The effects of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine have had an impact on the economic development of Central Asia as well, leading to high inflation rates and driving up prices of basic necessities such as food and energy.
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Montenegro is an important U.S. ally and a vibrant multiethnic democracy.
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The internal repression and clampdown on media freedom in Russia and Belarus is an attempt to silence all independent voices and impartial reporting.
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One of the most egregious recent examples of the Kremlin’s attack on media freedom is the arrest on completely spurious charges of Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, who remains wrongfully detained.
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One day Belarus will be free. The question is how many people will have to suffer before that day comes?
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The first steps toward security and stability for the people of Belarus remains for the Belarusian authorities to release all those unjustly imprisoned, to end the campaign of violence against peaceful protesters, and to hold perpetrators to account.
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Without free, independent media, people cannot make informed decisions or hold leaders accountable.
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The Kremlin’s drastic censorship and suppression of media freedom also enables relentless state-sponsored disinformation about its war of aggression against Ukraine.
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The United States seeks peace, justice, and prosperity in a Kosovo that is fully integrated into the international community and a free, resilient, thriving Europe.
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We call on both Armenia and Azerbaijan to redouble their efforts to pursue peace talks and to refrain from provocations and hostile actions along the border.
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Russia has for years blatantly disregarded the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and political independence of its neighbors, including Moldova.
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More than 550 political prisoners are currently in the Kremlin’s custody, including Alexey Navalny, Ilya Yashin, and Alexei Gorinov.
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We welcome in particular the Council of Europe’s adoption in December of the Action Plan for Ukraine.
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The United States looks forward to working with the newly elected members of the Mazhilis as they work to fulfill their important role as the elected representatives of the Kazakh people and make their contribution to reforms that foster accountable government.
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Gravely concerned by the continuing impacts of Russia’s ongoing aggression against Ukraine, in particular on the civilian population,
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What is the Kremlin afraid of? Why is the Kremlin silencing Russia’s own civil society?
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We remain steadfast in our support for the people of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the country’s democratic institutions.
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We invoke paragraph 12 of the 1991 Document of the Moscow meeting of the Conference on the Human Dimension of the (then) CSCE in order to establish a fact-finding mission of experts to examine the human dimension issues identified above.
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ODIHR’s quick reaction to Russia’s brutal and unprovoked full-scale invasion of Ukraine through your human rights monitoring work is an important contribution to international accountability efforts.
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The report under the Moscow Mechanism revealed a clear link between internal repression of human rights and fundamental freedoms and external aggression.
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We call on Belarus to comply with its human rights obligations and OSCE commitments.
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The United States calls on Belarusian authorities to cease all politically-motivated prosecutions and to end the repression of all Belarusians.
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We greatly appreciate your vital work and solid cooperation with the Government of Uzbekistan.
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It is deeply regrettable that the Lukashenka regime continues to flagrantly violate and abuse human rights and fundamental freedoms in Belarus.
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Legislating violations of human rights and fundamental freedoms does not in some way make those violations less of a contravention of our core commitments.
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The Kremlin’s efforts to silence Navalny are part of a broader effort to limit the ability of the people of Russia to exercise their human rights.
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The number of political prisoners in Belarus continues to grow and now numbers well over 1,400.
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The accusations against the Moscow Helsinki Group are only the latest in a long series of efforts by the Kremlin to suppress independent voices of conscience in Russia at a time when they are needed more than ever.
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The Belarusian regime has imprisoned now close to 1,500 political prisoners and kept them in the worst conditions of detention, often involving torture, often sending many of these political prisoners to intensive care units as a result of mistreatment that occurs.
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Following the November presidential elections in Kazakhstan, we look forward to continuing to work with President Tokayev and his government to advance our common objectives.
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Today, Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine serves as a stark reminder of this – that respect for human rights within states, remains essential to lasting security among states.
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The Belarusian authorities have further increased harassment and intimidation efforts by widening of the scope of the death penalty to vaguely defined “attempted terrorist activities”.
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2022 truly has been a dark year for the safety of journalists in our region.
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Repression of the media within Russia itself has been a major aspect of the Kremlin’s war strategy against Ukraine.
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The United States joins the OSCE PA in holding Vladimir Putin and his enablers responsible for horrific acts of violence against the people of Ukraine.
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One of the many unfortunate impacts of Russia’s aggression has been the enormous refugee and humanitarian crisis that, in turn, has created the conditions for a significantly increased risk of trafficking in human beings throughout the region.
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The United States strongly supports Bosnia and Herzegovina’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and multiethnic character.
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We continue to urge the governments of Kosovo and Serbia to fully implement their past commitments, refrain from actions and rhetoric that increase tensions, and to engage urgently, constructively, and in good faith in the EU-facilitated Dialogue.
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It is disturbing to note that Russia has apparently undertaken no serious investigations into serious allegations of abuses.
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Together, we sent a strong message to Russia and to any other participating States that would undermine OSCE’s human dimension work: You did not succeed.
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The destructive impact of Putin’s war has reached far beyond Ukraine, with 44 million worldwide pushed into food insecurity as a result of Russia’s Black Sea blockade and pillaging of Ukrainian agriculture.
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Early on after Russia intensified its unprovoked war of aggression against Ukraine, we began hearing reports how Russian soldiers raped Ukrainian women in front of their children in places like Bucha after breaking down the doors where they had sought shelter.
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The Russian Federation is prosecuting its citizens for peacefully protesting against the war in Ukraine.
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Ukrainian POWs returned through swaps reported being tortured, including beatings with electrical wires and mock executions.
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Russia’s aggression against independent, multi-ethnic Ukraine has caused great harm to Ukrainian citizens of all backgrounds.
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Since the Kremlin’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February, the situation for freedom of expression and media freedom in Russia has worsened significantly.
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Russia’s President Putin has tried to justify his war against Ukraine by claiming he is “de-nazifying” a democratic country that elected a Jewish president.
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In recent months we have seen Russia target religious groups in parts of other countries that it controls or occupies, including Crimean Tatar Muslims and Orthodox Christians in Ukraine.
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In Belarus, there have been no free and fair elections since Alyaksandr Lukashenka’s 1994 election. Brutal repressions following the fraudulent 2020 presidential election relentlessly continue.
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As we meet, Russia wages brutal war against Ukraine while Poland and other nearby countries represented at this table face a massive refugee crisis.
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This report effectively summarizes the terrible cost of a decade of legislative attacks on human rights in Russia under what can only be described as a police state.
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The Russian government and administration not only excessively limit human rights and fundamental freedoms, but actively work to their detriment to propagate the war.
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Historical revisionism and the deliberate distortion, denial, or trivialization of the Holocaust and other historical facts is a problem we’re seeing across our region.
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Warsaw Human Dimension Conference The OSCE was founded on the principles that respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms was just as important to the concept of security as sovereignty of borders and peaceful settlement of disputes. And nearly every year since 1993, OSCE participating States met for the Human Dimension Implementation Meeting (HDIM) – …
Read More» The Lukashenka regime continues to employ brutal tactics to suppress dissent.
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We applaud the August 27 arrangement by President Vučić and Prime Minister Kurti that facilitates cross-border travel.
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The United States stands with the people of Belarus as they pursue a democratic, sovereign, and prosperous future.
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Minister Osmani, we have no illusions about the difficult path that lies before you in 2023.
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According to a statement made by the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media on 16 March 2022, “the Russian Federation is rapidly moving towards a situation of complete censorship and isolation of its citizens from any form of independent information”
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We call on Belarus to implement the Moscow Mechanism Expert Mission’s recommendation to release all political prisoners immediately, including Pratasevich and Sapega, to stop its repression of the pro-democracy movement in Belarus, and to allow for free and fair elections.
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We urge all parties to seek a peaceful resolution to these tensions and refrain from violence, and we urge due process protections for all those detained.
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The United States applauds your work to uphold the rule of law and promote respect for human rights in Albania.
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Unfortunately the human rights of LGBTQI+ persons remain vulnerable or actively violated in far too many places.
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The OSCE as a regional security organization recognizes the impact that refugees and other forcibly displaced persons have on our comprehensive security.
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The United States remains committed to supporting a sovereign, secure, and independent Kazakhstan and supports your efforts to advance that shared goal.
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OSCE’s Asian Partners as well as all OSCE participating States have affirmed the value of the role played by civil society in ensuring full respect for human rights and democracy.
Read More» The reality is the European security order has unfortunately been upended by Russia’s trampling of the most basic norms of the international system that were enshrined in the UN Charter and the Helsinki Final Act.
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We continue to have concerns regarding the humanitarian impacts of Russia’s invasion and potential for war crimes and crimes against humanity.
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We are grateful for your leadership in ensuring the OSCE’s unique contributions deliver the greatest value possible in addressing security challenges in the region.
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We greatly value the work of your Mission in partnering with the government of Montenegro on strengthening the rule of law, promoting media independence, and enhancing security cooperation.
Read More» The United States values and supports the OSCE Program Office in Bishkek’s work in all three dimensions of security with government and civil society throughout the Kyrgyz Republic.
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I think it is fair to say that the situation with regards to media freedom in the OSCE region has gone from terrible to worse than terrible.
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I just want to quickly say that the United States fully supports the Polish Chairpersonship, in your efforts related to the staging of all mandated OSCE meetings
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The United States, along with our allies and partners, will continue to hold the Lukashenka regime to account for its ongoing attacks on human rights and fundamental freedoms.
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The Mission to Serbia remains an indispensable element of this Organization’s work to promote peace, democracy, and prosperity in the Western Balkans.
Read More» The United States strongly supports the work of the Mission and appreciates our close collaboration to support Kosovo’s development as a secure, democratic, and inclusive member of the European community of nations.
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We agree that there can be no return to “business as usual” as long as Russia’s brutal war against Ukraine is raging and it remains patently clear that Russia has no intention whatsoever of respecting any OSCE principles or commitments.
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This year two organizations will receive the Democracy Defender Award, a Ukrainian and a Russian civil society organization.
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We value the OSCE Mission in Skopje’s continuing work to assist North Macedonia in achieving key reforms based on its needs, including in the terms of the Ohrid Framework Agreement.
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All of us in this Council must signal that enough is enough when it comes to secessionist rhetoric and corrupt backroom dealings.
Read More» Uzbekistan’s strong cooperation with the OSCE Project Coordinator across all three dimensions is commendable, and we encourage you to build on this solid foundation to expand your work even further.
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I can’t stress enough how much the United States appreciates ODIHR’s quick action in Ukraine, both in support of the Moscow Mechanism Experts as well as ODIHR’s own human rights monitoring.
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We once again call on Russia to live up to its commitments to human rights as outlined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
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The United States welcomes the distinguished representatives of the First-, Second-, and Third-Dimension Committees to the Permanent Council.
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Response to Italian Deputy Foreign Minister Benedetto Della Vedova on the Italian Presidency of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe As delivered by Ambassador Michael Carpenter to the Permanent Council, Vienna February 3, 2022 Thank you, Mr. Chair. Thank you, Deputy Minister Della Vedova, the United States warmly welcomes you to the …
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We congratulate the people of the Kyrgyz Republic for exercising their civil and political rights.
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A non-transparent referendum is neither a viable – nor a credible – path forward for Belarus.
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We are deeply disturbed by the Russian courts’ decision to forcibly dissolve International Memorial and the Memorial Human Rights Centre.
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Is Belarus intending to request ODIHR’s legal assessment of the proposed changes to the Belarusian constitution?
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The United States expresses its sincere condolences on the loss of life and injuries sustained during this month’s unrest in Kazakhstan.
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What happens in Ukraine is not only a matter of peace and security in the Donbas, or Ukraine, or even Europe.
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The United States condemns the December 14 politically motivated convictions of Belarusian opposition figures.
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The United States regrets it was not possible to discuss all items on the GID agenda due to a walk-out by participants from Russia and the de facto authorities.
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No region has a perfect record on human rights, and the OSCE region has its share of challenges.
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The ICRC’s courageous staff work around the globe to protect human dignity.
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Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity are being threatened in an unprecedented way.
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Free and fair elections are essential for functioning democracies, and the impartial, highly professional approach ODIHR takes towards its election observation missions is internationally recognized.
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On the Summit for Democracy As delivered by Acting Deputy Chief of Mission Elisabeth Rosenstock-Siller to the Permanent Council, Vienna December 10, 2021 Thank you, Madam Chair. Yesterday and today, coinciding with International Human Rights Day, President Biden is hosting a Summit for Democracy. As the OSCE has long recognized, democracy, the rule of law, …
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The United States reiterates our strong support for the resumption of direct dialogue between Armenia and Azerbaijan under the auspices of the Minsk Group Co-Chairs.
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The United States strongly condemns crimes motivated by hatred and intolerance.The United States strongly condemns crimes motivated by hatred and intolerance.
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Russia can accuse Ukraine of being the aggressor and it can accuse the United States of helping as much as it likes, but the reality is that Russia is the only perpetrator of this conflict.
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We remain deeply concerned by evidence Russia has made plans for significant escalation against Ukraine.
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The United States continues to support a sovereign, democratic Moldova, firmly anchored in Europe, secure within its internationally-recognized borders
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Still today, we see that the fight for freedom, justice and democracy is far from over, and that their defence requires our ongoing vigilance and principled action. The space for civil society and independent media is rapidly shrinking.
Read More» The United States is deeply troubled by the ongoing suppression of human rights in Russia.
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Today we mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, which launches the “16 Days of Activism Campaign Against Gender-Based Violence.
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We remain deeply concerned by reports of unusual Russian military activity near Ukraine.
Read More» The United States welcomes OSCE Special Representative and Coordinator on Combating Trafficking in Human Beings Val Richey back to the Permanent Council.
Read More» We remain deeply concerned by the targeting of women journalists, online and offline, and thankful to the RFoM and her staff for their continued focus on this important issue.
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The United States takes freedom of the press seriously and is thankful for the invaluable role journalists play in a free society.
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Combating corruption is central to the OSCE’s mandate and the organization’s comprehensive view of security.
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We definitely support the idea of the OSCE finding a way to use our mandate to be responsive to the situation that we see in Afghanistan.
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The United States supports Ukraine’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders.
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We are committed to helping the sides find comprehensive solutions to all remaining issues related to or resulting from the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.
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Belarus must cease these actions, commit to regional stability, abide by international law, and reestablish good relations with its neighbors. This can be the only path forward.
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We call on Russia to allow the SMM to fulfill its mandate and monitor throughout Ukraine.
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The suffering and hardships faced by people living in conflict-affected areas of Georgia have gone on for far too long.
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As a start, we urge Georgia’s leaders to enact and implement all the remaining reforms recommended by ODIHR, the Venice Commission, and other international experts.
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Violence and the threat of violence against journalists and other media actors are on the rise.
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We remain deeply concerned by the Lukashenka regime’s continued repressive actions to silence dissent and crack down on civil society, as evidenced by decisions taken last week.
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Since the publication of the Moscow Mechanism report, almost a year ago, the situation in Belarus has deteriorated.
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Crimea-related sanctions will remain in place until Russia returns full control of the peninsula to Ukraine.
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The United States strongly supports the independence and mandate of the office of the High Commissioner on National Minorities Ambassador Kairat Abdrakhmanov.
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Welcome Remarks to the Group of Friends of Youth and Security as Group Co-Chair As prepared for delivery by Chargé d’Affaires Courtney Austrian to the Group of Friends of Youth and Security October 29, 2021 Thank you, Ambassador Makeyev. Dear Special Representative Marbinah, Special Representative Karimi, Ambassador Valdés, invited guests, colleagues: The last year and a half has been extraordinarily challenging …
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The United States supports the people in Uzbekistan in exercising their right to vote in the October 24 presidential election.
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I wish to address an indispensable element of democracy – free and fair elections.
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If Russia has a dispute with Ukraine, it should be resolved diplomatically. The multinational SMM is not a bargaining chip.
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We reiterate that the mandate of the Project Coordinator in Ukraine applies to the entirety of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders, including Crimea and Russia-controlled parts of eastern Ukraine.
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The United States joins the other participating States who have spoken today in congratulating Maria Ressa and Dmitry Muratov for winning the 2021 Nobel Prize for Peace.
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Girls are vital participants in securing our common security.
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We appreciate the women and men working to advance comprehensive security in the OSCE area in an inclusive manner.
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We call on Russia and the forces it leads to immediately cease preventing the other SMM monitors.
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The United States remains fully engaged in implementing its OSCE commitments on combating corruption and good governance.
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The United States firmly supports the OSCE’s active role to assist participating States in efforts to implement their anticorruption commitments.
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It is an honor to represent the United States at this 30th anniversary celebration of the impressive contributions that ODIHR has made to the security of the OSCE region.
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As the world seeks to recover from the ravages of the global COVID-19 pandemic, regional and global cooperation take on even greater importance.
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Russia’s ongoing aggression in eastern Ukraine and occupation of Crimea is now in its eighth year and has claimed more than 13,000 lives.
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In the OSCE’s region, some governments advance the falsehood that only by restricting human rights can societies ensure prosperity and security.
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The United States categorically condemns the glorification of Nazism and all modern forms of racism, xenophobia, discrimination, and related intolerance.
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The United States deeply regrets the choice by the Russian Federation to block consensus on extension of the BOM’s mandate.
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The United States looks to the Kyrgyz government to ensure an impartial and thorough investigation is conducted into Azimjon Askarov’s death.
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Russia marginalized civil society activists, independent media, and opposition groups ahead of the elections.
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We regret that the elections took place under conditions not conducive to free and fair proceedings.
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Russia’s ongoing aggression in eastern Ukraine and occupation of Crimea is now in its eighth year.
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Russia continues to occupy parts of Georgia, sustain the conflict it fomented in eastern Ukraine, and occupy and militarize the Crimean Peninsula.
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Russia must cease its baseless and vindictive repression of the Crimean Tatar community.
Read More» We condemn the politically motivated conviction and shameful sentencing on September 6 of Belarusian democratic opposition figures Maria Kalesnikava and Maksim Znak.
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Russia’s irresponsible and destabilizing behavior not only threatens the security of its neighbors, but also the security of the wider OSCE region.
Read More» The United States seeks peace, justice, and prosperity in a democratic Kosovo that is fully integrated into the international community and part of a free, resilient, and thriving Europe.
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We once again call upon Russia to finally join consensus on the procedural decisions regarding HDIM 2021.
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The United States would like to express our deepest and most heartfelt thanks to all those OSCE participating states that helped with the evacuation.
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We call on Russia’s authorities to end their repression of human rights defenders, political opponents, and independent journalists, and to respect the human rights and fundamental freedoms of all.
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The United States is a country where the rule of law is paramount and where we hold those who violate the law accountable.
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We would like to recognize and thank Albania for its strong international leadership in recent years.
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Efforts to counter transnational threats that do not respect human rights and fundamental freedoms ultimately foster conditions that enable these threats to proliferate.
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We do not, nor will we ever, recognize Russia’s purported annexation of Crimea. We reaffirm that Crimea is Ukraine.
Read More» Russia’s continued obstruction of the path to the 2021 HDIM unless its unilateral demands are met is not how a responsible participating State behaves.
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The United States shares the concerns of our Lithuanian and European allies regarding the significant uptick in migrants and asylum seekers irregularly crossing from Belarus to Lithuania.
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The United States regrets that Russia’s restrictions resulted in ODIHR’s decision that it would be unable to effectively observe the Duma elections in September.
Read More» As a Co-Chair country of the Minsk Group, the United States condemns the recent escalation of violence along the international border between Armenia and Azerbaijan.
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July 27 marked the first anniversary of the issuance and enactment of the Trilateral Contact Group’s (TCG’s) Additional Measures to Strengthen the Ceasefire.
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This year’s theme for the World Day against Trafficking in Persons, “Victims’ Voices Lead the Way,” honors those who were subjected to human trafficking, with an emphasis on supporting, listening, and learning from those who survived this heinous crime.
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One year ago, the world witnessed the incredible strength and courage of the Belarusian people as hundreds of thousands gathered in squares across the country to peacefully protest authoritarianism and call for new free and fair elections.
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The United States and other participating States in this Chamber fully support Ukraine’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity.
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The United States thanks you, Secretary General Schmid, for your first report to the Permanent Council on the implementation of the 2004 Action Plan on the Promotion of Gender Equality.
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The human rights situation in Belarus continues to deteriorate. The abuses and repression of pro-democracy activists, independent media, and civil society continue to grow.
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The attacks targeted civic activists, community members, and journalists who were peacefully exercising the rights guaranteed to them by Georgia’s Constitution
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In recent weeks Russia continued its relentless campaign against independent civil society, democracy advocates, media, and academic institutions.
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(…) in the Russian Federation, where when individuals or organizations bring such allegations to light, they themselves are then arrested and tortured.
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The United States condemns torture wherever and whenever it occurs and strongly urges governments to abide by their international obligations and end impunity.
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If Russia truly wants peace in Ukraine, it must cease impeding the work of the SMM and afford its monitors the full Freedom of Movement needed to fulfil their mandate.
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The United States appreciates Project Coordinator in Ukraine’s (PCU) continued focus on democratization and good governance in Ukraine.
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The United States welcomes you, Ambassador MacGregor, to the Permanent Council for the first time in your new role.
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We condemn last night’s decision by a Moscow court to designate as “extremist” three organizations affiliated with imprisoned opposition figure Aleksey Navalny.
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The repression and severe abuses against pro-democracy activists, independent media, members of the opposition, and civil society based on politically-motivated charges continue to grow.
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As the principal driver of the conflict in eastern Ukraine trying to falsely cast itself as a “mediator,” Russia has a lot to hide.
Read More» High Commissioner Abdrakhmanov, welcome to the Permanent Council for the first time in your new role and thank you so very much for your thorough first report.
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The United States welcomes Teresa Ribeiro for her first report to the Permanent Council as the Representative on Freedom of the Media.
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The government of Russia continues to disregard its international obligations and OSCE commitments to respect and ensure the rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and association.
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The United States notes the results of the national referendum on a new draft Kyrgyz Constitution held on April 11, 2021.
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We remind Russia of its international obligations and OSCE commitments to respect the human rights and dignity of all, regardless of political affiliation or personal views.
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As President Biden stated, the police shooting of Daunte Wright in a suburb of Minneapolis is tragic, and an investigation into the incident is underway.
Read More» I look forward to the day when we will no longer need to raise pressing human rights challenges in Belarus in this chamber, but today is not that day.
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We are concerned by the Russian government’s continued contempt for the rights to peaceful assembly and freedom of association.
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My esteemed colleagues raised quite a litany of issues pertaining to the United States, all of which were clearly learned about from U.S. media sources, so it is at least hard to imagine that there are legitimate complaints about media freedom in the United States.
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The United States welcomed the Kyrgyz Republic’s outreach to the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) for an opinion on the Kyrgyz Republic’s constitutional reform.
Read More» This month marks the beginning of the eighth year of Russian hostilities toward its sovereign neighbor.
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We support the Chairpersonship’s reliance on the Human Dimension Committee for this purpose as it is an efficient and transparent way of ensuring all 57 participating States are consulted at the same time about proposed topics.
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The United States is proud to support today’s renewed calls for genuine dialogue between Belarusian authorities and the political opposition.
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In this Council, the Russian delegation has repeatedly tried to create a false equivalence between the draconian measures taken against RFE/RL in Russia and the legal framework within which RT and Sputnik operate in the United States.
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Russia’s campaign against independent media has intensified dramatically in recent months.
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Today, I would like to honor a new generation of women in white clothes, this time from Belarus, who just like the Suffragettes did, are standing up for civil and political rights, and by so doing, shaping the future of their country.
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In recent months, the Kremlin intensified its efforts to suppress independent voices and viewpoints, including those of members of civil society organizations, human rights defenders, independent journalists, political opposition members, and believers belonging to religious minority communities.
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The “All-Belarusian People’s Assembly” is neither genuine nor inclusive of Belarusian views.
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This past weekend, Russians in approximately 100 cities again took to the streets to express frustration with authorities and signal support for jailed opposition figure Aleksey Navalny.
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We continue to be amazed by the strength, resilience, and courage of the Belarusian people demanding their voices be heard.
Read More» Response to the Presentation of the President of the International Committee of the Red Cross, Mr. Peter Maurer As delivered by Ambassador James S. Gilmore III to the Permanent Council, Vienna December 10, 2020 Thank you, Mr. Chairman. The United States warmly welcomes you, President Maurer, to the Permanent Council, and thanks you for your comprehensive report. …
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OSCE Ministerial – Belarus Side Event Closing Remarks As prepared for delivery by DAS George Kent to the OSCE Side Event on Belarus Tirana, Albania (remotely, via Zoom) December 3, 2020 As we conclude today’s event, I want to express my government’s thanks to our UK colleagues, the other co-sponsors, and Minister Kofod of Denmark …
Read More» On Human Rights Violations in Belarus As delivered by Ambassador James S. Gilmore III to the Permanent Council, Vienna November 19, 2020 Thank you, Mr. Chairperson. The European Union is right. And we follow on behind their statement. The right to peaceful assembly is one that Americans jealously defend. But it’s more than that, Mr. Chairperson. …
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Statement to the Permanent Council
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Statement to the Permanent Council
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Statement to the Permanent Council
Read More» On Developments in the Human Dimension in the OSCE Region As delivered by Political Counselor Elisabeth Rosenstock-Siller to the Permanent Council, Vienna October 1, 2020 Mr. Chair, the United States deeply regrets that the ongoing CoViD-19 pandemic prevented us from convening in Warsaw for the annual Human Dimension Implementation Meeting. We look forward to doing …
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Statement by Ambassador James S. Gilmore III to the Permanent Council
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Statement by Ambassador James S. Gilmore III to the Permanent Council
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Statement to the Permanent Council
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Statement delivered by Ambassador James S. Gilmore III on June 18, 2020 at the Permanent Council.
Read More» Statement delivered at the Permanent Council in response to Report by the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina.
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U.S. statement delivered at the Permanent Council in response to the Project Coordinator in Ukraine.
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The U.S. closing statement delivered by Ambassador James S. Gilmore III at the 2019 OSCE Ministerial Council.
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Joint statement on Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms delivered at the closing of the 2019 OSCE Ministerial Council meeting in Bratislava, Slovakia
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Press Release: Assistant Secretary Destro assured human rights defenders: “The United States stands in defense of civil society and we reject undue restrictions on civil society participation in the OSCE.”
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Statement delivered at the Permanent Council on Russia’s Aggression against Ukraine and Illegal Occupation of Crimea.
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Statement delivered to the Permanent Council On Ongoing Human Rights Violations and Abuses by the Russian Federation.
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Statement delivered to the Permanent Council in Response to Project Coordinator in Ukraine
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Statement at the Permanent Council in Response to the Report by the OSCE Mission to Serbia
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The fourth annual Democracy Defender Award recipient is the Armenian NGO, Union of Informed Citizens.
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Statement delivered in the Permanent Council in Response to the Report by ODIHR Director Gísladóttir
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Joint statement on behalf of Canada, Denmark, Montenegro, the Netherlands, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America
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Statement delivered at the Permanent Council in response to OSCE Mission to Montenegro Report
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Remarks delivered at 26 February event “FIVE YEARS AFTER: Human Rights Situation in Autonomous Republic of Crimea”
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Statement delivered to the Permanent Council on criminal charges filed by Russia on activist Anastasia Shevchenko
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U.S Statement on the Passing of Ludmilla Mikhailovna Alexeeva delivered at the OSCE Permanent Council
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JOINT STATEMENT ON HUMAN RIGHTS AND FUNDAMENTAL FREEDOMS As delivered by Ambassador René Dinesen, Permanent Representation of Denmark to the OSCE, at the closing session of the 2018 OSCE Ministerial Council meeting, December 7, 2018, Milan, Italy I have the honor to make this statement on behalf of the following 45 participating States: Albania, Andorra, …
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Assistant Secretary of State A. Wess Mitchell’s remarks to the First Plenary Session of the 2018 OSCE Ministerial Council meeting.
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Response to the Report on the 2018 Human Dimension Implementation Meeting by ODIHR Director Ingibjörg Sólrún Gísladóttir.
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Response at the Permanent Council to Lukáš Parízek, Special Representative of Slovakia’s Minister of Foreign and European Affairs for Slovakia’s 2019 OSCE Chairmanship.
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We remain deeply concerned by the continued detention of Mr Oyub Titiev, Director of the Memorial Human Rights Centre in Chechnya, by the Russian Federation.
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Response to Head of the OSCE Center in Ashgabat, Ambassador Natalya Drozd.
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Statement delivered at the Permanent Council in Response to the Head of the OSCE Program Office in Dushanbe
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Call on Turkey at the Permanent Council to end the state of emergency.
Read More» Statement at the Permanent Council on increasing attacks on human rights defenders and the freedom of association in Russia.
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CRTA dedicated the award to the “citizens, civil society organizations, journalists, and activists in Serbia that committed their lives and careers to defending democracy”.
Read More» Statement at the Permanent Council calling on Russia to release Oyub Titiev and respect human rights in Chechnya.
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Statement at the Permanent Council in response to regular report by the Head of the OSCE Mission in Serbia.
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Statement at the Permanent Council in response to the report of Ingibjörg Sólrún Gísladóttir, Director of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights.
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Statement on behalf of the Democracy Defender delegations announcing the recipient of the 2018 Democracy Defender Award.
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Statement at the Permanent Council: We urge Russian federal authorities to ensure that Oyub Titiev’s rights are protected.
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Response at the Permanent Council to Secretary General Greminger’s update on his activities.
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A summary of U.S. activities at the OSCE between January 15 and January 19, 2018.
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Statement at the Permanent Council on the arrest of Oyub Titiev, head of the Chechen branch office of the Russian human rights NGO Memorial, on questionable drug charges.
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The United States and the EU share a common strategic vision of Europe’s future security.
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The United States will oppose any attempts to reduce or unduly restrict civil society’s access to and participation in OSCE proceedings.
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As this 24th OSCE Ministerial comes to a close, let us reflect for a moment on the vision rooted in the Helsinki Final Act and on what that should mean for all of us here today.
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New Russian legislation presents yet another threat to a free media in Russia.
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New Russian legislation presents yet another threat to a free media in Russia.
Read More» New Russian legislation presents yet another threat to a free media in Russia.
Read More» New Russian legislation presents yet another threat to a free media in Russia.
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Recognizing that economic and environmental stability are fundamental to lasting peace, OSCE States have long cooperated on issues as crucial to our common security as good governance, fighting corruption, and environmental stewardship.
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Response to the address by Nils Muižnieks, the Council of Europe’s Commissioner for Human Rights, at the OSCE Permanent Council.
Read More» The OSCE’s work on the environment, Russia’s ongoing violations in Ukraine, security sector support in the migration crisis, and much more.
Read More» Macedonia’s foreign minister addresses the delegations, Russia’s ongoing violations in Ukraine, gay rights in Azerbaijan, and more.
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Christine Beerli of the International Red Cross (ICRC) addressed the OSCE Permanent Council. We responded on the crucial work the ICRC does in conflict-affected areas.
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The role of women in peace processes, the shrinking space for civil society, the sentencing of Crimean Tatar leader Ilmi Umerov, and more.
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Tackling online abuse of female journalists, countering violent extremism, calling out Russia’s ongoing aggression in Ukraine, and more.
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Together, we can improve gender equality at the Organization and throughout the OSCE region, and thereby create more peaceful, stable, and secure societies.
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The OSCE’s openness to civil society sets it apart. But with activists facing tough reprisals across the region just for doing their jobs, the OSCE must become even more effective in giving them the support they need.
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Interview with U.S. Delegation Head Ambassador Michael Kozak on the 2017 OSCE HDIM On September 13, 2017, the Security and Human Rights Monitor published an interview with Ambassador Michael Kozak, the Head of the U.S. Delegation. In the interview he outlined the main issues of concern for the United States at the 2017 OSCE Human Dimension Implementation Meeting. Questions were prepared by Stephanie Liechtenstein, …
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The HDIM is an unparalleled opportunity for human rights defenders to hold governments to account for their human rights record.
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We urge the Kremlin to investigate new reports of mass killings and systematic gross violations of human rights in Chechnya.
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We agree that we can all do more to strengthen journalist protections. We agree that there is a need for more fact-based reporting. And we agree that these issues need to be addressed democratically and in a manner consistent with OSCE principles and commitments.
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This law constitutes a step backward from the freedoms of association and expression, and from our shared OSCE commitments to supporting civil society. Any claims that this legislation is based on laws in the United States are false.
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Non-governmental organizations and a robust civil society are an essential element of any strong democracy. Turkey benefits from having more engaged voices, not fewer. The detentions of individuals such as Mr. Kiliç chill public debate and undermine the quality of democracy.
Read More» The Russian government’s reliance on its so-called “foreign agent” law raises serious concerns about Russia’s respect for its OSCE commitments and obligation to respect the right to freedom of association.
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The United States strongly supports the Project Coordinator’s efforts to assist Uzbekistan in fighting terrorism, strengthening criminal justice, combating trafficking in persons, and developing free media.
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We look forward to reaching consensus soon on a new mandate for the OSCE Office in Tajikistan. We regret that the activities of the Office have been interrupted.
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The United States supports the work of the OSCE Program Office in Bishkek in each of the three dimensions that constitute the OSCE’s comprehensive approach to security.
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The United States appreciates the work of the OSCE Center in Ashgabat across all three of the dimensions that constitute the OSCE’s comprehensive approach to security.
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We reject the notion that these and other international civil society organizations are a threat to Russia. If Russia hopes to build a strong, democratic government with a dynamic, competitive economy, it should value and support, not harass and criminalize such independent voices.
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Response to Russia’s Criticism of ODIHR Election Observation As delivered by Chargé d’Affaires, a.i. Kate M. Byrnes to the Permanent Council, Vienna April 27, 2017 Thank you, Mr. Chair. The Russian Federation’s claim that ODIHR’s determination regarding how to observe the French elections is another example of an “unbalanced” approach by ODIHR is unjustified and …
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The United States has joined consensus on the new mandate for the OSCE field presence in the Kyrgyz Republic, now called the Programme Office in Bishkek. We did so because we believe that OSCE assistance in supporting the Kyrgyz Republic in implementing its OSCE commitments is as needed now as ever.
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The United States continues to be disturbed by reports of arrests, unlawful detention, torture, and killings of people in Chechnya based on their sexual orientation, as well as those subjected to abuse by association. These violations and abuses of human rights cannot be ignored.
Read More» Ambassador Moore, the ongoing involvement of your Mission in supporting the country’s priorities remains a vital part of stability and reconciliation in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The OSCE Mission continues to assist the host government with implementation of reforms and strengthening the rule of law, democratic institutions, and mechanisms for the protection of human rights.
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The United States reaffirms its commitment to the human rights and human dignity of all Roma, condemns intolerance and violence towards them, and continues to strongly support the OSCE Action Plan.
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Mr. Chair, colleagues, let me be clear – the threat to our region from violent extremism and terrorism is real. However, the prosecution of members of peaceful religious minority groups for “extremism” serves only to distract from and undermine our mutual efforts to combat true violent threats.
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The Russian people, like people everywhere, deserve a government that supports an open marketplace of ideas, transparent and accountable governance, equal treatment under the law, and the ability to exercise their rights without fear of retribution.
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We have been following with deep concern reports regarding the response by government authorities to peaceful public demonstrations that took place in several locations in Belarus over the last weekend.
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In keeping with the U.S. practice of openly discussing challenges our country faces in upholding our common OSCE commitments, we are reporting to the Permanent Council on recent hate-related violence in the United States.
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We will continue to work with Montenegro’s leaders in support of its NATO and EU accession efforts in pursuit of a Europe whole, free, and at peace.
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We are concerned about the lack of fairness and transparency in the appeal process that on January 20 upheld the trial court’s verdict and 5-year prison sentence against land code protest organizers Maks Bokayev and Talgat Ayan.
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Defending universal values — making them real in the world — isn’t a diplomat’s burden to bear. It is our honor to pursue.
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Ongoing Violations of Freedom of Expression in Russia | Statement to the PC As delivered by Deputy Chief of Mission Kate M. Byrnes to the Permanent Council, Vienna January 19, 2017 The United States is concerned about the December 28 decision by Chechnya’s Supreme Court to uphold the conviction of Zhalaudi Geriev, a local independent …
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“As the only independent electoral watchdog in Russia, the Golos Movement provides an essential voice before, during, and after elections to monitor transparency, openness, and lawfulness, and identify electoral fraud and abuse.”
Read More» We urge the Azerbaijani government to release Mr. Mammadov and Mr. Ibrahimov, as well as all other individuals who have been incarcerated for exercising their fundamental freedoms.
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Friends and colleagues, we meet in Hamburg today to reaffirm the same idea that tied us together in Helsinki 41 years ago: that our collective security is directly linked to the growth of our economies and the protection of basic human rights.
Read More» The United States is concerned about the fairness of the legal process that resulted in the recent decision of the Kazakhstani regional court in Atyrau to convict and sentence Maks Bokayev and Talgat Ayan to five years in prison each for their alleged roles in organizing peaceful demonstrations in the spring of 2016. The United …
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We urge the Azerbaijani authorities to drop all charges against Mr. Mammadov and comply with the 2014 European Court of Human Rights ruling on his case.
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The United States wishes to express concern over the new criminal charges brought against defense lawyer Burzurgmehr Yorov. Mr. Yorov is already serving a 23-year sentence following a trial rife with procedural irregularities, and is likely being held in connection with his work as a defense attorney. On November 14, Tajikistan initiated a new criminal …
Read More» Colleagues, more than twenty years ago in Copenhagen, our governments committed to “ensure that individuals are permitted to exercise the right to association, including the right to form, join and participate effectively in non-governmental organizations which seek the promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms, including trade unions and human rights monitoring groups.” …
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The United States is deeply troubled by reports that Ildar Dadin, a Russian activist who is serving a two-and-a-half-year prison term, has been subjected to threats, mistreatment, and torture in prison. Last week, in a letter he wrote and smuggled out of prison, he reported shocking conditions and widespread mistreatment of prisoners, including himself. Mr. …
Read More» The United States is troubled by the October 25 decision of an Azerbaijani court to sentence N!DA activist Giyas Ibrahimov to ten years in prison on charges of drug possession in what is widely considered to be politically motivated prosecution. Amnesty International reported that while in custody Mr. Ibrahimov was tortured into confessing to a …
Read More» I thank the distinguished Russian colleague for his response, regardless of my wishing that he would commit to the reconsideration of a law that is inconsistent with international law and Russia’s commitments. The reference to U.S. law reminded me of one of the commitments that my delegation made at HDIM this year, which was that – because …
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The United States is deeply concerned about the September 4 death of Altymurad Annamuradov in Turkmenistan.
Read More» The United States remains deeply concerned by the Russian government’s ongoing criminal investigation against Valentina Cherevatenko, a leader of the NGOs Union of Women of Don and the Women of the Don Foundation for Civil Society Development.
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The United States remains deeply troubled by the Russian government’s growing intolerance of all forms of dissent and independent expression.
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Director Link, the United States welcomes you back to the Permanent Council and thanks you for your report on the 2016 Human Dimension Implementation Meeting. On behalf of my delegation here in Vienna, and our colleagues from Washington, Moscow, and Baku who were part of the U.S. delegation to HDIM, I would like thank you, …
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We urge Azerbaijan to release activists arbitrarily detained and incarcerated during and before the campaign.
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We are concerned about threats against two Kyrgyz human rights activists in retaliation for their participation in the HDIM – Tolekan Ismailova, Chair of the Board of the Human Rights Movement Bir Duino Kyrgyzstan, and Aziza Abdurasulova, head of the Human Rights Center Kylym Shamy.
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As the 2016 HDIM draws to a close, my delegation wishes to share some observations that will shape our approach to the OSCE Ministerial in Hamburg. First: Helsinki Final Act Principles linking respect for human rights within states to lasting security among states could not be more relevant. These foundational principles are under siege and …
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The United States has used this agenda item to follow up on the invocation of the Moscow Mechanism. It is up to us, the participating States, to remain actively engaged on the concerns which gave rise to the invocation of the Mechanism until they are resolved. We welcome Turkmenistan’s participation in this meeting, and hope …
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GONGOs are nothing more than the real-world equivalent of the internet troll armies that insecure, authoritarian, repressive regimes have unleashed on Twitter.
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No confident government would be frightened by a human rights defender. So what do crackdowns on activists by certain OSCE governments tell us? At the 2016 HDIM, taking place now in Warsaw , we’ve been speaking out against what we call the ‘shrinking space’ for civil society in many parts of the OSCE region. Civil society activists perform a vital role in …
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Equal opportunity for women and men in all spheres of life is critical to building resilient, democratic societies; supporting open and accountable governance; ending extreme poverty; furthering international peace and security; growing vibrant market economies; and addressing pressing health and education challenges. One of the biggest threats to reaching these goals is gender-based violence. As …
Read More» In Vienna in 1989, all participating States committed to, “respect the right of everyone to freedom of movement and residence within the borders of each State, and to leave any country, including his own, and to return to his country.” This right is still not fully respected in all participating States. Let me make it …
Read More» QUESTION: Recently President Aliyev accused you of being mainly responsible for the closure of the OSCE office in Baku. How would you comment on these statements? AMBASSADOR BAER: I was surprised to see that President Aliyev was talking about me. His claim is not supported by the facts. Unfortunately, the reason why the OSCE office …
Read More» Freedom of association is necessary for the fullest exercise of the freedoms of expression and of religion or belief, and for the conduct of free and fair elections. It is a cornerstone for the rights of persons seeking to form independent trade unions.
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The Helsinki Final Act’s Guiding Principle Ten commits all participating States to fulfill in good faith obligations under international law. Principle Seven refers specifically to obligations under the International Covenants on Human Rights. In signing the human rights covenants in 1977, former President Jimmy Carter observed that the Covenant on Civil and Political rights “states …
Read More» We would like to exercise our right of reply regarding the statements of the Azerbaijan Citizen Labor Rights Protection League. The gentleman implied that U.S. civil society is unable to do shadow reports on U.S. human rights performance. Nothing could be further from the truth, as those who monitor the activities of our independent civil …
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Protecting space for civil society, defending human rights and fundamental freedoms for all Each year, hundreds of government officials, international experts, and human rights advocates gather for the OSCE’s Human Dimension Implementation Meeting (HDIM) – Europe’s largest human rights conference and a unique regional forum for governments and civil society to meet to discuss pressing …
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Colleagues, twenty years ago in Copenhagen, our governments committed to “ensure that individuals are permitted to exercise the right to association, including the right to form, join, and participate effectively in non-governmental organizations which seek the promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms, including trade unions and human rights monitoring groups.” Mindful of …
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Human rights violations in Crimea since Russia’s illegal occupation and attempted annexation have been severe and systemic, and Russia refuses to acknowledge or investigate these crimes.
Read More» The United States is concerned by the Russian Federation’s recent adoption of amendments to its antiterrorism law, which President Putin signed on July 7. The amendments include a number of provisions, which place greater restrictions on the exercise of the rights to freedoms of expression, peaceful assembly and association, and religion. Civil society actors and members …
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As Turkey’s friend, we urge Turkish authorities to ensure their actions uphold the universal democratic values enshrined in Turkey’s constitution, and its international human rights obligations and commitments, including those with respect to freedom of expression.
Read More» Thank you to our distinguished Russian colleague for his comments. I just wanted to clarify that the statement from my delegation was not a request for special treatment of any individuals under the law, it was an expression of concern that, as you said yourself, we have several times made clear that we see the …
Read More» The criminal investigation into the activities of Valentina Cherevatenko is clearly designed to send a warning to all NGO leaders whose organizations have been declared “foreign agents.”
Read More» The United States is a country of immigrants, and we’re proud of our record of integrating immigrants into our society and of the robust, independent civil society organizations that exist in our country that advocate for the rights and integration of immigrants.
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The world today faces enormous challenges, as millions of refugees and other displaced persons seek the dignity and safety that can only be achieved through an unprecedented global response.
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Jo Cox epitomized the kind of young, rights-oriented, innovative leader that many of us think about when we talk about engaging young people. Our societies, and the world, need more like her.
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The United States is concerned about the continuing detention, and in some cases arrest, of journalists, activists, and others in connection with comments they have made that are critical of government officials, actions, or policies.
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I’d like to thank our distinguished colleague from Uzbekistan for his update on recent interactions with respect to the cotton harvest and longstanding concerns about forced child labor and forced labor in the cotton harvest, and I’d also like to acknowledge his point that in this forum we should raise concerns that connect directly to …
Read More» The United States welcomes to the Permanent Council the OSCE Project Coordinator in Uzbekistan, Ambassador John MacGregor. Ambassador MacGregor, we support the Project Coordinator’s priorities, including assisting the government with addressing transnational threats, promoting good governance and anti-corruption, combating trafficking in persons, strengthening the criminal justice system, promoting human rights, and gender equality. We support …
Read More» The United States wishes to express concern over irregular court proceedings resulting in harsh prison sentences for members of the Islamic Revival Party of Tajikistan (IRPT). On June 1, deputy IRPT leaders Saidumar Hussaini and Mahmadali Hayit received life sentences, and 11 others received sentences ranging from two to 25 years in prison, in alleged …
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Russia today is a place where independent civil society is under siege and peaceful dissent can be dangerous. We are concerned about a pattern of harassment and attacks against members of the peaceful political opposition in Russia. On May 17, a group of approximately 30 men attacked Alexei Navalny, an opposition politician, and his fellow …
Read More» Thank you, Mr. Chair. I just have a couple of quick comments. One, in answer to our distinguished Russian colleague’s question about my use of the term “violence.” Just to be clear: the definition that we would use for violence is any kind of physical attack, and I am very surprised to hear that the …
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The United States welcomes the decision of the Azerbaijani Supreme Court to release investigative journalist Khadija Ismayilova on a suspended sentence. We view this as a positive step, and we encourage the Azerbaijani government to drop all remaining charges against her. Protecting freedom of expression and expanding the space for civic and political participation will …
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Forty years ago today, in Moscow, a small group of brave citizens, led by physicist Yuri Orlov, breathed life into what we now call the Human Dimension of the OSCE.
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We welcome the OSCE office in Tajikistan’s work in support of democratization, rule of law, and human rights, but are concerned about several negative developments in the country.
Read More» We therefore encourage the Kyrgyz Republic to consider the opinion of the UN Human Rights Committee in response to the complaint submitted by human rights activist Azimjon Askarov.
Read More» The U.S. welcomes as another positive step Azerbaijan’s decision to allow human rights activist Leyla Yunus and historian Arif Yunus to travel abroad for urgent medical care.
Read More» Before beginning I just wanted to say that I will abridge our statement because the United States finds much to agree with in what has been said by so many colleagues already. We agree with Canada and the EU on the high quality of and on the importance of the issues covered in ODIHR’s and the HCNM’s …
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The United States remains concerned about growing intolerance of dissent and independent voices in the Russian Federation, including increasing restrictions imposed on civil society by the Russian government. The United States is deeply troubled by the Russian Government’s March 10 decision to designate the National Democratic Institute (NDI) as a so-called “undesirable” foreign organization. We …
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European security means a Europe – and a Eurasia – that is whole, free, and at peace. The United States remains committed to this goal, and to the OSCE as an essential means to achieving it.
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The voices of people like Oleksandra remind everyone that there is no alternative to continuing the fight for reform and for a stronger Ukraine.
Read More» On February 24, 2016 the U.S. Mission to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe joined 15 other delegations to the OSCE to recognize Oleksandra Matviychuk with a Democracy Defender Award. Matviychuk is a Ukrainian civil society leader who has been an active campaigner for democratic reforms in her country. Zhanna Nemtsova, the eldest …
Read More» Kazakhstan’s recently passed law and implementing regulations for non-governmental organizations (NGOs) could have a chilling effect on the activities of independent civil society.
Read More» Just to respond to the comments from our distinguished colleague from Kazakhstan, I would like to reiterate the U.S. concern that the law does not provide for the open space for civil society as represented by our colleague from Kazakhstan just now. And that is why we have urged a review by international experts, UN …
Read More» The United States expresses deep concern over the criminal proceedings against at least 13 members of the Islamic Revival Party of Tajikistan and the lack of fair trial guarantees.
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Ramzan Kadyrov’s inflammatory rhetoric calling members of the political opposition “traitors” and “enemies of the people” is characteristic of a growing intolerance of dissent and independent voices by the Russian government.
Read More» Right of reply to Russia on our permanent council statement: Threats Against the Political Opposition and Independent Voices in Russia
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Russia has instituted repression of a mass scale in Crimea, harassing individuals who oppose Russia’s occupation.
Read More» The United States strongly supports the participation of civil society in OSCE events. Under OSCE rules as enshrined in the Helsinki Document 1992, only “persons and organizations which resort to the use of violence or publicly condone terrorism or the use of violence” may be barred from participating in OSCE meetings. We remain concerned about …
Read More» The United States welcomes the release of former member of parliament and human rights activist Murod Juraev after 21 years in prison. We regard Mr. Juraev’s release as a positive step and urge the Government of Uzbekistan to build on it by making it a prelude to the release of other long-held journalists, activists, and …
Read More» Colleagues, I wanted to make one general point since the United States was mentioned again this week, which is I commend to you an article in today’s Washington Post that includes an interview of sorts with Natalia Taubina, who is the head of the Public Verdict Foundation, which is a foundation that was targeting corruption …
Read More» Allow me to make four points in response to our distinguished Russian colleague. The first point is that I realize, or I suspect, that my arguments will not persuade our distinguished Russian colleague of the flaws in his response, but I would urge our distinguished Russian colleague to make public what he just said. Because …
Read More» Last week, the Ministry of Justice of the Russian Federation designated the St. Petersburg-based Memorial Research and Information Center as a foreign agent organization. The Center began its work in the 1960s and today includes historical archives and a virtual museum of the Gulag. Memorial’s Chairman Arseny Roginsky told media the listing was a “huge …
Read More» As we conclude another OSCE Human Dimension Implementation Meeting (HDIM), our thanks go once again to Poland for hosting the conference and the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR). Michael Link and his team have worked tirelessly to prepare and facilitate these last two weeks, and we are grateful to them for …
Read More» The freedom of peaceful assembly and association is a cornerstone of democracy. All OSCE participating States have committed to protect peaceful assembly and to respect the right of individuals to associate with others, even if in so doing they voice opinions critical of the government or are generally unpopular. During the last year, Russia accelerated …
Read More» Thank you, Mr. Chair. And thank you, Ambassador Verba, for your report. Ukraine’s future is as a free, democratic, and prosperous European country, and reform is the way to realize this future. The Ukrainian government has made tremendous strides in implementing wide-ranging political, economic, and social reforms under extremely difficult circumstances. Russia’s occupation of Crimea …
Read More» The United States welcomes Ambassador Schlumberger back to the Permanent Council for another comprehensive and detailed report. Ambassador Schlumberger, as you noted in your report, the OSCE Mission in Kosovo (OMiK) remains a trusted and reliable partner to local and international institutions and communities. The Mission’s focus on key areas – including human rights and cross-dimensional issues such …
Read More» I’d like to thank our distinguished Azerbaijani colleague for his response. I just wanted to address a couple of points that he raised. First, the idea that this is “just a few cases”: I think part of the concern that was raised – not only by my delegation but also by others – is that …
Read More» The United States is deeply troubled by the decision of an Azerbaijani court to sentence human rights and peace advocates Leyla and Arif Yunus, who have been detained for more than a year, to eight-and-a-half and seven-year prison terms, respectively. Their convictions appear to be solely connected with their human rights work and participation in …
Read More» The United States is deeply troubled by the searches that were carried out on July 7 at the homes and offices of the staff of the Golos Association, Russia’s most prominent, independent election monitoring organization. Golos is a highly professional, non-partisan group that has worked for over a decade to promote transparency and integrity in …
Read More» The United States would like to draw attention to two human rights-related cases in Uzbekistan. The United States is deeply concerned about recent reports that respected human rights activist Elena Urlaeva was detained and subjected to an unnecessary and humiliating search by local authorities in the city of Chinaz, Uzbekistan, on May 31, 2015. While …
Read More» On May 23, Russian President Putin signed a bill into law that gives prosecutors the power to declare foreign and international non-governmental organizations “undesirable” and shut them down. This law further restricts the work of civil society in Russia, stifles independent voices, and is another intentional step by the Russian government to isolate the Russian …
Read More» The United States welcomes Ambassador Petrov back to the Permanent Council. Ambassador, thank you for your report. The United States appreciates the work of the OSCE Center in Ashgabat across all three OSCE dimensions. The Center’s projects on border security and management, carried out in cooperation with Turkmenistan’s State Border Service, are outstanding examples of …
Read More» The United States welcomes Ambassador Zarudna back to the Permanent Council, and thanks her for her report. Ambassador Zarudna, with the adoption of a new mandate in December 2014, the former OSCE Center in Astana has transitioned to the current Program Office. We hope that the Program Office has been able to continue to work …
Read More» The United States warmly welcomes Ambassador Müller back to the Permanent Council. Ambassador, we thank you for your report and for the outstanding work you and your staff are doing in Tajikistan. We continue to support much of the traditional programmatic activity your office undertakes, as well as your efforts to address new activities in …
Read More» The United States is concerned by recent developments in the treatment of political prisoners in Belarus. On May 4, former presidential candidate Mikolai Statkevich was sentenced to harsher prison conditions and increased security measures for alleged violations of prison rules. Mr. Statkevich is serving a six-year sentence related to his participation in peaceful protests following …
Read More» The United States is deeply troubled by the April 16 decision of an Azerbaijani court to sentence prominent human rights activist Rasul Jafarov to six and a half years in prison on charges widely considered to be politically motivated. As founder and chairman of the Human Rights Club, Mr. Jafarov was arrested last August as …
Read More» We applaud the Chairmanship for selecting the important and timely topic of Freedom of Assembly and Association for a Supplemental Human Dimension Meeting. The foundation of a democratic state is respect for the rule of law and human rights and fundamental freedoms, including the freedoms of association and peaceful assembly, whether they are exercised on …
Read More» The United States is concerned about the case of Uzbekistani human rights activist Alikul Sarymsakov. Mr. Sarymsakov attended a March 3 ODIHR event held to plan the observation of the Uzbekistani Presidential election that will occur on March 29. At the ODIHR event, he criticized the government for allowing President Karimov to run for another …
Read More» Mr. Minister, since your last appearance at the Permanent Council in June 2013, the United States and Armenia have continued to pursue a strong relationship spanning a broad range of shared interests, including preserving peace and regional security, promoting trade and investment, and advancing democratization and the rule of law. Assistant Secretary of State Nuland’s …
Read More» The United States is concerned about the introduction of draft legislation in Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Kazakhstan that could restrict the operating space for non-governmental organizations. While each piece of draft legislation is distinct—and its supporters may claim a legitimate interest to facilitate activities in the NGO sector—we believe it is important for these governments to …
Read More» This morning a Moscow court handed down a suspended sentence against anti-corruption campaigner and opposition politician, Aleksey Navalnyy. The same court also sentenced his brother, Oleg, to 3.5 years in prison. Many independent commentators have noted that the charges against both brothers appear to be politically motivated. The sudden movement of the verdict from Jan …
Read More» President Burkhalter, thank you—thank you very much, thank you and your team and the people in Basel for the warm welcome you have given to all of us, and the great example of Swiss hospitality and Swiss efficiency in organizing this meeting. It has been a real pleasure to be in Basel. It has been …
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