OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights
Who we are
The OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) is one of the world’s principal regional human rights bodies. Based in Warsaw, Poland, ODIHR is active throughout Europe, the Caucasus, Central Asia and North America. The Office promotes democratic elections, respect for human rights, tolerance and non-discrimination, and the rule of law. Established in 1991, ODIHR employs more than 150 staff from over 30 countries. The Office’s activities are funded through a core budget, which is approved annually by participating States, as well as through voluntary contributions.
Former directors
- 2020-2024: Matteo Mecacci (Italy)
- 2017-2020: Ingibjörg Sólrún Gísladóttir (Iceland)
- 2014-2017: Michael Georg Link (Germany)
- 2008-2014: Janez Lenarčič (Slovenia)
- 2003-2008: Christian Strohal (Austria)
- 1997-2002: Gerard Stoudmann (Switzerland)
- 1994-1997: Audrey Glover (United Kingdom)
- 1991-1994: Luchino Cortese (Italy)