OSCE Presence in Albania marks International Human Rights Day
TIRANA, 10 December 2010 - The OSCE Presence marked today the International Human Rights Day in an event, which brought together high Albanian officials, key actors in the field of human rights, representatives of civil society, media and the diplomatic corps.
"Globalization has brought about new challenges related to the universal respect for human rights," said Ambassador Eugen Wollfarth, the Head of the OSCE Presence in Albania. "However, the 'recognition of the inherent dignity and of the equal and inalienable rights of all members of the human family is the foundation of freedom, justice and peace in the world', as stipulated in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights signed 62 years ago, and this principle should always underlie state policies and interaction between the authorities and citizens."
Addressing the event participants, Albanian Prime Minister Sali Berisha said that the OSCE had done more for the human rights than any another multilateral organization in our history. "The Helsinki Final Act was the real virus for the iron curtain and I think one of the most important factors that eroded the curtain and the Berlin wall. That is why we are very proud of the OSCE and its role, and I assure you, that my government remains fully committed to work together to try to bring to Albania the best standards of human rights," he said.
Talking about Albania's progress in the field of human rights since the establishment of the Presence in 1997, Ambassador Wollfarth pointed out such major achievements of the country as the abolishment of the death penalty, the establishment of the People's Advocate and the Commissioner for the Protection from Discrimination, and the approval of the law against discrimination.
"Albania has shown progress in addressing human rights issues, and is now moving from those basic human rights concerns of a country in conflict to specific rights of citizens in a country seeking to reach European standards," said Wollfarth. "Nevertheless, much remains to be done, especially with regard to the rights of children, women, disabled people and Roma community representatives."