Central Europe

597624

An OSCE-organized training course on media literacy for representatives of Turkmenistan’s national media and state institutions of the National Human Rights Action Plan for 2021-2025 took place on 16 and 17 September 2025.

The training course was delivered by two national trainers who successfully completed a series of train-the-trainer courses on media literacy organized by the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat in 2024-2025. An international expert from Kazakhstan facilitated the event remotely.

The trainers introduced the concept of the media and information literacy focusing on the current trends in the modern media environment and five UNESCO laws of media and information literacy.

In his opening speech, William Leaf, Head of the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat referred to the Policy Manual “Spotlight on Artificial Intelligence and Freedom of Expression” published in 2021 by the Office of the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media.

“The Manual highlights the importance of promoting awareness and digital literacy to empower individuals to better manage their own media consumption,” said Leaf.

“Earlier this year, the Centre organized the first training course delivered by three national trainers and we are proud to contribute to the creation of the pool of national experts on media literacy and the practical implementation of the media freedom-related provisions of the National Human Rights Action Plan for 2021-2025,” he added.

The training course also presented international and national legal frameworks related to media and information literacy and exposed participants to the instruments of media literacy and fact-checking. Participants explored the formats of fact-checking and work with Artificial Intelligence in state institutions. They also practised writing press releases with the use of AI tools and discussed the rights and responsibilities of social media users.

Henriikka Ahtiainen Wilhelmina Hindström

Anu Juvonen, the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office’s Special Representative on Civil Society, concluded a visit to Georgia. During her visit from 7 to 11 September, Juvonen met with government officials, civil society representatives, and members of the diplomatic community to assess the state of civic space in Georgia.

Upon concluding her visit, she reaffirmed international concern, echoing the recent statement by the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR), and noting the alarming pace at which space for civil society in Georgia  is narrowing.

“I was particularly surprised by the speed with which the space for civil society actors is closing,” Juvonen said. “I regret that the repression against civil society actors, peaceful protesters and independent journalists continues despite earlier calls on the Georgian authorities to make alternative choices. Every day is a new opportunity to change the course of action. We encourage Georgia to follow and implement OSCE commitments related to civil society and the media, including freedom of expression, freedom of assembly and association as well as political participation.”

The OSCE has relevant expertise at its disposal and stands ready to help Georgia meet these commitments.

Juvonen emphasized that Finland, as Chair of the OSCE in 2025, places strong importance on safeguarding civic space and ensuring an enabling environment for civil society.

“Free civil society is a cornerstone of democratic society. To limit the free civic space is to weaken the societal resilience against multiple security threats,” she stated.

VIENNA, 18 September 2025 – Today, Switzerland’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis outlined the country’s priorities as the incoming 2026 OSCE Chair-in-Office to the Permanent Council.

Switzerland has set out its vision for a more secure OSCE region, emphasizing peace, dialogue, innovation, and respect for fundamental rights as it prepares to assume the Chairpersonship of the OSCE. “In the face of war in Europe, Switzerland is committed to a just peace in Ukraine, based on international law and the Helsinki principles,” said the Swiss Foreign Minister. “We will use our mediation experience to promote dialogue, trust, and security.”

“We will foster cooperation on cybersecurity, politico-military instruments and conflicts prevention,” he added. Minister Cassis also underscored the importance of strengthening inclusive multilateral diplomacy, anticipating technologies for a safe and humane future, promoting democracy, rule of law and human rights and enhancing the OSCE’s ability to act.

Delivering comprehensive security across all dimensions will remain at the center of the Swiss Chairpersonship. 

The OSCE, with its comprehensive approach to security, including human rights, democracy and the rule of law, is well placed to tackle these issues.

“We approach our Chairpersonship with the conviction that despite tensions the OSCE remains indispensable. Switzerland will address this need to preserve the basic instruments – missions, election observation – and to ensure their financing,” said Cassis.

Switzerland will hold the Chairpersonship of the OSCE next year. The detailed programme of the Swiss Chairpersonship will be presented to the participating States in January 2026.

WARSAW/HELSINKI, 17 September 2025 - Media representatives are invited to register for the Warsaw Human Dimension Conference (WHDC), hosted by Finland’s OSCE Chairpersonship with support from the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR).

The largest annual human rights conference in Europe, the10-day conference this year carries special significance as the OSCE marks the 50th anniversary of the Helsinki Final Act. The WHDC will bring together governments, civil society, and international organizations to discuss current developments and their impact on fundamental freedoms across the OSCE region.

What:

• Some 1800 participants from governments and civil society from across the OSCE region will spend two weeks debating the most pressing human rights challenges.

When:

• 6 October – 17 October 2025
• Keynote speeches will be held from 2.00pm on 6 October 2025

Where:

• Sofitel Victoria Warsaw, Królewska St. 11, Warsaw
• All plenary sessions will be livestreamed here (in English and Russian)

Who:

• Elina Valtonen, OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Finland
• Maria Telalian, Director of the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR)
• Jan Braathu, OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media
• Christophe Kamp, OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities
• Michael O’Flaherty, Commissioner for Human Rights of the Council of Europe
• Berit Lindeman, Secretary General of the Norwegian Helsinki Committee

How:

• Advance accreditation is mandatory
• Please register for your press accreditation here.
• Press accreditation forms will be accepted until 29 September 2025
• Please bring valid press credentials for registration onsite

More information:

• The full agenda can be found on the conference webpage.
• Follow #OSCE25FI and #WarsawHDC

597621 Communication and Media Relations Section

At busy international airports around the world, travellers pause briefly at an automated border gate. With a quick scan of their faces and a soft beep from their biometric passports, the gate opens. What seems like a simple interaction is powered by sophisticated cryptographic systems and secure digital chips, technologies that four Ukrainian forensic document experts explored in depth during a specialized training course organized by the OSCE Transnational Threats Department, in co-operation with IDcentre, a professional training institute in Eindhoven, the Netherlands from 15 to 18 September.

Today, over one billion biometric passports, also known as ePassports, are in use worldwide by more than 140 countries. These passports contain tiny digital chips that hold important personal and biometric data, such as fingerprints and facial images. Understanding how these chips securely store and protect information is critical for border security and preventing fraud.

During the course, participants learned the basics of cryptography, the science of secure communication, and how digital authentication methods ensure the chip data is genuine and has not been tampered with. They practiced using industry-standard tools like smart card readers and specialized software to read and verify biometric chips.

The sessions also featured an introduction to the International Civil Aviation Organization’s Country Signing Certification Authority (CSCA). The CSCA is a central component of the global Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) for ePassports, allowing countries to digitally sign and verify the authenticity of electronic travel documents, which is essential for preventing passport fraud and ensuring secure international travel.

Participants emphasized the importance of the training for the overall development of the country’s forensic center: “As the Main Forensic Center continues to strengthen its examination capabilities, it is essential that our experts keep pace with technological advancements. With most modern travel documents now containing encrypted RFID chips, our specialists must be equipped to verify their authenticity using advanced methods. Completing this course enhances our technical expertise, improves the accuracy and reliability of forensic conclusions, and enables our team to more effectively detect document fraud, including tampering and cloned chips.”

The training concluded with a certification aligned with European standards, helping to harmonize border security practices across the region.

The training course was part of an ongoing extrabudgetary project supporting the OSCE participating States and Partners for Co-operation in reducing illegal border crossings by using a fake or stolen identity. This project is funded by the United States.

597564

Thanks to an initiative of the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan, more than 150 women from Karakalpakstan have enhanced their IT and digital literacy skills. They also successfully acquired practical expertise in e-commerce and digital marketing, laying a solid foundation for the further development of their own businesses based on digital technologies.

The training sessions, which were attended by women from Nukus and nearby districts, concluded with an award ceremony held at the local branch of IT Park Uzbekistan — a modern and rapidly growing innovation hub in the capital of Karakalpakstan.

This marks the fourth initiative jointly implemented by the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan and IT Park Uzbekistan since 2022. Over this period, more than 500 women from various regions of the country have taken part in the training programs.

"Empowering women is one of the OSCE’s key priorities. Providing women with digital skills opens new opportunities for personal and professional development and contributes to the sustainable development of the region, as well as improving overall quality of life," said Antti Karttunen, OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan.

Participants of the trainings highly appreciated the opportunity provided.

“This training was a major step forward for me,” said training participant Mehrinur Uzakbayeva. “Before, I hardly used a computer, but now I confidently navigate digital tools, have learned to sell online, and promote products through social media. What’s especially valuable is that such initiatives create new opportunities for women to unlock their potential. The training gave me not only knowledge but also the motivation to grow my business – and maybe even create jobs for other women in the future.”

Such efforts clearly demonstrate how targeted support and quality education can empower women to contribute meaningfully to the sustainable development.

597576 Wilhelmina Hindström

Finland today chaired its first meeting of the OSCE Forum for Security Co-operation (FSC), outlining the priorities it will pursue in the months ahead. Support for Ukraine, Finland emphasized, will remain a cross-cutting priority at the heart of its work.

Antti Häkkänen, Finland’s Minister of Defence, addressed the meeting as he outlined the country’s priorities as FSC Chair.

“What is on the line here is not only the fundamental rights of Ukraine as a sovereign country, but also the future of European security and the integrity of the international order. By standing with Ukraine, we also uphold the principles of the OSCE and send a message to anyone posing a threat to international peace and security,” said Häkkänen.

Finland’s programme builds on themes advanced during its current OSCE Chairpersonship, with a continued focus on strengthening resilience and comprehensive security.

“The FSC serves as a vital platform for promoting accountability. It is essential that we continue to hold Russia responsible for its breaches of international law. In doing so, we reaffirm our shared commitment to the principles of international peace and security,” Häkkänen added.

Upcoming discussions will examine how co-operation between civil society and armed forces can reinforce national defence, particularly in light of today’s complex challenges.

Another priority will be addressing sexual and gender-based violence as a weapon of war, emphasizing the importance of international humanitarian law and accountability, including the responsibility of commanders to prevent and respond to such crimes.

Marking the 50th anniversary of the Helsinki Final Act, Finland will also lead a reflection on the enduring significance of its principles for co-operative security across the OSCE region.

The Women, Peace and Security agenda will remain central to Finland’s efforts as FSC Chair. Ensuring women’s meaningful participation in security policy and of integrating gender perspectives into the OSCE’s work will be key elements for achieving sustainable peace.

597537 Maid Konjhodžić Edita Buçaj

Prishtinë / Priština, 12 September 2025  

As part of ongoing efforts to enhance public safety and emergency preparedness, the OSCE Mission donated 11 automated external defibrillators (AEDs) to the Kosovo Police to support life-saving interventions in critical situations.

AEDs are essential medical devices that can significantly increase survival rates during sudden cardiac arrest, a condition where every second is crucial. Police officers, often the first on the scene of emergencies, will now have immediate access to this vital equipment.

The AEDs will be strategically placed across police facilities, including the Kosovo Special Police Unit, ensuring officers are equipped to respond quickly and effectively.

“Equipping police stations with life-saving AEDs is a vital step toward faster emergency response,” said Bertram Welsing, Director of the Department for Security and Public Safety at the OSCE Mission in Kosovo. “These devices not only enhance the safety of the public but also protect the health of police officers who serve communities daily.”

Building on last year’s support, the OSCE Mission, together with the EULEX Medical Unit, provided the training for trainers for ten Kosovo Police officers to become trainers in Basic Life Support (BLS) and AED use this August. An additional group of ten officers will be trained as BLS/AED trainers later this month, ensuring sustainable knowledge transfer within the police force.

“Supporting the Kosovo Police Department for Medical Services with professional AEDs and comprehensive training is essential for both police personnel and the wider community,” said Colonel Hilmi Pacolli, Director of Kosovo Police Personnel and Administration. “By certifying trainers within the police, we are strengthening emergency preparedness across the force.”

This initiative represents a significant advancement toward a safer, more responsive police service in Kosovo. Enhanced emergency response capacity means the Kosovo Police are better positioned to protect lives when every second counts.

VIENNA, 17 September 2025 – Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, who heads Switzerland’s Federal Department of Foreign Affairs, will be outlining the country’s priorities as the incoming OSCE Chair-in-Office for 2026 on Thursday, 18 September 2025.

In his presentation to the OSCE Permanent Council, Councillor Cassis will outline Switzerland’s priorities. By assuming the Chairpersonship of the OSCE, Switzerland is fulfilling its responsibility for peace and security in Europe and emphasizing the importance of dialogue, inclusion, and co-operation in managing crises and conflicts. This is consistent with the objectives set out in its Foreign Policy Strategy 2024–2027.

Follow the Federal Councillor’s remarks by joining us online tomorrow, 18 September at 10:00 (CEST) at osce.org/live.

Please note that the remarks will be delivered in French, however the text of the remarks as delivered in English will be made available here following the meeting.

Switzerland will take over the OSCE Chairpersonship from Finland on 1 January 2026 with Federal Councillor Cassis serving as OSCE Chair-in-Office. The Chairpersonship programme will be presented in January 2026.

VIENNA/HELSINKI, 17 September 2025 — OSCE Chairperson-in-Office Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen concluded her two-day visit to Belgrade and Prishtinë/Priština, where she engaged in discussions with high-level officials on fostering security, safety and stability across the region.

In Belgrade, Chairperson-in-Office Valtonen met Prime Minister Đuro Macut, Minister for Foreign Affairs Marko Đurić and Speaker of the National Assembly Ana Brnabić. She also visited the OSCE Mission to Serbia and met with Acting Head of Mission Carolina Hidea and Mission staff, expressing praise for their unwavering dedication to fulfilling the Mission’s mandate. Minister Valtonen also met with civil society representatives on the topics of the rule of law, human rights, media freedom and safety of journalists, and freedom of expression. She also visited the Café-bar 16, run by the Center for Youth Integration – a project of the OSCE Mission to Serbia.

“It is truly inspiring to see how the OSCE’s and Field Operations’ work drives positive change in the region. The Missions work together on joint projects and initiatives such as youth connectivity, media literacy and journalism exchanges. This is key for regional progress and collaboration on peace and security issues,” said Valtonen.

Chairperson-in-Office Valtonen also travelled to Prishtinë/Priština, where she met with President Vjosa Osmani-Sadriu and with representatives from civil society, including from the OSCE Dialogue Academy Network of Alumnae, an exchange platform that brings together young women from Prishtinë/Priština and Belgrade. In addition, the Chair visited the OSCE Mission in Kosovo and met with Head of Mission in Kosovo Gerard McGurk and Mission staff, commending their contributions to stability and promoting the rights of all communities.

597561

More than 200 pupils, parents, teachers, and civil society partners gathered today at the Primary School “Zhivko Brajkovski” in Butel, Skopje, to celebrate of the OSCE Mission to Skopje’s Building New Bridges project.

Launched in 2022, by the Mission, this initiative has been a catalyst for inclusion, dialogue, and trust among diverse communities across North Macedonia. Over the past two years, nearly 2,600 young people engaged in joint educational and artistic activities that strengthened social cohesion and created lasting connections and friendships across communities.

Thanks to this initiative 30 state schools introduced joint curricular classes, enabling more than 2,000 pupils from Macedonian, Albanian, Turkish, Roma, and Bosnian communities to learn side by side in sciences, languages, arts, and sports. For many, this was the first opportunity to share a classroom with peers from other communities. These classes proved that joint learning fosters not only academic progress but also respect, friendships, and durable trust.

Additionally, 13 civil society organisations turned creativity into a language of dialogue and inclusion. Using music, theatre, comics, film, and visual arts they engaged 600 young people directly and reached thousands more through concerts and exhibitions. These initiatives gave young people the tools to challenge stereotypes, build confidence and inspire tolerance in their communities.

“The bridges built through this project are strong and will hold for a lifetime,” said Ambassador Kilian Wahl, Head of the OSCE Mission to Skopje. “Young people experienced that diversity is not a weakness, but a source of strength. This is their success, and together we will carry it forward.”

Congratulating Ambassador Wahl, OSCE colleagues, and other diplomatic partners for their commitment to the goal of building lasting connections, Ambassador Aggeler underscored the shared conviction that peace and understanding are achieved through intentional design and cultivation. Addressing the students, Ambassador Aggeler affirmed their vital role as the future of North Macedonia, encouraging them to embrace their intelligence, creativity, energy, and courage to build a brighter, more prosperous future for their communities and the region. 

“The bridges built through this initiative are not merely symbolic—they are strong, tangible connections that inspire hope and unity. Today’s awards celebrate the remarkable achievements of young people whose vision and dedication continue to shape a positive path forward. Together, we will keep building bridges that span divides, create opportunities, and inspire generations to come,” Ambassador Aggeler stated. 

Minister of Education and Science, Prof. Dr. Vesna Janevska, underlined the project’s value for long-term cohesion: “Through integrated education and intercultural cooperation among elementary and high school students whose native languages include Macedonian, Albanian, Bosnian, and Turkish, young people have built mutual understanding and lasting friendships by working side by side in both lessons and extracurricular activities. These activities once again show that children and teenagers communicate easily, no matter their differences - provided adults give them the chance,” Minister Janevska said, that the Ministry will continue to use education policy to foster coexistence and unity as the foundation of the country.

The closing ceremony featured welcome addresses by the school’s Director, Ms. Magdica Peeva, Minister of Education and Science, Prof. Dr. Vesna Janevska, and Ambassadors Kristin Melsom of Norway and Angela P. Aggeler of the United States, representing the project’s main donors; as well as creative performances and a youth-led Treasure Hunt competition symbolizing teamwork, creativity and fair play. Plaques of recognition were awarded to school directors and CSO representatives in appreciation of their contribution.

Ambassador Wahl expressed gratitude to the donor consortium – the Kingdom of Norway, the United States, the Republic of Poland, the Kingdom of the Netherlands, and the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg – and to the Ministry of Education and Science and the Ministry of Social Policy, Demography and Youth, for their close partnership.

“Today we do not celebrate an ending, but a beginning,” concluded Wahl. “The OSCE Mission to Skopje remains fully committed to working with and for young people, helping them continue building the bridges of trust that North Macedonia wants for a future of stability, creativity, and unity.”

Izjava Misije OSCE-a u BiH Željka Šulc

SARAJEVO, 15 September 2025 - On 10 September 2025, at its 16th regular session, the Brčko District Assembly (BDA) adopted the Law on Professional Rehabilitation and Employment of Persons with Disabilities of Brčko District of BiH (BD). With this, the BD has, for the first time in its history, established a clear legislative framework protecting the rights of persons with disabilities in relation to work and employment. The adoption of this law reflects sustained advocacy by the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina (Mission), including consistent technical support to the legislative Working Group.

The Mission considers this a significant step forward in protecting the rights of persons with disabilities and commends the proponents, the legislative body, and all who contributed to the development of this law on this important achievement. Certain elements of the law could be further strengthened, and the Mission will continue to monitor and work with stakeholders to enable its timely and full implementation, as well as any subsequent legislative processes to ensure it meets the needs of persons with disabilities.

597438

On 15 September, the OSCE, in partnership with the National Anticorruption Center (NAC) of Moldova, organized the newest edition of the “Anti-Corruption Café” – an open dialogue platform aimed at promoting integrity and transparency in Moldova.

The event brought together representatives of the Ministry of Education, NAC, and forty-five anti-corruption volunteers and young people for a discussion on how to enhance integrity within the education system. Young attendees actively contributed by posing questions and sharing their views with institutional representatives.

Key topics included strategies to prevent informal payments in schools and universities, ensuring fair and transparent examination processes, and strengthening the involvement of parents and communities in fostering a culture of integrity. Officials from the Ministry and NAC also presented ongoing and planned anti-corruption measures, offering insights into how policies are being implemented to improve transparency and accountability in the education sector.

The second part of the event featured a “Pro-Integrity Test” – an interactive quiz designed to assess and deepen the participants’ knowledge of integrity-related issues. The activity aimed to raise awareness in a dynamic and engaging way, while reinforcing key messages about personal responsibility in the fight against corruption.

This edition of the “Anti-Corruption Café” was implemented within the framework of the OSCE extra-budgetary project “Supporting anti-corruption efforts of the Government of Moldova”, funded by France, Germany, Italy and Romania.

VIENNA/HELSINKI, 15 September 2025 — The OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, Finland’s Minister for Foreign Affairs Elina Valtonen, will visit Belgrade and Prishtinë/Priština from 15 to 16 September.

During the visit, she will hold meetings with high-level officials and discuss security issues across the region. Minister Valtonen will also engage with civil society representatives and visit the OSCE Missions in both cities. In Belgrade, she will meet with beneficiaries of the Center for Youth Integration, while in Prishtinë/Priština she will speak with representatives of the OSCE Dialogue Academy Network of Alumnae.

Press Opportunities

In Belgrade, Chairperson-in-Office Valtonen will deliver remarks to the press on 15 September from 16:05 at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Serbia. An invitation will follow from the Ministry.

There will also be a photo opportunity at 17:15, in connection with the meeting with beneficiaries of the Center for Youth Integration, address: Café 16, Cetinjska 15a.

In Prishtinë/Priština, Chairperson-in-Office Valtonen will deliver remarks to the press on 16 September from 11:45 at the OSCE Mission in Kosovo headquarters. An invitation will follow from the Mission.

Inquiries

Matias Pajula, Special Adviser to the Minister for Foreign Affairs, tel. +358 295 350 571

Marja Rosvall, Team Leader, Task Force for the Finnish OSCE Chairpersonship, tel. +358 295 350 347

The email addresses of the Ministry for Foreign Affairs are in the format firstname.lastname@gov.fi.

597411 Uzbekistan hosts the first International Forum of Central Asian Commissioners for Children’s Rights/Guzal Fayzieva

The office of the Commissioner for Children’s Rights of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan, with the support of the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) and the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan, is hosting the first ever International Forum of Central Asian Commissioners for Children’s Rights under the title of   “Current issues in strengthening mechanisms for the protection of children's rights in Central Asian countries: regional cooperation among Children's Rights Commissioners.”

The two-day forum brings together Commissioners for Children’s Rights from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan, as well as from Norway, Croatia and Finland, which currently chairs the European Network of Ombudspersons for Children (ENOC).

The event aims to create an effective regional platform for dialogue and interaction of children's ombudspersons from Central Asian countries.  Further, the regional platform seeks to contribute to a constructive exchange of experience in the field of protecting children's rights, the optimal solution of common problems, the development of common approaches to countering common regional and transnational threats and challenges, as well as strengthening the capacity of children's ombudspersons institutions of the Central Asian countries.

"Political will and joint efforts of the Heads of States of Central Asia are aimed at sustainably creating a space of stability, cooperation, and development in the region. The regional platform of Children’s Ombudspersons will become a practical embodiment of this very idea of unity and shared responsibility on the path to ensuring the well-being of children – the present and the future of our region", said Ms. Surayyo Rakhmonova, Commissioner for Children’s Rights of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

The forum participants will discuss ways to integrate efforts and international initiatives into national strategies and plans aimed at protecting children's rights, as well as strengthening the capacity of the institutions of commissioners for children's rights in Central Asian countries. They pay particular attention to the prospects for the development of interregional and international cooperation of children's ombudspersons offices.

"Protecting children’s rights is not just a legal obligation under the Convention on the Rights of the Child – it is a moral responsibility that defines the kind of societies we are building. And when countries cooperate, when institutions join forces, the impact for children is multiplied", said Ms. Regina Castillo, UNICEF Representative in Uzbekistan.

The agenda of the forum includes such issues as national monitoring of the situation of children in the region; ensuring the safety of children on the Internet; effective mechanisms to prevent all forms of violence against children; ensuring children's access to justice.

Ambassador Antti Karttunen, OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan, said: "This important gathering is a big step forward in protecting child’s rights in Central Asia. It shows our shared commitment and understanding that keeping children safe needs ongoing cooperation, open discussions, and learning from each other. By working together - governments, human rights institutions, civil society organizations, and international partners - we can build stronger systems to make sure every child is safe, protected, and able to grow and succeed."

It is expected that as the final document of the forum, the Declaration of Children's Rights Commissioners of the Central Asian countries will be adopted, which is aimed at further strengthening interregional and international cooperation in the field of ensuring and protecting the rights of the child.

The Forum of Children's Rights Commissioners of the Central Asian countries, organized at the initiative of Uzbekistan, will be held annually. The next forum is planned to be held in 2026 in the Republic of Kazakhstan.

Izjava Misije OSCE-a u BiH Željka Šulc

SARAJEVO, 12 September 2025 - The OSCE Mission to BiH (Mission) strongly condemns the 11 September act of vandalism at the Orthodox cemetery in Pečuj near Zenica and expresses heartfelt sympathy to those affected by the desecration of these tombstones. 

We welcome the solidarity from local actors, including the FBiH Minister of Displaced Persons and Refugees, the Mayor, the Inter-religious Chapter in Zenica, Serb Cultural Association “Prosvjeta”, and the Islamic Community in Zenica.

Religious symbols and sacred sites hold deep significance for individuals and communities and must be respected and protected in full adherence with fundamental human rights, particularly the right to freedom of religion or belief. Every community and individual in Bosnia and Herzegovina, regardless of religious affiliation, must feel safe and respected in public and private expressions of faith and tradition.

The Mission both commends reactions by the community and authorities and calls for swift and impartial investigation of this incident as a first step in ensuring justice. Accountability helps prevent future attacks and reinforces the safety and security of all communities. Such attacks may constitute hate crimes under domestic and international law, and should a bias motive be established, it must be explicitly recognized and prosecuted as such, in line with Bosnia and Herzegovina’s legal obligations and OSCE commitments on addressing hate crimes. 

The Mission urges leaders throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina to demonstrate zero tolerance for bias-motivated violence while promoting dialogue, understanding and mutual respect among all faiths and ethnic groups. The Mission will continue supporting all stakeholders to ensure such incidents are addressed decisively and communities and individuals feel protected. 

PRAGUE, 12 September 2025 — Over 200 participants—including representatives from OSCE participating States, Partners for Co-operation, OSCE structures, civil society, international organizations, and subject-matter experts—gathered in Prague for the Chairpersonship Forum, “Building a Resilient Future in a Changing Climate”, held on 11 and 12 September.

Organized under Finland’s 2025 OSCE Chairpersonship, in co-operation with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic, the Office of the Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities, and the OSCE Documentation Centre in Prague, the Forum addressed forward-looking ways for participating States to strengthen their resilience and responses to security challenges stemming from climate change.

“As conflicts and wars take center-stage, climate-related risks and environmental degradation are in danger of fading into the background. Russia’s war in Ukraine has placed climate and environmental co-operation in a new and challenging light,” said Elina Valtonen, OSCE Chairperson-in-Office and Minister for Foreign Affairs of Finland. “The OSCE is a particularly suitable forum for discussing the links between climate and security, thanks to its comprehensive security approach, mandate supporting broad dialogue, and framework that allows these connections to be explored holistically.”

The Forum featured a high-level opening with welcoming remarks by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic, Jan Lipavský, OSCE Chairperson-in-Office and Minister for Foreign Affairs of Finland Elina Valtonen, OSCE Secretary General Feridun H. Sinirlioğlu, Ukraine’s Deputy Minister of Economy Pavlo Kartashov, and Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities Bakyt Dzhusupov.

Four key thematic sessions focused on investments in climate resilience through a whole-of-society approach, climate action driven by cross-sectoral co-operation, the role of climate data and innovation in the age of information security, and the inclusion and agency of youth in climate security.

A research study commissioned by the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland, “Strengthening the OSCE’s Climate and Security Agenda”, was also presented at the Forum, and a subsequent panel discussion assessed advancing the role of the OSCE in climate change and security.

The Forum reaffirmed that a resilient future in a changing climate is not merely a policy option, but an urgent imperative for sustainable development and regional stability.

597393

Open data offers timely insights into markets, competitors, and consumers, serving as a key enabler of evidence-based decision-making, financial innovation, and sustainable growth. To promote its use across Ukraine’s business and financial sectors, the Office of the Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities (OCEEA) conducted a specialized training course titled “Open Data for business and the financial sector” on 11 and 12 September in Kyiv.

The training course was organized jointly with the Ministry of Digital Transformation of Ukraine and Texty.org.ua, an independent analytical media organization, in partnership with the National Bank of Ukraine, the Association of Ukrainian Banks, and the Office for Entrepreneurship and Export Development.

Forty-five financial and banking analysts, business professionals, and due diligence experts gained practical skills and tailored insights into using open data for research, analysis, and visualization. Topics ranged from market research and analysis to process automation and the development of open data-based start-ups and banking automation solutions.

"Open data is a source of new opportunities for banks and businesses,” said Yanina Liubyva, Head of the Open Data Expert Group of the Ministry of Digital Transformation of Ukraine. “It not only enables a better understanding of customers and the market, but also helps create innovative services, optimize processes, and build trust. Learning how to use open data effectively is a step toward leadership in a competitive environment."

Particularly for banks and financial institutions, open data is increasingly essential for verifying partners’ reliability, assessing creditworthiness, reducing risks, and forecasting trend all of which contribute to competitiveness, innovation, and long-term growth. Through practical exercises, case studies, and success stories, participants were shown how open data can directly strengthen business operations and strategic planning.

"When businesses and financial actors gain the capacity to work effectively with open data, they are better equipped to anticipate risks, seize opportunities, and foster innovation," said Olena Dobrunik, Assistant Project Officer at OCEEA. "Through this training course, the OSCE reaffirms its commitment to helping stakeholders turn data into actionable knowledge, supporting sustainable growth, accountability, and long-term economic stability."

The training was part of the OSCE-wide extrabudgetary project Promoting Good Governance and a Positive Business Climate in the OSCE Region through Digitalization and the Use of Open Data, funded by the United States with additional support from Poland and Norway.

STRASBOURG, 12 September 2025 — National anti-trafficking co-ordinators and rapporteurs reaffirmed their commitment to forge stronger cross-sector partnerships and integrate crisis resilience into anti-trafficking strategies at their largest annual meeting, held from 11 to 12 September at the Council of Europe headquarters in Strasbourg, France.

“Twenty-five years after the adoption of the Palermo Protocol, human trafficking is pervasive in both the digital and physical realms, as criminals adapt to exploit every crisis and vulnerability. While traffickers thrive, victims face crushing barriers to assistance and justice. This stark mismatch between the scale of the crime and our limited results demands transformative action,” said Kari Johnstone, OSCE Special Representative and Co-ordinator for Combating Trafficking in Human Beings.

Representatives from 54 countries across both the OSCE and Council of Europe regions and beyond discussed current human trafficking-related challenges and how to implement international legal standards set out in the Council of Europe’s Convention on Action against Trafficking in Human Beings and the OSCE political commitments.

In her opening remarks, Petya Nestorova, Executive Secretary of the Council of Europe’s Convention on Action against Trafficking in Human Beings, said: “This year marks the 20th anniversary of the adoption of the Council of Europe Convention on Action against Trafficking in Human Beings, which has triggered significant changes in national legislation, policies, and practice. At the same time, new challenges and persistent gaps in the implementation of the Convention require continued commitment and increased investment in training, technological infrastructure, and victim assistance measures.”

Participants discussed crisis-related provisions in National Action Plans for combating human trafficking to enhance preparedness of the national counter-trafficking mechanisms, the links between human trafficking and drugs and forced criminality, and engagement with the private sector in combating human trafficking.

The meeting was co-organized by the Office of the OSCE Special Representative and Co-ordinator for Combating Trafficking in Human Beings and the Council of Europe.

Izjava Misije OSCE-a u BiH Željka Šulc

SARAJEVO, 11 September 2025 - The OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina (Mission) unequivocally condemns all forms of violence, including acts directed against political actors. 

The recent incidents, including yesterday’s attack on Nebojša Vukanović, delegate of the Republika Srpska National Assembly, as well as earlier attacks on BiH Parliamentary Assembly House of Representatives delegate Branislav Borenović and RS Council of Peoples delegate Dževad Mahmutović, represent a deeply concerning pattern.  

The Mission calls the relevant authorities to conduct swift, thorough, and impartial investigations, bringing perpetrators to justice. 

The Mission further calls on all political leaders to refrain from inflammatory rhetoric that could endanger the safety of individuals or contribute to an atmosphere of fear and division within communities.