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 to the Permanent Council on on Combating Discrimination and Promoting Tolerance
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Statement delivered at the Permanent Council on the Detention of Georgian Physician Vazha Gaprindashvili
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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 at the Permanent Council in response to the report by OSCE Presence in Albania Head of Mission Ambassador Borchardt.
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Statement delivered at the Permanent Council on the report by the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media Harlem Désir.
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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 at the Permanent Council in response to the OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities.
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Statement delivered at the Permanent Council in response to the report by the OSCE PA President.
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The U.S. statement delivered at HDIM 2019 Working Session 11 on the Prevention of torture.
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U.S. Statement delivered at HDIM 2019 Working Session 8 on Tolerance and Non-discrimination.
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U.S. Statement delivered at HDIM 2019 Working Session 8 on Tolerance and Non-discrimination.
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Introductory Remarks for the Film Screening of “Love, Sonia” As prepared for delivery by Deputy Assistant Secretary Roger D. Carstens, Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor during the 2019 Human Dimension Implementation Meeting in Warsaw Thursday, 19 September 2019 The United States is pleased to cosponsor this ODIHR event. Raising awareness of trafficking in …
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U.S. Statement delivered at HDIM 2019 Working Session 7 on Freedom of Religion, Thought, or Belief
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U.S. Statement delivered at HDIM 2019 Working Session 6 on the Freedom of Assembly
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Right of Reply given at HDIM 2019 Working Session 5 on the Safety of Journalists
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U.S. Statement delivered at HDIM 2019 Working Session 5 on the Safety of Journalists
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The Right of Reply on Crimea at the HDIM 2019 Working session 4
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U.S. Statement on democratic institutions, including democracy at the national, regional, and local levels and democratic elections.
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U.S. Statement on Fundamental Freedoms of Free Expression and Media delivered at HDIM’s Working Session 2.
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U.S. Statement on Fundamental Freedoms of Free Expression and Media delivered at HDIM’s Working Session 1.
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The U.S. statement delivered at the opening of the 2019 Human Dimension Implementation Meeting
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The United States will use the 2019 HDIM to promote and defend human rights, fundamental freedoms, democratic institutions, and civil society across all 57 participating States.
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HDIM brings together hundreds of civil society representatives and government officials from North America, Europe, and Central Asia for talks to advance human rights and fundamental freedoms. These participants review how the 57 OSCE participating States are implementing the full range of their human rights commitments, including those on: fundamental freedoms of expression, peaceful assembly, …
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“Deepening the roots of democracy and building respect for fundamental human rights constitutes a top priority for this diplomatic mission,” USOSCE Ambassador Gilmore said.
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Right of Reply delivered at the Permanent Council in response to EU Statement Regarding Abolition of Capital Punishment
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Statement delivered at the Permanent Council on the International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances
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Ambassador Gilmore and UK Ambassador Neil Bush discuss OSCE contribution to Euro-Atlantic security PRESS RELEASE | August 28, 2019 USOSCE Ambassador James Gilmore and Ambassador Neil Bush, Head of the United Kingdom’s delegation to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), met on August 29 to confer on vital emerging foreign policy for …
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Statement delivered to the Permanent Council On Russia’s Ongoing Violations in Ukraine on July 25, 2019.
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Statement delivered to the Permanent Council On Russia’s Ongoing Violations in Ukraine on July 18, 2019
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Statement delivered at the Permanent Council marking the 24th Anniversary of the Srebrenica Genocide
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Statement delivered to the Permanent Council On Russia’s Ongoing Violations in Ukraine on July 11, 2019
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U.S. statement delivered at the Permanent Council in response to the report by the Head of the OSCE Mission to Skopje.
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Statement delivered in Response to OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media Harlem Desir on July 4, 2019
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Statement in Response to the Head of the OSCE Center in Ashgabat
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Statement delivered at the Permanent Council in response to violence against journalists in Turkey
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Statement delivered to the Permanent Council On Russia’s Ongoing Violations in Ukraine on June 6, 2019
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Statement to the Permanent Council in Response to the Head of the OSCE Mission to Moldova
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Statement delivered to the Permanent Council On Russia’s Ongoing Violations in Ukraine on May 23, 2019
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Statement delivered at the Permanent Council on Report by the OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities
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Statement delivered at the Permanent Council in response to OSCE Project Coordinator in Uzbekistan
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Statement delivered at the Permanent Council marking International Roma Day
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Statement by Ambassador John Richmond at the opening session of the 19th Alliance against Trafficking in Persons Conference.
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Statement delivered to the Permanent Council calling on Russia to Release Oyub Titiyev
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Statement at the Permanent Council in Response to the Report by the OSCE Mission to Serbia
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Statement delivered at the Permanent Council on the International Women of Courage Award.
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Statement delivered in the Permanent Council in Response to the Report by ODIHR Director Gísladóttir
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Statement delivered at the Permanent Council on the Indictment of 16 individuals in Turkey
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Statement delivered at the Permanent Council on Allegations of Torture of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Russia
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Statement delivered at the Permanent Council in response to OSCE Mission to Montenegro Report
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Statement delivered at the Permanent Council on the Ongoing Harassment of Jehovah’s Witness Members in Russia
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Statement delivered to the Permanent Council on criminal charges filed by Russia on activist Anastasia Shevchenko
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Statement delivered by U.S. Ambassador to Slovakia Adam Sterling at the OSCE Conference Against Anti-Semitism
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Statement at the Permanent Council observing International Holocaust Remembrance Day
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Statement to the Permanent Council in Response to OSCE PA President Tsereteli
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Statement delivered at the Permanent Council on Ongoing Human Rights Abuses and Violations in Chechnya
Read More» Statement to the Permanent Council in response to the Moscow Mechanism report
Read More» Joint Statement to the Permanent Council on the Moscow Mechanism report
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Statement to the Permanent Council on Russia’s Ongoing Violations of International Law and Defiance of OSCE Principles in Ukraine.
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U.S. response to the statement by Ms. Dunja Mijatović, Commissioner on Human Rights for the Council of Europe.
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Right of Reply on the Death Penalty as delivered at the Permanent Council.
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U.S Statement on the Passing of Ludmilla Mikhailovna Alexeeva delivered at the OSCE Permanent Council
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U.S. statement delivered at the OSCE Permanent Council on International Human Rights Day
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Statement on Russian’s Ongoing Violations in Ukraine delivered at the OSCE Permanent Council
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U.S Response delivered at the OSCE Permanent Council on December 13, 2018
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U.S. Statement at the Closing Plenary Session of the 2018 OSCE Ministerial 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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Remarks at the Ukraine-Hosted Side Event at the 2018 OSCE Ministerial Council On Russian Aggression in Crimea, the Kerch Strait, and the Sea of Azov As delivered by Assistant Secretary of State A. Wess Mitchell December 6, 2018 Thank you, Pavlo, for organizing this important event. The past four years of Russian aggression against Ukraine …
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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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Statement to the Permanent Council on International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.
Read More» Statement to the Permanent Council on Upholding OSCE Commitments in the Treatment of Iskander Yerimbetov in Kazakhstan.
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Human Rights in Chechnya: 16 OSCE Countries Invoke Moscow Mechanism
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Right of Reply on the Death Penalty delivered at OSCE Permanent Council on October 11, 2018
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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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U.S. Closing Statement at the 2018 Human Dimension Implementation Meeting, Warsaw, September 10, 2018.
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Statement at HDIM: Any Other Business. Turkmenistan: the Moscow Mechanism
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Working Session 17 (specifically selected topic): Combating racism, xenophobia, intolerance, and discrimination (Part 2).
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Working Session 16 (specifically selected topic): Combating racism, xenophobia, intolerance, and discrimination.
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Working Session 15: Tolerance and non-discrimination 2, including: Equal opportunity for women and men in all spheres of life, including through implementation of the OSCE Action Plan for Promotion of Gender Equality.
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Working Session 14: Humanitarian issues and other commitments, including: combating trafficking in human beings, refugees and displaced persons, persons at risk of displacement.
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Statement at HDIM Working Session 11: Fundamental freedoms (Part 1, continued) including freedom of peaceful assembly and association, national human rights institutions and the role of civil society in the protection of human rights
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Statement at HDIM Working Session 10: Fundamental freedoms I (continued), Including freedom of expression, freedom of peaceful assembly and association, national human rights institutions and the role of civil society in the protection of human rights, and freedom of movement
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Statement at HDIM Working Session 9 – Tolerance and non-discrimination 2, Including Roma and Sinti Issues.
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Statement at HDIM Working Session 8: Tolerance and Non-Discrimination I (continued), Including: Rights of Persons Belonging to National Minorities, and Preventing Aggressive Nationalism, Racism and Chauvinism.
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Working Session 7: Fundamental freedoms 1, including: Freedom of thought, conscience, religion, or belief.
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Statement at HDIM Working Session 6: Tolerance and non-discrimination Part 1, including combating anti-Semitism, combating intolerance and discrimination based on religion or belief, including against Christians, Muslims and members of other religions
Read More» Statement at HDIM Working Session 5: Rule of Law II – Protection of human rights and fighting terrorism; Prevention of torture; Exchange of views on the question of the abolition of capital punishment
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Statement at HDIM Working Session 3: Freedom of the Media (Part 2)
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U.S. Statement delivered at HDIM Working Session 1 – Democratic institutions, including democracy at the national, regional, and local levels, and democratic elections
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U.S. Opening Statement at the 2018 Human Dimension Implementation Meeting, Warsaw, September 10, 2018.
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U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release MEDIA NOTE September 7, 2018 U.S. Delegation to the 2018 OSCE Human Dimension Implementation Meeting Ambassador Michael G. Kozak will lead the U.S. delegation to the Human Dimension Implementation Meeting (HDIM) of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), to be held …
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Statement to the Permanent Council on the ongoing harassment of Jehovah’s Witnesses and other religious minorities in Russia.
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Statement to the Permanent Council on the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture.
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Response at the Permanent Council to the Chair of the Committee of Foreign Ministers of the Council of Europe, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Croatia, Marija Pejčinović Burić.
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Statement delivered at the Permanent Council on the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia.
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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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A call on Russia at the Permanent Council to respect the freedoms of association and peaceful assembly.
Read More» Statement at the Permanent Council on the intensifying crackdown on freedom of religion or belief in Russia.
Read More» Statement at the Permanent Council on human rights violations and abuses against LGBTI persons in Chechnya.
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Right of Reply to Russia at the OSCE Permanent Council on discrimination in sport.
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Statement to the OSCE Permanent Council on limiting freedom of expression in Russia.
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Statement at the Permanent Council on constitutional policing in the United States.
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 the report of Ingibjörg Sólrún Gísladóttir, Director of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights.
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Statement at the Permanent Council on the occasion of International Women’s Day 2018.
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Statement at the Permanent Council on behalf of the United States and Canada on the Murder of Slovak journalist, Jan Kuciak.
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Statement at the Permanent Council on the death of Georgian Citizen Archil Tatunashvili during his February 22 arrest and detention in the Russian occupied Georgian territory of South Ossetia.
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Introductory remarks at a side event on human rights defenders in Crimea.
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Observing International Holocaust Remembrance Day • Presentations by the Three Committee Chairs • Russia’s Ongoing Violations in Ukraine • A summary of U.S. activities at the OSCE, Jan. 29 to Feb. 2, 2018.
Read More» Statement at the Permanent Council: We urge Russian federal authorities to ensure that Oyub Titiev’s rights are protected.
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“We Will Bear Witness, and We Will Act: Observing International Holocaust Remembrance Day.” Response to the address to the Permanent Council by the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance.
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Absent action, the sacred pledge of “Never again” can become empty rhetoric.
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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 State Department’s top official for European and Eurasian Affairs, Wess Mitchell, condemned Russia’s persecution of Crimean Tatars and voiced the United States’ unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
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The United States strongly supports the work of the OSCE Special Representative as well as the work of all OSCE structures to combat human trafficking.
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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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In this decision, we recognize the important contribution that media can make in preventing human trafficking.
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We will continue to take forward the principles that underpin the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the international covenants and the Helsinki Final Act and stand up for human rights, across the OSCE region, and worldwide.
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Gender-based violence harms individuals, violates the most basic of our inalienable human rights.
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The United States will never waver in its support for women’s equality.
Read More» There can be no justification for hate crimes – ever. People should not have to fear attacks because of who they are, whom they love, what they believe, or how they worship.
Read More» We urge the government of Russia to investigate every credible report of abuse based on the victim’s LGBTI status, as well as any apparent cover-up of that abuse by local authorities.
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We welcome the recent agreement to reopen the Gura Bicului-Bychok bridge across the Nistru river. This will improve the lives of ordinary people, and symbolically help stitch the country together.
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The HCNM plays a valuable role as we grapple with issues regarding ethnicity, language, and education, while respecting and protecting human rights and fundamental freedoms.
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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 United States is deeply concerned by multiple reports that the Interior Ministry and the General Prosecutor’s Office in Tajikistan have compiled a registry of LGBTI individuals.
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Response to OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media Harlem Désir’s regular report to the Permanent Council.
Read More» The United States stands in solidarity with intersex persons and their advocates around the world.
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In too many places in the OSCE region, those who threaten, kidnap, beat, and kill journalists do so with impunity.
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» We commit to working to ensure that every girl is born into a world where she is free to live her life to the fullest.
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Response to the presentations by the Chairs of the three OSCE Committees to the Permanent Council.
Read More» The OSCE is in a unique position to improve cooperation to make migration safe, orderly, and regular, and to enhance the protection practices in OSCE participating States.
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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We remain concerned about reports of police abuse of LGBTI persons in Azerbaijan, and reject the idea that OSCE countries do not have commitments in this area.
Read More» We ask Russia to clarify: is there an ongoing federal-level investigation into reports of a brutal campaign against gay men in Chechnya?
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We call on Russia to disengage the forces it leads, arms, trains, and fights alongside from the line of contact and withdraw proscribed weapons in accordance with the Minsk agreements.
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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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We join the EU and others in expressing deep concern about the arrest of opposition leader Alexei Navalny and his subsequent sentencing to twenty days’ detention.
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We again call on Russia to disengage the forces it leads, arms, trains, and fights alongside from the line of contact and withdraw proscribed weapons in accordance with the Minsk agreements.
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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.
Read More» Europe’s largest human rights event draws to a close, and OSCE dialogue on security sector governance and reform broadens.
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Human Rights Defenders are the heartbeat of the Helsinki process. My delegation expresses deep appreciation to the civil society activists who have participated in our discussions. Your contributions enrich and enliven the HDIM.
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As we have for many years, we are using this agenda item to follow up on the use of the Moscow Mechanism.
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Restrictions on both internal and external travel continue in some States. These restrictions often appear to be aimed at restricting the activities of human rights activists, journalists, and members of the political opposition.
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Equal opportunity also means freedom for women and girls to attain their full potential in political leadership, civil society, and in private sector business.
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We strongly support freedom of expression and freedom of religion or belief, and we oppose invidious discrimination in economic, social, and cultural spheres. These values are not mutually exclusive but strongly complement each other.
Read More» The United States is deeply concerned about discrimination in the provision of basic services, such as housing, education, and safe drinking water, and the ways that such discrimination can contribute to rising inequality.
Read More» Right to a fair trial; Independence of the judiciary; Democratic law-making.
Read More» Protection of human rights and fighting terrorism; Prevention of Torture; Exchange of views on the question of the abolition of capital punishment.
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Majority populations in one country can have affinities for kin who are minorities in other countries and governments should respect Helsinki Final Act Principles guiding relations between these States.
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The United States is committed to promoting and advancing girls’ education, at home and abroad.
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The Helsinki Final Act commits us to respect the inherent dignity of the human person. Beyond sharing commitments, we share a common humanity.
Read More» The U.S. notes the rise in religiously motivated forms of hate in the OSCE region and encourages all participating States to take urgent action to address these issues.
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The United States upholds freedom of religion as one of its foundational principles. In accordance with this as well as OSCE principles and commitments, it is concerned about restrictions in some participating States.
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The United States welcomes efforts that expand outreach to diverse populations.
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Political participation encompasses a wide range of activities, from platforms for private citizens to comment on proposed legislation at the local level, to running for high office.
Read More» 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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U.S., European and OSCE efforts to support democracy and human rights around the world are designed to strengthen and support, not to subvert, democratic process, and to empower the citizen.
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The freedoms to assemble peacefully and to associate freely are essential for a stable, open, and dynamic society, and to democratic governance responsive to the concerns of citizens.
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Freedom of expression is fundamental to any democracy, and journalists should never be targeted for their work.
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Our shared commitment to respect the inherent dignity of the human person, common decency, and the lessons of history require us to condemn and combat hate in all of its ugly forms.
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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 have taken note of the statement by Azerbaijan on media freedom in in the United States. However, let me be clear. The United States has the most vibrant, pluralistic media environment in the world.
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We urge Russian authorities to adhere to fair trial guarantees. The United States stresses the right of all to freedom of expression, including in the spheres of arts and culture.
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We urge the government of Azerbaijan to immediately release Mehman Aliyev, and all those incarcerated for exercising their fundamental freedoms, in accordance with its international obligations and OSCE commitments.
Read More» On the occasion of the International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances, we stand in solidarity with the victims and families of those who have been subject to enforced disappearance throughout the OSCE region.
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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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The United States remains deeply concerned by the arrest of prominent human rights defenders, journalists, academics, and activists in Turkey.
Read More» Mr. Morva’s case was the subject of exhaustive review over the course of nine years at both the state and federal court levels, including a decision by the U.S. Supreme Court to deny further review.
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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.
Read More» The United States was disappointed, but not surprised, that instead of acting in good faith and using the conference for its intended purpose, certain participating States instead sought to stack this room with surrogates and proxies.
Read More» 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.
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We urge the government of Azerbaijan to act in accordance with its OSCE and international commitments and obligations and release all those incarcerated for exercising their human rights and fundamental freedoms.
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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 share the concerns of Organization for Democracy and Economic Development member states about the active and protracted conflicts in this region, and are deeply concerned by continuing violations of member states’ sovereignty and territorial integrity.
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The Human Rights Watch report, which appears to us to be well documented and to rely on independent sources in Chechnya, gives a timeline of events, provides multiple victims’ accounts of the violence perpetrated against them, and offers recommendations to Russian authorities, foreign governments, and international bodies.
Read More» The United States has joined consensus on the new mandate for the OSCE field presence in Tajikistan, now called the Program Office in Dushanbe. We do so with the understanding that the new mandate will not be used to restrict the autonomy of the Office and its ability to respond flexibly to challenges or issues …
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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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We do not expect attitudes about LGBTI persons to change overnight, but we do expect that political leaders will lead the fight against hate crimes and intolerance. They must ensure the ability of LGBTI persons to exercise their human rights and fundamental freedoms, including the right to express themselves, to associate, and to peacefully assemble.
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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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National security matters are an issue of public debate in the United States, a debate which involves civil society, human rights activists, the media, journalists, bloggers, comedians, and any number of other individuals and organizations, all of which are free to express themselves, organize, associate, and peacefully assemble to make their views heard.
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We urge the Government of Azerbaijan to conduct a full, transparent, and independent investigation into the circumstances of Mr. Galandarov’s death and to release all activists in Azerbaijan incarcerated for exercising their fundamental freedoms.
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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 recognizes the debate on the death penalty both within and among nations. We respect the views of our friends around this table.
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Reply to Russia on the Office of the High Representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina As delivered by Chargé d’Affaires, a.i. Kate M. Byrnes to the Permanent Council, Vienna April 27, 201 Thank you, Mr. Chair. The Russian Federation referred to the Office of the High Representative (OHR) as an obsolete international guardian that should be …
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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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We urge Russia to respect the human right of all to exercise the fundamental freedom of thought, conscience, religion or belief– including the right to profess and practice one’s religion alone or in community with others — in accordance with its OSCE commitments and international obligations.
Read More» 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.
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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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I’d say this is not the first time that the Russian Federation has responded to a genuine expression of concern about a certain situation or development in Russia by attacking those raising the issue in the Permanent Council.
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The United States joins Ukraine in voicing its concerns about the deliberate and malicious campaign against both the Library of Ukrainian Literature in Moscow and its personnel.
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On Reports of Arrests and Murders of Gay Men by the Chechen Government As delivered by Chargé d’Affaires, a.i. Kate M. Byrnes to the Permanent Council, Vienna April 6, 2017 Thank you, Mr. Chair. The United States is disturbed by media and civil society reports of local Chechen authorities arresting and even killing gay men. Reports …
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The United States urges the government of Hungary to strengthen – not impede – the educational and people-to-people ties that are a foundation of strong bilateral and multilateral relationships, and are recognized in the Helsinki Final Act.
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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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ODIHR is leading the way on numerous areas of critical importance to the comprehensive and lasting security of our region. ODIHR’s work on tolerance and non-discrimination, in particular regarding combating violent hate crimes, anti-Semitism, and intolerance towards Roma and Sinti, is essential at a time when intolerance is on the rise throughout the region
Read More» 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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We continue to believe this action was inconsistent with OSCE commitments, basic democratic principles, and the rule of law. As a strategic partner and friend of Macedonia, and with full respect for its sovereignty and unity, the United States urges President Ivanov to reconsider his decision.
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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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The United States has consistently called upon all OSCE participating States to address anti-Semitism, intolerance, and hate crimes.
Read More» The United States urges Russia to respect its international obligations and OSCE commitments to protect the rights of everyone to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.
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The United States welcomes the release of former editor of the opposition “Erk” newspaper Muhammad Bekjanov after almost 18 years in prison.
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Only by working together can we address this crisis in an effective, safe, and humane way that also strengthens our security and stability.
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On February 27, 2015, Russian opposition leader Boris Nemtsov was assassinated just outside the Kremlin.
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The OSCE is playing a crucial role observing and monitoring the situation in eastern Ukraine. U.S. bonds with NATO and the OSCE have stood the test of time. These are institutions that bring together partners on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean to defend our shared ideals.
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The United States condemns the decision to conduct an illegitimate “referendum” in Georgia’s South Ossetia region, planned for April 9.
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The United States joins the European Union in expressing its deep regret that the Russian Federation enacted new legislation decriminalizing certain forms of domestic violence.
Read More» With presidential elections on the horizon, ensuring an open space for civil society and freedom of expression is crucial to strengthening Serbia’s democracy.
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In regards to the question from the Russian delegation about the U.S. position with respect to the recent escalation of violence in eastern Ukraine, it is the assessment of the United States that these are combined Russian-separatist forces and that Russia continues to provide the materiel, financial, and other direct support that fuels the conflict …
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The United States applauds the heroic work of the Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine in brokering the local ceasefires in Avdiyivka that allowed essential repairs to restore power, water, and heating to tens of thousands of people living on both sides of the contact line. Yet the situation remains volatile.
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We are deeply concerned about the progress of this legislation and the fact that the only remaining step to make it active is the signature of President Putin. We raise it today in that vein.
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The United States is extremely concerned by legislation recently passed by the Duma that, if signed into law by President Putin, could seriously weaken protections against domestic violence in Russia.
Read More» Kosovo continues to make steady progress in several important areas, yet much work remains to be done.
Read More» Security through a rules-based international order founded on the protection of human rights and inclusive, democratic societies can best be achieved when international organizations such as the OSCE and the Council of Europe work in concert to protect and promote our common values.
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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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We will not be bullied, we will not be dissuaded, and we will continue to hold ourselves accountable and to report to all of you as well.
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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» There will always be setbacks and steps backward amidst steps forward. But the message we should be sending to those who have attempted to undermine liberal democracy is that we will rebuild these institutions, and we will rebuild them stronger than they were when these people tried to destroy them.
Read More» One is that, in order to achieve leadership in that respect, putting human rights and democracy at the forefront and being clear that even though Austria is famously a neutral country, being neutral doesn’t mean you’re neutral vis-à-vis fundamental moral principles and political commitments.
Read More» “I think the big thing that the Foreign Minister and that the Austrian team can lead us on is really responding to this threat of authoritarian populism that we see rising in many parts of the OSCE area and outside of it as well, and responding with firm conviction and commitment to human rights and …
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.
Read More» Thank you to the European Union for the very strong and eloquent statement on International Human Rights Day. The United States would also like to add its voice on this topic. The United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights 68 years ago to recognize and elevate the inherent dignity and inalienable …
Read More» One of the things that gets misunderstood is that while it is true that it is difficult to reach consensus today in the OSCE, on most things, there is agreement by at least 55 or 56 States. It is usually one or two holdouts. When it’s one, it’s usually the Russian Federation. And when it’s …
Read More» In connection with the Ministerial Council decision just adopted on the OSCE’s Role in the Governance of Large Movements of Migrants and Refugees, the United States would like to make the following interpretative statement under paragraph IV.1(A)6 of the OSCE Rules of Procedure. The United States believes that this phenomenon is truly a multi-dimensional, cross-cutting …
Read More» In connection with the adoption of the Ministerial Decision on the OSCE’s Role in the Governance of Large Movements of Migrants and Refugees, we would like to make the following interpretative statement under paragraph IV.1(A)6 of the OSCE Rules of Procedure: The delegations of Azerbaijan, Canada, Georgia, Latvia, Lithuania, Sweden, Ukraine, and the United States …
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The failures of participating States to implement their OSCE commitments do not make the fundamental truth underlying the OSCE concept of comprehensive security any less true.
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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» 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.
Read More» The United States joins other delegations in expressing its appreciation to each of the distinguished Chairs for their work. We are also grateful for all those who participate constructively in the three committees, which have done so much to advance the work of this Organization and help participating States fulfill their OSCE commitments. Regarding the …
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» 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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I would like to start by expressing our sincere gratitude to President Maurer for his remarks and thoughtful recommendations on behalf of the International Committee of the Red Cross. We first met in Washington several years ago in our previous capacities. It has been a real pleasure to see you and your success in your …
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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.
Read More» The Russian Federation made yet another effort to blame Ukraine for the Russian Federation’s military intervention in that country. The absurdity of this claim is matched only by the Russian Delegation’s claim that the Munich agreement was responsible for WWII and in effect that the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact to military divide our host country and other …
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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 …
Read More» The distinguished delegate of the Russian Federation implied that re-adoption and the sale of children were widespread practice in the U.S. To the contrary, in our experience, the vast majority of adoptive placements result in successful and permanent placement of children into loving homes. As in every country, sometimes the challenges are too big for …
Read More» The United States remains committed to combatting the sexual exploitation of children. Child sex tourism, in which an individual from one country travels to another country and while there engages in sexual activity with a child, is a serious concern – and a serious crime. As the United States is a country of origin of …
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The United States is proud to be a global leader in the fight to eliminate the abuse and exploitation of children worldwide, including in the United States. We are pleased to contribute to this discussion on the important topic of the Rights of the Child. The Convention on the Rights of the Child is an …
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Two weeks ago, ODIHR and the German chairmanship organized a conference on the role of political leaders in countering discrimination, racism, and bias-motivated crimes against Roma. This conference built on an excellent side event convened during last year’s Human Dimension Implementation Meeting. We commend Germany and ODIHR for continuing to focus on this problem as …
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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» With regard to the comments about our countering violent extremism policy, as our President said, “ISIL and al Qaeda want to claim that they are the true leaders of over a billion Muslims. . . . That is their propaganda. If we fall into the trap of painting all Muslims with a broad brush, we’re …
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Freedom of religion or belief is a founding principle of the Helsinki Process. Unfortunately, a small number of participating States engage in consistent, systematic violations and abuses of the freedom of religion or belief.
Read More» First, we agree with Poland that the term “Polish death camps” is factually wrong. We just disagree that the use of the term should be criminalized. We thank the Russian Federation for raising hate crimes, and police killing in the United States. We do not agree with the characterization that these crimes were nationalist. But …
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All human beings are born equal in rights and dignity. Everyone should be protected, not threatened. But across the OSCE region, we continue to see an alarming rise in intolerance. Despite efforts by some states to address intolerance and discrimination, many participating States do not adequately implement their tolerance and non-discrimination commitments. At a mosque …
Read More» If a government has law enforcement concerns about a participant, HDIM is not the appropriate forum to deal with it. There are inter-governmental tools for law enforcement cooperation. Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan: we want your participation. Walking out robs the rest of us of your government’s perspective. It is not an effective way to respond to …
Read More» Respect for the rights of persons belonging to national minorities is a cornerstone of the Helsinki Final Act. We underscore the importance of maintaining the independence of the High Commissioner on National Minorities and ODIHR.
Read More» The United States was founded on the principle of respect for the dignity of the individual. No crime offends human dignity more than torture.
Read More» With regard to Guantanamo Bay, which of course is not a secret, President Obama has repeatedly made clear since taking office that his Administration is determined to close the detention facility and is taking all possible steps to reduce the detainee population. However, we note that the United States does not transfer any individual in …
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Some participating States are exporting their repression by deliberately initiating politically motivated Interpol Red Notices to harass critics abroad.
Read More» The United States offers its continued support in the effort to save lives and protect those who are particularly vulnerable to human trafficking, including migrants and refugees. Europol has reported that known smuggling and human trafficking gangs are working together to exploit migrant vulnerabilities. This is particularly concerning given the influx last year of 90,000 …
Read More» In establishing the Representative on Freedom of the Media in 1997, the OSCE participating States recognized that “free, independent, and pluralistic media are essential to a free and open society and accountable systems of government.”
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.
Read More» We would like to exercise our right of reply in response to the Russian Federation. At the outset we would note that the Russian Federation failed to identify a single concrete action it is taking to promote either the civil, political or economic, social and cultural rights of its people. We explained why we have …
Read More» In many participating States, the exercise of peaceful assembly and association is subject to undue and serious restrictions.
Read More» Seventy-five years ago, President Franklin Delano Roosevelt delivered his famous Four Freedoms speech. He said that liberty rested on “freedom of speech and expression, freedom to worship, freedom from fear, and freedom from want.” He identified freedom of speech and freedom to worship as core civil and political rights. He defined “freedom from fear” as …
Read More» 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 …
Read More» Elections are an essential element of democracy and a cornerstone of democratic institutions. The U.S. greatly appreciates the OSCE’s invaluable role in election observation – indeed, this organization has developed what is known as the “gold standard” for its methodology on evaluating elections.
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Mr. Chairman, Distinguished Government and Civil Society Representatives, My name is Tom Malinowski, and I am the U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Democracy, Human Rights and Labor. Forty-one years ago, the Helsinki Final Act enshrined the principle that respect for human rights within states is essential to security and cooperation among states. The Final …
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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 …
Read More» On August 30, we marked the International Day for the Victims of Enforced Disappearances. The United States stands in solidarity with the men and women around the world whose own governments have abducted them and detained them in secret. In too many countries, repressive regimes confronted by citizens trying to hold their leaders accountable will …
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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» I’d like to respond to the statement by our distinguished Russian colleague. First, a technical point: the distinguished Russian colleague is within his rights within this forum to raise whatever issues he wants to; under the topic of enforced disappearances, I don’t think that he raised anything that applies to my country. Enforced disappearances are …
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The United States is deeply disturbed by the recent developments in Turkey, and we continue to follow developments closely. We strongly support Turkey’s democratically elected civilian government and its democratic institutions, and we condemn the attempt to overthrow the Turkish government. We’ve witnessed a demonstration of the Turkish people’s support for their democracy.
Read More» First, to our colleague from the Holy See — I wanted to reassure our colleague at the Holy See that, indeed, through what has now been years of negotiations in which the Holy See has played a very active role on the Addendum on the Gender Action Plan, that there is no secret agenda there …
Read More» We urge all OSCE States to step up efforts to hold accountable perpetrators of this heinous crime and to offer survivors the support they so justly deserve.
Read More» I would like to start by expressing our sincere gratitude to Ambassador Claude Wild for chairing the Informal Working Group on Migration. Ambassador Wild, you have demonstrated leadership, conducted the working group in an open and transparent way, involved international partners and civil society, and worked tirelessly. Congratulations. The United States deeply appreciates your efforts …
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 …
Read More» The past week has been a difficult one for the people of the United States. The fatal shootings by police of Alton Sterling in Louisiana and Philando Castile in Minnesota, both African American men, are deeply troubling and have prompted peaceful public demonstrations and protests in Louisiana, Minnesota, and other cities throughout the United States. …
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Last month at the Permanent Council, we said that we would return to the issue of the human rights of migrants in the United States. Let me begin by emphasizing that the United States takes its international obligations and OSCE commitments with regard to migrants very seriously. We are, after all, a country of immigrants, …
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Minister Kurz, the United States welcomes you to the Permanent Council, and offers its sincere thanks to Austria for taking on the Chairmanship of the OSCE in 2017. When the current Chairman-in-Office, Minister Steinmeier, appeared at the Permanent Council in January, we noted that Germany was assuming the Chairmanship at a time when Europe faced …
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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.”
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The United States joins the European Union in expressing its solidarity with LGBTI people around the world, and in speaking out against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
Read More» The United States stands in solidarity with victims of torture throughout the OSCE region, and around the world.
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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.
Read More» 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 …
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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 …
Read More» The United States is concerned about the detention of Mr. Odil Kobilov, a lawyer in Uzbekistan who defended Mr. Aramais Avakian, convicted on baseless charges of supporting ISIL. After defending Mr. Avakian, Mr. Kobilov, reportedly, has been imprisoned and his license to practice law was revoked. Such politically-motivated retaliation, intended to suppress freedom of expression …
Read More» The United States is concerned about restrictions on the right of freedom of peaceful assembly and freedom of expression of the media in Kazakhstan, including the recent detention of journalists and protestors in connection with anticipated demonstrations over land reform. In Copenhagen in 1990, OSCE participating States agreed that “everyone will have the right of …
Read More» The United States welcomes Ambassador Petrov back to the Permanent Council. Ambassador, we thank you for your report and for your service, especially since today marks your final statement in this chamber. The United States appreciates the work of the OSCE Center in Ashgabat across all three dimensions. We welcome the Center’s projects on border …
Read More» Madam Foreign Minister Kaljurand, the United States warmly welcomes you to the Permanent Council and it is nice to see you again, and thanks for your insightful and constructive remarks. The United States shares Estonia’s conviction that the principles of human rights, democracy, and the rule of law are the foundational components for a sound …
Read More» This occasion is a call to stand up for the human rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex individuals across the world and reaffirm our commitment to the equality and dignity of all people.
Read More» Thank you very much, Mr. Chair. I’d like to respond to the statement just made by our distinguished colleague from the Holy See. I’m not sure – especially since he made clear that his delegation does not recognize this day – why he felt obliged to take the floor, but I’m glad that he did. …
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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. delegation proposes to our colleagues from Russia to jointly sign with us, in a spirit of good will, a statement reaffirming our existing commitments related to freedom of peaceful assembly.
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As President Obama told President Putin in their April 18 phone call, Russia must release Ms. Savchenko without delay.
Read More» We have to recognize how cynical it is for Russia to raise concerns where concerns don’t exist.
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.
