OSCE Centre in Bishkek

The Osh Field Office, which opened in April 2000, is engaged in activities in the political, human, and the economic and environmental dimensions in all three of Kyrgyzstan's southern provinces (Osh, Jalalabat and Batken).

In the political dimension, the Office deals with border-related issues in the south of the country, promotes cross-border dialogue between communities, and implements conflict prevention and good governance initiatives. It also handles pre-election issues, mobilizing and supporting all actors in the electoral process and providing neutral platforms and capacity-building for local branches of political parties. The Office monitors inter-ethnic relations and promotes multi-ethnic events and celebrations, and works with the local media to enhance their professional skills and provide better access to information for people living in remote areas.

In the human dimension, the Office focuses on human rights issues related to conditions in detention, trafficking in human beings and gender equality. Promoting human rights standards through education and building the capacity of local activists and NGOs are also among its priorities. The Office partners with the local police to promote dialogue between law enforcement bodies, civil society and the general public on human rights-related issues. Its rule of law activities include capacity-building for defence lawyers and judges, provision of free legal aid and trial monitoring.

In the economic and environmental dimension, the Office develops initiatives aimed at promoting a business-friendly environment, attracting potential investors, building the capacity of local economic actors such as business associations, and combating corruption. It also focuses on the need to increase economic and employment opportunities for vulnerable groups. The Office supports local authorities and NGOs in the implementation of international environmental conventions and raises community awareness of ecological risks and ways to tackle them. It also serves as a resource for the implementation of various regional initiatives in the field of environmental security.

The Office is currently composed of a Head and two international officers assisted by national staff, including a national project co-ordinator, senior project assistants and a legal advisor.