Press release
Press communiqué of the Co-Chairs of the Geneva International Discussions
- Date:
- Place:
- GENEVA
- Source:
- OSCE Chairpersonship
GENEVA, 11 November 2026 - The 68th round of the Geneva International Discussions (GID) took place on 10-11 November 2026 in the United Nations Palais des Nations in accordance with the six-point agreement of 12 August 2008 and implementing measures of 8 September 2008. As per usual practice, the exchanges took place in two Working Groups dealing with security and humanitarian issues, respectively.
The continued functioning of the GID – a unique platform for dialogue between relevant stakeholders on conflict-related matters – was welcomed by all participants as a clear expression of their commitment to a peaceful settlement of all pending issues.
In Working Group I, the participants reviewed the security situation on the ground since the 67th round held in July 2026. The participants expressed diverging assessments of the overall security environment in the region. The absence of major security incidents over the past few months was noted. An in-depth discussion on the agenda item “Non-Use of Force and International Security Arrangements” took place. The Co-Chairs will continue their consultations with all participants with a view to bridging remaining differences.
The participants welcomed the contribution to security and stability of the Ergneti Incident Prevention and Response Mechanism (IPRM) and the related EUMM-managed hotline. They also reiterated their support to the resumption of the Gali IPRM and explored possible options.
In Working Group II, the participants exchanged on the current humanitarian situation on the ground, including on issues relating to crossings, documentation, livelihoods, missing persons and education. Participants also had an in-depth discussion on freedom of movement and external mobility. This included exchanges on potential steps to be built upon in upcoming rounds. The core agenda item “returns” of internally displaced persons and refugees was not discussed during this round, due to a walkout by some participants. The Co-Chairs reiterated their call on participants to engage on all agenda items.
The participants agreed to hold the next round in March 2027 in Geneva.