Enhanced Understanding on Freedom of Movement in all Phases of the Conflict Cycle
Since the Helsinki Final Act of 1975, the OSCE region has experienced a number of conflicts that have not only destabilized the region but have also had a very negative impact on human rights and fundamental freedoms, triggering grave humanitarian consequences and human suffering. Unfortunately, the tensions, crises and conflict situations continue to this day. In 2023, according to UNHCR, displacement has reached approximately 27 million, including internal displacement within the OSCE region. This number includes those displaced from Ukraine since February 2022. At times of conflict, protection under International and Regional Human Rights Law and International Refugee Law is complemented by the protection offered under International Humanitarian Law, all mirrored in OSCE Commitments.
This guidebook seeks to clarify the legal standards that should apply in times of conflict, to assist practitioners in developing their monitoring tools on freedom of movement, in reporting on this important right in all phasesof the conflict cycle, and in their advocacy activities. The right to freedom of movement includes the right to leave, the right to move internally within a territory and the right to return.
The views, opinions, conclusions and other information expressed in this document are not given nor necessarily endorsed by the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) unless the OSCE is explicitly defined as the Author of this document.