Response to the Head of the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek and the Director of the OSCE Academy in Bishkek

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. 

Read More»

Joint Statement on the Report by the Rapporteur under the OSCE Moscow Mechanism on the Serious Threat to the OSCE Human Dimension in Belarus since 5 N

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. 

Read More»

Joint Statement: Moscow Mechanism Invocation on Human Rights Violations and Abuses in the Republic of Belarus

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.

Read More»

Response to the Report by the Director of the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights

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. 

Read More»

Joint statement on the anniversaries of the Moscow Mechanism Report on Belarus and the invocation of the Vienna Mechanism

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”.

Read More»

Response to the Special Representative and Coordinator on Combatting Trafficking in Human Beings, Val Richey

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. 

Read More»

Response to the Report of the Head of the OSCE Mission in Kosovo, Michael Davenport

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. 

Read More»

Ensuring Accountability for Sexual and Gender-Based Violence resulting from Russia’s War against Ukraine 

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.  

Read More»

Moscow Mechanism Report On Russia’s Legal and Administrative Practice in Light of its OSCE Human Dimension Commitments

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.

Read More»

Warsaw Human Dimension Conference

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»

Joint Statement on invoking the Moscow Mechanism: Human Rights Violations and Abuses in the Russian Federation

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”

Read More»

Response to the Report of the Head of the OSCE Mission in Kosovo, Michael Davenport

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.  

Read More»

Response to Italian Deputy Foreign Minister Benedetto Della Vedova on the Italian Presidency of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe

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 …

Read More»

On the Summit for Democracy

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, …

Read More»

Welcome Remarks to the Group of Friends of Youth and Security as Group Co-Chair

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 …

Read More»

Right of Reply to Russia on “Mass and Systemic Violations of Human Rights in the United States”

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.

Read More»

Deteriorating Human Rights Situation in Russia

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.

Read More»

Response to the Presentation of the President of the International Committee of the Red Cross, Mr. Peter Maurer

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.  …

Read More»

OSCE Ministerial – Belarus Side Event Closing Remarks

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

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.  …

Read More»

On Developments in the Human Dimension in the OSCE Region

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 …

Read More»

Joint Statement on Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms

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, …

Read More»

Interview with U.S. Delegation Head Ambassador Michael Kozak on the 2017 OSCE HDIM

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, …

Read More»

Reply to the Opening Session of the RFOM Conference “Media Freedom in Volatile Environments”

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.

Read More»

Response to Russia’s Criticism of ODIHR Election Observation

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 …

Read More»

On Continued Reports of Arrests, Unlawful Detention, Torture, and Killing of Gay Men by the Chechen Government

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»

Response to the Head of the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina

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.

Read More»

Russia’s Misuse of Terrorism and Extremism Laws to Restrict the Freedom of Thought, Conscience, Religion or Belief

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.

Read More»

Ongoing Violations of Freedom of Expression in Russia | Statement to the PC

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 …

Read More»

Press Release: United States Joins 21 Other Partner OSCE Delegations in Presenting the 2017 Democracy Defender Award to Russia’s Golos Movement

“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»

Secretary of State John Kerry at the Opening Session of the OSCE Ministerial | Statement to the 2016 Ministerial Council

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»

Concern about Conviction of Kazakhstani Civil Society Activists Maks Bokayev and Talgat Ayan | Statement to the PC

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 …

Read More»

On New Charges Against Lawyer Burzurgmehr Yorov in Tajikistan | Statement to the PC

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»

Concern about Freedom of Association in Turkey | Statement to the PC

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.” …

Read More»

Continued Efforts to Silence and Intimidate Independent Voices and Civil Society in Russia | Statement to the PC

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»

On the Unjust Sentencing of Giyas Ibrahimov in Azerbaijan | Statement to the PC

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»

Reply to Russia on Ongoing Concerns About Russia’s ‘Foreign Agents’ Law | Statement to the PC

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 …

Read More»

Response to ODIHR’s Director on the 2016 Human Dimension Implementation Meeting | Statement to the PC

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, …

Read More»

Closing Remarks | Statement at the Closing Plenary of HDIM 2016

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 …

Read More»

Any Other Business | Statement at Closing Plenary of HDIM 2016

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 …

Read More»

Some OSCE Governments Are Revealing Their Weakness

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 …

Read More»

Ensuring Equal Opportunity for Women and Men | Statement at Working Session 14 of HDIM 2016

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»

Freedom of Movement | Statement at Working Session 13 of HDIM 2016

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»

Ambassador Baer’s Interview with VOA Azerbaijan Service September 27, 2016

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 and Peaceful Assembly | Statement at Working Session 5 of HDIM 2016

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.

Read More»

International Covenants on Human Rights | Statement at Working Session 2 of HDIM 2016

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»

Democratic Institutions | Right of Reply at Working Session 1 of HDIM 2016

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 …

Read More»

Human Dimension Implementation Meeting 2016

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 …

Read More»

Ongoing Concerns About Freedom of Association in Russia | Statement to the PC

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 …

Read More»

On Legislation Restricting Fundamental Freedoms in Russia | Statement to the PC

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 …

Read More»

On Freedom of Expression and Judicial Independence Concerns in Turkey | Statement to the PC

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»

Right of Reply to Russia on Freedom of Association Concerns in Russia | Statement to the PC

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»

Reply to Uzbekistan regarding Response to the OSCE Project Coordinator in Uzbekistan | Statement to the PC

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»

Response to the OSCE Project Coordinator in Uzbekistan | Statement to the PC

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»

On the Sentencing of Members of the Islamic Revival Party of Tajikistan: Statement to the PC

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 …

Read More»

On the Harassment and Intimidation of Political Opposition in Russia: Statement to the PC

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»

Reply to Russia on Harassment and Intimidation of the Political Opposition in Russia: Statement to the PC

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 …

Read More»

On the Release of Khadija Ismayilova: Statement to the PC

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 …

Read More»

On Fundamental Freedoms in Russia: Statement to the PC

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 …

Read More»

Ukrainian Activist Oleksandra Matviychuk Receives Democracy Defender Award

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»

Reply to Kazakhstan on its New NGO Law: Statement to the PC

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»

Response to Tajikistan on civil society participation in OSCE events, arrests of Islamic Revival Party members

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»

On the release of human rights activist Murod Juraev in Uzbekistan: Statement to the PC

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»

Reply to Russia on its Foreign Agent Legislation: Statement to the PC

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»

Response to Russia on its Foreign Agent Legislation: Statement to the PC

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»

Russia’s Foreign Agents Legislation as a Violation of its OSCE Commitments: Statement to the PC

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»

Closing Plenary Statement: HDIM 2015

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»

Freedom of peaceful assembly and association: HDIM 2015, Session 4

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»

Response to Report by the OSCE Project Coordinator in Ukraine: Statement to the PC

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»

Response to the Report by the Head of the OSCE Mission in Kosovo: Statement to the PC

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»

Reply to Azerbaijan on Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms in Azerbaijan: Statement to the PC

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»

Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms in Azerbaijan: Statement to the PC

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 raid on the NGO Golos and repression of civil society in Russia: Statement to the PC

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»

On Uzbek Human Rights Defenders Elena Urlaeva and Azam Farmonov: Statement to the PC

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 Russia’s law on “Undesirable NGOs”: Statement to the PC

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»

Response to the Head of the OSCE Center in Ashgabat: Statement to the PC

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»

Response to Head of the OSCE Programme Office in Astana: Statement to the PC

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»

Response to the Head of the OSCE Office in Tajikistan: Statement to the PC

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»

On Mikolai Statkevich, Mikalai Dziadok, and other political prisoners in Belarus: Statement to the PC

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»

On the Conviction of Rasul Jafarov in Azerbaijan: Statement to the PC

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»

Across the OSCE region, we are witnessing crackdowns on civil society: Statement at the SHDM

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»

Uzbekistani activist twice forced into psychiatric institution after criticizing government: Statement to the PC

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»

Response to Edward Nalbandian, Foreign Minister of Armenia: Statement to the PC

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»

On Draft Legislation in Central Asia Impacting NGO Operating Space: Statement to the PC

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»

Statement on Sentencing of Aleksey and Oleg Navalnyy: Statement to the PC

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»