Central Europe

ISTANBUL, 17 November 2025 – Today, OSCE Secretary General, Feridun H. Sinirlioğlu addressed the 23rd Autumn Meeting of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly, hosted in Istanbul, Türkiye. In his remarks, the Secretary General emphasized the urgent need to revitalize multilateralism and rebuild meaningful security dialogue to strengthen safety and security across the OSCE region and beyond.

Secretary General Sinirlioğlu underlined that the OSCE remains a vital platform for dialogue, mutual accountability, and joint solutions — particularly in times of heightened global uncertainty.

“The OSCE has the inclusivity, the legitimacy, the experience and the historical memory - to show that dialogue and co-operation are still possible and are surely needed, even and especially in the darkest times,” Secretary General Sinirlioğlu said.

The Secretary General also held bilateral meetings with OSCE Parliamentary Assembly President Pere Joan Pons Sampietro, OSCE Parliamentary Assembly Secretary General Roberto Montella, Numan Kurtulmuş, Speaker of the Grand National Assembly of Türkiye, and several parliamentary representatives from OSCE participating States.

Established at the 1990 Paris Summit, the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly was created to promote greater engagement of national parliaments in the work of the Organization. Its primary task is to facilitate inter-parliamentary dialogue—an essential element of collective efforts to advance peace, democracy, and human rights across the OSCE’s 57 participating States.

601722 Ivana Milatovic, OSCE Mission to Serbia Milica Knezevic

The OSCE Mission to Serbia and the Commissioner for the Protection of Equality marked the 10th anniversary of the Journalism Award for Tolerance with the premiere of a 13-minute documentary film, Voices of Equality, in Belgrade today.

The film highlights some of the stories of more than 90 award-winning journalists who, with their professional reporting, contributed to the visibility of the increased understanding of the challenges faced by the most vulnerable members of the society.

The Journalism Award has been established in 2015, at the initiative of the Commissioner for the Protection of Equality and in co-operation with the OSCE Mission to Serbia. Over the past ten years, it became a recognition of the highest journalistic ethical and professional standards, inspiring many journalists to address topics that were previously underreported.

Around 100 representatives of state institutions, media outlets, academia and civil society organizations attended the conference.

“The purpose of the award, and of the documentary premiered today, is to promote ethical, accurate and non-discriminatory reporting, and to encourage media professionals to raise awareness about the importance of equality and tolerance in society,” said Ambassador Marcel Peško, the Head of the OSCE Mission to Serbia.

“Over time, it has recognized dozens of journalists across Serbia for work that raises public awareness on issues such as accessibility for persons with disabilities, media coverage of domestic violence, and portrayal of minority groups,” he added.

Building on the expertise and experience of all 57 participating States, the OSCE Mission to Serbia stands ready to continue supporting joint efforts to advance equality, non-discrimination and inclusion, in line with OSCE commitments.

The film is available for free distribution.  The media outlets interested in broadcasting the documentary are invited to contact the Mission to obtain the version of the film prepared for television.  The video is available at:

English: www.youtube.com/watch?v=JahQDrU6LNw

Serbian: www.youtube.com/watch?v=j1ejWIcO5kc

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On 11 November, the Constitutional Court of the Republic of Uzbekistan, with the support of the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan, sponsored an international conference in Tashkent on constitutional reforms to mark the 30th anniversary of the institution.

Titled “Constitutional Reforms and Current Issues of the Constitutional Control Institution”, the conference brought together members of the national parliament, judiciary, government institutions and representatives of international organizations, as well as judges and experts from more than ten foreign constitutional courts.

Through its partnership, the OSCE contributed to promoting dialogue on the rule of law, constitutional justice and the protection of human rights - key areas of its long-standing co-operation with Uzbekistan.

During the event, a ceremonial handover of the Presidency of the Association of Asian Constitutional Courts and Equivalent Institutions for 2025–2027 took place, transferring leadership from the Constitutional Court of the Kingdom of Thailand to the Constitutional Court of Uzbekistan.

The conference featured discussions on constitutional reforms, judicial independence and the role of constitutional review in safeguarding human rights. It reaffirmed the shared commitment of Uzbekistan and the OSCE to strengthening democratic governance and justice in the region.

601653 Communication and Media Relations Section

From 11 to 13 November, the OSCE Secretariat together with the Friedrich Ebert Foundation (FES) jointly organized an in-person training course in Vienna for 26 members of the OSCE Pool of Young Experts on professional competencies in the field of peace and security with a focus on negotiations.

The training covered such topics as OSCE’s Youth and Security Agenda, young people’s role in conflict prevention, women’s role in diplomacy and multilateralism, and good practices on Youth, Peace and Security Agenda at the international institutions. The participants also discussed how young people in their countries have engaged with peace and security initiatives, and in exercises on simulated multilateral negotiations. The sessions included some participants as co-facilitators and co-trainers. 

Alexandra Dienes, Senior Researcher at the Friedrich Ebert Foundation, spoke of how collaboration with young people brings new ideas and creative approaches to problem-solving and negotiations. “Working with young people is very rewarding. They give us new perspectives as well as a hope for respectful dialogue and some common ground,” she said.

Participants also explored  public speaking techniques and shared experiences with diplomats, public figures and OSCE staff members focused on career advice and challenges in diplomatic affairs. A visit to the Permanent Council session that is held every Thursday at Hofburg was also a chance to witness real-life diplomatic discussions.

Tamuna Japharidze, one of the young participants, highlighted how a number of young people are deeply committed to peace and security issues but lack opportunities to contribute because they are seen as “too young” or “inexperienced”.  

“This perception must change,” Japharidze said “If we collectively invest in young people’s skills-building and give them meaningful roles in mediation and dialogue, we can build peace processes that are not only more inclusive but also more sustainable.”

Gent Salihi, another young participant, shared his perspective on how meaningful youth inclusion in negotiations closes generational divides, promotes institutional trust, and advances a culture of dialogue, accountability, and mutual respect that are fundamental for strengthening stability and trust within societies.

The OSCE Pool of Young Experts is a network of 82 young professionals who are all alumni of OSCE activities and motivated to contribute to the work of the OSCE and to peace and security discussions. They range from 18 to 30 years old and are from across the OSCE region.This is the second edition of the training course, with the first held in 2024 for 23 Pool members. These activities are part of the OSCE’s extrabudgetary project, “Accelerating the implementation of the Youth and Security Agenda in the OSCE region”, which sets out to help empower young leaders in the OSCE region, fostering their potential to shape the future of security and co-operation. The project is funded by Andorra, Finland, Germany, Liechtenstein, Norway and Spain.

This is the second edition of the training course, with the first held in 2024 for 23 Pool members. These activities are part of the OSCE’s extrabudgetary project, “Accelerating the implementation of the Youth and Security Agenda in the OSCE region”, which sets out to help empower young leaders in the OSCE region, fostering their potential to shape the future of security and co-operation. The project is funded by Andorra, Finland, Germany, Liechtenstein, Norway and Spain.

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Over ninety law students including faculty from Turkmenistan’s institutions of higher education learnt international human rights standards during pre-trial stages of criminal proceedings and investigations at an OSCE-organized lecture course that took place from 10 to 14 November 2025 in Ashgabat.

International experts introduced future diplomats, legal professionals and law-enforcement officers to the concept of human rights focusing on their observance in criminal law enforcement.

"This year, the OSCE participating States celebrate the fiftieth anniversary of the Helsinki Final Act, the Organization’s guiding document,” said Rune Castberg, Officer-in-Charge of the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat.

“The Helsinki Final Act was the first multilateral agreement on security where the obligation to respect human rights was mentioned alongside with traditional principles of international law such as the principle of non-interference in internal affairs or the principle of respect for territorial integrity,” added Castberg.

During the five-day course, students discussed the importance of ensuring the right to liberty during the preliminary criminal investigations and the right of suspects and accused persons to defense and qualified legal assistance.

The experts elaborated on the requirements related to the prohibition of ill-treatment applicable in the criminal law context and safeguards against ill-treatment. The lecture course also addressed the causes, consequences and methods of prevention of domestic violence.

The course was hosted by the Institute of International Relations (IIR) of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan, and brought together law students and faculty from the IIR, the Magtymguly Turkmen State University, the Institute of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the International University for Humanities and Development of Turkmenistan.

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Some thirty-five students and faculty from the State Energy Institute discussed best practices in the implementation of innovative energy efficiency technologies at an OSCE-organized seminar that took place on 13 and 14 November 2025 in Mary, Turkmenistan.

Held in a blended format with online participation of international experts, the seminar provided a platform for discussing innovative energy-efficient technologies and exploring strategies for their implementation.

International experts shared insights into global trends in the area of energy efficiency and elaborated on strategic planning and stakeholder engagement in the implementation of energy efficient technologies.

“Promoting modern energy-efficiency technologies in Turkmenistan strengthens economic resilience while reducing environmental vulnerabilities,” said Olivera Zurovac-Kuzman, Economic and Environmental Officer of the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat.

“With this goal in mind, the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat facilitates access to international expertise and cutting-edge technologies, offering national partners with new opportunities for sustainable growth,” she added.

“By advancing sustainable energy practices together, we enhance security, stability, and long-term prosperity across the region,” stressed Zurovac-Kuzman.

The seminar provided a comprehensive overview of effective pilot projects in the area of energy efficiency with a special emphasis on a new trend of solar hydrogen panels and explored the linkage of hydrogen and energy efficiency. A national expert facilitated discussions on the role of energy storage systems and new energy-efficient systems. The seminar participants emphasized the importance of the integration of renewable energy and the impact of decarbonization on energy systems.

The activity is a component of the Centre’s continuous support to Turkmenistan in advancing the implementation of the National Strategy for the Development of Renewable Energy until 2030, as well as the effective enforcement of the Law on Energy Saving and Energy Efficiency.

Some thirty-five students and faculty from the State Energy Institute discussed best practices in the implementation of innovative energy efficiency technologies at an OSCE-organized seminar that took place on 13 and 14 November 2025 in Mary, Turkmenistan.

Held in a blended format with online participation of international experts, the seminar provided a platform for discussing innovative energy-efficient technologies and exploring strategies for their implementation.

International experts shared insights into global trends in the area of energy efficiency and elaborated on strategic planning and stakeholder engagement in the implementation of energy efficient technologies.

“Promoting modern energy-efficiency technologies in Turkmenistan strengthens economic resilience while reducing environmental vulnerabilities,” said Olivera Zurovac-Kuzman, Economic and Environmental Officer of the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat.

“With this goal in mind, the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat facilitates access to international expertise and cutting-edge technologies, offering national partners with new opportunities for sustainable growth,” she added.

“By advancing sustainable energy practices together, we enhance security, stability, and long-term prosperity across the region,” stressed Zurovac-Kuzman.

The seminar provided a comprehensive overview of effective pilot projects in the area of energy efficiency with a special emphasis on a new trend of solar hydrogen panels and explored the linkage of hydrogen and energy efficiency. A national expert facilitated discussions on the role of energy storage systems and new energy-efficient systems. The seminar participants emphasized the importance of the integration of renewable energy and the impact of decarbonization on energy systems.

The activity is a component of the Centre’s continuous support to Turkmenistan in advancing the implementation of the National Strategy for the Development of Renewable Energy until 2030, as well as the effective enforcement of the Law on Energy Saving and Energy Efficiency.

WARSAW, 17 November 2025 – To ensure an effective response to hate crime and meaningful access to justice for victims, there is an ever more urgent need to develop systematic and long-term training programmes for police and prosecutors across the OSCE region that also involve targeted communities, the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) said today on launching its annual hate crime report on the occasion of the International Day for Tolerance.

“Hate crime has a devastating effect not just on individual victims, but on entire communities. Training is at the heart of an effective hate crime response,” said ODIHR Director Maria Telalian. “Every police officer, prosecutor and judge needs the tools and skills to recognize hate crimes, protect victims, and bring perpetrators to justice. ODIHR has seen first-hand how training can positively transform the criminal justice response to hate crime and repair the harm suffered by victims and their communities.”

While many OSCE states have established national training programmes, including comprehensive hate crime training initiatives for law enforcement, many still fail to provide even foundational training for prosecutors or judges. In particular, this year’s hate crime report finds that national initiatives too often remain ad hoc in nature and limited in reach. Embedding hate crime training into police academies and judicial schools and maintaining levels of knowledge through refresher courses is essential to ensuring long-term impact.

For the last 20 years, ODIHR has addressed these challenges by delivering its hate crime training programmes to approximately 700 national police trainers and more than 200 national prosecutor trainers across the OSCE region. To ensure the broadest reach of its hate crime training programmes, the Office will soon publish the full package of adaptable, interactive and hands-on training materials on its website.

ODIHR’s experience shows how the impact of training programmes is deepened when the communities affected by hate crime are engaged in developing and delivering the training. When police and prosecutors listen to and work with targeted groups, it strengthens trust, encourages victims to report, and improves co-operation – all key to effectively investigating and prosecuting hate crimes.

The Office’s dedicated hate crime website is updated each year with data and information provided by states, civil society and international organizations. More information and resources to support states and civil society in addressing hate crime are available here.

601482 Munira Shoinbekova, OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe

On the occasion of the professional day of the militia in Tajikistan, the OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe organized an official ceremony on 11 November 2025 to hand over 25 sets of desktop computers, printers, and Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS) to the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA) National Co-ordinator on Police Reform.

The donated ICT equipment will strengthen the work of the Public Councils on ensuring public order, operating under the regional and district departments of the MIA. The equipment will help enhance planning and reporting on the activities of the Public Councils, conducted in close co-operation with territorial police inspectors, thereby contributing to improved public order and community safety.

In his remarks, Major General Safiallo Azizullozoda, MIA National Co-ordinator on Police Reform, said: “The OSCE and its Office in Dushanbe consistently strive to support the Ministry in its efforts to advance the police reform process in Tajikistan. Today’s donation of ICT equipment underscores our mutual commitment to promoting community policing principles through Public Councils. Our co-operation in this area will continue.” 

This activity is part of the OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe’s continued support to the Ministry of Internal Affairs in advancing police reform and promoting community policing in Tajikistan.

TASHKENT, 14 November 2025 - The 25th Central Asia Media Conference, focused on strengthening media viability to support informed and resilient societies, concluded in Tashkent today. Over the course of two days, the event brought together around 150 participants, including government representatives and journalists from Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Mongolia, as well as media professionals, experts, civil society representatives and academics from the broader OSCE region.

The conference was opened by OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, Ambassador Jan Braathu, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan, H.E. Muzaffarbek Madrakhimov, OSCE Chairperson-in-Office’s Special Envoy, Ambassador Terhi Hakala, and Senior Project Officer, OSCE Project Co-ordinator’s Office in Uzbekistan, Sergei Sizov.

OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, Jan Braathu, said: “Without viable, independent, and trusted media, the principles of openness, accountability, and transparency that underpin democratic societies cannot be secured. Only through shared responsibility and coordinated action can we create an environment where independent journalism is protected, respected, and empowered to serve the public good.”

The conference featured panel discussions focusing on strengthening media sustainability and viability in the region, ensuring the safety of journalists as a key prerequisite for media freedom, and supporting media literacy initiatives to counter disinformation. During the event, the Representative’s recently released Policy Manual on Safeguarding Media Freedom in the Ae of Big Tech Platforms and AI was presented, along with the forthcoming Practical Manual for Journalists on Reporting the Environment, jointly developed by the RFoM and UNESCO.

“I will continue to assist participating States in upholding their OSCE commitments, as real progress requires continuous dialogue and co-operation. Our discussions here in Tashkent provide a good basis for achieving impact on media freedom and viability - for the benefit of citizens in the region,” Representative Braathu concluded.

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

LONDON/VIENNA, 13 November 2025 – Today, the OSCE began supporting the United Kingdom Government and London Metropolitan Police in a significant national operation to secure and catalogue just under 200 cultural artefacts.

Following a request for assistance from the UK Government and London Metropolitan Police, specialists from the OSCE-led Heritage Crime Task Force will work alongside the Metropolitan Police to ensure the safe extraction, forensic documentation and secure storage of the objects. The collection includes significant items of Cambodian, Bactrian and Gandharan heritage, among others. These items will be examined and catalogued before being repatriated to their countries of origin.

“This operation demonstrates the true power of international co-operation in defending our common heritage and disrupting the networks that are complicit in the trafficking in cultural property,” said Ambassador Alena Kupchyna, the OSCE Co-ordinator of Activities to Address Transnational Threats. “Together, we are sending a clear message: those who profit from the theft, trafficking or destruction of cultural property will be identified, exposed and brought to justice, and these objects will find their way back home.”

Detective Constable Sophie Hayes of the Arts and Antiques Unit at the London Metropolitan Police said “the Arts and Antiques Unit at the Met, the UK’s only dedicated art crime team, works hand-in-hand with international partners to identify, recover and repatriate valuable artworks and cultural treasures across London.”

“In collaboration with the OSCE, we are facilitating the identification and return of looted cultural objects recovered from London. This partnership reflects our unwavering commitment to the return of stolen artefacts to their countries of origins. While these reunions can be complex, we are proud to play a central role in this important international operation,” she added.

The OSCE will work with London Metropolitan Police and the relevant embassies and government authorities to facilitate their safe return.

This support from the task force is part of the OSCE's broader efforts to combat trafficking in cultural property, which has been recognized as a serious transnational crime that not only deprives communities of their cultural heritage but also serves as a critical source of financing for wider transnational criminal and terrorist networks.

The OSCE-led Heritage Crime Task Force was created in 2021 to assist OSCE participating States in interdicting and disrupting networks complicit in trafficking in cultural property, and the linkages to organized crime, terrorism financing and money laundering. The Task Force comprises a network of 80 officers and experts representing law enforcement, customs and border management agencies, prosecutors' offices, museums and academia from across the OSCE area as well as international organizations.

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Over the past year, the OSCE, in partnership with Switzerland and local partners, has brought together hundreds of young professionals from across Central Asia to co-create solutions for the region’s interconnected Water-Energy-Food (WEF) challenges. Through the “Drops of the Future” workshop series, participants have engaged in dialogue, collaborative exercises, and field visits aimed at shaping a shared vision for sustainable development.

The series began on 6–7 June 2024 in Vahdat, Tajikistan, alongside the 3rd Dushanbe Water Action Decade Conference. More than 40 young professionals – including members of the Women in Water Management Network – explored innovative technical solutions, water use patterns in agriculture, and building blocks for a joint vision, with support from FAO, The Economist Impact, SIWI, CAREC, the Geneva Water Hub and the SUEN Turkish Water Institute. Outcomes were shared at high-level conference events including the UNICEF Youth and Children’s Water and Climate Forum, UN Women’s Women and Water Forum, and an OSCE-co-organized side event on capacity building for integrated water resources management.

On 6–7 September 2024, the second workshop in Almaty, Kazakhstan gathered a diverse group of young professionals, including members of the Women in Water Diplomacy Network. Participants emphasized harmony with cultural and traditional knowledge, inclusive stakeholder collaboration, and nature-positive solutions. A field visit to the Kapchagay Solar Power Plant demonstrated renewable energy’s role in sustainable development.

The journey continued in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, where the third edition focused on technological innovation, including water-efficient agricultural machinery, advanced water sensors for cotton production, and the role of local meteorological stations in climate-resilient farming. A visit to a local cotton farm showcased how traditional practices can be combined with modern irrigation and harvesting technologies.

On 13–14 December 2024 in Koy-Tash, Kyrgyzstan, the fourth workshop examined climate change’s growing impact on security and the unifying power of water in fostering cooperation. Field visits to the “BaiElim” food processing facility provided real-world insights into how food systems can support broader development goals.

The final stop took place on 29–30 January 2025 in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, where the OSCE Conflict Prevention Centre introduced negotiation skills for managing complex trade-offs. Participants reaffirmed commitments to intergenerational renewal of traditions, aligning innovation with the true cost of resources, and ensuring inclusive participation – particularly by women. Field visits to the Bagtyarlyk Fresh Water Treatment Plant and the Kumush Suw Farming Society offered practical perspectives on water and food sustainability.

Across all five workshops, a living “Drops of the Future” Declaration has taken shape – capturing a shared vision rooted in inclusion, innovation, traditional knowledge, and regional cooperation. The series has emerged as a unique platform for empowering youth to address WEF challenges while strengthening cross-border dialogue and resilience in Central Asia.

601446 Communication and Media Relations Section

“Sexual and gender-based violence, including conflict-related sexual violence, is not a byproduct of war — it is recognized as a deliberate tactic of warfare,” said Vesa Häkkinen, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Finland to the OSCE during OSCE Forum for Security Co-operation (FSC) side event on 12 November.  

The side event held by Finland as Chair of the FSC was organized as an alternative to the Security Dialogue planned under the formal 1121st FSC meeting.

The side event addressed sexual and gender-based violence as a weapon of war with a particular focus on international humanitarian law, accountability of military commanders and prosecution of war crimes.

“Advancing the Women, Peace and Security agenda is essential for ensuring accountability, protecting civilians, and reinforcing the responsibility of military leadership. The principle of command responsibility is central to our discussion today,” added Ambassador Häkkinen.   

“We cannot ignore the context in which this dialogue takes place. Russia’s ongoing war of aggression against Ukraine has brought the issue of conflict-related sexual violence into sharp focus. Since the full-scale invasion began in February 2022, there has been widespread documentation of sexual and gender-based violence committed by Russian forces,” said Ambassador Häkkinen.

Experts and participating States discussed how the OSCE can support national and international efforts to investigate and prosecute sexual and gender-based violence and conflict-related sexual violence, the mechanisms needed to hold perpetrators and military commanders accountable, the role military codes of conduct and training play in shaping behavior and accountability, among others.

Panellists included Michelle Jarvis, an expert on international criminal justice who focuses on ensuring accountability for survivors, leveraging 25 years of experience from conflicts in the Balkans, Rwanda, and Syria; Wayne Jordash KC, President of Global Rights Compliance, focusing on the prosecution of atrocity crimes; and Lieutenant-Colonel Melanie Lake, a combat engineer who serves as Deputy Chair of the NATO Committee on Gender Perspectives.

The OSCE Forum for Security Co-operation is the OSCE’s politico-military decision-making body, which aims to foster the norms of openness and transparency between OSCE participating States.

601416 A participant and his service dog during preparation for the competition. 12 November, Bishkek 2025. Alima Omorova

Bishkek, 12 November 2025 - The fourth Interagency Canine Competition of the Kyrgyz Republic concluded in Bishkek on 12 November, with support from the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek.

Held from 10 to 12 November, the competition brought together canine specialists and their service dogs from the State Service for the Execution of Punishments under the Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic, the State Customs Service, the Drug Anti-Trafficking Service under the Ministry of Interior, and the Border Service. This year, the State Penitentiary Service, a partner of the Programme Office’s Human Dimension Department, hosted the event.

Over three days, teams competed in a series of challenging exercises, including drug detection in luggage, vehicles, and indoor premises, as well as demonstrations of obedience and teamwork between handlers and their service dogs.

The OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek has supported these competitions since 2022, helping to establish them as a valued tradition and an effective platform for experience-sharing, professional skill development, and interagency co-operation.

“The dedication and professionalism of canine units play an essential role in ensuring public safety and combating organized crime. Through these competitions, we see how strong interagency collaboration can enhance national capacities in law enforcement,” said a representative of the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek.

The competition not only strengthened practical skills but also promoted trust and partnership among the law enforcement agencies of the Kyrgyz Republic.

The 65th round of the Geneva International Discussions (GID) took place on 11-12 November 2025 in the UN Palais des Nations in accordance with the six-point agreement of 12 August 2008 and implementing measures of 8 September 2008.

The participants reiterated their commitment to this important process, emphasizing once again the need for the GID to make tangible progress and deliver on its core agenda items for the benefit of all those affected by conflict.

In Working Group I, the participants reviewed the security situation on the ground since the 64th round held in June 2025, engaging in a substantive exchange of views on the matter. They continued their discussions with a particular focus on non-use of force and international security arrangements. The participants also exchanged views on and reiterated their desire to further explore a possible political statement on non-use of force as a step, which would stress their respective commitments to this principle.

In Working Group II, the participants discussed humanitarian issues, including crossings, documentation, livelihoods and missing persons. Building on previous rounds, they also had a detailed discussion on freedom of movement and external mobility, recognizing the need to find practical solutions to ensure mobility within and outside the region. Due to a walkout by some participants, the agenda item “returns” of internally displaced persons and refugees could not be discussed. In this context, the Co-Chairs call on participants to address all agenda items without preconditions.

The participants expressed interest in continuing the practice of holding information sessions and discussed potential concrete topics for the next rounds.

The participants agreed to hold the next round in March 2026 in Geneva.

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More than 20 representatives from Kyrgyzstan’s environmental, health, academic, civil society and sectoral planning institutions learned about Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) at a training workshop in Bishkek organized by the Office of the Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities in close co-operation with the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek from 6 to 7 November.

SEA is a key tool for integrating environmental and health considerations into strategic planning and for ensuring transparent, forward-looking decision-making. The workshop helped participants to deepen their understanding of the SEA Protocol under the Espoo Convention, as well as the current status of SEA system development in the country.

The first day brought together environmental and health authorities, civil society specialists, EIA experts and academics. They explored the roles of key institutions in the SEA process, practiced identifying when draft strategic documents require SEA, and reviewed regional examples from Europe and Central Asia that demonstrated how SEA supports sustainable development.

The second day focused on sectoral planning authorities, whose role is central to applying SEA in sectors such as energy, transport, water and regional development. Through discussions and group exercises, participants examined how SEA can enhance the quality, inclusiveness and long-term impact of strategic planning.

“Strategic Environmental Assessment helps us plan development in a way that takes environmental and social impacts into account. It makes decision-making more transparent and sustainable. I am confident that our exchange of knowledge and experience will be an important step toward a more responsible approach to planning in Kyrgyzstan,” said Meer Kulumbaev, Head of the State Environmental Expertise Department under the Ministry of Natural Resources, Ecology and Technical Supervision of the Kyrgyz Republic.

The training workshop was part of the OSCE project, “Strengthening National and Regional Capacities and Co-operation on Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) in Central Asia – Phase II”. The project is funded by the Advisory Assistance Programme of the German Federal Environment Ministry, under the supervision of the German Environment Agency.

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What do a police officer, a prosecutor, a judge and a defence lawyer have in common? They all have a duty to protect human rights.

But how is this done in practice: during investigations, when questioning suspects or taking testimony from witnesses?

These were the questions addressed by participants in the workshop “Ensuring Procedural Safeguards and the Protection of the Rights of Individuals in Criminal Proceedings”, organized on 11–12 November in Tashkent by the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan in cooperation with the Centre for Development and Justice (CDJI).

Representatives of law enforcement, the judiciary, and the defence bar learned international best practices and engaged in discussions on how to make criminal proceedings more fair, transparent and humane.

The training was delivered by international experts from the Centre for Development and Justice (CDJI), from such countries as Spain, the Netherlands and the UK.

They provided an overview of constitutional safeguards and the so-called Miranda Rights – the rights of individuals to know the charges against them, to remain silent and to have access to a lawyer during detention. These rules originated in the United States following the 1966 case of Ernesto Miranda and have since become a symbol of fair treatment for suspects. Participants discussed how such safeguards can be applied in the context of criminal proceedings in Uzbekistan, ensuring that every detainee clearly understands his/her rights and can fully exercise them.

British expert – a former police officer and trainer in international interviewing standards – introduced participants to the P.E.A.C.E. model, a modern, ethical and evidence-based approach to conducting interviews without coercion or pressure.

Through practical exercises, participants honed their interviewing skills, emphasizing trust, respect and transparency. Special attention was given to international standards such as the Mendez Principles, which help prevent torture and other forms of ill-treatment.

Discussions highlighted the fact that respect for human rights begins in everyday practice: in how an investigator asks questions, how a prosecutor evaluates evidence and how a judge makes decisions. At the conclusion of the training, participants noted that the knowledge gained would help make criminal proceedings in Uzbekistan even more fair and firmly rooted in adherence to the rule of law and protection of human dignity

601296 Communication and Media Relations Section

Over 100 experts shared good practices and technical expertise at the Ninth Annual Passenger Data Seminar held at the Hofburg in Vienna on 6 to 7 November. The event was organized by the OSCE Transnational Threats Department, in co-operation with the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT) and its Countering Terrorist Travel Programme.

The two-day event brought together national authorities, international organizations and the private sector to discuss the implementation of Advance Passenger Information (API) and Passenger Name Record (PNR) systems. This year’s seminar focused on the practical functioning of Passenger Information Units, the European Union’s API and PNR framework, and the importance of ensuring data protection and privacy compliance in line with international standards.

Participants discussed the responsible use of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies to improve efficiency while safeguarding fundamental rights. Through interactive sessions and case-based discussions, they also exchanged views on legislative, operational and technical aspects of using passenger data for border management and travel security.

The Passenger Data Seminar helps to support OSCE participating States and Partners for Co-operation in developing and strengthening national passenger data systems. It also provides an opportunity to build partnerships and foster co-operation between governments, the private sector and international organizations in advancing secure and efficient border management.

This event was the seventh consecutive joint seminar organized by the OSCE and the UNOCT, together with its partners across international organizations, regional networks and the private sector. It is a key output of the OSCE-UNOCT Biennial Action plan for 2024-2025 and part of regional and international collaboration around implementing the UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy and relevant Security Council resolutions.

601215 Željka Šulc

From 3 to 5 November 2025, seven emerging women cyber professionals from Bosnia and Herzegovina took part in an OSCE Mentorship Programme study visit to Vienna, aimed at strengthening their skills, expanding networks, and promoting women’s leadership in cybersecurity.

The mentees, coming from public institutions, banking, IT companies, and academia, engaged in discussions on cybersecurity, mentorship, and innovation. They attended the “Women in Cyber: Advancing Resilience through Mentorship and Innovation” event hosted by the OSCE Transnational Threats Department, and the Finnish Forum for Security Co-operation event marking 25 years of UNSCR 1325, exploring women’s roles in peace, security, and technology.

“The study visit to Vienna offered participants not only valuable insights into the cybersecurity landscape across the region but also an opportunity to build meaningful professional connections,” said Vildana Delalić Elezović, Project Officer at the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina. “By equipping women professionals with cutting-edge cyber skills and networks, the initiative contributes to narrowing the gender gap in a critical field and advances the role of women under UNSCR 1325 in promoting peace and security in the digital domain, while also strengthening BiH’s ability to respond to evolving digital threats. By investing in women’s professional growth, the OSCE contributes to building a more inclusive and sustainable cybersecurity ecosystem, one that reflects the diversity and strength of the societies it serves.”

The visit also included networking with Austria’s “Shecurity” initiative and learning from ÖBB’s cybersecurity practices, inspiring participants to apply new ideas in their own contexts.

“More than a mentorship, this programme became a journey of learning, empowerment, and friendship,” said Iva Stanić, one of the mentees. “Together, we proved that diverse minds create stronger defences in the digital world.”

Dajana Blagojević, another mentee, reflected on the programme’s transformative impact: “Through the OSCE mentorship programme, I had the opportunity to contribute to capacity-building initiatives in cybersecurity, empowering women and future experts to grow their skills, confidence, and visibility in the field. This experience has shaped my professional journey and strengthened my voice and commitment to building a more inclusive, resilient cyber community.”

The study visit was organized as part of the OSCE Mentorship Programme, implemented under the OSCE Project “Building Sustainable Cybersecurity Capacities in Bosnia and Herzegovina.”

601527 Nino Sukhitashvili OSCE Mission to Moldova

The OSCE Mission to Moldova, in co-operation with the public association EcoContact, held a public dialogue in Chisinau on the elimination of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and the promotion of chemical safety on both banks of the Dniester/Nistru River. Held in a hybrid format on 11 November, the event gathered around 50 participants from national institutions and expert organizations active in the fields of environment, energy and research, as well as representatives of civil society and development partners. They discussed progress in managing hazardous chemicals in line with the Stockholm Convention.

During the dialogue, participants reviewed Moldova’s framework for managing PCB waste and discussed the technical process of safe collection, packaging, transport and final disposal. Presentations also focused on international procedures under the Basel and Stockholm Conventions, including the transboundary movement of hazardous waste, and its environmentally sound incineration in Germany. Participants emphasized that responsible elimination and transparent communication with the public are key to preventing contamination and ensuring chemical safety.

"Building on its technical expertise, the OSCE Mission to Moldova continues to strengthen environmental security and promote safer, more resilient communities on both banks of the Dniester/Nistru River.” said George Sand, Programme Manager, Conflict Prevention/Resolution at the OSCE Mission to Moldova. “The co-operation under this project shows that protecting people and the environment strengthens understanding and confidence between experts and institutions on both banks".

From May 2024 to January 2025, around 265 tonnes of dangerous chemicals, including highly toxic polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), were safely removed from ten storage sites on both banks of the Dniester/Nistru River and transported to a certified hazardous waste incineration facility in Germany. The initiative, funded by OSCE participating States, including the United States, Germany, Ireland, and Norway, reduced potential risks to people’s health and the environment while strengthening co-operation between experts on both banks of the river.

As part of the event, the OSCE Mission presented a short documentary video and an animation illustrating the project’s achievements. The materials are part of the Mission’s public awareness campaign on eliminating dangerous chemicals and promoting chemical safety in Moldova.

Environmental co-operation is an integral part of the OSCE Mission’s work to promote security, stability and confidence-building across the Dniester/Nistru River.

VIENNA, 11 November 2025 – Efforts to deepen co-operation and strengthen sustainable security in the OSCE's 57 participating States and the five Asian Partners for Co-operation are at the heart of the 2025 OSCE Asian Conference, which opened in Vienna today.

Co-hosted by Malta, the 2025 Chair of the OSCE Asian Partners for Co-operation Group, and the Republic of Korea, the Conference brings together representatives from across Asia and the OSCE region to address common security challenges and identify new areas for closer partnership.

“The OSCE's partnership with the Asian Partners for Co-operation embodies the spirit of dialogue in action. For nearly three decades, we have built bridges across our regions, applying the OSCE's comprehensive security approach to shared challenges,” said OSCE Secretary General Feridun H. Sinirlioğlu in his opening remarks. “In a world where threats are increasingly borderless, this partnership underscores that genuine security is achieved not through division, but through co-operation grounded in mutual trust and respect.”

"Fifty years ago in Helsinki, Malta insisted that there can be no security in Europe without security in its neighbouring regions. Comprehensive security cannot be inward looking,” said Christopher Cutajar, Permanent Secretary at the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister and Ministry for Foreign Affairs and Tourism of Malta. “Security in Europe is inextricably linked to the stability and prosperity of the Mediterranean and Asia-Pacific and this remains the cornerstone of our engagement today with the OSCE’s Partners for Co-operation.”

“As we mark the 50th anniversary of the Helsinki Final Act, it is ever more important for Europe and Asia to work together to address emerging security challenges, including AI-driven cyber threats. Korea has supported practical co-operation and peacebuilding through the OSCE Partnership Fund, and we will continue to work closely with the OSCE to promote stability across both our regions,” said Kweon Ki-hwan, Deputy Minister for Multilateral and Global Affairs of the Republic of Korea.

Conference participants will discuss a range of opportunities and challenges facing the OSCE and Asian regions, including emerging cyber threats and the use of cyber/ICT confidence-building measures to enhance security. Discussions will also focus on protecting critical infrastructure and economic security in the digital era, and the role of youth in building sustainable peace.

The OSCE Asian Partners for Co-operation Group includes Afghanistan, Australia, Japan, the Republic of Korea and Thailand.