OSCE Mission to Serbia

About

Overview

Students of the Sinigdunum University in Belgrade check a Dutch newspaper during the lecture "The Role of Photography in Journalism" held during the World Press Photo exhibition, Belgrade, 18 May 2009. (OSCE/Milan Obradovic)
Students of the Sinigdunum University in Belgrade check a Dutch newspaper during the lecture "The Role of Photography in Journalism" held during the World Press Photo exhibition, Belgrade, 18 May 2009. (OSCE/Milan Obradovic)

Background

The OSCE Permanent Council decided on 11 January 2001 to establish a new OSCE Mission to the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia to provide the authorities with assistance and expertise in the fields of democratization, protection of human rights and minorities, and media development. The new Mission was established following an invitation extended to the OSCE by the Government of the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia.

After the adoption and promulgation of the Constitutional Charter of the State Union of Serbia and Montenegro by the Assembly of the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia on 4 February 2003, the OSCE Permanent Council renamed the Mission the "OSCE Mission to Serbia and Montenegro".

Following the declaration of independence by the Republic of Montenegro on 3 June 2006, the OSCE Permanent Council in Vienna renamed the Mission the "OSCE Mission to Serbia" on 29 June 2006.

Further information on mandates, staffing levels and budgets can be found in the annual Survey of OSCE Field Operations.


Priorities

Our mission is to assist Serbia in building independent, accountable and effective democratic institutions, particularly in the fields of rule of law, human rights, media, law enforcement and environment. We also aim to support civil society and foster regional co-operation and reconciliation, contributing to a sustainable, secure and stable society for all citizens of Serbia.

 

Mission structure

Head of Mission

The Head of Mission aims to lead the Mission in implementing its mandate, represent the Mission among Serbian authorities, civil society and the international community, and raise public awareness of the Mission and its programmes. The Head also guides and supports the Mission's programmatic departments in implementing their programmes and reporting.

Democratization Department

The Democratization Department aims to assist Serbia in building a viable democracy rooted in functioning institutions, and based on the rule of law, human rights and minority rights.

Law Enforcement Department

The Law Enforcement Department aims to assist, support and advise Serbian authorities in the reform of the police service so as to ensure effective law enforcement and democratic policing.

Rule of Law and Human Rights Department

The Rule of Law and Human Rights Department aims to reform legal processes systemically, so that they uphold the rule of law and enhance respect for human rights.

Media Department

The Media Department aims to support the development of professional media that can dispassionately and accurately report on news of public importance to all citizens of Serbia.

Fund Administration

The Fund Administration aims to fully support the Mission's thematic departments in implementing their mandates, support the professional development of staff and ensure the best working conditions possible.