Central Europe

Željka Šulc

SARAJEVO, 12 December 2024 - The OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina welcomes the progress demonstrated by the Government of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s decision last night to endorse the Proposed Law on Protection from Domestic Violence and Violence Against Women of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, along with amendments to the Criminal Code of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina. We trust that the next procedural steps in the Parliament of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina will be prioritized, including conducting constructive, inclusive discussions and consultations and making further improvements wherever necessary.

These measures, along with the effective implementation of meaningful domestic violence legislation and policies, are crucial for delivering urgent and effective victim-centered protection, support, and justice; equipping institutions with the necessary tools for action; and reinforcing the message that there is #NoExcuse for domestic violence, gender-based violence, or violence against women. The Mission remains committed to providing further support in ensuring everyone in Bosnia and Herzegovina lives safely, securely, and free from such violence.

583039 For Media inquires

From 18 to 21 November 2024, the OSCE Programme Office in Astana (Office), in partnership with the German Foundation for International Legal Cooperation (IRZ), organised a study visit for representatives of Kazakhstan’s judiciary to the Hague Conference on Private International Law (HCCH) and the German Federal Office of Justice in Bonn. Supported by the HCCH, the German Federal Office of Justice, the Court Administration of Kazakhstan, and the Public Foundation “Pravo”, the delegation including judges of the Supreme Court and the Astana City Court, officials of the Court Administration and deputies of the Mazhilis belonging to the Committee on Legislation and Judicial Reform were able to obtain valuable practical information.

The activity aimed to deepen understanding and foster the exchange of experiences in the judicial application of the key Hague Conventions specifically related to providing international access to justice in civil and commercial matters. These included the 1965 Service Convention, the 1970 Evidence Convention, and the 2007 Child Support Convention together with the 2007 Maintenance Obligations Protocol.

To enhance the impact of the study visit, a national consultant with expertise in private international law participated in the meetings to provide specialized guidance and insights into the application of the Hague Conventions. The study visit, combined with this consultative support, serves as a foundation for follow-up activities aimed at developing guiding materials on the application of the mentioned Hague Conventions for judges and Court Administration staff of Kazakhstan. These activities are expected to facilitate the dissemination of practical knowledge essential for ensuring effective access to justice in the international context, including for children.

The study visit was organized as a part of the Office’s extrabudgetary project “Improving the effectiveness of the justice system in Kazakhstan” with the support of the governments of the United States, Poland, and Norway.

582850 Women leaders fearlessly serving people in need in Ukraine OSCE-organized training courses build skills and knowledge of the State Emergency Services in Ukraine

From 2 to 7 December 2024, two in-person workshops on women’s leadership in humanitarian response were held in Lviv, Ukraine. The workshops, organized by the OSCE Gender Issues Programme, through its WIN Project,  aimed at equipping 54 participants from the State Emergency Service of Ukraine (SESU) with tools to expand their leadership roles during and after the ongoing war.

Given SESU’s pivotal role in ensuring the safety and well-being of conflict-affected communities, these initiatives are especially critical as Ukraine addresses the complex challenges of recovery and resilience-building.

“Women play a pivotal role in humanitarian action, particularly in conflict-affected settings like Ukraine. By building their leadership skills, we strengthen the resilience and inclusiveness of emergency response efforts,” emphasized Dr Lara Scarpitta, OSCE Senior Advisor on Gender Issues.

The workshops also addressed essential topics such as resilience-building and psycho-emotional support, acknowledging the significant burnout and emotional strain faced by women leaders amid the ongoing war. Participants explored essential skills for continuing to serve as pillars within their teams and communities such as strategies for managing stress, prioritizing self-care, and maintaining effective leadership under pressure.

Launched in 2023, the initiative already helped to train 236 SESU representatives and exemplified the OSCE’s broader commitment to integrating gender-responsive and disability-inclusive approaches into crisis management and recovery processes.

This transformative work in humanitarian action complements the OSCE’s ongoing efforts in Ukraine, including combating gender-based violence, empowering grassroots women leaders, and advancing the Women, Peace, and Security agenda.

582682 Head of OSCE Presence in Albania, Ambassador Michel Tarran, speaking at today's event on improving voting’s secrecy, preventing voters’ intimidation.

On 11 December, the OSCE Presence in Albania and the Central Election Commission (CEC) held a technical roundtable to discuss ways to enhance voting secrecy and prevent voter intimidation.

The event emphasized safeguarding one of the fundamental electoral principles, such as the right to free and secret voting. Participants included representatives from state institutions, political parties, law enforcement, civil society, and international experts.

Discussions focused on challenges highlighted in recent OSCE/ODIHR election reports. Particular attention was paid to the complexities introduced by new voting technologies and out-of-country voting, especially for vulnerable groups such as the elderly, persons with disabilities, and individuals with literacy challenges.

Ambassador Michel Tarran, Head of the OSCE Presence in Albania, stated: “In my opinion collaboration among all stakeholders, governmental and non-governmental, will be key to success. Local authorities must ensure that voting centres are set up in a way that prioritizes accessibility and security. The role of the State Police is essential in maintaining order, preventing intimidation, and addressing any potential violations during the electoral process. Meanwhile, political parties must act responsibly in their interactions with voters, and train their commissioner and party officials to discourage any practices that might compromise the integrity of the vote. Additionally, civil society must be supported to play its role in educating voters about their right to cast their ballots in secrecy and, at the same time, emphasizing the responsibility of voters to respect the secrecy of the ballot for themselves and for others.”

This was the fourth and final roundtable organized by the OSCE Presence and the Albanian CEC this year. Previous sessions addressed voter education, vote-buying, and the role of media in elections. The findings and recommendations from these discussions aim to strengthen electoral integrity and public trust ahead of Albania’s 2025 parliamentary elections.

582664 Željka Šulc

11 December 2024, SARAJEVO – The destructive effects of corruption—wasting public resources, deterring foreign investment, and fostering apathy and distrust—are undeniable, agreed participants at a conference held in Sarajevo today.

To mark International Anti-Corruption Day, the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina organized a conference titled “The Role of Citizens in Anti-Corruption Processes,” which brought together more than 60 representatives from institutions across BiH, non-governmental and international organizations, academia, citizens and youth. The conference aimed to empower citizens in the fight against corruption through dialogue, education, and the development of strategies to enhance their engagement.

With this conference, the Mission officially concluded its Anti-Corruption Tour—a series of public events promoting citizen participation in anti-corruption processes held in Banja Luka, Bihać, Brčko District, Mostar, Trebinje, and Tuzla.

“Central to our approach is the belief that citizens are at the heart of change. You – the citizens of BiH – are the ones who can and should identify and report corruption. Institutional reforms alone will not suffice to bring about meaningful change,” said Ambassador Brian Aggeler, Head of the OSCE Mission to BiH. “We need your engagement, your action, and your support to truly make a difference.”

The conference provided a platform for participants to evaluate the current state of anti-corruption efforts in BiH and to discuss the tools, support, and resources needed to keep citizens, media, civil society, and institutions actively engaged. Mechanisms for reporting corruption were also presented, highlighting the critical role of public involvement in combating corruption.

The fight against corruption transcends institutional reforms—it requires a personal commitment. Mevludin Džindo, Assistant Director of the Agency for the Prevention of Corruption and Coordination of the Fight Against Corruption, underscored the obligation of public institutions to create conditions that enable citizen engagement. “Engagement must be proactive, allowing each citizen to report corrupt behaviour on an individual level and, through civic activism, contribute to building a society based on equality, fairness, and non-discrimination,” he stated.

This conference is part of the OSCE Mission to BiH project “Informed Citizens and Efficient Mechanisms to Prevent and Fight Corruption,” supported by the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs of the US Department of State (INL). The project aims to enhance collaboration between authorities and citizens in the fight against corruption.

582658 Munira Shoinbekova, OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe

The OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe has successfully concluded a Tactical Field Capacity Building training course for the Tajik Border Troops at the Hamadoni Border Detachment in the Khatlon region. The course ran from 11 November to 6 December 2024, and was part of the EU-funded project "Stabilization of Tajikistan's Southern Border Region with Afghanistan."

During the four-week programme, 29 senior officers received intensive training to enhance their knowledge and skills in various areas, including topography, risk assessment, decision-making processes, tactical patrolling, and survival skills.

In conjunction with the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, participants attended an awareness session led by instructors from the OSCE Programme Office and the Tajik Border Troops. During this session, they shared their experiences and strategies for preventing gender-based violence.

Additionally, experts from the UNHCR Office in Tajikistan delivered presentations on the country's international human rights commitments, the UNHCR’s mandate and core activities, as well as international refugee law and rights.

This training course highlights the ongoing commitment of the European Union and the OSCE to support Tajikistan’s capacity-building efforts and contribute to the country's border security.

582652

On 5 December, the awarding ceremony for youth start-ups in the Khorezm province was held in Urgench. The event marked the conclusion of the capacity-building programme for youth start-ups in the Khorezm province, co-organized by the OSCE PCUz and IT-Park Uzbekistan and launched in September.

The programme aimed to unlock the entrepreneurial and ICT potential of young people through business workshops and ideathons to motivate and unlock their business ideas as well as an incubation programme to enhance capacities in core business disciplines to establish a start-up, and an ICT course to teach coding skills and programming languages for specialists to support the incubation programme graduates.

Business workshops were organized for at least 300 young people, with subsequent ideathons for at least 80 young people. Both activities were organized prior to the incubation programme, whereas the IT-course for at least 30 young people was organized in parallel to the incubation programme. IT Park Uzbekistan provided several premises free of charge at its branch in Urgench.

Abdulla Abdurasulov, a 4th year student of the Urgench Branch of the Tashkent Medical Academy presented his start-up idea ‘Avishifo’, an AI-powered virtual assistant which would help doctors make a faster and more accurate diagnosis, which he developed alongside his team during the incubation programme. Following the event, he stated: “It was a great experience. Coming from a medical background, it was interesting to learn about business and IT and definitely a new challenge for me to create a project that combines the three sectors.”

Within the framework of this programme, the PCUz aims to support small business development and increase employment opportunities for young people through digitalization.

582640

The Office of the Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities jointly with the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) hosted the first OSCE conference aimed at commemorating International Anti-Corruption Day, marked annually on 9 December. The conference brought together representatives of academia, civil society, international partners and governments from across the OSCE region, and sought to create a forum of dialogue among these stakeholders on their distinct yet complementary roles in the fight against corruption.

“International Anti-Corruption Day is a call to action – rallying governments, civil society and international partners to engage in meaningful actions and reforms to prevent and combat corruption. This conference should also serve as a call to action,” said Catherine Fearon, Deputy Head of the OSCE Secretariat and Director of the Conflict Prevention Centre.

The conference featured a short presentation of the OSCE’s progress report titled “From Commitment to Action: OSCE’s Anti-Corruption and Good Governance Progress Report 2023-2024”, alongside panel discussions on the importance of political will in the fight against corruption and on ODIHR’s public integrity work with democratic institutions.

“Today on International Anti-Corruption Day, we join the global rally against corruption to amplify our voice and to take a united stand against this scourge,” said Ambassador Bakyt Dzhusupov, Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities. “But we gather also to acknowledge the work we have done across the OSCE region and to celebrate the progress we have achieved,” he added.

At the conference, speakers from various OSCE field operations and institutions had the opportunity to present success stories and the impact of their work on the ground, including their work with youth in the prevention of corruption, on civic engagement for policy development and implementation, and on supporting a more effective administration of justice regarding serious corruption and organized crime cases through trial monitoring.

“While we understand that parliaments across the OSCE region are facing various challenges, we believe it is of the utmost importance to continue improving parliamentary integrity. Parliamentarians are the gatekeepers of democracy, and to regain the trust of citizens in our institutions and ensure that politicians and political institutions are accountable for their actions, we need to put integrity at the top of the agenda,” said Tea Jaliashvili, ODIHR Director’s Alternate and First Deputy Director.

By facilitating open exchange among diverse actors, the conference provided an opportunity to showcase the OSCE’s important work and progress achieved in the fight against corruption, and to reaffirm the organization’s commitment to building societies where integrity prevails and trust is restored.

From 3 to 7 December 2024, a delegation from the University of Tirana conducted a research visit to two prestigious universities in the United States of America with the aim of strengthening capacities and resources to manage the Master Programme in Criminology.

During the visit – organized by the OSCE Presence in Albania together with the University of Tirana and the Law Faculty – Rector Artan Hoxha, Dean Dorina Hoxha and lecturers of the Law Faculty met with senior staff and professors of the University of New Haven in Connecticut and John Jay College of Criminal Justice, City University of New York. In addition, the Albanian delegation had a tour at the Henry C. Lee Forensic Institute in Connecticut, a tour at the Connecticut Capitol and a meeting with a Connecticut Supreme Court Justice.

The research visit served to share knowledge in criminology, strengthen academic partnerships, and explore collaborative initiatives, including joint research and faculty and student exchange programmes, and other possible academic partnerships. This trip marked the beginning of partnership between the University of New Haven, John Jay College and the University of Tirana. During the visit, a Letter of Intent was signed by the University of New Haven and the University of Tirana. In addition, a Statement of Shared Interest is expected to be signed between the John Jay College and University of Tirana.

A special focus of the research visit was gathering best practices for establishing and operating research centres within universities. These insights will support the Research Centre in Criminology at the Law Faculty, which will serve as a hub for fostering sustainable research, supporting the Master’s Programme, and contributing to data-driven policymaking.

“The research visit proved to be a valuable opportunity for the academic staff of the Faculty of Law to exchange knowledge in criminology, strengthen their partnerships and identify mutually beneficial collaboration opportunities. The agenda featured various discussions and tours, offering a platform to explore potential areas for long-term co-operation,” said OSCE project manager Alba Jorganxhi.

The visit was part of the OSCE Presence’s project “Establishing a Master’s Programme in Criminology” and was supported by the U.S. Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs.

Launched in December 2020, the Master's Programme offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to enhance research capacities for professionals, academics, and policymakers in Albania, focusing on the root causes of crime and promoting restorative justice and victim-centred responses.

582577 Željka Šulc

10 December 2024, BANJA LUKA – The OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina (Mission) continues to strengthen the country's capacity to combat serious crime through the consistent implementation of intelligence-led policing (ILP). As part of this effort, the Mission hosted a workshop in Banja Luka, convening over 40 representatives, including heads of law enforcement agencies, prosecutor’s offices, as well as other relevant institutions from across BiH. This event marked the conclusion of a series of five workshops under the initiative Instituting and Facilitating Regular Inter-Agency Meetings and Briefings Between Agencies and Prosecution.

Participants engaged in a case study addressing critical, structural, and procedural components to enhance inter-agency co-operation. The workshop emphasized the integration of criminal intelligence and analysis into legal proceedings, aiming to fortify the role of ILP in criminal investigations and promote consistent coordination between law enforcement bodies and prosecutors.

The Deputy Head of the OSCE Mission to BiH, Thomas Busch, underscored the significance of this initiative: "This event, along with our joint efforts, provides a vital platform for fostering dialogue and collaboration among key stakeholders in the criminal justice system. Bringing together law enforcement and prosecutorial professionals enables the alignment of approaches, the sharing of expertise, and the development of unified strategies to address complex security challenges. This collective effort not only enhances mutual understanding but also ensures that the principles of Intelligence-Led Policing are applied consistently and effectively across the country."

The workshop is part of the OSCE Mission’s broader ILP initiative, Enhancing Intelligence-Led Policing to Combat Serious Security Threats and Crimes, generously supported by Austria, Germany, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Norway, Poland, and Türkiye.

Communication and Media Relations Section

From 26 to 28 November, the OSCE Transnational Threats Department (TNTD) and the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina held an interactive workshop for government and civil society representatives in Sarajevo, which focused on building local community resilience against all forms of violent extremism and radicalization that lead to terrorism (VERLT).

Among the participants were representatives from the Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Labour, Ministry of Security and the Ministry for Human Rights and Refugees of Bosnia and Herzegovina as well as the local government, civil society and religious communities, among others. In addition to technical experts, the Strong Cities Network also shared its knowledge and expertise.

The first half of the workshop focused on the threat of violent extremist content online, including on mis-, dis- and malign information, highlighting the key role of local communities in combatting these violent narratives. The second half centred on strategies for building resilience to offline attacks, such as site-specific risk assessments, emergency planning and public-private partnerships. 

Lejla Čopelj, Head of the Ministry of Security of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Counter-Terrorism Department, underlined the importance of this work for Sarajevo, stating that “Building resilience to violent online narratives and physical violence is essential for ensuring safety and stability in Sarajevo. Through a comprehensive approach that includes education, technological tools, and international cooperation, the city can become a model of resilience against these global challenges.”

“While we know that terrorism is global, it’s the radicalization, recruitment, mobilization and inspiration to violence that is always local. Therefore, our efforts to build resilience, prevent violent extremism, protect soft targets and, most importantly, counter the violent extremist space online must also be local,” said Irfan Saeed, Head of the TNTD’s Action against Terrorism Unit, in his opening remarks.

Selma Zeković, Chief of Anti-terrorism and Cybersecurity of the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina, highlighted that the public spaces are becoming increasingly vulnerable to violent extremist attacks. “To keep these spaces secure, open and accessible, we need to look into risk assessments and strategies for collaborative planning. Striking the right balance between safety and accessibility might not be easy, but it is crucial for upholding the core values of society,” she added.

The workshop was a part of a series of activities under the OSCE’s “Resilient Communities Project” which seek to strengthen community resilience to online and offline forms of violent extremism. The event will contribute to the project’s goal of advancing a shared understanding of violent extremism as well as improving co-ordination and responses among national and local policymakers, civil society and non-governmental stakeholders.

This workshop was organized with financial contribution from the United States of America.

582553 Munira Shoinbekova, OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe

From 6 to 7 December 2024, the OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe conducted a workshop titled “Adaptation for All: Rights of Persons with Disabilities During Natural Disasters” in Khujand, the Sughd region. The event was organized in partnership with the Committee of Emergency Situations and Civil Defense of Tajikistan, the public organization “Mehrbakhsh,” and several other organizations that represent individuals with disabilities.

The workshop aimed to raise awareness about the rights and needs of persons with disabilities during emergencies, particularly in the context of natural disasters. The programme emphasized the importance of an inclusive approach to emergency management and the availability of essential services for individuals with disabilities. Participants learned how the needs of this demographic are addressed in both the preparation for and response to natural disasters. The event included practical exercises alongside theoretical lectures that focused on developing evacuation plans and ensuring equal access to medical and humanitarian services.

This workshop was part of a broader initiative by the OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe to support Tajikistan in implementing the National Action Plan following the ratification of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Notably, this was the final workshop in a series of sessions held throughout November in Kulyab, the Khatlon region, and the Garm district of the Districts of Republican Subordination.

582520 Željka Šulc

Reflecting on International Anti-Corruption Day, I recall my first visit to Bosnia and Herzegovina years ago.  A visitor is always struck by the country’s beauty and diversity, the warmth of its people and the richness of its culture.  Unfortunately, when I came back to live here something else was also overwhelming: the heavy burden that corruption imposes on the people of this country.  Nobody is untouched by it.  In employment, in housing, in education, even in medical care - in so many areas of life big and small it takes a toll.  I hear about it all the time and, as we all know, it is one of the main factors driving people to leave this country, to seek a brighter future elsewhere.

Certain disruptive actors, including some of the very politicians elected to represent and serve all constituents, promote a narrative that Bosnia and Herzegovina’s challenges are rooted solely in ethnonational divisions and rhetoric.  The poisonous rhetoric of division should not obscure the pervasive problem of corruption. Corruption knows no ethnicity, social class, or gender; it transcends boundaries, reaching into the pockets of all citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Because corruption is insidious and pervasive, it cannot be eradicated only by drafting legislation, establishing institutions, or implementing strategies and action plans. These actions are certainly necessary but not sufficient. Combating corruption requires new thinking, cultural shifts, reshaped practices, and a collective commitment to accountability and human rights.

All this requires courage.

Being courageous is never easy.  It requires integrity and determination. Courage means, for example, refusing to pay a bribe for services that should be free; reporting corruption, even when it feels futile; exercising one’s voice at the ballot box; and executing official duties without bowing to pressure or fear. We witness such acts of bravery each day, and the Mission commends those who continue to demonstrate, as history has shown, that Bosnia and Herzegovina is a country of courageous people.

The OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina (Mission) is honored to support this country in these battles. The Mission joins efforts to prevent corruption before it occurs and repress it when it does. No matter how small, every victory is a testament to what is possible when determination meets collaboration and expertise.

Working closely with our partners to establish and support independent and functional anti-corruption offices, we aim to ensure these institutions empower and encourage citizens to report irregularities safely and confidently while providing essential insight into public spending, procurement, and decision-making.

The cliché that crime pays is a cliché for a reason, so the OSCE also aims to strike where it matters most to criminals, their wallets. This includes technical work and advocacy to improve the confiscation and management of the proceeds of illegal activities and enable the deployment of audit reports, public registries, and other innovative ICT tools that further accountability and prevent conflicts of interest.

We can be heartened by the positive examples with the potential to be emulated and replicated across the country.

For example, in recent years the Sarajevo Canton Anti-Corruption Office (CS ACO) has evolved into a leading institution in the prevention of corruption. Since 2017, the Mission has supported the CS ACO in developing its regulatory framework and human and technical capacity and establishing the Antikorrupiks platform. Building on this, in 2023 alone, the CS ACO achieved remarkable results, including nearly 100 public officials resigning due to conflicts of interest, providing whistleblower protection to seven individuals, and processing a significant number of corruption reports. By reducing corruption risks and improving public services, the courage of the CS ACO has inspired other cantons to adopt similar practices and establish their own anti-corruption offices.

The judiciary is another area where the citizens have low levels of confidence. The OSCE Mission’s long-standing and methodical trial monitoring program provides objective and critical insight into the judicial response to corruption, which, in turn, informs practical recommendations to advance fairness, efficiency, and equality before the law. Increases, even small ones, in the quality and rate of indictments and the provision of sentences aligned with the gravity of the crime indicate certain justice sector actors’ commitment and courage to combat the impunity syndrome. Mission advocacy for merit-based and transparent judicial appointment processes helps ensure that the justice sector is populated by individuals willing and able to tackle high-level corruption.

This fragile progress must be sustained through the cultivation of courage among institutions and individuals. Courage to call out corruption in all its forms. Courage to punish all instances of bribery, cronyism, and nepotism. Courage to prioritize justice over convenience. The OSCE Mission stands with and supports the independent journalists, human rights, members of civil society, office holders and the many brave citizens who exemplify such courage as they fight irregularities and injustice.

On this International Anti-Corruption Day, much work remains to be done but there is much to recount and celebrate. The courage of those taking on corruption in Bosnia and Herzegovina is making a difference.  Looking forward, I believe the citizens of this wonderful country can achieve what they and their families deserve: thriving, transparent, and effective institutions; justice, inclusion, and the rule of law; and the fulfilment and protection of their fundamental rights and freedoms.

582511 Munira Shoinbekova, OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe

The OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe organized a study visit to Tirana, Albania for eight representatives from various state institutions responsible for preventing and responding to domestic violence. This visit took place from 3 to 6 December 2024, and was facilitated by the OSCE Presence in Albania.

The participating institutions included the Ministry of Health and Social Protection, the Committee on Women and Family Affairs, the General Prosecutor’s Office, the Ministry of Justice, the Office of the Ombudsperson, the Ministry of Education, and the Executive Office of the President.

The purpose of the study visit was to learn about Albania's normative framework and effective practices in the prevention and response to domestic violence. The visit aimed to familiarize the Tajik delegation with the coordination of a multi-sectoral approach to domestic violence, mechanisms for referring victims to specialist services, and the protection and support systems available for victims. Additionally, it sought to explore preventive practices related to domestic violence. This study visit will aid the Tajik authorities in adapting the related normative framework in Tajikistan.

During their visit, the Tajik delegation met with representatives from relevant government entities and NGOs. These included the Ministry of Health and Social Protection of Albania, the Ministry of Justice, the People’s Advocate Office, the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the Commissioner for Protection against Discrimination, the National Centre for Treatment of Cases of Domestic Violence, and various counseling services for women and girls, as well as for men and boys.

582346 OSCE Centre in Ashgabat

From 3 to 6 December 2024, the Magtymguly Turkmen State University (TSU) hosted an OSCE-organized course on international human rights standards during pre-trial stages of criminal proceedings and investigations.

The course brought together over eighty students and teachers from TSU, the Institute under the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the Institute of International Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International University for Humanities and Development of Turkmenistan.

The students gained insights into the concept human rights from the historical perspective of their development and discussed types and functions of human rights and their observance in criminal law enforcement.

"A number of OSCE field operations, including the Centre in Ashgabat, co-operate with host authorities in strengthening the capacity of national justice systems and civil society to prevent human rights violations and prosecute perpetrators,” said John MacGregor, Head of the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat.

“This training course is designed to enhance the knowledge and skills of future lawyers, law enforcement officers and international law specialists who, in the near future, will be able to contribute to the host country’s efforts to implement its international human rights standards,” MacGregor added.

Human rights experts from Moldova delivered comprehensive lectures on ensuring the right to liberty (personal inviolability) during the preliminary investigation and ensuring the right of suspects and accused persons to defence and qualified legal assistance.

The course also reviewed requirements related to the prohibition of ill-treatment applicable in the criminal law context and safeguards against ill-treatments during pre-trial investigations. Students actively engaged in practical exercises and lively discussions demonstrating great interest in topics addressed during the course.

The event was organized as part of the Centre’s support in the implementation of the National Action Plan of Human Rights in Turkmenistan for 2021-2025.

582325 OSCE Centre in Ashgabat

Passenger screening and X-ray image interpretation at aviation checkpoints were the focus of an OSCE-organized training course that took place in Ashgabat from 25 to 29 November 2024.

The five-day course brought together twenty participants, including representatives of the Transport Police of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, Aviation Security Service of Turkmenistan Airlines, State Customs Service and State Frontier Service.

The OSCE Centre in Ashgabat organized the training course to enhance the practical skills of trainees to better recognize prohibited items and threats and effectively and safely operate X-Ray machines.

The course outlined relevant international regulations and highlighted the importance of general security awareness for all airport workers. An international expert from the United Kingdom shared in-depth information on aptitudes and abilities of X-ray security screeners and radiation safety with special emphasis on safety awareness for X-ray security screeners.

“Today, aviation and airport security play an extremely important role in ensuring safe and secure border crossings through aviation checkpoints and protecting critical infrastructure from terrorist attacks,” said William Leaf, Political Officer of the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat.

“Every day, national security officers and border guards work hard to detect and prevent potential threats and uphold respective regulations to contribute to the safe passenger and cargo flow around the world and strengthen the confidence in civil aviation,” added Leaf.

Participants discussed the recognition of explosive devices, firearms, and exotic and improvised weapons as well as emerging threats related to the prohibited items. The course featured an on-site visit to the Ashgabat International Airport where participants practiced their skills of passenger screening and operating X-ray machines to screen baggage and interpret images.

“We believe that the knowledge and practical techniques acquired during the OSCE training will help the participants effectively use new technologies to ensure safe transportation through airports,” stressed William Leaf.

On 4–5 December, the OSCE Presence in Albania, in conjunction with the Albanian School of Magistrates, conducted a specialized training session on human trafficking, with a particular emphasis on child trafficking. The training adopted an interactive mock trial format, providing 15 magistrate students with practical, hands-on experience to prepare them for future roles as judges and prosecutors.

“This mock trial – unique in its content and innovative in its methodology – marks the culmination of a two-year joint project by the OSCE Presence and the School of Magistrates,” stated Ambassador Michel Tarran, Head of the OSCE Presence in Albania. Furthermore, he highlighted the first-rate design of the project supported by the United States, Norway, and Italy, which includes a comprehensive “training of trainers” component and a tailored manual designed for the Albanian judicial system.

Arben Rakipi, Director of the School of Magistrates, emphasized the significance of incorporating modern teaching approaches like mock trials into the curriculum. “Innovative methods such as these equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to address complex legal challenges effectively,” he noted.

Guided by senior criminal justice practitioners, participants engaged in realistic courtroom simulations, gaining critical insights into managing human trafficking cases with sensitivity and precision.

This initiative underscores the OSCE’s commitment to enhancing judicial capacities and advancing the fight against human trafficking. By equipping future legal professionals with practical expertise, it aims to strengthen the criminal justice system’s response to this grave human rights violation.

VALLETTA, 6 December 2024 — The 31st OSCE Ministerial Council in Malta concluded with key decisions on the appointment of four senior officials to lead the OSCE’s Secretariat and institutions. This achievement underscores a lasting commitment of the 57 participating States to strengthen the Organization’s ability to act, particularly in times of crisis and conflict. 

The OSCE Chair-in-Office, Malta’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism Ian Borg, welcomed the appointments of the following senior officials to the OSCE’s top positions:

• Feridun Sinirlioğlu (Türkiye) as OSCE Secretary General.
• Maria Telalian (Greece) as Director of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights.
• Cristophe Kamp (Netherlands) as OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities.
• Jan Braathu (Norway) as OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media.

“These appointments reaffirm the OSCE’s critical role as a platform for dialogue and co-operation. They signal the collective determination of the participating States to strengthen the Organization and equip it to respond effectively to the evolving security landscape,” said Borg.

Reflecting on the broader significance of these appointments, Borg said: “This year has demonstrated the indispensability of the OSCE in strengthening the cause of peace and rebuilding trust and security. Consensus on these appointments is not merely an administrative routine — it is a testament to our shared commitment to the principles and values that underpin this Organization.”

Borg also highlighted the importance of the OSCE’s comprehensive approach to security, which spans the politico-military, economic and environmental, and human dimensions.

“From addressing conflicts and climate change to promoting democratic resilience, the OSCE remains a cornerstone for tackling interconnected global challenges. Today’s decisions ensure that the Organization remains at the forefront of these efforts,” he said.

Borg laid out the vital contributions of the OSCE’s staff and field operations. “The Organization’s strength lies in its diversity and the dedicated individuals who work tirelessly to translate principles into action. Malta is proud to have played a role in ensuring the OSCE remains functional and impactful during our Chairpersonship,” he said.

As Malta’s tenure as Chair of the OSCE concludes, Borg expressed support for Finland’s incoming Chairpersonship in 2025, a year that will also mark the 50th anniversary of the Helsinki Final Act. “Malta will continue working closely with Finland as part of the OSCE Troika, ensuring that the Organization remains resilient and prepared for the challenges ahead,” he said.

“On behalf of Finland, I want to congratulate Malta for an excellent stewardship of the OSCE this year. We look forward to continued co-operation as part of the OSCE Troika,” said Finland’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and incoming OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, Elina Valtonen.

582319 David Vella Thomas Attard 31st OSCE Ministerial Council

On 6 December, on the margins of the 31st OSCE Ministerial Council, the Maltese OSCE Chairpersonship, in collaboration with the incoming Finnish Chairpersonship of the OSCE and the Danish Chair of the Forum for Security Co-operation (FSC), hosted a high-level side event to mark the 30th anniversary of the adoption of the OSCE Code of Conduct on Politico-Military Aspects of Security.

This event brought together representatives from OSCE participating States and Partners for Co-operation to reflect on the significance of the Code of Conduct as a cornerstone document of the OSCE’s politico-military dimension.

First adopted at the 91st Plenary Meeting of the CSCE Forum for Security Co-operation in 1994, the Code of Conduct remains an important framework for ensuring democratic control and parliamentary oversight of armed and security forces, as well as for safeguarding the rights and defining the responsibilities of military personnel. It outlines these rights and responsibilities within the broader framework of international human rights and humanitarian law.

Opening the event, Brigadier Clinton O’Neill, Chief of Defence of the Armed Forces of Malta highlighted the continued importance of the Code, stating: “Thirty years following its adoption, the OSCE Code of Conduct remains a landmark framework for ensuring accountability, democratic oversight, and the rule of law in the security sector. The Armed Forces of Malta take these responsibilities seriously, emphasizing at every level that authority must always be underpinned by accountability.”

The discussions highlighted the relevance of the Code of Conduct in today’s security context, particularly against the backdrop of Russia’s war against Ukraine. The Code continues to provide critical guidance for upholding OSCE principles, protecting the rights of armed personnel, and ensuring responsibility and accountability within the chain of command.

“Next year Finland will mark 30 years of the implementation of the Code of Conduct. The implementation of the Code is more important than ever as Russia is waging its unprovoked illegal war of aggression against Ukraine in violation of OSCE commitments including the Code of Conduct,” said Ambassador Jouni Laaksonen, Head of Task Force for the Finnish OSCE Chairpersonship.

“A key principle of the OSCE Code of Conduct is the responsibility not only of participating States, but also of individuals within the military. It emphasizes that military personnel, at all levels, must be held accountable for their actions. The relevance of these provisions is amplified in three consecutive Moscow Mechanism Reports, which document war crimes committed in Ukraine by the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation,” emphasized Ambassador Laaksonen.

The side event served as a platform to underline the commitments made 30 years ago and their enduring relevance in the face of contemporary challenges. While highlighting the significant progress made by participating States in the past 30 years, the purpose of the event was forward-looking. It underscored the critical importance of promoting broader implementation of the Code of Conduct, particularly in the context of Russia’s war against Ukraine, where its principles of accountability and democratic control are as pertinent as ever. It also highlighted the value of OSCE tools and expertise in facilitating participating States’ efforts to improve and enhance Code of Conduct implementation.

This event served not only to mark this important anniversary of the Code of Conduct but also as a call to action for OSCE participating States to reaffirm their adherence to its principles and commitments, ensuring its legacy continues to guide security sector governance in the years ahead.

582301 Munira Shoinbekova, OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe

From 2 to 5 December 2024, the OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe facilitated a visit for five representatives from the Association of Women’s Councils within the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA) of Tajikistan to Chișinău, Moldova. During their visit, the delegation engaged with officials from Moldova's Ministry of Internal Affairs, the General Inspectorate of Carabinieri, the Police Academy, the Women’s Association in Police, and the General Border Police Inspectorate. Their goal was to learn about Moldova’s best practices in gender mainstreaming and the role of women’s caucuses in law enforcement.

A key focus for the delegation was the implementation of United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1325. In addition to meeting with law enforcement counterparts, the representatives from the Association of Women’s Councils also met with the Special Representative of the OSCE Chair-in-Office on Gender, as well as representatives from the OSCE Mission to Moldova, UN Women, and the Institute for Democracy and Development.