News and press releases

On the occasion of the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, the OSCE Mission to BiH, in co-operation with the Office of the OSCE Special Representative and Co-ordinator for Combating Trafficking in Human Beings, organized a workshop to address human trafficking among minorities, children, and persons with disabilities.

VALLETTA/VIENNA/WARSAW, 30 July 2024 – Marking World Day against Trafficking in Persons, OSCE Chair-in-Office, Minister of Foreign and European Affairs and Trade of Malta Ian Borg, OSCE Secretary General Helga Maria Schmid, Director of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights Matteo Mecacci and OSCE Special Representative and Co-ordinator for Combating Trafficking in Human Beings Kari Johnstone underscored the need to strengthen collaborative efforts to identify victims of human trafficking and prevent exploitation of the most vulnerable, particularly children.

On 29-31 July 2024, the OSCE Project Co-Ordinator in Uzbekistan (PCUz), in co-operation with the National Human Rights Centre (NHRC) of the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Main Directorate for the Execution of Punishments, launched a three-day training on the UN Bangkok Rules and gender-sensitive approaches to torture prevention.

While physical violence against journalists has decreased in recent years, forms of attacks have evolved, taking on more insidious and damaging forms. If left unaddressed, these newer threats can have profound consequences for media professionals. Recognizing the urgency of this issue and in support of journalists’ work, the OSCE Mission to Montenegro, upon the request of its partner Media Trade Union, organized a workshop on psychological well-being and support for media workers on 27 and 28 July in Sutomore.

SARAJEVO, 25 July 2024- Today, the Municipality of Čelić celebrates the opening of its first fire station, an event that marks a significant step forward in strengthening the security infrastructure of this area. With the presence of citizens, representatives of local authorities and international organizations, the new building was officially opened, making Čelić a safer place to live.

THE HAGUE, 25 July 2024 – Natur og Ungdom from Norway has been selected as the winner of the 2024 Max van der Stoel Award. The Award recognizes this organization’s efforts to give young people of all backgrounds a voice in environmental policy.

From 22 to 24 July 2024, the OSCE Transnational Threats Department, jointly with the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan, facilitated a needs assessment mission to Uzbekistan, focusing on requesting electronic evidence across borders. The mission was held as part of the E-VIDENCE project dedicated to building the capacity of law enforcement in requesting electronic evidence across borders for investigating online criminal matters, including terrorism-related.