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OSCE Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe
OSCE Secretary General Sinirlioğlu in Paris on the Role of the OSCE in the European Security Architecture
At a time of growing international tensions, the Secretary General of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), Feridun H. Sinirlioğlu, concluded an official visit to Paris with talks with France's Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Jean-Noël Barrot, on the crisis hotspots around Europe and the role of the OSCE.
July 9, 2025
Ban Ki-moon Praises Vienna and Reaffirms its Leading Role in Multilateralism
During a visit to Vienna, former United Nations Secretary-General and Co-Chair of the Ban Ki-moon Centre for Global Citizens (BKMC), Ban Ki-moon, praised Austria and the city of Vienna for their leading role in the field of multilateralism. At a time of increasing geopolitical tensions, he emphasized the crucial importance of international cooperation.
July 3, 2025
OSCE Annual Security Review Conference 2025 Calls for Cooperation and European Security
The Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) has concluded its two-day Annual Security Review Conference (ASRC) in Vienna. This high-level conference served as a central platform to discuss the current security situation in the OSCE area and to assess the joint efforts of the 57 participating states to promote peace and stability.
June 27, 2025
OSCE Secretary General Sinirlioğlu in Oslo: Appeal to Revitalize the “Spirit of Helsinki”
In light of an escalating geopolitical situation and a Europe at war, the Secretary General of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), Feridun H. Sinirlioğlu, has concluded his first official visit to Norway. The focus of his visit was participation in an international seminar at the Norwegian Parliament, the Storting, dedicated to the 50th anniversary of the Helsinki Final Act. Sinirlioğlu took the opportunity to emphasize the fundamental principles of the landmark 1975 document as a guide for addressing today's crises.
June 18, 2025
OSCE Chairpersonship Conference Emphasizes Comprehensive Approach to Climate Protection
The third annual OSCE Chairmanship Conference on Climate and Security, held in Espoo, Finland, emphasized the urgent need to respond to the pressing national, regional, and global security challenges posed by climate change. The conference highlighted the importance of a comprehensive and whole-of-society approach to advancing the climate and security agenda.
June 17, 2025
Meet the New Georgian Ambassador Alexander Maisuradze in Vienna
Alexander Maisuradze is the new Ambassador of Georgia to the Republic of Austria and Permanent Representative of his country to the international organizations in Vienna. The experienced diplomat formally presented his credentials to the Austrian president and several leading representatives of multilateral diplomacy in the Austrian capital.
May 19, 2025
Spain Ends Chairmanship of the OSCE Forum for Security Co-operation: Focus on Dialogue and Rule of Law
Spain ended its chairmanship under the most difficult of circumstances. When Spain took over the chairmanship of the Forum for Security Co-operation (FSC) of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) in January, the security situation in Europe was more tense than ever. The Russian war of aggression against Ukraine has now been raging for more than three years, trust between states is crumbling, military threats are increasing, and many international forums appear paralysed.
May 12, 2025
OSCE Conference in Vienna: Joint Strategies for Climate Security and Resilience
Under the motto “Resilient Together in a Changing Climate”, over 140 representatives from the 57 OSCE participating States, partner countries, international organizations, and civil society gathered in Vienna. The event was organized as part of Finland's OSCE Chairmanship 2025 and was dedicated to strengthening resilience to the security challenges posed by climate change.
May 5, 2025
Austria Backs Multilateralism and Calls for Strengthening of International Cooperation in Vienna
Austrian Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger opened the constituent meeting of the Council for Austrian Integration and Foreign Policy (RIA) in Vienna. In her speech, she emphasized the central role of multilateral organizations such as the EU, the UN, and the OSCE in ensuring security and stability in the face of global tensions.
April 17, 2025
OSCE Secretary General Emphasizes Central Role of the Organization for Europe's Security at Antalya Diplomacy Forum
At this year's Antalya Diplomacy Forum (ADF), the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) was the focus of numerous discussions on the future of the European security architecture. The Secretary General of the OSCE, Feridun H. Sinirlioğlu, emphasized the importance of the organization as a platform for dialogue, stability, and multilateral cooperation.
April 17, 2025
Voices from Vienna Against Republika Srpska Leaders Amid Constitutional Crisis in Bosnia and Herzegovina
In an unprecedented diplomatic move, Austria and Germany have imposed targeted travel bans against three high-ranking officials from Republika Srpska (RS) – including RS President Milorad Dodik – accusing them of endangering the constitutional integrity of Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH). Meanwhile, the OSCE condemned legislative and institutional moves undermining BiH’s sovereignty and legal structure as well as assuring the organization's support for stability in the region.
April 9, 2025
Strengthening Neighbourly Ties: Swiss Ignazio Cassis Receives Austrian Foreign Minister Meinl-Reisinger
Despite a time of increasing geopolitical challenges, the traditional neighborly dialogue between Switzerland and Austria is gaining importance. Against this backdrop, a bilateral working meeting took place in Bern between Austrian Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger and her Swiss counterpart, Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis. The meeting aimed to deepen existing relations and discuss joint solutions for current political and security policy issues.
April 6, 2025
Meet Japan's Ambassador to the Republic of Austria
Iwama Kiminori has been serving as Japan's Ambassador to Austria for some time. With an impressive diplomatic career and extensive international experience, he aims to further expand and deepen the traditionally good relations between Japan and Austria. Meet Ambassador Iwama Kiminori, the top diplomat of Japan in Vienna.
March 13, 2025
Meet Ukraine's Permanent Representative to the International Organizations in Vienna
The new Permanent Representative of Ukraine to the United Nations in Vienna, Yurii Vitrenko, presented his credentials to the Director-General of the United Nations Office at Vienna (UNOV), Ghada Waly. Meet Ambassador Yurii Vitrenko, the Permanent Representative of Ukraine to the International Organizations in Vienna.
March 11, 2025
Progress and Deadlocks: 63rd Round of the Geneva International Discussions
The 63rd round of the Geneva International Discussions (GID) took place at the Palais des Nations in Geneva. Under the leadership of the United Nations, the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), and the European Union (EU), representatives of various conflict parties gathered to discuss security issues and humanitarian concerns in the region. While some progress was made, key topics remained unresolved due to diplomatic tensions.
March 10, 2025
OSCE Secretary General Reaffirms Support for Ukraine During Kyiv Visit
The Secretary General of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), Feridun H. Sinirlioğlu, recently visited Kyiv to reaffirm the organization's commitment to supporting Ukraine amid the ongoing war. Over the course of his two-day visit, he held high-level discussions with Ukrainian officials, emphasizing the urgent need for peace and the OSCE’s role in addressing the humanitarian and security challenges facing the country.
February 25, 2025
OSCE Special Representative Visits Moldova for the Settlement Process of the Transnistrian Conflict
The OSCE Chairmanship's Special Representative for the Transnistria Conflict, Ambassador Thomas Lenk, has made his first official visit to the Republic of Moldova. The visit aimed to assess the current status of the Transnistria conflict resolution process and to promote dialog and confidence-building measures between the parties to the conflict.
February 16, 2025
Minister and Chancellor Schallenberg Met with his Luxembourgian Counterpart
Austria and Luxembourg have reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining a rule-based international order. This was the central theme of a recent bilateral meeting between Austrian Chancellor and Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg and Luxembourg’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Xavier Bettel in Vienna. The discussions underscored the importance of diplomatic dialogue and international cooperation in addressing pressing global issues.
February 6, 2025
OSCE Secretary General Feridun Sinirlioğlu Completed First Official Visits
Türkiye's top diplomat, Feridun H. Sinirlioğlu, has been appointed the new Secretary General of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE). He will take office at the beginning of 2025 and will lead the world's largest regional security organization during a time of global crises and geopolitical tensions. The unanimous election of the 57 OSCE member states underlines the international trust in his many years of experience and diplomatic expertise.
January 29, 2025
OSCE Secretary General Feridun H. Sinirlioğlu Travels to Helsinki for His First Official Visit
The Secretary General of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), Feridun H. Sinirlioğlu, is expected to make his first official visit to the Finnish capital Helsinki on 16 January 2025. The visit marks an important stage in his still young term of office, which he took up in December 2024. In addition to talks with high-ranking Finnish politicians and diplomats, the focus will be on security policy issues, which are urgent in light of the ongoing war in Ukraine.
January 15, 2025
Belarus Refuses OSCE Election Observation: International Concern Grows
The Belarusian government's decision not to invite the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) to observe the upcoming presidential elections on 26 January has caused international criticism and concern. The OSCE, in particular the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) and the Parliamentary Assembly (OSCE PA), strongly condemned this step and warned of the consequences for the country's democratic development.
January 9, 2025
Finland Takes Over OSCE Chairmanship: Focus on Resilience and Ukraine Support
In 2025, the 50th anniversary year of the Helsinki Final Act, Finland will assume the Chairmanship of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE). With a clear focus on strengthening the resilience of the participating states and the organization, Finland is taking on a central role in Europe, marked by geopolitical tensions.
January 2, 2025
Switzerland Will Assume the OSCE Chairmanship in 2026
Switzerland will assume the Chairmanship of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) in 2026. This was announced today by Ian Borg, Malta's Deputy Prime Minister and Chairperson-in-Office of the OSCE. The 57 participating states of the organization took the decision unanimously and underlined their collective confidence in the OSCE's ability to act.
December 30, 2024
OSCE Ministerial Council in Malta: Challenges for the European Security Architecture
The 31st Ministerial Council of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) ended today in Malta with groundbreaking decisions aimed at securing the future of the organization and strengthening its ability to act. The meeting focused on personnel decisions, institutional reforms, the controversial participation of Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, and the ongoing tensions surrounding the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine.
December 12, 2024
Police Violence During Protests in Georgia: Sharp Criticism from OSCE and Ombudsman
The escalating protests in Georgia against the government's decision to suspend EU accession negotiations until 2028 have been accompanied by a wave of international criticism. Both the OSCE and the Georgian human rights commissioner have condemned the disproportionate use of force by the police. Reports of excessive police violence, numerous injuries, and arrests paint a bleak picture of the situation in the former Soviet republic.
December 4, 2024
Meet the New Permanent Observer of the Council of Europe to the International Organizations in Vienna
Hermine Poppeller, the Council of Europe's new permanent observer, presented her credentials to the Director-General of the United Nations Office at Vienna, Ghada Waly. Meet Ambassador, Hermine Poppeller, the new permanent observer of the Council of Europe to the International Organizations in Vienna.
November 14, 2024
62nd Round of Geneva Talks: Progress and Challenges in the Dialogue on the Conflicts in the South Caucasus
Delegations gathered at the Palais des Nations on November 5 and 6, 2024 for the 62nd round of the Geneva International Discussions (GID) on the unresolved conflicts in the South Caucasus. The Geneva talks, which have been convened since 2008 following the Georgian-Russian war, provide a platform for dialog and diplomatic exchange between Georgia, Russia, Abkhazia, South Ossetia, and representatives of the EU, OSCE, and the United Nations.
November 6, 2024
Georgian Parliamentary Elections Characterized by Unevenness and Tension
Widespread tensions, political polarization, and numerous concerns about fairness marked the recent parliamentary elections in Georgia. While voters had a choice of 18 parties and lists, international election observers, including the OSCE and the Council of Europe, criticized the conditions as unequal and prone to manipulation. In particular, the controversial Foreign Influence Transparency Act, introduced shortly before the elections, exacerbated the conflict and significantly impaired the independence of civil society.
October 27, 2024
Austria's State Security: Increasing Threat of Terrorism in Europe Since the Hamas Attack
In the last twelve months, the threat of planned terrorist attacks in Europe has increased significantly. The Directorate of State Security and Intelligence (DSN) reported a fivefold increase in the number of detected attack plans since 7 October 2023, when the Islamist terrorist organization Hamas launched a large-scale attack on Israel. This development underlines the increasing security threat in Europe, particularly concerning geopolitical tensions.
October 23, 2024
OSCE Chairman-in-Office Ian Borg on Strengthening the Organization during the UN General Assembly
The Chairman-in-Office of the OSCE, Maltese Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Ian Borg, took the opportunity of the 79th United Nations General Assembly in New York to address the most pressing challenges facing the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) in a series of meetings. The central themes of his discussions with high-ranking representatives of various states revolved around ensuring the OSCE's ability to function in the face of global and regional tensions as well as financial and personnel difficulties.
October 3, 2024
Finland Takes Over OSCE Chairmanship in 2025: Focus on Resilience and Support for Ukraine
Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen outlined Finland's priorities for the OSCE Chairmanship in 2025 to the OSCE Permanent Council in Vienna. Finland's approach is based on three central pillars: resilience, support for Ukraine and upholding OSCE principles that have been violated by Russia's actions. This comes at a time when the European security architecture is under severe pressure.
September 25, 2024
OSCE Economic and Environmental Forum 2024: Focus on Digitalization and Climate Protection
The 31st OSCE Economic and Environmental Forum at the Czernin Palace in Prague focused on the global challenges posed by digital transformation and climate change. Under the theme “Strengthening security and stability in the OSCE area through digital innovation”, the risks and opportunities arising from technological change and climate adaptation were discussed in depth. The forum brought together high-level representatives from governments, international organizations, academia, business, and civil society to debate innovative approaches and policy solutions.
September 17, 2024
OSCE Chairman-in-Office Ian Borg Ensures Organizational Continuity During Leadership Transition
In the absence of consensus on the appointment of a new leadership for the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), the Chairperson-in-Office, Malta's Minister for Foreign and European Affairs Ian Borg, has taken important steps to ensure the Organization's ability to operate during this transitional period.
September 9, 2024
Azerbaijan's Parliamentary Elections: Lack of Competition and Restricted Fundamental Freedoms Draw International Criticism
On 1 September 2024, early parliamentary elections were held in Azerbaijan, which were sharply criticized by international observers from the OSCE. Despite efficient organization, the election was marked by a lack of political competition and an increasingly repressive political climate, which raised doubts about the democratic legitimacy of the entire process.
September 8, 2024
International Headquarters Vienna: Economic Importance and Future Potential
A recently published study by the economic research institute WIFO on behalf of the Austrian Foreign Ministry illustrates the significant financial impact of international organizations in Austria.
July 31, 2024
OSCE Chairman Ian Borg Concludes Central Asia Trip: Focus on Regional Cooperation and Security
In an intensive diplomatic mission, the Chairman of the OSCE (Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe) and Maltese Foreign and European Affairs Minister Ian Borg visited the Central Asian countries of Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, and Kyrgyzstan. The trip aimed to strengthen cooperation and emphasize the role of the OSCE in tackling regional security challenges.
July 4, 2024
25 Years of the OSCE Mission in Kosovo: An Anniversary of Success and Cooperation
The OSCE Mission in Kosovo celebrates its 25th anniversary and looks back on a quarter of a century of intensive and successful work in the service of peace, democracy, and human rights.
July 1, 2024
OSCE and OIC Intensify Cooperation: High Commissioner on National Minorities Visits Jeddah
The High Commissioner on National Minorities of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), Kairat Abdrakhmanov, met with the Secretary General of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), Hissein Brahim Taha, and members of his cabinet in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The meeting aimed to discuss concrete ways to strengthen cooperation in areas of common interest.
July 1, 2024
Malta Launches OSCE Conference on the Security Implications of Climate Change
A high-level conference on climate change was held in the Maltese capital Valletta, organized by the Chairmanship of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE). This conference aims to examine the security implications of the climate crisis for the OSCE area and to emphasize the urgent need for cooperative efforts to tackle this global challenge.
June 25, 2024
Intensification of Cooperation between the Republic of Moldova and Austria: Visit of Popșoi to Vienna
The Foreign Minister of the Republic of Moldova, Mihai Popșoi, is in Vienna to hold important talks with the Austrian Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg, while the OSCE is holding talks in Chișinău with Moldovan state officials. These visits are part of Popșoi's wider efforts and travels across Europe to intensify cooperation between Moldova and the EU and Moldova's European aspirations.
June 21, 2024
OSCE Chairman Ian Borg Reaffirms Peace Efforts at Ukraine Summit in Switzerland
The Ukraine peace summit on the Bürgenstock in Switzerland emphasized the OSCE efforts under the leadership of Ian Borg, while Russia was conspicuous by its absence and strict negotiating conditions.
June 17, 2024
Georgia in the Focus of the OSCE: Protests, Political Tensions and International Support
The political situation in Georgia remains tense as the population takes to the streets to protest against a controversial law and international actors pledge their support. During his visit to Georgia, the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, Malta's Foreign Minister Ian Borg, emphasized the importance of civil society and the organization's role in conflict resolution. At the same time, protests against the so-called "agent law", seen by many as a threat to the country's democratic structures and EU integration, are continuing.
May 16, 2024
Malta Champions Enhanced UN-OSCE Cooperation Amidst Global Security Challenges
As Malta takes a prominent stance in international diplomacy by chairing the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), it has vowed to strengthen its collaboration with the United Nations to face what is described as Europe's greatest security challenge since 1945. Malta’s Foreign Minister Ian Borg affirmed the commitment during his address to the UN Security Council in New York City.
April 23, 2024
OSCE Chair Ian Borg Concludes Diplomatic Tour Across Serbia, Kosovo, and Moldova
Ian Borg, the Chair-in-Office of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) and Malta’s Minister for Foreign and European Affairs and Trade, recently wrapped up a series of diplomatic visits aimed at strengthening partnerships and advocating for continued dialogue and cooperation within the OSCE member states, focusing on Serbia, Kosovo, and Moldova.
April 15, 2024
Cyprus Concludes Chairmanship of the OSCE Forum for Security Cooperation
The final session of the Forum for Security Co-operation (FSC) of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) was chaired by Cyprus. Cyprus' engagement in the OSCE FSC impressively illustrates the value of dialog and multilateral cooperation, even in the most difficult times.
March 13, 2024
Austria and Turkmenistan Sign Cooperation Agreement
In a step towards deepening their bilateral relations, Austria and Turkmenistan have signed a new cooperation agreement for the years 2024-2025. The meeting in Vienna between Austrian Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg and his Turkmen counterpart Rashid Meredov focused on topics of mutual interest, including political-diplomatic cooperation, trade and economic relations, energy issues, and cultural exchanges.
March 12, 2024
Meet Cyprus Ambassador to Austria and Permanent Representative to the United Nations in Vienna
Andreas Ignatiou, Cyprus Ambassador and Permanent Representative, presented his credentials to Austria's Federal President Alexander Van der Bellen, and the Director-General of the United Nations Office in Vienna, Ghada Waly. Meet Ambassador, Andreas Ignatiou, the permanent representative of the Republic of Cyprus to the International Organizations in Vienna and Ambassador to Austria.
March 7, 2024
Meet the New Permanent Representative of North Macedonia to the International Organizations in Vienna
Pajo Avirovic, North Macedonia's new permanent representative, presented his credentials to the Director-General of the United Nations Office at Vienna, Ghada Waly. Meet Ambassador, Pajo Avirovic, the new permanent representative of the Republic of North Macedonia to the International Organizations in Vienna.
February 28, 2024
Vienna Hosts Meetings for Belarusian Opposition Leader
In a diplomatic engagement, Austrian Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg welcomed Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, the Belarusian opposition leader, for a pivotal discussion in Vienna. This meeting, which took place within the framework of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly, brought the key figure of the Belarusian opposition to Vienna to address the OSCE and the European Community under the symbolic presence of the Austrian and EU flags.
February 28, 2024
Two Years of War in Ukraine: Solidarity and demands for peace from the international community in Vienna
Two years after the start of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the international community remains alarmed and united in its support for Ukraine. The ongoing violence against civilians, including children, and Russia's violation of international human rights norms have sparked concern and outrage around the world. The OSCE and international representatives have spoken out strongly, calling for an end to the war.
February 26, 2024
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