The violence propagated by Russia-led forces in eastern Ukraine not only costs the lives of Ukrainian Servicemembers—but led to the loss of more than 13,000 Ukrainians since Russia initiated this conflict in 2014.
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The United States welcomes Teresa Ribeiro for her first report to the Permanent Council as the Representative on Freedom of the Media.
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The government of Russia continues to disregard its international obligations and OSCE commitments to respect and ensure the rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and association.
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We are pleased to see the OSCE prioritize its work with Tajikistan, which Chairperson-in-Office Linde’s visit to Dushanbe earlier this month reinforced.
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The United States notes the results of the national referendum on a new draft Kyrgyz Constitution held on April 11, 2021.
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As President Biden stated, the police shooting of Daunte Wright in a suburb of Minneapolis is tragic, and an investigation into the incident is underway.
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Reading the ODIHR Annual Report, it is clear that even in the most challenging of times, ODIHR continues to ably assist the participating States in upholding human rights and democratic values.
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“Turkey’s sudden and unwarranted withdrawal from the Council of Europe Convention on Preventing and Combating Violence Against Women and Domestic Violence, better known as the Istanbul Convention, is deeply disappointing.
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I look forward to the day when we will no longer need to raise pressing human rights challenges in Belarus in this chamber, but today is not that day.
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We are concerned by the Russian government’s continued contempt for the rights to peaceful assembly and freedom of association.
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My esteemed colleagues raised quite a litany of issues pertaining to the United States, all of which were clearly learned about from U.S. media sources, so it is at least hard to imagine that there are legitimate complaints about media freedom in the United States.
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This month marks the beginning of the eighth year of Russian hostilities toward its sovereign neighbor.
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We support the Chairpersonship’s reliance on the Human Dimension Committee for this purpose as it is an efficient and transparent way of ensuring all 57 participating States are consulted at the same time about proposed topics.
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The United States is proud to support today’s renewed calls for genuine dialogue between Belarusian authorities and the political opposition.
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Russia’s campaign against independent media has intensified dramatically in recent months.
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Today, I would like to honor a new generation of women in white clothes, this time from Belarus, who just like the Suffragettes did, are standing up for civil and political rights, and by so doing, shaping the future of their country.
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In recent months, the Kremlin intensified its efforts to suppress independent voices and viewpoints, including those of members of civil society organizations, human rights defenders, independent journalists, political opposition members, and believers belonging to religious minority communities.
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The “All-Belarusian People’s Assembly” is neither genuine nor inclusive of Belarusian views.
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This past weekend, Russians in approximately 100 cities again took to the streets to express frustration with authorities and signal support for jailed opposition figure Aleksey Navalny.
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We continue to be amazed by the strength, resilience, and courage of the Belarusian people demanding their voices be heard.
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Joint Statement on the Human Rights Violations in the Chechen Republic of the Russian Federation As delivered by Ambassador Jeroen Boender of the Netherlands to the Permanent Council, Vienna December 17, 2020 I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of the Moscow Mechanism invoking participating States: Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Iceland, Ireland, Latvia, Lithuania, the …
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Statement on the 51st Round of the Geneva International Discussions (Conflict in Georgia) As delivered by Deputy Chief of Mission Courtney Austrian to the Permanent Council, Vienna December 17, 2020 Thank you, Mr. Chair. The United States welcomes the successful effort to convene the 51st round of the Geneva International Discussions in Geneva on December …
Read More» Human Rights Violations in Belarus As delivered by Ambassador James S. Gilmore III to the Permanent Council, Vienna December 17, 2020 Thank you, Mr. Chairperson. Mr. Chairperson, at the final PC of the year, it is appropriate that we take stock of events in Belarus since the fraudulent August 9 presidential election. We continue to …
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Statement in Honor of International Human Rights Day As delivered by Ambassador James S. Gilmore III to the Permanent Council, Vienna December 11, 2020 Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Yesterday, December 10, was International Human Rights Day, marking the adoption of the UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948. Many of the human rights and …
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Response to the Presentation of the President of the International Committee of the Red Cross, Mr. Peter Maurer As delivered by Ambassador James S. Gilmore III to the Permanent Council, Vienna December 10, 2020 Thank you, Mr. Chairman. The United States warmly welcomes you, President Maurer, to the Permanent Council, and thanks you for your comprehensive report. …
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Response to the Address by the Secretary General of the Council of Europe, Ms. Marija Pejčinović Burić As delivered by Ambassador James S. Gilmore III to the Permanent Council, Vienna December 10, 2020 Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Secretary General Pejčinović Burić, the United States welcomes you in your second appearance here at the OSCE’s Permanent Council. The …
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Chairmanship Statement on COVID-19 As delivered to the Ministerial Council, Tirana, Albania December 4, 2020 1. We, the ministers for foreign affairs of the participating States of the OSCE, have convened in a world profoundly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. 2. We recognize that COVID-19 constitutes an unprecedented global challenge, including to all participating …
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OSCE Ministerial – Belarus Side Event Closing Remarks As prepared for delivery by DAS George Kent to the OSCE Side Event on Belarus Tirana, Albania (remotely, via Zoom) December 3, 2020 As we conclude today’s event, I want to express my government’s thanks to our UK colleagues, the other co-sponsors, and Minister Kofod of Denmark …
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U.S. Statement on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women As delivered by Ambassador James S. Gilmore III to the Permanent Council, Vienna November 26, 2020 Thank you, Mr. Chairman. In commemorating the International Day on the Elimination of Violence Against Women, the United States reaffirms its strong commitment to gender equality and eradicating …
Read More» Right of Reply to the Russian Federation on the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists As delivered by Deputy Chief of Mission Courtney Austrian to the Permanent Council, Vienna November 6, 2020 Thank you, Madam Chair. In respect for my colleagues time on a beautiful Friday, I will be brief but …
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Right of Reply to the Report under the Moscow Mechanism in Relation to Belarus As delivered by Ambassador James S. Gilmore III to the Permanent Council, Vienna November 5, 2020 Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I’ve listened closely to the discussions that have been held from some of the other countries and I think it’s …
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U.S. National Statement on the Report under The Moscow Mechanism in Relation To Belarus As delivered by Ambassador James S. Gilmore III to the Permanent Council, Vienna November 5, 2020 Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Chairman, the United States thanks OSCE Moscow Mechanism Rapporteur Professor Wolfgang Benedek for his compelling, thorough, and exceptionally well documented report. …
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Joint Statement on the Report under The Moscow Mechanism in Relation to Belarus Statement Delivered by H.E. René Rosager Dinesen, Ambassador of Denmark to the Permanent Council, Vienna November 5, 2020 Mr Chair, I am delivering this statement on behalf of the following delegations who, acting together, on 17 September invoked the Moscow Mechanism …
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Right of Reply on “Gross Violations of Human Rights in the USA” Raised by Russia As delivered by Deputy Chief of Mission Courtney Austrian to the Permanent Council, Vienna October 29, 2020 Thank you, Mr. Chair. Since the distinguished representative from Russia has mentioned my country, I’d like to exercise my Right of Reply. As …
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Statement to the Permanent Council
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Statement to the Permanent Council
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Response to the Report by the OSCE Special Representative and Coordinator for Combating Trafficking in Human Beings, Val Richey As delivered by Ambassador James S. Gilmore III to the Permanent Council, Vienna October 15, 2020 Thank you, Mr. Chairperson. The United States welcomes OSCE Special Representative and Coordinator on Combatting Trafficking in Human Beings …
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Statement at the Human Dimension Webinar on Defending and Promoting Rule of Law Principles Thirty years ago, our heads of state and government gathered in Paris and voiced one of the most critical tenets of our relations: “We undertake to build, consolidate, and strengthen democracy as the only system of government of our nations.” The …
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Statement to the Permanent Council
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Statement to the Permanent Council
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Statement by Ambassador James S. Gilmore III to the Permanent Council
Read More» Statement at the Human Dimension Webinar: Combating Racism and Discrimination against the Roma and Sinti rights October 5, 2020 The United States appreciates the opportunity to address the issue of combating racism and discrimination against the Roma and Sinti at today’s webinar. While we regret that we were unable to meet at the Human Dimension Implementation …
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On Developments in the Human Dimension in the OSCE Region As delivered by Political Counselor Elisabeth Rosenstock-Siller to the Permanent Council, Vienna October 1, 2020 Mr. Chair, the United States deeply regrets that the ongoing CoViD-19 pandemic prevented us from convening in Warsaw for the annual Human Dimension Implementation Meeting. We look forward to doing …
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Statement by Ambassador James S. Gilmore III to the Permanent Council
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Statement at the Human Dimension Webinar
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Press Release issued on September 17, 2020
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Joint Statement by Belgium, Canada, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, the Netherlands, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, the UK, and the United States
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Statement by Ambassador James S. Gilmore III to the Permanent Council
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Interpretative Statement by Ambassador James S. Gilmore III to the Permanent Council
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Statement to the Permanent Council
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Media Note by the Office of the Spokesperson of the U.S. Department of State
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Statement by Deputy Secretary Stephen E. Biegun to the Special Permanent Council
Read More» Statement to the Permanent Council
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Statement by Ambassador James S. Gilmore III to the Permanent Council
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Statement delivered by Ambassador James S. Gilmore III to the Permanent Council on July 23, 2020
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Statement delivered by Ambassador James S. Gilmore III to the Permanent Council on July 23, 2020
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Statement delivered by Michael Gower, Public Affairs, at the 1275th Permanent Council.
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Statement delivered by Ambassador James S. Gilmore III at the July 16, 2020 Permanent Council.
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Statement delivered by Ambassador James S. Gilmore III to the Permanent Council on July 16, 2020.
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Right of Reply by Ambassador James S. Gilmore III at the Permanent Council on July 9, 2020.
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Statement delivered by Ambassador James S. Gilmore III at the Permanent Council on July 9, 2020.
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Statement delivered by Ambassador James S. Gilmore III at the Permanent Council on July 9, 2020.
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Statement delivered by Ambassador James S. Gilmore III at the Permanent Council on July 9, 2020.
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Statement delivered at the Permanent Council on July 2, 2020 on the Trafficking in Persons Report
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Statement delivered by Ambassador James S. Gilmore III on June 18, 2020 at the Permanent Council.
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June 4, 2020 statement delivered at the Permanent Council by U.S. Ambassador James S. Gilmore III.
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Press Release, published June 2, 2020, on Ambassador Gilmore’s Support for President Trump and his Response to Civil Disturbances in the United States.
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Joint Statement delivered by the Danish Mission on Addressing All Forms of Intolerance and Discrimination
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Statement delivered to the Permanent Council on May 21, 2020 On IDAHOTB
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U.S. statement delivered at the Permanent Council in response to the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan Report.
Read More» Statement delivered at the Permanent Council on May 14, 2020 in response to the Report by the ODIHR Director.
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Statement delivered at the April 30, 2020 Permanent Council on threats against Journalist Elena Milashina.
Read More» Statement delivered at the April 30, 2020 Permanent Council regarding human rights’ protections during the pandemic.
Read More» Response delivered at the April 30, 2020 to the Permanent Council in support of the statement by the Delegation of the UK.
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Special Briefing at the Department of State Office of the Spokesperson in Washington, DC with the U.S. Ambassador to the OSCE James Gilmore III.
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Statement delivered at the Permanent Council on ongoing human rights violations in the Russian Federation.
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Statement delivered at the Permanent Council in response to Report by the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina.
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Statement delivered at the Permanent Council on the recent attack in the Chechen Republic, Russia.
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Statement delivered at the Permanent Council in response to the Second and Third Committee Chairs’ presentations.
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Statement observing the International Holocaust Remembrance Day at the Permanent Council on January 30, 2020.
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Statement delivered on January 16, 2020 at the Permanent Council on Russia’s Aggression against Ukraine.
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Statement delivered in response to the address by the 2020 OSCE Chair-in-Office Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama.
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Statement delivered at the Permanent Council on Russia’s Aggression against Ukraine and Illegal Occupation of Crimea.
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Statement delivered to the Permanent Council in response to the reports by the Three OSCE Committee Chairs.
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U.S. Statement In Response to the OSCE Chief Monitor and the CiO ‘s Special Representative to Ukraine.
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Right of Reply delivered at the Permanent Council in response to the Russian delegation.
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Statement delivered at the Permanent Council on International Human Rights Day
Read More» Statement delivered at the Permanent Council on remarks by the Council of Europe Secretary General.
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The U.S. closing statement delivered by Ambassador James S. Gilmore III at the 2019 OSCE Ministerial Council.
Read More» Joint statement on Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms delivered at the closing of the 2019 OSCE Ministerial Council meeting in Bratislava, Slovakia
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Press Release: Assistant Secretary Destro assured human rights defenders: “The United States stands in defense of civil society and we reject undue restrictions on civil society participation in the OSCE.”
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Statement delivered 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
Read More» 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
Read More» 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).
Read More» 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.
Read More» Statement delivered at the Permanent Council on the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia.
Read More» 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.
Read More» 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 …
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