From 6 to 10 November 2023, the Annual Conference of the International Association of Peacekeeping Training Centres (IAPTC) was held in Nairobi, Kenya. The IAPTC was initiated by Canada’s Pearson The post 27th Annual Conference of the International Association of Peacekeeping Training Centres (IAPTC), hosted by the International Peace Support Training Centre (IPSTC), in collaboration with the Kenyan Ministry of Defence appeared first on ESDC- European Security & Defence College.
558009 OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities OSCE and UN promote socio-economic inclusion of minorities as a strategy for conflict prevention Recommendations on the Effective Participation of National Minorities in Social and Economic Life Thematic Recommendations and Guidelines OSCE celebrates 30th anniversary of High Commissioner on National Minorities Supporting the social and economic participation of national minorities Roundtable on Promoting Conflict Prevention through the Socio-Economic Inclusion of Minorities OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities (HCNM) Kairat Abdrakhmanov and Director-General of the United Nations Office at Geneva (UNOG) Tatiana Valovaya organized a roundtable on Promoting Conflict Prevention through the Socio-Economic Inclusion of Minorities on 15 November 2023 at the Palais des Nations in Geneva. “Leaving no one behind is the central promise of the 2030 Agenda. This promise means that all the 17 Sustainable Development Goals should be met for everyone, including those who are the poorest, most vulnerable and furthest behind. Halfway through the 2030 Agenda, we must recognize that keeping this promise remains a distant goal for too many persons belonging to national, ethnic, religious and linguistic minorities who continue to endure discrimination, marginalization and exclusion. Furthermore, persons belonging to minority groups feel much more discriminated and excluded from society if they are stateless,” said Director-General Valovaya. “I welcome the valuable guidance on the participation of national minorities in social and economic life published last month by the OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities. Over the last three decades, the OSCE has provided crucial expertise and support to states to secure the dignity and inclusion of minorities. You have worked to ensure respect for their language, culture, religion or belief, and for their full participation in decisions of relevance to them and their communities,” said Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights Nada Al-Nashif. “When minority rights are firmly anchored in national legislation, including policy documents, and when they are implemented through electoral, legal, educational and regional development systems before a conflict has the opportunity to fester, then there is a good chance that a conflict might be prevented from happening. This is precisely why I encourage national authorities to invest in promoting and enabling the active participation of minorities in their country’s social and economic development: making this a priority will support and sustain integration, peace and stability in the long term,” said High Commissioner Abdrakhmanov. The roundtable discussed the measures and policy approaches set out in a new set of HCNM thematic Recommendations on the Effective Participation of National Minorities in Social and Economic Life in the context of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and other UN frameworks that could prevent the escalation of social and inter-ethnic tensions. The participants discussed the challenges and reflected on how to achieve a more inclusive socio-economic-cultural balance, leaving no one behind. They paid specific attention to the socio-economic inclusion of minority youth and women. The panel was comprised of Executive Secretary, United Nations Economic Commission for Europe Tatiana Molcean; UNHCR Deputy Director in the Division of International Protection Patrick Eba; Ambassador, Director, DCAF – Geneva Center for Security Sector Governance Nathalie Chuard; Chief, Indigenous Peoples and Minorities Section, OHCHR Hernan Vales; former UN Special Rapporteur on Minority Issues (2017-2023) Fernand de Varennes; and Associate Professor in Nationalism, European Institute of the London School of Economics and Political Science Jennifer Jackson-Preece. It was moderated by HCNM Senior Legal Adviser Elzbieta Kuzborska-Pacha. The roundtable was organized as a follow up to an event on the Effective Participation of Minorities in Economic Life as a Strategy for Conflict Prevention, which was held on 21 November 2021 at the UN Office at Geneva. It also marks one of a series of events organized throughout 2023 to mark the 30th anniversary since the institution of the OSCE HCNM began operations in The Hague in 1993.
Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Decision (CFSP) 2023/2422 of 26 October 2023 amending Decision 2013/184/CFSP concerning restrictive measures in view of the situation in Myanmar/Burma.
Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Decision (CFSP) 2023/2227 of 23 October 2023 amending Decision 2010/638/CFSP concerning restrictive measures in view of the situation in Guinea.
557967 Staff of the Border Service of the State Committee for National Security, the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek and international experts at the opening of the new education facility of the Advanced Training Centre in the city of Osh, Kyrgyzstan. As part of an extrabudgetary initiative aimed at mitigating the risks associated with the illicit movement of small arms, ammunition, and explosives across the State Border of the Kyrgyz Republic, the OSCE is enhancing the institutional capacity of the Border Service of the State Committee for National Security of the Kyrgyz Republic to effectively counter transnational threats. On 13 November, 2023 the Border Service of the State Committee for National Security of the Kyrgyz Republic, with the support of the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek, officially inaugurated a training facility at the Advanced Training Centre in Osh, Kyrgyzstan. The training facility underwent extensive renovations, with multiple classrooms being refurbished and equipped to facilitate training in key areas such as weapons service, engineering service, border control organization and medical support for troops. Each classroom is furnished with essential equipment and augmented with visual and interactive teaching aids. The renovation of this training facility significantly expands the Centre's training capabilities, specifically in the domains of physical security and safe storage of ammunition, explosive ordnance disposal, border control and the provision of first aid and medical support. These efforts, bolstered by the support of the United States and the Federal Republic of Germany, play a pivotal role in fortifying border security and thereby contribute to enhancing the overall security of both the Kyrgyz Republic and the broader Central Asian region.
Samoa Agreement: EU and its Member States sign new Partnership Agreement with the Members of the Organisation of the African, Caribbean and Pacific States.
e-MFP is delighted to publish the Financial Inclusion Compass 2023 – the sixth annual survey of financial inclusion stakeholders to better understand perspectives on current trends, future priority areas, challenges, opportunities and beyond. The survey on which this paper is based was open in May and June 2023, with both quantitative and qualitative sections. A record number of respondents participated – 185 total from 58 countries – and cumulatively provided thousands of scores and tens of thousands of words. This is what we believe makes the Compass unique and special – it is the only publication that gives FSPs, funders, TA providers, researchers, and everyone else the space to think and respond across a wide range of topics.The results have been fascinating. There are new current trends and future priority areas, and new opinions emerging on everything from climate-smart finance and the role of AI to financial health and gender mainstreaming. And like every edition, it provides a snapshot in time too – what are some general trends, but also what is really pressing right now, and why?In this sense, it is a valuable resource for all stakeholders today, but also in the future, as it is a time capsule of the concerns and ideas of a genuinely diverse range of people working in financial inclusion around the world.We hope you find the Financial Inclusion Compass 2023 useful and interesting, and we welcome any or all feedback on the survey or the publication that comes out of it.Read the Financial Inclusion Compass 2023 Thumbnail:
557910 Staff of the Prosecutor General’s Office of the Kyrgyz Republic and the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek at the presentation on the outcomes of the Automated Information System "Registration of Inspections of Business Entities." Chyngyz Zhanybekov Aida Almazbekova In a significant milestone, the Prosecutor General’s Office of the Kyrgyz Republic conducted a comprehensive presentation today on the outcomes of a year-long implementation of the Automated Information System, titled "Registration of Inspections of Business Entities." Developed in 2022 through a collaborative effort between the Prosecutor General’s Office of the Kyrgyz Republic and the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek, this innovative system serves as a pivotal platform for recording and managing inspections conducted by law enforcement agencies and tax authorities on the activities of business entities. The initiative aims to eliminate unjustified state interference in business activities, enhance legal protection, create a favorable environment for entrepreneurship and investment, counteract corruption risks during inspections, and reinforce government discipline. Since its official launch on January 1, 2023, within the Kyrgyz Republic, the system has seen remarkable progress. With user training initiated in December 2022 and ongoing nationwide training, the system currently boasts 1905 registered users and has processed 1812 inspection requests. Continuous enhancements, based on valuable user feedback, and rigorous daily monitoring by the employees of the Prosecutor General’s Office, underscore the commitment to refining the system's capabilities. Highlighting the collaboration's significance during the presentation, H.E. Mr. Alexey Rogov, the Head of the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek, emphasized, "Cooperation between the Prosecutor General’s Office of the Kyrgyz Republic and the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek has always been aimed at achieving justice, protecting the rights and interests of citizens, and strengthening law and order in the Kyrgyz Republic. Today's presentation of the information system is another important step in this direction." The "Registration of Inspections of Business Entities" system serves as a testament to the dedication of the Kyrgyz Republic and the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek to foster a transparent and accountable business environment. As it continues to shape the legal and regulatory landscape, the system exemplifies the power of collaboration and innovation in achieving justice and upholding the rights of citizens.
Le président du Conseil européen Charles Michel est intervenu lors de la session "Des multicrises aux multiconflits: comment arrêter le cercle vicieux?" du Forum de Paris sur la paix. Il a mis l’accent sur la guerre en Ukraine, l’élargissement, le multilatéralisme et la réforme des Nations unies.
Dans son discours prononcé lors de la session "Concrétiser le Pacte de Paris pour les peuples et la planète" du Forum de Paris sur la paix, le président du Conseil européen, Charles Michel, a insisté sur le fait qu'un financement mondial efficace était essentiel pour répondre aux défis mondiaux, y compris la lutte contre la pauvreté et la protection de notre planète.
MedLife, the largest network of private medical services in Romania, proudly announces the introduction of the company’s novel drone transport system for biological laboratory samples. With this step, made in partnership with the Australian company Skyy Network, MedLife becomes the first private medical operator in Romania and in Central and Eastern Europe to use drones […]
With a length of 120 km between Oradea and Arad, MedLife and Skyy Network position Romania on the innovation map, by creating the longest drone flight route for medical logistics within Europe, this segment is covered in less than 1 hour. Continue reading MedLife – The First Private Medical Operator In Central And Eastern Europe To Transport Biological Laboratory Samples With Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) at Brussels Morning Newspaper.
The European Commission has sent to member states for consultation a draft proposal to partially adjust the phase-out schedule of the provisions of the State aid Temporary Crisis and Transition Framework aimed at providing a crisis response following Russia's aggression against Ukraine and the unprecedented increase in energy prices. Since the beginning of Russia's war […]
Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Decision (CFSP) 2023/2287 of 23 October 2023 concerning restrictive measures in view of the situation in Niger
Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Decision (CFSP) 2023/2231 of 23 October 2023 amending Decision (CFSP) 2016/1693 concerning restrictive measures against ISIL (Da’esh) and Al-Qaeda and persons, groups, undertakings and entities associated with them.
Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Decision (CFSP) 2023/2228 of 23 October 2023 amending Decision (CFSP) 2015/1763 concerning restrictive measures in view of the situation in Burundi.
Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Decision (CFSP) 2023/2135 concerning restrictive measures in view of activities undermining the stability and political transition of Sudan
Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Decision (CFSP) 2023/2135 concerning restrictive measures in view of activities undermining the stability and political transition of Sudan
Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Decision (CFSP) 2023/2135 concerning restrictive measures in view of activities undermining the stability and political transition of Sudan
Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Decision (CFSP) 2023/2127 of 9 October 2023 amending Decision (CFSP) 2019/1720 concerning restrictive measures in view of the situation in Nicaragua.
The European Commission has approved a €66 million Finnish scheme to support the production of renewable methane and methanol to foster the transition towards a net-zero economy. The scheme was approved under the state aid Temporary Crisis and Transition Framework, adopted by the Commission on 9 March 2023 to support measures in sectors which are […]
Families in the European Union (EU) are increasingly likely to move and travel between the EU Member States. Yet, given the differences in Member States' laws, parents can face difficulties in having their parenthood recognised when crossing borders within the EU.
On 30 November 2022, the President of the Court of Justice of the EU (CJEU), Professor Koen Lenaerts, submitted to the European Parliament and the Council of the EU, on behalf of the CJEU, a proposal to amend Protocol No 3 on the Statute of the Court of Justice of the European Union (the SCJEU or the Statute).
Reforming Ukraine’s large security sector and overcoming its Soviet-era legacies has been a major challenge since independence. Ukrainian civil society […] The post “Ukraine’s state-civil partnership to reform the security sector”, Julia Soldatiuk-Westerveld and Bob Deen (Clingendael Institute, The Netherlands) first appeared on TEPSA.
556890 Participants of the Forum "Women's Participation: A Pillar for Peace and Stability" in Batken, Kyrgyzstan. Chyngyz Zhanybekov Batken, 30 October 2023 – The city of Batken played host to a Forum on "Women's Participation: A Pillar for Peace and Stability", which holds particular significance as an integral component of Kyrgyzstan's National Action Plan for the realization of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 within the 2022-2024 timeframe. Aligned with strategic imperatives in the realm of "Governance, Rule of Law, and Peacebuilding," this Forum emerged as a platform for in-depth examination, identification of shared challenges, and prioritization of endeavors dedicated to advancing the global "Women, Peace, Security" agenda. The Forum served as a platform for attendees to acquaint themselves with the progress in implementing the Resolution 1325 at both national and local levels in Kyrgyzstan. Four thematic roundtables facilitated robust dialogues, enabling the exchange of best practices and the assimilation of lessons learned. Moreover, the event fostered the development of concrete collaboration mechanisms to further the objectives of the "Women, Peace, Security" agenda. “It is worth noting that the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek has been supporting the Network of Women’s Initiative Groups (WIG) since 2011. These are groups of active women at the local level who are respected among members of the local community and promote women's rights in the fight against domestic violence, promote early response, prevention and resolution of conflicts at the local level. In addition, the network plays an important role in educating young people on peacebuilding and human rights issues. Today, the WIG Network unites 28 groups of women in all seven regions of the country. This event brought together WIG leaders from all regions of the country in Batken to exchange experiences and strengthen ties.” – noted Ekaterine Nakashidze, Acting Deputy Head of the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek. The OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek supported the Forum, recognizing it as a significant undertaking by the Network of Women's Initiative Groups aimed at reinforcing the leadership of women and their contributions to peacebuilding. It is our aspiration that the outcomes of this Forum will contribute to our shared mission of fostering peace and security by empowering women in the realms of peacebuilding and conflict prevention.
Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Decision (CFSP) 2023/2129 of 9 October 2023 amending Decision (CFSP) 2018/1544 concerning restrictive measures against the proliferation and use of chemical weapons.
Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Decision (CFSP) 2023/2195 of 16 October 2023 amending Decision 2010/413/CFSP concerning restrictive measures against Iran.
Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Decision (CFSP) 2023/2126 of 9 October 2023 amending Decision 2010/413/CFSP concerning restrictive measures against Iran.
Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Decision (CFSP) 2023/2097 of 28 September 2023 concerning restrictive measures in view of Russia’s actions destabilising the situation in Ukraine.
Today (23 October), Jobs and Social Rights Commissioner Nicolas Schmit will be in Seville, Spain, to kick off the European Vocational Skills Week 2023. The Commissioner will open a conference on the automatic mutual recognition of vocational training qualifications, organised by the Spanish Presidency of the Council of the EU. The event will gather representatives […]
556134 The meeting of the OSCE Central Asia and South-Eastern Europe regional networks for women professionals in preventing and countering violent extremism and radicalization that lead to terrorism (P/CVERLT) concluded today in Vienna. The event was organized by the OSCE Secretariat’s Gender Issues Programme/WIN Project, in collaboration with the OSCE Secretariat's Transnational Threats Department/Action against Terrorism Unit. The regional networks, comprising of 55 women professionals, representing state agencies, civil society, academia, media and OSCE field operations, were established in February 2023. Since then, their members have been meeting online on a monthly basis. The first in-person meeting aimed at further strengthening the connections among the networks’ members, both regionally and cross-regionally. Discussions on challenges and trends in P/CVERLT provided a platform for the participants for expanding the knowledge by learning from each other as well as exchanging their experiences with external experts. In her welcoming remarks, OSCE Secretary General Helga Maria Schmid highlighted: “By supporting these networks, the OSCE emphasizes the need for gender-sensitive responses to the threat that violent extremism poses to societies. Because it is not only a question of representation; it is a question of integrating women’s unique perspectives and expertise into P/CVERLT policy and programming.” In the framework of the event, participants developed comprehensive work plans, consolidating the strategic direction for the two regional networks, and laying the foundation for their forthcoming initiatives. “Preventing and countering violent extremism – is not a small task, nor is it one that government or civil society can tackle on their own. It requires co-operation, and co-operation requires trust, close relationships, and networks such as the one established by the OSCE, to work together to address the complex root causes and drivers of violent extremism,” emphasized Alena Kupchyna, OSCE Co-ordinator of Activities to Address Transnational Threats. The meeting reiterated OSCE commitments towards strengthening the capacity of women professionals in the crucial field of preventing and countering violent extremism and radicalization that lead to terrorism.
The World Medical Association (WMA) mourns over the loss of lives, especially those of healthcare personnel on both sides of the conflict, and stands in solidarity with all the physicians and healthcare personnel who are on the frontline, risking their lives to provide crucial medical care during these challenging times. We remain committed to our […]
The Commission has authorized three genetically modified maize and renewed the authorization for another genetically modified maize. The authorisation decisions are only for their use as food or animal feed and do not allow for their cultivation in the EU. These genetically modified maize varieties have gone through a comprehensive and stringent authorisation procedure, which […]
On 17 October the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR), OSCE Mission to Skopje, OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities (HCNM) and OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) will organize a regional conference in Skopje, under the auspices of the OSCE Chairpersonship of North Macedonia focused on ending statelessness in South-Eastern Europe. The conference will bring together national authorities and civil society representatives from North Macedonia, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Montenegro and Serbia. They will exchange best practices in accessing civil documentation and providing legal identity, including birth registration, to end statelessness. OSCE Chairman-in-Office Bujar Osmani, Assistant High Commissioner for Protection at UNHCR Gillian Triggs, OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities Kairat Abdrakhmanov, Director Matteo Mecacci of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights, and the Head of OSCE Mission to Skopje Kilian Wahl will address the conference. Media are invited to cover the press statements and the opening session, to be held at Limak Hotel, Jordan Mijalkov No. 31, 1000, Skopje, on Tuesday, 17 October 2023, starting at 9:15 am CEST.
Press briefings ahead of Environment Council and Transport, Telecommunications and Energy Council (Energy) will take place on Friday 13 October 2023 at 14.00.
554790 Željka Šulc The OSCE Mission to BiH organized today in Sarajevo a closing ceremony to mark the successful completion of one of the OSCE’s key projects in Bosnia and Herzegovina – the Tabletop Exercises on Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism and Radicalization Leading to Terrorism (VERLT). Over the course of the past two years, the OSCE Mission has conducted twelve Tabletop Exercises (TTX) that convened more than 500 participants from diverse backgrounds across the entire country. Employing a multi-disciplinary approach, the TTXs aimed to enhance the capacities of key stakeholders in the prevention and countering of violent extremism in BiH. The objectives were multifaceted, encompassing raising awareness of challenges associated with VERLT, the identification of actionable policy responses that comply with human rights standards, sharing best practices, and identifying opportunities for local and international collaboration. “One of the strengths of the project lies in its broad scope. It delves deeper than violent extremism and radicalization rooted in religious motivations,” said Ambassador Brian Aggeler, Head of the OSCE Mission to BiH. “We explored themes related to foreign terrorist fighters and ethno-nationalism/right-wing extremism – phenomena that we need to address in today’s complex world. Now, we all have to ensure that what the project has achieved will translate not only into strategy and policies, but also into practical changes that will improve the safety and security of all citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina.” This project was implemented in co-operation with the Ministry of Security of Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina (FBiH) Government’s Inter-sectoral Group for Prevention and Combatting Terrorism, and the Ministry of Interior of Republika Srpska, with financial support provided by the Governments of the Kingdom of the Netherlands and the Republic of Poland. Ivana Veselčić, Assistant BiH Minister of Security, said: “BiH strategic and planning documents demonstrate continuity of commitment of the institutions BiH to prevent and combat terrorism, violent extremism and radicalization that lead to terrorism, in line with the international commitments of Bosnia and Herzegovina as a member state of the UN, the Council of Europe, the OSCE and the Anti-Terrorism Coalition and a potential candidate for membership in the EU.” Veselčić said that it is crucial to ensure dialogue between institutions at all levels of government in Bosnia and Herzegovina, civil society, the media, and religious communities for the successful implementation of strategic documents aimed at preventing and combatting these phenomena. “This project was instrumental in obtaining broad consultation within the country ahead of the development of the new BiH Strategy for Preventing and Combating Terrorism 2021-2026 and corresponding action plans. Projects of this nature contribute significantly to a deeper understanding of violent extremism and radicalization leading to terrorism, thereby enhancing the co-operation of all stakeholders engaged in implementing these critical policies,” concluded the Head of Administration for Countering Terrorism and Extremism in the Ministry of the Interior Affairs of the Republic of Srpska, Nebojša Tonković.
Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Decision (CFSP) 2023/1767 of 13 September 2023 amending Decision 2014/145/CFSP concerning restrictive measures in respect of actions undermining or threatening the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine.
"Israel has the right to defend itself, but it has to be done according to the right of international law, humanitarian law. Some decisions are against this international law," declared EU’s foreign policy chief Josep Borrell. Speaking in Muscat, Oman, at a press conference following a special informal meeting of EU Foreign Ministers on the […]
On the occasion of the European and World Day against the Death Penalty, the EU and the Council of Europe issued a statement reaffirming their unequivocal opposition to the death penalty, including any reintroduction of it, in all cases and in all circumstances.
Get ready for an extraordinary high-level conference on October 20! The College of Europe, Bruges campus, are thrilled to announce […] The post High-Level Conference: “The Report of the Group of Twelve: a Franco-German reflection on the future of EU institutions”, October 20 (College of Europe, Bruges) first appeared on TEPSA.
Since the 2020 pandemic, we have been living in an era of multiple exogenous shocks that significantly affected global economic […] The post TEPSA Brief: “Exogenous Shocks and Global Value Chains Reconfiguration: Impact on Croatia as a New EU Member State”, Nevenka Čučković & Valentina Vučković first appeared on TEPSA.
On 3 October, the Commission adopted a Recommendation on critical technology areas for the EU's economic security, for further risk assessment with member states. This Recommendation stems from the Joint Communication on a European Economic Security Strategy that put in place a comprehensive strategic approach to economic security in the EU. This Recommendation relates to […]
Statement by Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan of Armenia, President Michel of the European Council, President Macron of France and Chancellor Scholz of Germany.
WARSAW, 30 September 2023 – Following 14 months of monitoring the evaluation of candidates to the body responsible for the appointment and discipline of judges in Moldova (pre-vetting), the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) found that the procedure is generally objective, fair and professional, and in line with international human rights and rule of law principles. However, the transparency and legal certainty of the evaluation process could be further improved, ODIHR said in a new report. “Our long-term monitoring in Moldova has shown that the country is making progress with its judicial reform, and we offer a number of recommendations to further improve the process moving forward,” said ODIHR Director Matteo Mecacci. “As an independent judiciary is indispensable for democracy, it is crucial that any intervention and all stages in the selection and appointment of judges are made through a transparent, fair and credible process.” In its report, ODIHR makes a number of key recommendations to the Moldovan authorities, the evaluation commission, and similar bodies that may serve to inform future external evaluation and vetting processes for judges and prosecutors in the country. These include increasing the transparency of the selection of members of the commission and other similar bodies, enhancing public communication and access to information about important procedural decisions, and refraining from amending the applicable legislation during the process, unless this is exceptionally required to ensure fairness and credibility. ODIHR also suggests updating the legal framework to guarantee gender equality and diversity in the future among the member of the vetting bodies, establishing realistic deadlines for the process of integrity evaluations, and introducing compensation for candidates whose appeals were not examined prior to the completion of the appointment process. In addition, ODIHR said vetting should remain an extraordinary measure to select judges and prosecutors who are best placed to make the justice system more credible and accountable towards citizens. The vetting process should be conducted only once, with strict respect for the principles of judicial independence, and in observance of the fairness and transparency of the evaluation process. Following detailed analysis of the legislation covering the process in September last year, ODIHR monitored the pre-vetting of candidates for the body responsible for the appointment and discipline of judges in Moldova from June 2022 to August 2023 at the invitation of the Moldovan Ombudsman. The monitoring team observed all 29 hearings of the Superior Council of Magistracy candidates, with all monitors strictly adhering to the well-established ODIHR monitoring principles of impartiality, objectivity, confidentiality and professionalism, at the same time ensuring that they in no way interfered in the process itself. ODIHR will continue monitoring the process of evaluation of integrity by the evaluation commission, and will issue a final report when the process has been completed.
Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain third countries with Council implementing Decision (CFSP) 2023/1780 of 15 September 2023 implementing Decision 2011/235/CFSP concerning restrictive measures directed against certain persons and entities in view of the situation in Iran.
Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Decision (CFSP) 2023/1598 of 28 July 2023 amending Decision 2012/285/CFSP concerning restrictive measures in view of the situation in Guinea-Bissau.
‘De-risking’ is central to the EU’s new economic security strategy. The need to identify and reduce undesired economic dependencies is […] The post Strategy Session: “De-Risking Responsibly: How To Come To Better Public-Private Cooperation On Economic Security?”, October 9 (Clingendael Institute, The Netherlands) first appeared on TEPSA.
553786 Ivana Milatovic, OSCE Mission to Serbia Milica Knezevic On 28 September in Belgrade, seven participants of the 2023 Professional Practice Programme for young professionals from south and southwest Serbia received certificates of completion and presented the projects they designed and implemented during their 10-month professional placement with central institutions in Serbia. For the fourth consecutive year, the Professional Practice Programme provided young men and women from south and southwest Serbia with an opportunity to gain first-hand professional experience in the civil service and improve their understanding of the functioning of Serbia’s democratic institutions. The Programme is implemented by the OSCE Mission to Serbia in partnership with the Ministry of Human and Minority Rights and Social Dialogue. “This programme is unique in Serbia. It connects young professionals from under-represented communities with central institutions: The participants learn about Serbia’s reform agenda and how it is implemented in practice. Institutions commit to fostering youth participation and learning about democratic governance, which the young women and men will hopefully bring home to their communities and apply in their future professional careers,” said Head of the OSCE Mission to Serbia, Ambassador Jan Braathu. Throughout the 10-month placement period, the OSCE Mission to Serbia provided participants with a series of training seminars in the area of the rule of law, democratic governance, and project management. The seminars also integrated youth and gender perspectives, providing young people with skills and knowledge to support them in their pursuit of a career in the public sector. The participants of the 2023 cycle completed their placements at the Office of the Commissioner for Protection of Equality, the Office of Public Procurement, the Ministry of Public Administration and Local Self-Government, the Ministry of Human and Minority Rights and Social Dialogue, the National Assembly of the Republic of Serbia, and the Coordination Body for the municipalities of Preševo, Bujanovac and Medveđa. This year’s cycle was implemented with the support of the Permanent Missions of Norway, the Republic of Türkiye, and Poland to the OSCE.
This introduction presents an overview of this collection. It aims to clarify the making of the modern world order through […] The post “Towards a non-hegemonic world order: emancipation and the political agency of the Global South in a changing world order”, Annamária Artner and Zhiguang Yin (IWE CERS, Hungary) first appeared on TEPSA.
The coup led by General Tiani which overthrew President Bazoum in Niger on July 26 is the latest in a […] The post “A coup like no other: Three reasons why the coup in Niger is different from previous coups in the Sahel (and why it’s very serious)”, Nina Wilén and Yvan Guichaoua (Egmont, Belgium) first appeared on TEPSA.
Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Decision (CFSP) 2023/1716 of 8 September 2023 amending Decision (CFSP) 2020/1999 concerning restrictive measures against serious human rights violations and abuses
In support of the implementation of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on a strategic and comprehensive partnership between the EU and Tunisia, the Commission is today announcing €60 million in budget support for Tunisia and an operational assistance package on migration worth around €67m, which respectively will now be disbursed in the coming days and […]
552970 TESLIĆ, 20 September 2023 – The OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina held a final workshop for law enforcement agencies on increasing awareness of managers and operational staff on core components and significant benefits of intelligence-led policing principles. The project Enhancing Intelligence-led Policing (ILP) to Combat Serious Security Threats and Crimes was launched in the autumn of 2022. The OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina (the Mission) organized a series of sixteen workshops for law enforcement agencies (LEAs) to establish a strategic and operational basis for developing a coherent and sustainable ILP model in BiH. The main topics were introduction to the requisite organizational structures, and use of criminal-intelligence reports and analytical products in the decision-making process. The workshops included topics such as analytical preparation, threat assessment, organizational planning and strategy development. A large segment of the workshop was dedicated to discussion on optimizing technical capacity and compatibility – particularly in terms of ICT systems and equipment, as well as the use of analytical tools and software for criminal-intelligence work. Ambassador Brian Aggeler, Head of the OSCE Mission to BiH reflected back on the initial phase of the Project when working side by side with BiH law enforcement partners. The Ambassador recognised the great strides made in establishing a strategic and operational basis for advancing intelligence-led policing in BiH’s twenty-one law enforcement agencies and institutions, noting “Thirty-six police managers and 293 operational staff had an opportunity to find out more on ILP principles and requirements. The project also has established an ILP Co-ordination Body, a highly operational, progress oriented forum comprised of senior law enforcement managers from all partner agencies and institutions. I am proud to announce that we will deliver the first package of IT assistance to law enforcement agencies by the end of 2023.” Funds for the Project were provided by Norway, Germany, Lichtenstein, Luxembourg, Türkiye, and Austria. Underlining the importance of the Project for the future of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Olav Reinertsen, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Norway in Bosnia and Herzegovina stated, “The aim of the project in BiH is to ultimately bolster the effectiveness of law enforcement in fighting crime and preventing threats to security. Intelligence-led policing highlights the importance of contemporary technology and provides sustainable mechanisms for interagency co-ordination and co-operation,” the Ambassador added. “Norway strongly supports the advancement and strengthening of institutions and law enforcement agencies in the country, and considers the project to be a strategic priority for BiH.” In the last year, BiH and international law enforcement agencies jointly planned and executed ILP-driven police investigations in the area of transnational illicit trafficking of narcotics and weapons. These complex operations resulted in several indictments of high-profile individuals. As a result, the use of the intelligence-led policing model helped to uncover, document, and investigate an international organized crime network that produced and transported illegal narcotics and firearms across Europe. The Mission will remain an active partner in ensuring that all law enforcement agencies have sufficient technical capabilities to bolster their collaborative and efficient response to versatile security threats and crimes.
The European Commission has analysed the data related to the impact of the exports of 4 categories of agricultural products on the EU market. It has concluded that thanks to the work of the Coordination Platform and to the temporary measures introduced on 2 May 2023, the market distortions in the five member states bordering […]
Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Decision (CFSP) 2023/1188 of 19 June 2023 amending Decision 2014/386/CFSP concerning restrictive measures in response to the illegal annexation of Crimea and Sevastopol.
The aim of this brief is to explore the challenges and opportunities entailed in the Global Gateway initiative, partly designed […] The post TEPSA Brief: “Development impact in a geopolitical landscape: challenges and opportunities of Global Gateway”, Ugo Armanini, Mario Esteban, Iliana Olivié, María Santillán O´Shea first appeared on TEPSA.
President von der Leyen (pictured) spoke at the G20 event on PGII hosted by Prime Minister Modi and President Biden. She emphasized the EU's key contribution to two new flagship PGII projects: Background Both projects are a tangible illustration of the EU's deep commitment to enhancing critical infrastructure across the globe. They are a further […]
The EU issued a statement strongly condemning the holding of illegitimate so-called “elections” in the Autonomous Republic of Crimea and the City of Sevastopol and in parts of the Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions of Ukraine on 8-10 September, and stating that the EU does not and will not recognise their results.
On 10 March 2021, the Presidents of the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission signed the Joint Declaration on […] The post TEPSA Commentary: “Conference on the Future of Europe: putting citizens at the centre”, Marta Arpio, Liis Jaansalu, Rebecca Rhlalou, Matteo Riceputi, Miroslav Stoyanov and Marie-Charlotte van Lamsweerde first appeared on TEPSA.
Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Decision (CFSP) /1574 of 28 July 2023 amending Decision (CFSP) 2022/2319 concerning restrictive measures in view of the situation in Haiti.
Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Decision (CFSP) 2023/1568 of 28 July 2023 amending Decision 2010/788/CFSP concerning restrictive measures in view of the situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Implementing Decision (CFSP) 2023/1567 of 28 July 2023 implementing Decision 2010/788/CFSP concerning restrictive measures in view of the situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Declaration by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Decision (CFSP) 2023/1519 of 20 July 2023 amending Decision (CFSP) 2021/1277 concerning restrictive measures in view of the situation in Lebanon.
Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Decision (CFSP) 2023/1566 of 28 July 2023 amending Decision 2014/145/CFSP concerning restrictive measures in respect of actions undermining or threatening the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine.
Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Decision (CFSP) 2023/1517 of 20 July 2023 amending Decision 2014/512/CFSP concerning restrictive measures in view of Russia’s actions destabilising the situation in Ukraine.
To commemorate the Europe-Wide Day of Remembrance for the victims of all totalitarian and authoritarian regimes on 23 August, Values and Transparency Vice President Věra Jourová (pictured) and Justice Commissioner Didier Reynders, issued the following statement: “84 years ago, the signature of the Molotov-Ribbentrop pact, followed by the start of the Second World War, opened […]
Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain countries with the Council Implementing Decision (CFSP) 2023/1592 of 3 August 2023 implementing Decision 2012/642/CFSP concerning restrictive measures in view of the situation in Belarus and the involvement of Belarus in the Russian aggression against Ukraine.
Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain countries with the Council Implementing Decision (CFSP) 2023/1592 of 3 August 2023 implementing Decision 2012/642/CFSP concerning restrictive measures in view of the situation in Belarus and the involvement of Belarus in the Russian aggression against Ukraine.
The Commission has decided to transfer €135 million of the Neighbourhood, Development and International Cooperation Instrument, originally planned for 2021-2027 Interreg NEXT programmes with Russia and Belarus, to other Interreg programmes with Ukraine and Moldova. Cohesion and Reforms Commissioner Elisa Ferreira (pictured) said: “The decision to cancel the originally envisaged cooperation with Russia and Belarus through our […]
VIENNA/SARAJEVO, 16 August 2023 - OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, Teresa Ribeiro, and Head of the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina, Ambassador Brian Aggeler are alarmed by the recent repeated, open and direct threats as well as accusations made by Republika Srpska (RS) President Milorad Dodik towards N1, Capital, BN, and Buka media outlets. President Dodik's stated intention to file lawsuits against these media organizations for allegedly destabilizing RS and undermining his position in power, along with his claims of their allegedly receiving international funds for this purpose, are clearly aimed at suppressing and targeting journalists, silencing dissent and independent voices. This is particularly concerning given the recent move by Republika Srpska National Assembly that on 20 July re-criminalised defamation in RS. “Such extreme and inflammatory statements, in particular when made by political leaders, have the potential to create an atmosphere of hostility and even incite violence,” said Ambassador Aggeler. “Past instances of similar rhetoric have led to attacks on journalists and human rights advocates by groups of hooligans with woefully insufficient reactions from law enforcement authorities failing to find and prosecute perpetrators, and protect citizens from violence,” he added. "I denounce the accusations against N1, Capital, Buka, and BN television journalists," Ribeiro said. The representative recalled the 2018 OSCE Ministerial Council decision on the Safety of Journalists, adopted by consensus of all OSCE participating states, including Bosnia and Herzegovina. In this decision, they "urge political leaders, public officials, and authorities to refrain from intimidating, threatening, or condoning – and to unequivocally condemn – violence against journalists. This is in order to reduce the risks or threats that journalists may face and avoid undermining trust in the credibility of journalists, as well as respect for the importance of independent journalism." The OSCE strongly condemns any form of violence or harassment against journalists and emphasizes the importance of safeguarding their safety and rights, including their physical safety, security of their premises and homes, and strategic lawsuits launched by public officials. “We expect that the authorities within RS will uphold their responsibilities and ensure the protection of all RS citizens, including journalists, from the potential consequences of such inflammatory speech. A free and independent media is a cornerstone of any democratic society, and the OSCE underscores the importance of fostering an environment in which journalists and media organizations can operate without fear of retribution,” Ribeiro and Aggeler concluded.
The European Commission has approved, under EU state aid rules, a €6.5 billion German scheme to partially compensate energy-intensive companies to address the risk of carbon leakage from higher fuel prices resulting from the German fuel emission trading system (‘German fuel ETS'). The German measure Germany notified the Commission of its plan to support energy-intensive […]
Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Decision (CFSP) 2023/1532 of 20 July 2023 concerning restrictive measures in view of Iran’s military support to Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine.
Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Decision (CFSP) 2023/1502 of 20 July 2023 amending Decision 2013/184/CFSP concerning restrictive measures in view of the situation in Myanmar/Burma.
Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Decision (CFSP) 2023/1504 of 20 July 2023 amending Decision (CFSP) 2020/1999 concerning restrictive measures against serious human rights violations and abuses.
Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Decision (CFSP) 2023/1500 of 20 July 2023 amending Decision (CFSP) 2020/1999 concerning restrictive measures against serious human rights violations and abuses.
Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Decision (CFSP) 2023/1514 of 20 July 2023 updating the list of persons, groups and entities subject to Articles 2, 3 and 4 of Common Position 2001/931/CFSP on the application of specific measures to combat terrorism, and repealing Decision (CFSP) 2023/422.
Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Implementing Decision (CFSP) 2023/1503 of 20 July 2023 implementing Decision 2013/255/CFSP concerning restrictive measures in view of the situation in Syria.
Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Decision (CFSP) 2023/1501 of 20 July 2023 amending Decision 2014/145/CFSP concerning restrictive measures in respect of actions undermining or threatening the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine.
Today, the Council imposed restrictive measures against nine Congolese and Rwandan individuals responsible for acts that constitute serious human rights violations and abuses in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), and for sustaining the armed conflict, instability and insecurity in the DRC.
Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Decision (CFSP) 2023/964 of 15 May 2023 amending Decision (CFSP) 2019/797 concerning restrictive measures against cyber-attacks threatening the Union or its Member States
Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Decision (CFSP) 2023/1467 of 14 July 2023 amending Decision 2013/255/CFSP concerning restrictive measures in view of the situation in Syria.
Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Decision (CFSP) 2023/1439 of 10 July 2023 amending Decision (CFSP) 2015/1333 concerning restrictive measures in view of the situation in Libya.
548956 On 17 to 21 July 2023, the OSCE Secretariat, in co-operation with the Programme Office in Dushanbe, held the Central Asia Youth Dialogue Forum on the rule of law, integrity and crime prevention in Almaty, Kazakhstan. The Forum gathered around 25 young people from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and Mongolia to build confidence and trust among youth in the region. The event served as a platform for Central Asian and Mongolian youth to identify and discuss key security challenges concerning the rule of law, integrity, and crime prevention. The interactive discussions led to the development of concrete policy recommendations and ideas aimed at enhancing these areas within their communities and the wider Central Asian region. These recommendations were presented to representatives of the Permanent Missions of Germany, the United Kingdom and the United States to the OSCE, as well as representatives of the Embassies of the United Kingdom and the United States in Kazakhstan. One distinctive feature of the Dialogue Forum was its emphasis on meaningful youth engagement and capacity building. The event was largely youth-driven, with young individuals from the Central Asia Network by Consensus acting as facilitators for various sessions. This inclusive approach aimed to strengthen regional ties and create a supportive environment for young individuals to work together towards common goals. “Fostering the culture of lawfulness among youth is one of the highest priorities for the Government of Kazakhstan. It is a pleasure for us to co-operate with the OSCE and host this important Forum in our country to give youth a platform to discuss the issues of crime prevention, integrity, and rule of law,” said Mr. Rollan Kuspan, Deputy Chair of the Committee of Youth and Family Affairs of the Ministry of Information and Social Development of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Parvina Saidova, representative of the Central Asia Network by Consensus said, “Youth dialogue and exchange across Central Asia are essential for fostering understanding, collaboration, and a peer-to-peer approach, enabling youth to become active agents of positive change.” The outcomes of the Forum clearly highlighted the significance of including the perspectives of young people in shaping policies regarding the rule of law, integrity, and crime prevention. The active involvement of youth demonstrates their potential as catalysts for positive change in their communities and the Central Asian region as a whole. The Forum was held as part of the OSCE-wide multi-year project: “Enhancing youth crime and drug use prevention through education on legality and awareness campaigns addressing threats of organized crime and corruption”, which is funded by Germany. Other donors supporting this project are Andorra, Italy and Poland.
548947 Communication and Media Relations Section Alexandra Taylor The holistic nature of security sector governance and reform (SSG/R), the transformations experienced by different countries, and the efforts still required to further improve security sector governance in Central Asia were discussed at an OSCE workshop, held from 16 to 21 July in Issyk-Kul, Kyrgyzstan. Fourteen OSCE Academy graduates and alumni from Afghanistan, Mongolia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan came together to learn about contemporary SSG/R concepts, taking the opportunity to think critically, to use different approaches, and to evaluate “when, where, and why” to apply SSG/R tools in the Central Asian context – including in light of the situation in Afghanistan. During the five-day workshop, participants deepened their theoretical and practical knowledge of human security, good governance, and human rights – focusing on both people-centred and state-centred security. They also enhanced their knowledge of the links between security and justice and the importance of gender and inclusivity in SSG/R processes. The event provided young graduates and alumni the opportunity to develop their professional and academic skills, together with their peers. This summer school workshop was organized jointly by the OSCE Conflict Prevention Centre, the OSCE Academy in Bishkek, and the Geneva Centre for Security Sector Governance (DCAF), with the support of the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek. It was funded by the OSCE extra-budgetary project “Support, capacity-building and awareness-raising for Security Sector Governance and Reform within the OSCE: Phase III”, with financial contributions from Germany and Finland as well as in-kind support from DCAF.
NOTICIA: La convocatoria de expresiones de interés para la tercera edición del Programa de Especialización de Gestores de 2023 se ha abierto hoy, jueves 20 de julio, y cerrará el próximo viernes 15 de septiembre a las 12:00 del mediodía.
The Council imposed restrictive measures against 18 individuals and five entities under the Global Human Rights Sanctions Regime, because of their responsibility for serious human rights violations and abuses in Afghanistan, South Sudan, the Central African Republic, Ukraine and Russia.
The Council extended the mandates of the EU Special Representatives in Bosnia and Herzegovina, in Kosovo* and for the South Caucasus and the crisis in Georgia for one year.
BISMILLAHIR RAHMANIR RAHEEM! Distinguished heads of delegations! Distinguished Secretary-General! I am indeed pleased to see you all today at the First Summit of the Gulf Cooperation Council and Central Asian countries. We have been looking forward to our historical meeting in the beautiful and unique Jeddah, the symbolic gateway to the holy city of Mecca. […]
548833 The universal and absolute prohibition of torture has been enshrined in several universal and regional treaties, and all fifty-seven OSCE participating States have ratified the United Nations Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (UNCAT). All States parties regularly submit reports to the UN Committee against Torture on measures being taken to implement the rights undertaken under the Convention, and receive recommendations from the Committee. Against this backdrop, from 18 to 21 July 2023, the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan (PCUz), in close collaboration with the National Center for Human Rights of the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights – Regional Office for Central Asia (UN OHCHR ROCA) held a specialized training course titled “Professional Development of State Agencies for the Preparation of the Sixth Periodic Report Of Uzbekistan on the Implementation of the [United Nations] Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment” in the Tashkent region. Thirty senior and mid-level government officials from the Senate and the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis (National Parliament), as well as ministries and agencies gained a deeper understanding of the international practices for the preparation of the periodic state report to the UN Committee against Torture, and examined the importance of ratifying the Optional Protocol to the UNCAT. In his opening remarks, the Acting OSCE Project Co-ordinator, Ambassador Clemens Koja, underlined that “with the OSCE Ministerial Council Decision 7/20 adopted in 2020, the OSCE participating States have explicitly and unequivocally pledged to uphold the absolute prohibition of torture. In 2017-2023, we have witnessed the serious efforts undertaken by Uzbekistan to identify and eliminate shortcomings in torture prevention, affecting the level of protection of human rights and freedoms.” Professor Akmal Saidov, First Deputy Speaker of the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis, Director of the National Center for Human Rights of the Republic of Uzbekistan noted that “a fundamental right that is recognized in both national laws and international human rights treaties is the prohibition of inhumane treatment and torture. No one may be subjected to torture, violence, or other cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment, declares the new Constitution of the Republic of Uzbekistan." Overall, participants deepened their knowledge of the UNCAT, the substantive state obligations and areas of interest for national reporting process, strengthening national capacity to improve the mechanism for monitoring and implementing the concluding observations of the UN Committee against Torture. Mr. Jakhongir Azizkhodjaev, Acting Head of the UN OHCHR ROCA stressed that “amnesties for torture are incompatible with the obligations of State parties on absolute prohibition of torture; thus, they shall abstain from granting amnesties to perpetrators of torture and issuing pardons to persons found guilty of committing acts of torture.” This specialized course was supported in the framework of the PCUz UB project “Promoting Rule of Law, Human Rights and Media Development”.
The EU issued a statement condemning unequivocally Russia’s decision to terminate the Black Sea Grain Initiative. With its decision, Russia is further exacerbating the global food security crisis it created by its war of aggression against Ukraine and its blockade of Ukrainian sea ports. Russia must cease illegally blocking Ukrainian sea ports and allow freedom of navigation on the Black Sea.
VIENNA, 18 July 2023 – Participants at the ongoing OSCE Asian Partners for Co-operation Group Conference have discussed synergies and opportunities for co-operation with a particular focus on enhancing dialogue between the OSCE and Asia on efforts to reduce the risks of conflict stemming from the use of information and communication technologies, promoting effective co-operation in addressing the challenges caused by climate change, and the role of civil society in the promotion of human rights, democracy and the rule of law. At yesterday's opening session, the OSCE Chairman-in-Office Bujar Osmani underscored the close and inseparable link between security in the OSCE region and the security of its neighbours: “In today’s globalized world, ever more challenges are shared ones. With common challenges, however, come also common opportunities. This is why it is crucial for us to work together, learn from each other and ultimately reinvigorate multilateralism.” “Enhancing dialogue, sharing commitments, exchanging expertise, identifying areas of common concern and generating ideas on jointly addressing the security challenges – these are all ways Europe and Asia can strengthen their ties and their security,” concluded the Chairman-in-Office. The event, co-hosted by Poland, the 2023 OSCE Asian Partners for Co-operation Group Chair and Australia, an Asian Partner for Co-operation of the OSCE, is being held in Vienna on 17 and 18 July. In his opening statement, Zbigniew Rau, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Poland, underlined the unique value of the OSCE Asian Partnership: “The OSCE Asian Partners for Co-operation Group offers a highly functional platform for discussion with the OSCE Partner countries. Our co-operation is of the utmost importance when facing global problems, which are impossible to tackle individually. The Russian aggression against Ukraine is definitely such an existential challenge.” The Minister for Foreign Affairs of Australia, Senator the Hon Penny Wong, emphasized in her video message “the enduring value of agreed rules, standards and norms, which has only become more stark as Russia's war drags on. Australia understands the risks to all of us when a larger country attempts to subjugate a smaller country.” “We resolutely advocate for the fundamental principles of international law to be upheld at every opportunity. Because Australia believes small and medium countries must be able to maintain their sovereign choices, protected by a stable framework of rules. And to do that, we must work together across all the issues we can't address alone, including cyber security, climate security and human rights,” she added. OSCE Secretary General Helga Maria Schmid thanked Poland and Australia for their initiative to organize the conference and stressed that, for the OSCE, co-operation with its partners adds tremendous value: “We know that the challenges we face – whether we consider the risks of conflict arising from the use of information and communication technologies, the challenges posed by climate change – are not unique to any one region, and so there is real benefit in sharing our experiences, learning from each other, and working together to tackle the challenges we face.” This APCG Chairmanship event was organized at the joint initiative of the Polish Chair of the Group and OSCE Asian Partner for Co-operation Australia. It continued to provide a valuable opportunity for OSCE participating States and Partners for Co-operation to share experiences and lessons learned on issues of common interest.
548665 Communication and Media Relations Section Alexandra Taylor The OSCE, in partnership with the Guardia Civil of Spain, trained canine team instructors in detection of weapons, ammunition and explosives (WAE) through a four-month course to support Ukraine’s capacities in countering illicit trafficking of SALW. The training of eight instructors, six from the State Border Guard Service (SBGS) and two from the State Customs Service (SCS) of Ukraine, was held at the Guardia Civil Dog Training Centre (CADEPE) in Madrid and ended on 14 July. During the graduation ceremony, the Ukrainian canine instructors and their service dogs demonstrated their skills in the search for WAE. Trainees went through over 600 hours of theoretical and practical sessions set up in a module-based training of trainers (ToT) programme delivered by experts from CADEPE, in accordance with European standards and best practices in product scent detection. “The curriculum we used for the training of Ukrainian instructors proved its efficiency and is widely applied across the European Union. Focusing on WAE detection, our overall aim was to develop the ability of the course participants to analyze the training process and introduce corrective measures once a mistake in a dog’s or handler’s performance happens,” said Lt. Col. Guillermo Reyes, Head of CADEPE, in his address at the graduation ceremony. Once back in Ukraine, the instructors will be integrating the skills taken from their Spanish colleagues into the national canine training programs of SBGS and SCS, aligning them with European Union standards. Canine resources play a vital role in combating illicit trafficking of weapons, as well as other forms of organized crime such as drug smuggling. With the ongoing war against Ukraine, SALW-related threats can increase significantly, putting Europe at risk. “Today, the illicit proliferation of SALW is a global security threat, fueling organized crime, terrorism, and armed conflicts. By supporting Ukraine and co-operating with the Guardia Civil in canine training, the OSCE contributes not only to strengthening Ukraine’s response to this threat but also to wider European security” said Shawn DeCaluwe, Chief of the OSCE Forum for Security Co-operation Support Unit, during his opening speech. This initiative is a part of the project “In support of strengthening capacities of Ukrainian authorities in preventing and combating illicit trafficking in weapons, ammunition and explosives in all its aspects”, funded by the European Union, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway and Slovakia. The project also receives in-kind support from Lithuania, Poland and Spain.
The EU issued a statement commemorating the ninth anniversary of the tragic downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17, when 298 people of 17 different nationalities lost their lives.
Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain third countries with Council implementing Decision (CFSP) 2023/1299 of 26 June 2023 implementing Decision 2011/235/CFSP concerning restrictive measures directed against certain persons and entities in view of the situation in Iran.
548587 Communication and Media Relations Section The joint session, organized under the Bulgarian FSC Chair and 2023 OSCE Chairpersonship of North Macedonia, provided a platform to explore the role the FSC can play in the environment-security nexus and how the OSCE can best address issues such as protection of the environment during armed conflicts. The discussion was designed to raise awareness and foster further co-operation on the subject. “We are glad to dedicate this security dialogue to the Security and Environment Nexus, particularly in the context of Russia’s ongoing war of aggression against Ukraine. This war disrupts and affects the lives of millions of people, threatening human health and causing damage to the environment, critical infrastructure and security.” said Ambassador Emilia Kraleva, Chair of the Forum for Security Co-operation, in her opening remarks. “The recent destruction of the Kakhovka dam led to the devastating deterioration of human, economic and environmental security, including water access and quality. The implications are enormous and require ongoing effort, co-ordination and mobilization of resources, expertise and support.” Remarks were delivered by OSCE Secretary General Helga Maria Schmid, Yevhenii Fedorenko, Deputy Minister of Environmental Protection of Ukraine, Dr. Rowena Watson, Chief of the US State Department Environmental Division and Colonel Christian Tournié, Deputy Head of Department in the French Ministry of Interior. Throughout the discussion, the speakers presented many of the existing challenges and the possible and diverse synergies to address them, including the role OSCE is able to play. “There are many examples in the OSCE region of environmental degradation as a direct consequence of military conflicts. For already 25 years, the OSCE has been working to address environment and security challenges, including through our field operations, from disaster risk reduction and supporting transboundary water co-operation to the disposal of surpluses of Small Arms and Light Weapons,” said OSCE Secretary General Helga Maria Schmid in her address. The meeting further recognised the inextricable link between environmental instability and exacerbated geopolitical and socio-economic tensions, including escalation to domestic and regional conflict - particularly in transboundary risk areas, such as shared waterways, forests, soil or air. “The OSCE documents, starting from the Helsinki Final Act, recognize the nexus between Security and Environment. As OSCE participating States, we committed ourselves to the OSCE’s comprehensive and co-operative approach to security, which addresses the human, economic and environmental, political and military dimensions of security as an integral whole,” added Ambassador Igor Djundev, Chairperson of the OSCE Permanent Council. “Environmental issues are not limited to a country or one region; they are transnational and solutions require an appropriate and a global approach. Adaptation strategies become a collective process to attain environmental security.” Participants were also invited to deepen their understanding and discuss the security repercussions of the destruction of the Khakovka dam during a side event titled “The destruction of the Kakhovka HPS dam: What Consequences for Environment and Security in Ukraine”. The event highlighted the role of the Organization in mitigating both short and medium-term impacts of this disaster, through monitoring, assessment and offering options for remediation.
548587 Communication and Media Relations Section Alexandra Taylor The joint session, organized under the Bulgarian FSC Chair and 2023 OSCE Chairpersonship of North Macedonia, provided a platform to explore the role the FSC can play in the environment-security nexus and how the OSCE can best address issues such as protection of the environment during armed conflicts. The discussion was designed to raise awareness and foster further co-operation on the subject. “We are glad to dedicate this security dialogue to the Security and Environment Nexus, particularly in the context of Russia’s ongoing war of aggression against Ukraine. This war disrupts and affects the lives of millions of people, threatening human health and causing damage to the environment, critical infrastructure and security.” said Ambassador Emilia Kraleva, Chair of the Forum for Security Co-operation, in her opening remarks. “The recent destruction of the Kakhovka dam led to the devastating deterioration of human, economic and environmental security, including water access and quality. The implications are enormous and require ongoing effort, co-ordination and mobilization of resources, expertise and support.” Remarks were delivered by OSCE Secretary General Helga Maria Schmid, Yevhenii Fedorenko, Deputy Minister of Environmental Protection of Ukraine, Dr. Rowena Watson, Chief of the US State Department Environmental Division and Colonel Christian Tournié, Deputy Head of Department in the French Ministry of Interior. Throughout the discussion, the speakers presented many of the existing challenges and the possible and diverse synergies to address them, including the role OSCE is able to play. “There are many examples in the OSCE region of environmental degradation as a direct consequence of military conflicts. For already 25 years, the OSCE has been working to address environment and security challenges, including through our field operations, from disaster risk reduction and supporting transboundary water co-operation to the disposal of surpluses of Small Arms and Light Weapons,” said OSCE Secretary General Helga Maria Schmid in her address. The meeting further recognised the inextricable link between environmental instability and exacerbated geopolitical and socio-economic tensions, including escalation to domestic and regional conflict - particularly in transboundary risk areas, such as shared waterways, forests, soil or air. “The OSCE documents, starting from the Helsinki Final Act, recognize the nexus between Security and Environment. As OSCE participating States, we committed ourselves to the OSCE’s comprehensive and co-operative approach to security, which addresses the human, economic and environmental, political and military dimensions of security as an integral whole,” added Ambassador Igor Djundev, Chairperson of the OSCE Permanent Council. “Environmental issues are not limited to a country or one region; they are transnational and solutions require an appropriate and a global approach. Adaptation strategies become a collective process to attain environmental security.” Participants were also invited to deepen their understanding and discuss the security repercussions of the destruction of the Khakovka dam during a side event titled “The destruction of the Kakhovka HPS dam: What Consequences for Environment and Security in Ukraine”. The event highlighted the role of the Organization in mitigating both short and medium-term impacts of this disaster, through monitoring, assessment and offering options for remediation.
Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Decision (CFSP) 2023/1218 concerning restrictive measures in respect of actions undermining or threatening the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine.
Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the alignment of certain third countries with Council Decision (CFSP) 2023/1217 of 23 June 2023 amending Decision 2014/512/CFSP concerning restrictive measures in view of Russia’s actions destabilising the situation in Ukraine.