance of critical civilian infrastructure.
• The Mission continued following up on the situation of civilians amid the COVID-19 outbreak, including at entry-exit checkpoints and corresponding checkpoints in Donetsk and Luhansk regions.
• The SMM’s freedom of movement continued to be restricted.*