OSCE hosts meeting for Kyrgyz civil society to discuss counter-terrorism and human rights

BISHKEK, 7 December 2009 - Civil society representatives from across Kyrgyzstan gathered in Bishkek today at an OSCE-organized meeting to discuss the role of non-governmental organizations in addressing extremism and ensuring respect for human rights in the fight against terrorism. 

The two-day meeting, organized by the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR), the OSCE Centre in Bishkek, the OSCE Action Against Terrorism Unit and the Office of the UN High Commissioner on Human Rights, focuses on reinforcing the capacity of civil society in addressing violent extremism and terrorism in line with human rights standards. Sessions will highlight key human rights in the context of countering terrorism, and the crucial relationship between human rights and comprehensive security.

Lilian Darii, the Deputy Head of the OSCE Centre in Bishkek, said: "OSCE participating States have committed themselves to respecting human rights principles in their work to counter terrorism. This meeting supports dialogue between civil society and authorities, as well as human rights activists' efforts to foster links between the authorities and the public in addressing the root causes of terrorism and violent extremism in accordance with international human rights standards."

Kelly Low, ODIHR's Adviser on Anti-Terrorism Issues, added: "Civil society has an important role to play in the prevention of terrorism, in particular with regard to ensuring respect for the rule of law and human rights in all counter-terrorism measures. Establishing a genuine partnership between civil society and government is essential in this respect."