OSCE/ODIHR delivers report on reform to Ministerial Council

BRUSSELS, 4 December 2006 - The OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) has submitted a report to the annual Ministerial Council on its activities, as a part of the Organization's ongoing debate on reform.

At last year's Ministerial Council, the ODIHR was tasked to report on the implementation of existing OSCE commitments on human rights and democracy; possible supplementary commitments, ways to strengthen and further its election observation and improve the effectiveness of its assistance to the 56 participating States.

"This report not only reflects on the work of the ODIHR, but also on our understanding of the nature and depth of commitments undertaken by participating States over the years," said Ambassador Christian Strohal, ODIHR Director.

"It is our contribution to the ongoing debate on ways to strengthen the effectiveness of the Organization. It offers concrete proposals about ODIHR's future election observation activities, human rights and tolerance-related issues, as well as issues pertaining to democratic governance and rule of law."

The report, Common Responsibility: Commitments and Implementation, identifies a number of areas of concern for the entire OSCE region, such as curtailing freedom of assembly and association, the situation of human rights defenders, and electoral shortcomings.

It suggests how these issues may be addressed and discusses possible additional commitments on elections, separation of powers, democratic law-making, administration of justice, protection of human rights in the fight against terrorism, prevention of torture and non-discrimination.

The paper covers different election-related issues, from the ODIHR mandate to observe election and the methodology used, to geographical composition of its election observation missions, to where and how to observe, to training, recommendations and follow-up procedures. It presents a number of concrete measures, some already underway, to strengthen its election-related assistance.

"Compiling this report has been a valuable exercise," added Ambassador Strohal. "It has encouraged us to reflect on the work and the issues ahead. I hope it will also be of value for the Ministerial Council in its deliberations over the next two days."