Russian Electoral Conditions Not Conducive to Free or Fair Duma Elections
We regret that the elections took place under conditions not conducive to free and fair proceedings.
Read More» 
On Russia’s Ongoing Aggression against Ukraine and Illegal Occupation of Crimea
Russia must cease its baseless and vindictive repression of the Crimean Tatar community.
Read More»
The Lukashenka Regime’s Continuing Disregard for Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms
We condemn the politically motivated conviction and shameful sentencing on September 6 of Belarusian democratic opposition figures Maria Kalesnikava and Maksim Znak.
Read More»
Response to the Report of the Acting Head of the OSCE Mission in Kosovo, Michael Davenport
The United States seeks peace, justice, and prosperity in a democratic Kosovo that is fully integrated into the international community and part of a free, resilient, and thriving Europe.
Read More»
Response to OSCE Parliamentary Assembly President Margareta Cederfelt
We once again call upon Russia to finally join consensus on the procedural decisions regarding HDIM 2021.
Read More»
On the Secretary General’s Statement on Afghanistan
The United States would like to express our deepest and most heartfelt thanks to all those OSCE participating states that helped with the evacuation.
Read More»
Concerns over Intensifying Repression in Russia Ahead of the September Duma Elections
We call on Russia’s authorities to end their repression of human rights defenders, political opponents, and independent journalists, and to respect the human rights and fundamental freedoms of all.
Read More»
Right of Reply to Russia on Enforced Disappearances
The United States is a country where the rule of law is paramount and where we hold those who violate the law accountable.
Read More»
U.S. Statement at the Annual Security Review Conference Special Session on Ukraine
We do not, nor will we ever, recognize Russia’s purported annexation of Crimea. We reaffirm that Crimea is Ukraine.
Read More»
Russia’s Continued Obstruction of the 2021 Human Dimension Implementation Meeting
Russia’s continued obstruction of the path to the 2021 HDIM unless its unilateral demands are met is not how a responsible participating State behaves.
Read More»
Migrants Irregularly Crossing from Belarus to Lithuania
The United States shares the concerns of our Lithuanian and European allies regarding the significant uptick in migrants and asylum seekers irregularly crossing from Belarus to Lithuania.
Read More»
On the 26th Anniversary of the Srebrenica Genocide
We stand with the families of those who lost their loved ones and with those who tirelessly seek justice in their names.
Read More»
On Recent Developments in Belarus
The human rights situation in Belarus continues to deteriorate. The abuses and repression of pro-democracy activists, independent media, and civil society continue to grow.
Read More»
Response to the Address by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Poland, H.E. Mr. Zbigniew Rau
We commend Polish Foreign Minister Rau’s focus on the OSCE’s guiding Helsinki Final Act principles and the Paris Charter.
Read More»
On July 5 Violence in Georgia
The attacks targeted civic activists, community members, and journalists who were peacefully exercising the rights guaranteed to them by Georgia’s Constitution
Read More»
On Continued Crackdown on Civil Society in Russia
In recent weeks Russia continued its relentless campaign against independent civil society, democracy advocates, media, and academic institutions.
Read More»
Right of Reply to the Russian Federation on the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture 2021
(…) in the Russian Federation, where when individuals or organizations bring such allegations to light, they themselves are then arrested and tortured.
Read More»
Response to the Report by the Project Coordinator in Ukraine, Ambassador Henrik Villadsen
The United States appreciates Project Coordinator in Ukraine’s (PCU) continued focus on democratization and good governance in Ukraine.
Read More»
Response to the Report by the Head of the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat, Ambassador John MacGregor
The United States welcomes you, Ambassador MacGregor, to the Permanent Council for the first time in your new role.
Read More»
Response to the Report by the High Commissioner on National Minorities, Ambassador Kairat Abdrakhmanov
High Commissioner Abdrakhmanov, welcome to the Permanent Council for the first time in your new role and thank you so very much for your thorough first report.
Read More»
On the Report of the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media
The United States welcomes Teresa Ribeiro for her first report to the Permanent Council as the Representative on Freedom of the Media.
Read More»
On the Referendum on the Constitution of the Kyrgyz Republic
The United States notes the results of the national referendum on a new draft Kyrgyz Constitution held on April 11, 2021.
Read More»
On Addressing Racism, Xenophobia, Intolerance, And Discrimination In The Post-Pandemic Recovery
The crisis has been a stark reminder that racism and systemic discrimination disrupt lives, undermine people’s health and wellbeing, and are major drivers of inequality.
Read More»
On Turkey’s Withdrawal from the Istanbul Convention
“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.
Read More»
Deteriorating Human Rights Situation in Russia
In recent months, the Kremlin intensified its efforts to suppress independent voices and viewpoints, including those of members of civil society organizations, human rights defenders, independent journalists, political opposition members, and believers belonging to religious minority communities.
Read More»
Response to the Head of the OSCE Mission in Skopje
Statement delivered by Ambassador James S. Gilmore III to the Permanent Council on July 23, 2020
Read More»
Right of Reply on “Racism and Violence” Raised by the Russian Federation
Right of Reply by Ambassador James S. Gilmore III at the Permanent Council on July 9, 2020.
Read More»
Joint statement during the Supplementary Human Dimension Meeting
Joint Statement delivered by the Danish Mission on Addressing All Forms of Intolerance and Discrimination
Read More»
On the International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia (IDAHOTB)
Statement delivered to the Permanent Council on May 21, 2020 On IDAHOTB
Read More»
On Report by the OSCE Project Coordinator in Uzbekistan
U.S. statement delivered at the Permanent Council in response to the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan Report.
Read More»
On the UN International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination
Statement distributed to the OSCE on the UN International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination
Read More»
Response to Project Coordinator in Ukraine, Ambassador Henrik Villadsen
U.S. statement delivered at the Permanent Council in response to the Project Coordinator in Ukraine.
Read More»
Closing Remarks at the OSCE Ministerial Council Final Plenary Session
The U.S. closing statement delivered by Ambassador James S. Gilmore III at the 2019 OSCE Ministerial Council.
Read More»
Human Dimension Implementation Meeting 2019 Working Session 13
U.S. Statement delivered at HDIM 2019 Working Session 13 Tolerance and Non-Discrimination II
Read More»
Human Dimension Implementation Meeting 2019: Working Session 12
U.S. Statement delivered at HDIM 2019 Working Session 12 on Tolerance and Non-Discrimination II
Read More»
Human Dimension Implementation Meeting 2019: Working Session 8
U.S. Statement delivered at HDIM 2019 Working Session 8 on Tolerance and Non-discrimination.
Read More»
In Response to Head of OSCE Programme Office and Director of OSCE Academy in Bishkek
Statement in response to the Head of the OSCE Programme Office and the Director of the OSCE Academy in Bishkek
Read More»
On Report by the OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities
Statement delivered at the Permanent Council on Report by the OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities
Read More»
On Upholding the Principles of Tolerance and Non-Discrimination
Statement delivered at the Supplementary Human Dimension Implementation Meeting on Upholding the Principles of Tolerance and Non-Discrimination
Read More»
On the UN International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination
Statement delivered at the Permanent Council on the UN International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination
Read More»
International Women of Courage Award
Statement delivered at the Permanent Council on the International Women of Courage Award.
Read More»
On ODIHR Director Gísladóttir’s Report
Statement delivered in the Permanent Council in Response to the Report by ODIHR Director Gísladóttir
Read More»
On Allegations of Torture against Jehovah’s Witnesses Members Detained in Russia
Statement delivered at the Permanent Council on Allegations of Torture of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Russia
Read More»
On the Ongoing Harassment of Jehovah’s Witness Members in Russia
Statement delivered at the Permanent Council on the Ongoing Harassment of Jehovah’s Witness Members in Russia
Read More»
Remarks at the OSCE International Conference Against Anti-Semitism
Statement delivered by U.S. Ambassador to Slovakia Adam Sterling at the OSCE Conference Against Anti-Semitism
Read More»
On International Holocaust Remembrance Day
Statement at the Permanent Council observing International Holocaust Remembrance Day
Read More»
Response to OSCE Parliamentary Assembly President Tsereteli
Statement to the Permanent Council in Response to OSCE PA President Tsereteli
Read More»
Response to the CiO’s Representatives on Tolerance and Non-Discrimination
Response to the Addresses to the Permanent Council by the Chairperson-in-Office’s Personal Representatives on Tolerance and Non-Discrimination.
Read More»
HDIM: Working Session 9 – Tolerance and Non-Discrimination (Part 2), Including Roma and Sinti Issues
Statement at HDIM Working Session 9 – Tolerance and non-discrimination 2, Including Roma and Sinti Issues.
Read More»
Response to Croatia’s Foreign Minister Marija Pejčinović Burić
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»
Response to the Report by the HCNM
Response to OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities, Lamberto Zannier’s report to the Permanent Council.
Read More» On the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia
Statement delivered at the Permanent Council on the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia.
Read More»
Response to the Head of the OSCE Program Office in Dushanbe
Statement delivered at the Permanent Council in Response to the Head of the OSCE Program Office in Dushanbe
Read More»
Remarks at the Engaging Men and Boys in Preventing Violence Against Women and Children Event
Gender-based violence harms individuals, violates the most basic of our inalienable human rights.
Read More»
Response to the Representatives on Tolerance and Non-discrimination
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»
Right of Reply to Russia on the Glorification of Nazism
The United States condemns the glorification of Nazism and all modern forms of racism, xenophobia, discrimination, and related intolerance.
Read More»
Joint Statement by Canada and the United States on Gross Violations of Human Rights of LGBTI Persons in Chechnya
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.
Read More» Response to the OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities
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.
Read More»
On Tajikistan’s LGBTI Registry
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.
Read More»
In Recognition of Intersex Awareness Day
The United States stands in solidarity with intersex persons and their advocates around the world.
Read More»
On Reports of Police Abuse of Gay and Transgender People in Azerbaijan
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» On Reports of Violations of LGBTI Persons Rights in Chechnya
We ask Russia to clarify: is there an ongoing federal-level investigation into reports of a brutal campaign against gay men in Chechnya?
Read More»
Response to Gender Equality Reports by Ambassador Melanne Verveer and the OSCE Secretary General
Together, we can improve gender equality at the Organization and throughout the OSCE region, and thereby create more peaceful, stable, and secure societies.
Read More»
Tolerance and Non-discrimination: Statement at HDIM Session 10
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.
Read More»
Tolerance and Non-discrimination: Statement at HDIM Session 9
The United States is committed to promoting and advancing girls’ education, at home and abroad.
Read More»
Tolerance and Non-discrimination: Statement at HDIM Session 8
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»
Tolerance and Non-discrimination: Statement at HDIM Session 7
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.
Read More»
Joint Statement on the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia
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.
Read More»
Russia’s Misuse of Terrorism and Extremism Laws to Restrict the Freedom of Thought, Conscience, Religion or Belief
Mr. Chair, colleagues, let me be clear – the threat to our region from violent extremism and terrorism is real. However, the prosecution of members of peaceful religious minority groups for “extremism” serves only to distract from and undermine our mutual efforts to combat true violent threats.
Read More»
Hate Crimes in the United States
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.
Read More»
Response to Report by Head of the OSCE Mission to Montenegro
We will continue to work with Montenegro’s leaders in support of its NATO and EU accession efforts in pursuit of a Europe whole, free, and at peace.
Read More»
Response to the Head of the OSCE Mission to Serbia
With presidential elections on the horizon, ensuring an open space for civil society and freedom of expression is crucial to strengthening Serbia’s democracy.
Read More»
Reply to Russia on Recommitting to Holocaust Remembrance, Reaffirming Commitments on Combating Intolerance and Discrimination | Statement to the PC
Since the Russian Federation raised our opposition to a UN resolution on Combating the Glorification of Nazism, I would like to state our position and correct any possible misrepresentation.
Read More»
Recommitting to Holocaust Remembrance, Reaffirming Commitments on Combating Intolerance and Discrimination | Statement to the PC
We must act upon the lessons of the Holocaust and confront hate, intolerance, and cruelty wherever they arise. We must speak out against bigotry and evil. We must prevent and prosecute crimes of hate.
Read More»
Farewell Remarks by Ambassador Daniel Baer | Statement to the PC
Defending universal values — making them real in the world — isn’t a diplomat’s burden to bear. It is our honor to pursue.
Read More»
Reply to Russia on Ensuring Constitutional Policing in the United States | Statement to the PC
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.
Read More»
Secretary of State John Kerry at the Opening Session of the OSCE Ministerial | Statement to the 2016 Ministerial Council
Friends and colleagues, we meet in Hamburg today to reaffirm the same idea that tied us together in Helsinki 41 years ago: that our collective security is directly linked to the growth of our economies and the protection of basic human rights.
Read More»
Response to ODIHR’s Director on the 2016 Human Dimension Implementation Meeting | Statement to the PC
Director Link, the United States welcomes you back to the Permanent Council and thanks you for your report on the 2016 Human Dimension Implementation Meeting. On behalf of my delegation here in Vienna, and our colleagues from Washington, Moscow, and Baku who were part of the U.S. delegation to HDIM, I would like thank you, …
Read More»
Closing Remarks | Statement at the Closing Plenary of HDIM 2016
As the 2016 HDIM draws to a close, my delegation wishes to share some observations that will shape our approach to the OSCE Ministerial in Hamburg. First: Helsinki Final Act Principles linking respect for human rights within states to lasting security among states could not be more relevant. These foundational principles are under siege and …
Read More»
Roma and Sinti Issues | Statement at Working Session 15 of the 2016 HDIM
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 …
Read More»
Tolerance and Non-Discrimination | Right of Reply at Working Session 11 of HDIM 2016
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 …
Read More»
Tolerance and Non-Discrimination | Statement at Working Session 11 of HDIM 2016
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» Tolerance and Non-Discrimination | Right of Reply at Working Session 10 of HDIM 2016
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» Tolerance and Non-Discrimination | Statement at Working Session 10 of HDIM 2016
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» On the Prevention of Sexual Violence in Conflict | Statement to the PC
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» On Peaceful Protests and Ensuring Constitutional Policing in the U.S. | Statement to the PC
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. …
Read More»
Protecting the Rights of Migrants in the U.S. | Statement to the PC
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, …
Read More»
On Solidarity With LGBTI People Around the World | Statement to the PC
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»
Response to the Report by the OSCE Project Coordinator in Ukraine | Statement to the PC
We urge the Government of Ukraine to work closely with the Project Coordinator to maximize its contributions to the fight against corruption.
Read More»
Response to Condolences for Orlando: Statement to the PC
The best way to honor the innocence of the victims is through our own dedicated toil to build societies that reject intolerance and reject terror, that respect and protect human dignity and human rights.
Read More» Right of Reply to the Russian Federation on the U.S. migration record: Statement to the PC
Thank you very much, Mr. Chair. I reserve my right to come back to this topic at a later time, but allow me to make some brief initial remarks today. Just to begin, colleagues, I’d like to point out, that this seems to be the recurrence of a pattern, whereby whenever concerns are raised in …
Read More» On the International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia (IDAHOT): Statement to the PC
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»
Replies to the Holy See on the International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia (IDAHOT) | Statement to the PC
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. …
Read More» We Must Never Forget – Holocaust Remembrance Day: Statement to the PC
This is a time to reaffirm our commitments and responsibilities to ourselves and future generations. It is incumbent upon us, the participating States of the OSCE, to make real the words, “Never forget. Never again.”
Read More» On Allegations of Police Misconduct in Chicago: Statement to the PC
Events in the United States involving police conduct in Ferguson, Missouri, Baltimore, New York, Chicago, and elsewhere continue to have a major effect on relations among minority groups, law enforcement, and government. These are issues that have confronted the American people for much of our history. Building trust between law enforcement officers and the communities …
Read More» Reply to Russia on Tolerance and Non-discrimination in the United States: Statement to the PC
I would like to thank the distinguished Russian ambassador for raising the need to address racism, intolerance, and violence in the United States. I assume, of course, that his statement reflects the Russian government’s genuine concern about human rights in the United States. And before I reply to the substance, let me take this opportunity …
Read More» Response to OSCE Chairperson’s Personal Representatives on Tolerance: Statement to the PC
The United States welcomes back to the Permanent Council the Chairmanship’s Personal Representatives for Tolerance: Professor Talip Küçükcan, Ambassador Alexey Avtonomov, and Rabbi Andrew Baker. Thank you for your presentations and in particular your concrete recommendations on ways to improve how we can work together to further OSCE commitments to combat intolerance and discrimination. The …
Read More» Roma and Sinti issues: HDIM 2015, Session 16
Moderator, earlier this year, the Vienna City Museum hosted an impressive exhibit on Romani history – I know some of our OSCE colleagues in Austria were able to see it. One of the striking objects on display was a 1655 legal codex that, in turn, renewed an even older decree on the expulsion of Roma. …
Read More» Combating racism, xenophobia, and discrimination: HDIM 2015, Session 14
The United States firmly believes that strengthening our joint efforts to combat anti-Semitism as well as intolerance and discrimination against Muslims, Christians, and members of other religions is a key element of ensuring security and respect for all people in the OSCE region. We commend the sustained engagement of the OSCE Chairman-in-Office’s Personal Representative on …
Read More» Combating hate crimes and ensuring effective protection against discrimination (part II): HDIM 2015, Session 13
The United States seeks to promote equality and overcome discrimination. The recent wave of high-profile cases in which African-Americans died during encounters with police has been met with efforts by our federal government, state and local governments and communities across our country to address racial disparities and racial bias in the U.S. criminal justice system. …
Read More» Combating hate crimes and ensuring effective protection against discrimination: HDIM 2015, Session 12
Today’s special sessions on combating hate crimes and ensuring effective protection against discrimination are especially timely. In recent months, our nation has mourned the reportedly racially motivated murders of nine African-Americans during a church service in South Carolina. In August, a state jury convicted a man of murder for killing three people, who it turned …
Read More» Tolerance and non-discrimination, including equal opportunity for women and men in all spheres of life: HDIM 2015, Session 5
When women and girls are empowered, educated, and equipped to contribute to their societies, their families and their countries are more likely to prosper, and be more stable and secure. Globally, however, women and girls are disproportionately affected by poverty and discrimination. In some places, women’s leadership and participation in politics, civil society, and the …
Read More» Response to the Report by the Head of the OSCE Mission in Kosovo: Statement to the PC
The United States welcomes Ambassador Schlumberger back to the Permanent Council for another comprehensive and detailed report. Ambassador Schlumberger, as you noted in your report, the OSCE Mission in Kosovo (OMiK) remains a trusted and reliable partner to local and international institutions and communities. The Mission’s focus on key areas – including human rights and cross-dimensional issues such …
Read More» On Anti-Roma Statements in Slovakia and Anti-Roma Protests Bulgaria: Statement to the PC
The United States is concerned about recent statements made by Slovak politicians that Romani students needed to be segregated into special education classes due to genetic deficiencies caused by higher levels of incest in the Romani community. These assertions are not only highly offensive, they are completely untrue. We urge Slovak politicians and the government …
Read More» Love, Justice, and Equality in the United States of America: Statement to the PC
I want to speak today more personally than I normally would. The title of this item on today’s agenda—love, justice, and equality in the United States of America—is purposefully broad. Since we’ve last gathered in this Council I have—like many Americans—wept tears of sorrow and tears of joy in response to events in my country. …
Read More» ASRC 2015, Working Session 3: The OSCE and its Neighborhood
I want to thank the panelists for highlighting a number of issues from terrorism, irregular migration, regional stability, that are shared concerns for all of us. And we welcome the opportunity to address some of these security challenges from the perspective of the neighborhood. I will comment on three general areas. First – the increasing …
Read More» Reply to the Holy See and Russia on IDAHOT: Statement to the PC
I would just like to express on behalf of my delegation, the deep regret we have that the Holy See found it necessary after there was, what I heard to be, a chorus of voices not arguing for any special rights, but laying out the principle that has been often affirmed in OSCE decisions, which …
Read More» On the International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia (IDAHOT): Statement to the PC
The International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia, marked this year on May 17, is a call to action, a call to stand with lesbian, gay, transgender, and intersex communities (LGBTI) across the world and reaffirm our commitment to the equality and dignity of all people, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Discrimination against LGBTI …
Read More» On the 71st Anniversary of the Deportation of Crimean Tatars and the Situation in Crimea: Statement to the PC
Representatives of many participating States recently underlined the importance of preserving history, learning from it, and honoring victims of horrific episodes in the past by upholding and defending universal human rights today. May 18, 2015, marked the 71st anniversary of the Soviet government’s forcible deportation of more than 230,000 Crimean Tatars from their homeland. Last …
Read More» Statement on International Roma Day: Statement to the PC
April 8 was International Roma Day. As we celebrate the history and culture of Romani communities and individuals, we must acknowledge that discrimination against Roma remains part of the unfinished business of advancing human rights in Europe. That is why the United States is working to end exclusion, discrimination and intolerance against Roma people everywhere. …
Read More» On International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination: Statement to the PC
Each participating State has committed itself to respect what the Helsinki Final Act calls “the inherent dignity of the human person.” The International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, which was marked on March 21, provides an opportunity to reflect upon what each of our countries has done to uphold this commitment and what …
Read More» Joint Statement on Zero Discrimination Day: Statement to the PC
Delivered on behalf of the following 48 participating States: Albania, Andorra, Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Canada, the European Union and its member states: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and the …
Read More» On Holocaust Remembrance Day, We Cannot Ignore Today’s Rising Intolerance: Statement to the PC
The United States welcomes to the Permanent Council Sir Andrew Burns, Chair of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance, and Ambassador Roksanda Ninčić, State Secretary of the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Serbia and Head of Delegation of the Republic of Serbia to the Holocaust Remembrance Alliance, and thanks both of them for …
Read More» Response to the Chairmanship-in-Office’s Three Personal Representatives for Tolerance: Statement to the PC
The United States welcomes to the Permanent Council the Chairmanship’s Personal Representatives for Tolerance: Professor Talip Küçükcan, Ambassador Alexey Avtonomov, and Rabbi Andrew Baker. As we approach the end of the Swiss Chairmanship, and look forward to the Serbian Chairmanship, it is timely to reflect on our tolerance-related work and look forward to what can …
Read More»Show More ∨