Central Europe

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A regional OSCE roundtable that took place on 4-5 November in Tashkent demonstrated how media literacy can actively prevent youth radicalization and violent extremism. Journalists, civil society actors, and experts shared practical approaches – from counter-narratives to AI-driven tools – that help young people critically navigate information online. Gender-sensitive strategies were highlighted to better protect and empower young women, showing that informed media engagement can create real change.

The event was organized by the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan in co-operation with the Journalists’ Retraining Centre and brought together journalists, civil society activists, young professionals and researchers from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan.

Participants explored successful regional initiatives, hands-on methods for fact-checking, and ethical reporting practices. They discussed how collaboration between media and civil society strengthens youth resilience, and new tools were introduced to tackle disinformation and harmful online content. The event also launched a regional expert network to continue sharing experiences and best practices in preventing violent extremism and terrorism.

"In today’s digital world, distinguishing fact from disinformation is becoming increasingly difficult. As the most active users of the internet, young people are particularly vulnerable to false information. That’s why media literacy must serve as a shield to protect them. If young people bring a culture of critical thinking to their families and friends, the resilience of society will be strengthened," - said Ambassador Antti Karttunen, OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan.

The roundtable also sparked lively debates on how social media trends, influencers, and AI-generated content are shaping young people’s views. Participants agreed that understanding these dynamics is crucial for developing effective prevention strategies.

By the end of the forum, participants had gained practical tools, inspiring strategies, and connections to sustain ongoing efforts in youth engagement, critical thinking, and safe media practices across Central Asia.

It is worth noting that earlier the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan in co-operation with the Journalists’ Retraining Centre has organized a series of media literacy courses across the regions of Uzbekistan. These courses equipped journalists and bloggers with the skills to think critically, spot disinformation and analyze fake news.

Thirty Special Anti-Corruption Structure (SPAK) and Special Courts legal advisors and judicial secretaries strengthened their professional skills in legal research, legal reasoning and legal writing during a training course organized by the OSCE Presence in Albania in co-operation with SPAK and Special Courts on 5 and 6 November 2025.

The training aimed to enhance participants’ ability to conduct thorough legal analysis and to produce clear, consistent and well-reasoned legal documents — key elements for ensuring the quality, transparency and effectiveness of judicial work.

Over the course of the programme, participants explored fundamental aspects of legal research and reasoning, as well as contemporary practices in legal writing, including the use of precise terminology and professional writing style. Interactive sessions, practical exercises and group discussions were designed to encourage active learning and peer exchange. Case studies and real-life examples relevant to their daily work were used to enhance the applicability of the training content.

Addressing the participants, Mauro Puzzo, Head of the OSCE Presence’s Rule of Law and Human Rights Department underlined the importance of professional development in strengthening the rule of law. “Strong institutions depend on professionals equipped with the skills and integrity to apply the law consistently and communicate it clearly. The OSCE Presence remains committed to supporting Albania’s justice institutions in building capacity and fostering a culture of professionalism and accountability,” he said.

The training is part of the Presence’s ongoing support to Albania’s justice reform and its efforts to promote integrity, efficiency and transparency within judicial institutions.

600993 Marina Živaljević

Financial investigations are a cornerstone in the fight against human trafficking. Tracking money flows helps uncover the financial networks and key actors sustaining these crimes.

On 6 and 7 November, the Office of the OSCE Special Representative and Co-ordinator for Combatting Trafficking in Human Beings, together with the OSCE Mission to Montenegro, and the Ministry of the Interior of Montenegro, organized a two-day workshop to strengthen co-operation among law enforcement, prosecutors, the judiciary, and the private sector. The goal: to make financial flow tracing and financial investigations central pillars of Montenegro’s anti-trafficking efforts.

The event gathered around 50 participants from across Montenegro, financial investigation experts from Canada, Cyprus, Latvia, and the Netherlands, as well as representatives from the National Bureau of Investigation of Hungary, the Finance Against Slavery and Trafficking (FAST) initiative, and private sector partners from, Romania, Spain, and Sweden. Notably, companies such as Santander Bank, Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada (FINTRAC), blockchain intelligence company TRM Labs, the Global Coalition to Fight Financial Crime, and Western Union also attended and contributed with their expertise.

Opening the event, Giovanni Gabassi, OSCE Mission to Montenegro’s Officer-in-Charge, said the initiative reflected a shared commitment “to tackle human trafficking by targeting the profits that sustain it.” He added that stronger financial investigations not only expose trafficking networks, but also enable the identification of victims and support successful prosecution of cases.

Dragana Kažanegra-Stanišić, State Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, emphasized the importance of partnerships in addressing human exploitation. “Financial institutions play a key role in identifying suspicious transactions and activities that may indicate this crime. Together with law enforcement, they provide invaluable data to help break down networks.” Moreover, she also stressed that “the use of cryptocurrencies and new financial technologies further complicates supervision and regulation, which requires an agile, co-ordinated and adaptive approach.”

Velimir Furtula, Acting Assistant Director of the Police Directorate’s Department for the Fight against Crime, noted that human trafficking represented one of the most complex and serious violations of human rights and one of the most profitable forms of organized crime. “At its core, there is always the same motive - illegal earnings through the exploitation of people. That is why monitoring of financial flows becomes a key tool in its detection and suppression,” said Furtula.

Jean-Benoit Manhes, OSCE Deputy Co-ordinator for Combating Trafficking in Human Beings pointed out that human trafficking and migrant smuggling have been identified in both the National Risk Assessment and the recent MONEYVAL Mutual Evaluation as a major source of illicit funds. “Montenegro’s geographical position, as a transit and destination country within the Western Balkans, makes it especially vulnerable to such crimes. The adoption of a whole-of-society approach, including the financial sector, can be instrumental in helping detect, track and recover financial benefits from trafficking, including via complex schemes involving cryptocurrencies. No-trafficker is invisible, no-trafficker shall escape,” he concluded.

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5 – 6 November 2025, Santeri Leinonen, Special Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office on Youth, Peace and Security, visited Tashkent to deepen dialogue on the positive, active and inclusive role of young people in the efforts towards sustainable peace and security.

During a full day of meetings, Mr. Leinonen met with representatives of the Youth Affairs Agency of Uzbekistan, Nordic International University and the University of World Economy and Diplomacy, as well as with young representatives of civil society

At the Youth Affairs Agency, discussions focused on strengthening youth participation in policy-making and peacebuilding, highlighting shared priorities in empowering young people as drivers of positive change.

Mr. Leinonen visited Nordic International University and the University of World Economy and Diplomacy, where he presented the outcomes of the OSCE Chairpersonship Youth Forum, held in Helsinki in late July 2025. Young people from across the OSCE region – including Uzbekistan – contributed to shaping the OSCE-wide Youth, Peace and Security (YPS) Roadmap to be launched under Finland’s OSCE Chairpersonship. He also shared Finland’s experience in youth cooperation and the process of drafting the country’s National Action Plans on YPS, followed by an open exchange with students and members of university youth and diplomatic clubs about the role of youth in fostering peace, dialogue and mutual understanding.

The visit concluded with a meeting with young civil society representatives, where participants discussed opportunities for regional collaboration and youth-led initiatives.

Reflecting on his visit, Santeri Leinonen said: “Meeting so many active and committed young people here in Tashkent has been truly inspiring. Their energy, creativity and dedication to building bridges across communities are at the heart of sustainable peace. Strengthening youth cooperation across regions and cultures is essential to creating a more inclusive and secure future for all. Field visits have been most rewarding part in my role as Special Representative.”

Throughout the day, discussions highlighted how Uzbekistan’s young people are taking an active role in shaping their communities and contributing to regional cooperation – a reflection of the shared spirit of the Youth, Peace and Security agenda across the OSCE area.

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The OSCE Transnational Threats Department (TNTD), in close co-operation with field operations, continues to help Central Asian participating States strengthen their legal and operational frameworks for requesting and handling electronic evidence across borders.

Under its extrabudgetary project E-VIDENCE, the TNTD held a series of follow-up missions and expert meetings in Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan in September and October 2025. The discussions focused on putting recommendations from the needs assessment missions into practice, streamlining procedures for mutual legal assistance and developing model guidelines for requesting data from foreign internet service providers — all while ensuring full respect for human rights and the rule of law.

Participants, including representatives of law enforcement, the judiciary, parliaments and academia highlighted the need for stronger training, judicial oversight and privacy safeguards in digital investigations.

“Electronic evidence plays a role in approximately 85 per cent of criminal investigations worldwide. More than half of these cases require cross-border requests, and nearly two-thirds involve service providers located abroad. Without efficient mechanisms to obtain such data, justice cannot be delivered in a timely, fair and human rights-respecting manner”, stated Ambassador Monika Lenhard of the Federal Republic of Germany to Kyrgyzstan during the second expert-level meeting in Kyrgyzstan on 16 October.

According to statement made by the Ambassador Nico Schermers of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Central Asia during the follow-up mission in Kazakhstan on 23 September, “protecting fundamental rights and freedoms, both internationally and at home, is the best guarantee to fight terrorism and address radicalization effectively.  Strengthening ​​the rule of law is the only way to systematically enshrine this protection into societies. By aligning national legislation with international legal frameworks that safeguard human rights and the rule of law, the project E-VIDENCE ensures that states are able to exchange electronic evidence efficiently, effectively and responsibly, adapting our joint combat against terrorism to the realities of today’s digital world.”

Concrete progress is already visible:

• Kyrgyzstan is drafting a Law on Digital Evidence to regulate cross-border data requests.
• Kazakhstan is preparing to join the Budapest Convention on Cybercrime.
• Turkmenistan is introducing electronic evidence into its legal framework.
• Tajikistan is reassessing its existing approaches to access electronic evidence in foreign jurisdictions

These advances mark an important step toward modern, human rights-based criminal justice systems across the region.

The efforts will continue at a Central Asian regional seminar in Tashkent, Uzbekistan on 12–13 November, organized by TNTD and the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan, which will bring together government, experts and tech sector representatives to discuss shared challenges and opportunities in cross-border requests for electronic evidence.

The E-VIDENCE project, supported by Germany and the Netherlands, is an extrabudgetary initiative that aims to strengthen national and regional capacities to request electronic evidence for investigating online crimes, including terrorism, while upholding international standards and human rights.

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On 4 November, the OSCE Transnational Threats Department launched the Technical Guide on Physical Security Considerations for Protecting Critical Infrastructure against Terrorist Attacks and accompanying multilingual factsheets. The Guide is designed to support participating State policymakers, critical infrastructure owners and operators, and private security stakeholders in setting up effective security systems for their critical infrastructure sites and facilities, based on their unique risk profile.

Available in English and Russian, the Guide provides practices, principles and considerations that can enhance the physical security of critical infrastructure sites across the OSCE area. It covers a range of policy-level approaches taken by participating States as well as technical measures including intrusion detection systems, security lighting, video surveillance, perimeter protection, access control, insider threat management, hostile vehicle mitigation and more.

Rather than focusing on a single approach to physical security, the Guide presents a range of publicly available practices that reflects the diverse approaches that currently exist. Most of the practices cited throughout the publication derive from the OSCE participating States. This showcases the vast knowledge present across the OSCE area, as well as consolidates these practices in one place for ease of use and the benefit of all.

The publication was officially launched in Vienna on 4 November on the margins of a joint meeting of the OSCE Security Committee and OSCE Economic and Environment Committee chaired by the United Kingdom and Slovenia, respectively. The meeting focused on ‘Critical Infrastructure and Vulnerable Targets: Protection and Resilience’.

“Modern societies are dependent on critical infrastructure systems to provide essential services that support lives and livelihoods. Terrorism remains an ever-present threat for all of us,” said Ambassador Neil Holland, Head of the United Kingdom Delegation to the OSCE in Vienna, during his opening remarks. “The OSCE can and does play an important role in supporting our policymakers back in our home countries and regionally, as they work to prevent, prepare for and mitigate terrorist attacks on critical infrastructure.”

Speaking about the Guide’s creation under the OSCE’s Project PROTECT, Ambassador Susanne Schütz from the German Permanent Mission to the OSCE, said, “Threats to critical infrastructure are evolving. Terrorists and violent non-state actors deliberately target it to cause panic, harm civilians and draw attention to their causes. Germany is pleased to be one of Project PROTECT’s core donors. It has been a joy to watch the Project grow from 2023, with a measurable impact across the OSCE area. This event is a major piece of that impact: we are delighted to see the OSCE Transnational Threats Department release this pragmatic and practical Guide.”

The Guide is the result of two years of work as part of Project PROTECT’s efforts to enhance national approaches across the OSCE area on the protection of vulnerable targets from terrorist threats and other hazards.

Through the project, the Guide will also form the foundation of several new training courses. It has already been piloted as a teaching aid at training courses held in Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan.

Project PROTECT is funded by Germany and the United States Bureau of Counterterrorism.

For more information, please contact: atu@osce.org

600683 Ambassador Marcel Peško Head of the OSCE Mission to Serbia Ivana Milatovic, OSCE Mission to Serbia Milica Knezevic

Slovak career diplomat Ambassador Marcel Peško assumed his duties as Head of the OSCE Mission to Serbia, on 1 November 2025.

“I look forward to working in partnership with the Government of Serbia and all local stakeholders as we fulfil the OSCE Mission’s mandate,” said Ambassador Peško.

“The Mission remains committed to supporting Serbia and its people and providing expertise in strengthening democratic institutions and the rule of law, protecting human rights, including the rights of persons belonging to national minorities, advancing law enforcement reform and fostering media development.”

Ambassador Peško brings extensive experience within the OSCE and international diplomacy. He previously served as Director of the OSCE Conflict Prevention Centre, where he led efforts to enhance the Organization’s conflict prevention, crisis management, and post-conflict rehabilitation activities.

Before his appointment to Belgrade, Ambassador Peško served as the Special Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office/Project Coordinator in Ukraine. He has also held a number of senior positions within the Slovak Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs and represented Slovakia in various international fora.

He holds an M.A. degree in International Economic Relations from Kiev State University and the University of Economics Bratislava, as well as an M.B.A. in Business Management from Dublin City University Business School. He is fluent in Slovak, English and Russian.

Ambassador Marcel Peško | OSCE

600879 Public Affairs Unit, OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights Katya Andrusz

As risks to online election campaigns increase in the digital age, the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) hosted its tenth annual election seminar this week in Vienna, with a focus on election campaigns in the online environment.

“Technology has transformed how elections are run and how candidates and voters engage, bringing both opportunities and serious challenges,” said ODIHR Director Maria Telalian. “Our mission is to ensure that the democratic principles underpinning electoral integrity as well as our work keep pace with innovation. This event was an excellent opportunity to share experiences and strengthen collaboration on these crucial issues.”

The event brought together election experts, representatives from OSCE participating states, election management bodies, civil society, and social media platforms to discuss best practices and innovative strategies for safeguarding the democratic process amid evolving technological challenges.

“The discussions held today underscored the importance of co-operation and informed action in safeguarding online electoral integrity. Romania’s recent experience shows that improving access to data and building shared expertise are not just desirable but essential steps,” said Mădălina Voinea, Digital Watchdog Co-ordinator at Expert Forum, a Romanian think tank. “This seminar has been a valuable forum for advancing such a collective effort as without transparent access to public data on social media, we risk falling behind threats that evolve faster than our safeguards.”

This year’s seminar focused on emerging threats in online campaigns, such as misinformation, foreign interference, and AI misuse, and building resilience by strengthening state preparedness and international cooperation. Experts exchanged insights on how to enhance legal frameworks, improve collaboration with social media platforms, and implement best practices for protecting the integrity of elections in the digital age.

600852 Munira Shoinbekova, OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe

From 20–24 October 2025, a study visit to Türkiye, organized by the OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe, marked a significant step in enhancing cross-border co-operation between Tajikistan and Türkiye. A delegation of five border security officials from Tajikistan visited Istanbul and Ankara to observe best practices and innovative approaches employed by Turkish border agencies.

During the visit, the delegation engaged with counterparts from the Gendarmerie General Command, National Police Directorate, Istanbul International Airport, the Directorate of Migration Management, and key border posts including Kapıkule (Türkiye–Bulgaria) and Budakdoğanca. Officials gained valuable insights into advanced border management strategies, such as real-time information exchange, risk assessment, document verification, and inter-agency co-operation mechanisms.

A key outcome of the visit was the commitment to adopt Türkiye’s integrated border management practices to enhance Tajikistan's border security framework. The delegation participated in presentations and discussions covering border crossing procedures, operational management, counter-forgery techniques, and gender-sensitive approaches in border control.

Following the visit, Tajikistan plans to incorporate these insights into national border management strategies to improve regional security, facilitate legal migration, and prevent cross-border threats. The findings will also guide the development of new border co-operation projects and foster ongoing professional exchanges between the two countries.

This initiative highlights the OSCE’s continued commitment to strengthening international co-operation in border security under the OSCE Border Management Concept, contributing to regional stability and security.

600764 Željka Šulc

Sarajevo, 3 November 2025 — The OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina (Mission) today signed a Memorandum of Understanding with three theological faculties — the Faculty of Catholic Theology, the Faculty of Islamic Theology, and the Faculty of Orthodox Theology “St. Vasilije Ostroški” — establishing co-operation around the Joint Master’s Programme in Interreligious Studies and Peacebuilding.

“Today’s event marks not only the formalization of a partnership but also a shared commitment to building peace and understanding through learning and dialogue,” said Ambassador Rick Holtzapple, Head of Mission. “The Mission’s core mandate in Bosnia and Herzegovina is to support lasting peace and stability. We recognize that genuine peace must be nurtured both within and across communities, through education and constructive dialogue that bridge divides and foster mutual understanding.”

The Joint Master’s Programme aims to strengthen the foundations of lasting peace by bringing together future leaders from different faith traditions to study, reflect, and work side by side. The inclusion in the Programme of topics related to the right to Freedom of Religion or Belief highlights the importance of understanding and learning about this fundamental human right.

Professor Pavle Mijović, from the Faculty of Catholic Theology, emphasized the importance of this step, expressing satisfaction that the Memorandum of Co-operation between the Mission and the Deans of the three theological faculties has been signed. “We are grateful to the OSCE for recognizing the importance of this program and for supporting our joint efforts in peacebuilding and interreligious dialogue. We believe that this co-operation will further deepen understanding of interreligious dialogue and peacebuilding and contribute to the overall progress of society,” Mijović concluded.

This initiative forms part of the Mission’s broader efforts to promote freedom of religion or belief and strengthen interreligious dialogue as a cornerstone of sustainable peace in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

SKOPJE, 3 November 2025 – The second round of North Macedonia’s mayoral elections offered voters a choice between political alternatives and the campaign was competitive in most municipalities, but not all candidates had equal campaign conditions and the continued involvement of government officials in the campaign continued as well as persistent allegations of pressure on voters and numerous allegations of vote buying were of concern, international observers from the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) said in a statement today.

While election legislation covers some aspects of the second-round election process, several key areas remain either unregulated, ambiguous, or insufficiently detailed. The law also lacks a clear timeline and detailed rules for technical preparations for voting.

"The second round of the mayoral elections took place in an orderly manner and the campaign remained overall competitive, but not all candidates enjoyed equal conditions,” said Matteo Mecacci, Head of the ODIHR Election Observation Mission. “We have been observing the electoral process since early September, and while the legal framework provides a technical basis for holding democratic elections. numerous inconsistencies and gaps remain, particularly concerning the electoral administration, media access, and the system for resolving election disputes.”

A second round of mayoral elections was held in the municipalities in which no candidate had won an absolute majority in the first round on 19 October. The election administration continued to manage election preparations efficiently, and generally enjoyed high levels of public trust. The process on election day was generally assessed as well-organized, professional, and calm, although the frequent tracking of voters noted by observers was of concern.

Observers noted that the election commission grouped some complaints instead of reviewing them individually, and its rigid, overly formalistic approach meant the investigation of some cases was limited, raising concerns about due process and the right to an effective remedy. Positively, the relevant court handled appeals thoroughly, following established procedures in sessions that were open to the public.

As in the first round, the fundamental freedoms of expression as well as of association and assembly were respected, and candidates were able to campaign freely. However, the tone of the campaign was more restrained than in the first round, with some instances of personal attacks by candidates and party leaders towards each other. The continuing involvement of government officials in the campaign at times blurred the line between state and party. Worrying allegations of pressure on public-sector employees and voters persisted, as well as numerous allegations of vote buying.

Campaign finance reporting requirements remained limited for the second round, and the absence of oversight undermined transparency and reduced accountability. None of the institutions tasked with campaign finance oversight launched proceedings against candidates failing to comply with reporting requirements before the first round, further weakening public trust.

The coverage in the news programmes of all broadcasters monitored by the observation mission was generally neutral. At the same time, state funds for political advertising and airtime allocation were distributed among candidates according to the same formula applied during the first round, disadvantaging independent candidates and parties not represented in parliament, and effectively excluding smaller parties with a parliamentary group. Several candidates also raised concerns regarding manipulative narratives on social networks, and a number of instances of inflammatory rhetoric were noted online.

ODIHR’s election observation mission to the local elections in North Macedonia opened on 5 September and will remain in the country until 12 November.

For further information, please contact:

Katya Andrusz, ODIHR: +48 609 522 266 or katya.andrusz@odihr.pl

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How can countries secure critical infrastructure against terrorist threats? To help answer this question, government officials from Uzbekistan took part in a three-day OSCE training course on the physical security of critical infrastructure.

“Critical infrastructure, such as energy networks, transport systems, water facilities, communication hubs and health institutions are vital for every country’s functioning. When these systems are affected or disrupted, the consequences go far beyond physical damage. They can impact economic stability, public confidence, social well-being and even political security. Building resilience and improving security measures help ensure the safety and protect the everyday life,” said Ambassador Antti Karttunen, OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan.

The training, held from 27 to 29 October in Tashkent, Uzbekistan was organized by the OSCE Transnational Threats Department and the Office of the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan, with financial support from Germany under the OSCE Project PROTECT.

“Critical infrastructure forms the backbone of our modern economies, societies and cross-border relations. Germany is proud to support the OSCE’s Project PROTECT. Its value lies in consolidating good practices from across the OSCE area, allowing participating States to adapt what is most relevant to their national priorities,” highlighted Rebecca Dovergne, Head of Economic Affairs and Press from the German Embassy in Tashkent.

During the training, specialists from several national institutions, including the State Security Service, Ministry of Internal Affairs, National Guard, Ministry of Emergency Situations, Ministry of Health, Republican Centre for Plague Prevention and Committee on Industrial, Radiation and Nuclear Safety under the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Uzbekistan discussed how to better protect important public sites such as energy networks, transport hubs and healthcare facilities from various security risks, including potential terrorist threats.

Participants learned how to identify and manage physical threats to critical infrastructure, including how to design safer buildings, organize access control, use modern security technology such as surveillance systems and plan responses to possible security incidents.

The course was based on materials from the forthcoming OSCE Technical Guide on Physical Security Considerations for the Protection of Critical Infrastructure from Terrorist Attacks, which offers practical advice and examples from across the OSCE area. Each participant received a copy of the guide for the use in their future work.

This training course is part of Project PROTECT, an OSCE initiative that helps participating States improve the protection of critical infrastructure and public spaces from terrorist and other security threats, while ensuring that all measures respect human rights.

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From 21 to 23 October, thirty government officials took part in a training course in Shymkent on strengthening the physical security of critical infrastructure (CI) against terrorist threats. The event was organized within the framework of the OSCE Transnational Threats Department’s Project PROTECT and the OSCE Programme Office in Astana, with financial support from Germany and the United States of America.

The new three-day training course was designed in response to a growing number of terrorist incidents targeting critical infrastructure across the OSCE region and beyond. The course considered a range of terrorist attack methods including explosive attacks, firearms and unmanned aerial systems and covered core components of physical security from strategies such as conceptualizing physical security at critical infrastructure sites, developing a security system and applying defence in depth principles, to technical measures such as access control systems, intrusion detection systems, security lighting, building structure, security screening practices, perimeter protection and others. The course structure reflected elements of the forthcoming Project PROTECT Technical Guide on Physical Security Considerations for the Protection of Critical Infrastructure from Terrorist Attacks, due to be released in November 2025. As a training aid, all participants received a copy of the Technical Guide, providing them with a consolidated reference document for their future work in protecting critical infrastructure.

“Conducting this course is a timely and relevant step that promotes the exchange of experience, professional development, as well as strengthening the capacity of units responsible for the security of facilities vulnerable to terrorism,” said Denis Rudkovsky, Deputy Head of the Specialized Security Unit of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, in his opening remarks.

Participants included regional experts and practitioners from the Department of Specialized Security Services of the Ministry of Internal Affairs as well as the Anti-Terrorism Centre. The training course also benefited from the insights of a guest lecturer from the Fraunhofer Institute for High-Speed Dynamics, Ernst-Mach-Institut, in Germany, who shared international good practices and technical expertise on explosive impacts on building structures.

“The Organization consistently advocates for the fight against terrorism to be conducted in strict compliance with international law and states' human rights obligations. The OSCE and its Project PROTECT supports countries to exchange experiences, enhance the capacity of law enforcement agencies, and develop effective measures to protect critical infrastructure. We are delighted to co-organize this event, which is the first of its kind,” highlighted Aidyn Alimbekov, Project Associate at the OSCE Programme Office in Astana.   

This course represents the seventh activity under Project PROTECT, which strengthens national approaches to protecting vulnerable targets from terrorist threats and other hazards, while ensuring compliance with human rights.

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On 30 and 31 October, the OSCE facilitated a study visit to Finland on virtual assets for representatives from Moldova’s Financial Intelligence Unit, National Bank, National Commission for Financial Market, Criminal Assets Recovery Agency, National Inspectorate for Investigation, and the Security and Intelligence Service.

The visit, hosted by the Finnish Financial Intelligence Unit and the Finnish Financial Supervisory Authority, provided participants with practical insights into Finland’s approach to regulating and supervising Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) and managing risks related to anti-money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism (AML/CFT). The agenda also featured a session from the Bank of Finland on the relevance of digital currencies, evolving electronic payment systems and ongoing research in this area.

“Through discussions with FIU Finland, the Finnish Financial Supervisory Authority, and the Bank of Finland, we gained a deeper understanding of how co-operation between financial intelligence, supervisory and central banking institutions supports effective regulation, financial integrity, and the safe development of the crypto asset market” said one of the participants.

The study visit comes at a particularly timely moment, as Moldova is in the process of developing its own regulatory and supervisory framework for virtual assets and VASPs. The exchange of experiences with Finnish authorities offered valuable guidance on effective approaches to licensing, monitoring, and mitigating risks in the evolving digital financial landscape.

The activity was organized as part of the OSCE extrabudgetary project, “Innovative policy solutions to mitigate money-laundering risks of virtual assets”, implemented by the Office of the Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities, with the financial support of the Governments of Germany, Italy, Poland, Romania, the United Kingdom and the United States.

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A two-day workshop, “Towards Responsible Business: A Workshop on Human Rights Due Diligence”, brought together representatives of government institutions, the private sector, trade unions, academia and international organizations to discuss how businesses can uphold human rights, prevent labour exploitation and strengthen transparency within their supply chains.

The event was organized by the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan in partnership with the National Centre for Human Rights of the Republic of Uzbekistan, with the support of the OSCE Office of the Special Representative and Co-ordinator for Combating Trafficking in Human Beings.

Participants explored international standards and best practices related to the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, as well as practical steps toward implementing Uzbekistan’s draft National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights. Discussions focused on the role of business in promoting ethical labour practices, the importance of human rights due diligence, and the shared responsibility of government and business in preventing human trafficking and forced labour in supply chains.

“Respect for human rights and responsible business practices are essential for sustainable and inclusive economic development. This dialogue helps build shared understanding and stronger partnerships between government, business, and society,” said Ambassador Antti Karttunen, OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan.

The workshop served as a platform to identify priorities and actions for the effective implementation of the forthcoming National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights in Uzbekistan.

By fostering open dialogue and sharing experiences from other OSCE participating States, the event encouraged companies in Uzbekistan to strengthen their human rights policies, improve labour standards and contribute to fair and sustainable economic growth.

HELSINKI/VIENNA, 3 November 2025 - The 32nd Ministerial Council meeting of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) will take place on 4–5 December 2025 in Vienna, Austria. Hosted at the invitation of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Finland Elina Valtonen, the event will gather Foreign Ministers from the 57 OSCE participating States and 11 Partners for Co-operation.

Media representatives are invited to cover the proceedings, which will be held at Hofburg Palace in Vienna, Austria.

Registration and Accreditation

Media registration with the Austrian Federal Press Service will be open from Monday, 3 November and will remain available until Monday, 1 December at 17:00. Advance registration on the Austrian Federal Press Service’s online accreditation system is mandatory for both in-person and virtual attendance.

To register, please complete the required information, upload a recent high-quality digital colored photograph. Please do not use a scan from a document as this will not give the required image quality. In the registration form, fill in the data of your valid press card. Instead of your press card, you may also attach a letter from your media organisation confirming your personal assignment for this particular event. Media representatives will be notified by email once the registration process is approved in the system. All personal information provided during registration will be processed in accordance with General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) requirements.

Media badge collection

Please note that media badges must be collected at the accreditation desk of the Austrian Federal Press Service at Hofburg, Innerer Burghof / Inner courtyard (close to the Ochsentor / OX gate) – 1010 Vienna prior to going to Hofburg Palace on:

* Tuesday, 2 December 2025: 9:00 – 17:00

* Wednesday, 3 December 2025: 9:00 – 18:00

* Thursday, 4 December 2025: 7:00 – 18:00

* Friday, 5 December 2025: 8:00 – 13:00

You are requested to present a valid press card or the original letter of confirmation from your media organisation, together with an official photo-ID (identity card, passport, or driver’s license), when collecting your badge.

Detailed information about media facilities, virtual participation, instructions for accreditation, media pool modalities and booking of hotels can be found here.

Visa requirements

Media representatives are asked to make their own arrangements for securing a visa, if required under Austrian law, for entry into Austria. Visa requirements can be found here.

Media representatives who need a visa to travel to Austria are required to apply in a timely manner. Prior to their travel to Austria, travelers are required to ensure that they have a valid passport which expires at least six months after their date of departure.

To ensure that visas are issued on time and in line with Schengen regulations, media representatives should file their visa application with the Austrian Embassy or the embassy representing Austria in Schengen issues as soon as possible – at the very latest 15 calendar days before the intended date of departure.

Visa application forms can be found here.

For any visa-related inquiries, please contact the relevant Austrian Consulate or the Federal Ministry of European and International Affairs of Austria.

Further updates and details, including media pool opportunities and operational guidelines for the Media Centre, will be regularly posted on the official Event Page.

For inquiries related to media participation at the 32nd Ministerial Council meeting, please contact Ms Petra Sarias, petra.sarias@gov.fi.

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As the OSCE's principal decision-making body, the Ministerial Council offers a key platform for Foreign Ministers to review and address the security situation in the OSCE area, as well as to evaluate the Organization's work in all its fields of activity.

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From 27 to 31 October, representatives of the French Gendarmerie visited the Republic of Moldova to exchange good practices and explore avenues for future co-operation with Moldovan law enforcement agencies on strengthening canine (K9) capabilities.

During the technical visit, French experts from the Gendarmerie Headquarters in Paris and the K9 Training Centre in Gramat met with the senior management and K9 units of the Moldovan General Inspectorate of Border Police, General Police Inspectorate and Customs Service.

The programme included meetings, site visits and live demonstrations at K9 facilities in Chisinau and in the field. Discussions focused on training methodologies, operational frameworks, new detection techniques, as well as the harmonization of Moldovan K9 regulations and practices with international standards.

The visit followed a study visit of Moldovan K9 specialists to France in November 2024, during which Moldovan officers observed the work of French K9 units in Paris and Gramat. This reciprocal visit marks the next step in strengthening long-term professional ties between Moldovan and French K9 services.

“The OSCE continues to serve as a platform for international co-operation, supporting the Moldovan authorities in developing sustainable and effective K9 capabilities in line with European practices,” said Alina Grottenthaler, Project Officer with the OSCE Transnational Threats Department. “This partnership facilitates knowledge exchange that directly contributes to enhancing law enforcement effectiveness in countering organized crime and regional security.”

The visit concluded with the identification of areas for future co-operation, including technical assistance and specialized training opportunities for Moldovan K9 handlers in France.

The event took place in the framework of the OSCE extrabudgetary project “Support to the Law Enforcement Agencies in Moldova in Response to the Security Challenges in the Region”, implemented jointly by the OSCE’s Transnational Threats Department and Conflict Prevention Centre/Forum for Security and Co-operation Unit, with the financial support of the Governments of France, Germany, Poland, the United Kingdom and the United States of America.

600668 Maid Konjhodžić Edita Buçaj

PRISHTINË/PRIŠTINA, 2 November 2025 – On the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists, the OSCE Mission in Kosovo launched the documentary “Beyond the Headlines”, which highlights the growing threats against media professionals and the urgent need for stronger institutional protection.

Produced in co-operation with local journalists, the documentary examines rising cases of online harassment, smear campaigns, and physical assaults. Since January 2025, 56 incidents against journalists have been reported, already exceeding last year’s total. Women journalists remain especially vulnerable to gender-based threats and harassment.

In addition to the documentary, the Mission is  supporting a debate on the same topic, which will be aired tonight on TV Dukagjini at 1900 hrs. The debate will feature prominent journalists and a prosecutor, who will discuss the challenges journalists face in exercising their duties and the institutional response from the justice system.

“The rise in attacks and online harassment, especially against women journalists, is deeply concerning and unacceptable,” said Gerard McGurk, Head of the OSCE Mission in Kosovo. “Greater, more sustained efforts are needed to ensure journalists can work safely and independently.”

The Chairperson of the Association of Journalists of Kosovo Xhemajl Rexha, noted that the last four years have been the most difficult for journalism in Kosovo, citing intensified attacks and lenient penalties that embolden perpetrators.

“The situation for journalists in Kosovo is worsening, with a worrying culture of impunity,” said Jan Braathu, OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media. “Authorities must recognize the essential role journalists play in democracy and act decisively to ensure their safety.”

The Mission takes the issue of the safety of journalists seriously. Over the years, OSCE has worked closely with partners - the Press Council of Kosovo, the Independent Media Commission, and the Association of Journalists of Kosovo - to translate this commitment into concrete action. Besides providing legal aid to journalists facing defamation lawsuits or digital harassment, the Mission donated protective vests and jackets marked with PRESS insignia to help journalists be easily identified during protests and crisis events.

It has also organized joint crisis reporting training for journalists and the Kosovo Police and produced court reporting guidelines to help both journalists and members of the judiciary better understand each other’s roles, rights, and responsibilities.

Prosecutors, investigators and law enforcement officials from across Albania came together in Lalëz on 29–30 October 2025 for a two-day training on anti-money laundering and anti-corruption measures. Organized by the OSCE Presence, the course aimed to strengthen Albania’s institutional and operational capacities to investigate complex financial crimes.

The event brought together prosecutors from the Special Structure against Corruption and Organized Crime (SPAK) and district prosecution offices, investigators from the National Bureau of Investigation, officers from the Albanian State Police and representatives from the General Directorate of Anti-Corruption and the Tax Investigation Unit. Participants shared regional experiences and practical methodologies to tackle corruption and financial crime more effectively.

Through in-depth sessions and case-based discussions, participants examined effective approaches to preventing corruption in public procurement, detecting illicit financial flows, tracing proceeds of crime and reinforcing international co-operation in criminal investigations.

Opening the event, Catherine Dunmore, Senior Legal Officer at the OSCE Presence in Albania, emphasized that financial crime and corruption continue to undermine public trust and the rule of law. She highlighted the importance of sustained inter-institutional co-ordination among prosecutors, investigators and law enforcement authorities to strengthen accountability, integrity and effectiveness within Albania’s justice chain.

The course saw the contribution of five distinguished experts: Colonel Giampiero Carrieri, Diplomatic Attaché at the Embassy of Italy in Albania; General Giovanni Salerno, Commander of the Special Anti-Corruption Unit of Italy’s Guardia di Finanza; Mirko Kučina, Head of the Economic Crime and Corruption Service at the Croatian National Police; Vedran Libl, Deputy Director of the State Prosecutor’s Office for the Suppression of Organized Crime and Corruption (USKOK); and Hergis Jica, Head of the Co-ordination Affairs Sector at the EUROPOL Directorate of the Albanian State Police.

The OSCE Presence in Albania organized the activity through cross-departmental collaboration, reflecting its integrated approach to promoting transparency, resilience and co-operation across the justice and security sectors.

Maid Konjhodžić Edita Buçaj

PRISHTINË/PRIŠTINA, 2 November 2025 – To mark the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists, the OSCE Mission in Kosovo produced the documentary “Beyond Headlines [insert hyperlink],” which highlights the growing threats against media professionals and the urgent need for stronger institutional protection.

Produced in co-operation with local journalists, the documentary examines rising cases of online harassment, smear campaigns, and physical assaults. Since January 2025, 56 incidents against journalists have been reported, already exceeding last year’s total. Women journalists remain especially vulnerable to gender-based threats and harassment.

In addition to the documentary, the Mission is  supporting a debate on the same topic, which will be aired tonight on TV Dukagjini at 1900 hrs. The debate will feature prominent journalists and a prosecutor, who will discuss the challenges journalists face in exercising their duties and the institutional response from the justice system.

“The rise in attacks and online harassment, especially against women journalists, is deeply concerning and unacceptable,” said Gerard McGurk, Head of the OSCE Mission in Kosovo. “Greater, more sustained efforts are needed to ensure journalists can work safely and independently.”

The Chairperson of the Association of Journalists of Kosovo Xhemajl Rexha, noted that the last four years have been the most difficult for journalism in Kosovo, citing intensified attacks and lenient penalties that embolden perpetrators.

“The situation for journalists in Kosovo is worsening, with a worrying culture of impunity,” said Jan Braathu, OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media. “Authorities must recognize the essential role journalists play in democracy and act decisively to ensure their safety.”

The Mission takes the issue of the safety of journalists seriously. Over the years, OSCE has worked closely with partners - the Press Council of Kosovo, the Independent Media Commission, and the Association of Journalists of Kosovo - to translate this commitment into concrete action. Besides providing legal aid to journalists facing defamation lawsuits or digital harassment, the Mission donated protective vests and jackets marked with PRESS insignia to help journalists be easily identified during protests and crisis events.

It has also organized joint crisis reporting training for journalists and the Kosovo Police and produced court reporting guidelines to help both journalists and members of the judiciary better understand each other’s roles, rights, and responsibilities.