Polish and German foreign ministers open OSCE conference in Warsaw

Poland’s Waszczykowski appealed for more effort to be made in adhering to the organisation’s rules.

In his opening speech, Waszczykowski said that this year marks the 25th anniversary of the creation of the Warsaw-based Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights. He said that Poland is very proud of this and regards it as a display of trust. He added that the office plays a key role in monitoring elections and rule of law.

Waszczykowski also spoke about the current situation within the OSCE, saying that the organisation is “well equipped” politically and militarily to help provide stability and security.

He said that all OSCE member states should be engaged in common efforts to implement existing commitments. “We urgently need to move forward, taking even small steps in the right direction,” he said.

“We need to remember that the ongoing conflicts threaten the security of the whole of the OSCE, creating a permanent threat to human rights. In particular the conflict in and around Ukraine, caused by a stronger neighbour, creates doubts about our common security,” Waszczykowski said.

“Our fundamental objective should be the implementation of a permanent agreement based on international law and OSCE standards.”

Meanwhile, Steinmeier stressed that respect for human rights does not contradict the need to ensure security and stability, on the contrary: they are based on human rights.

“Creating the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights we were convinced that security is closely linked to human rights, meanwhile however the unprecedented challenges of recent months shows us that this link is in danger,” the German foreign minister said.

“There can be no lasting peace without respect for human rights,” Steinmeier said. He also spoke of the need to find a response to the migration crisis. He said that its effects – people forced to leave their homes – is a violation of their rights in their countries of origin.

According to the event’s organisers, this year’s meeting in Warsaw will be attended by over 1,300 government representatives as well as human rights activists from the OSCE’s 57 member states. (rg)

Source: PAP, MSZ