OSCE Chairperson-in-Office expresses gratitude to outgoing ODIHR Director Lenarčič

BERN, 30 June 2014 - OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, Swiss Foreign Minister Didier Burkhalter, today expressed his gratitude to Ambassador Janez Lenarčič of Slovenia, the outgoing Director of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR), for his work over the last six years.

Lenarčič’s diplomatic experience and tireless commitment to the promotion of democratic elections, respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, tolerance and the rule of law had undoubtedly contributed to building stability across the OSCE region, Burkhalter said.

The OSCE Chairperson-in-Office noted that in an area where many challenges remain regarding the implementation of commitments, Lenarčič’s leadership and visionary approach had helped to fulfil ODIHR’s mandate to the very best and had supported the strengthening of this institution.

Burkhalter added that he is convinced that the protection and promotion of human rights, democracy and the rule of law are essential to improving the lives of people and achieving peace, security and stability in the OSCE region.

Lenarčič took office as head of ODIHR, the OSCE’s main human rights body, on 1 July 2008 for a three-year term. He was reappointed for a second and last term in 2011.

Lenarčič is succeeded by Michael Georg Link of Germany, who takes up the position of ODIHR Director on 1 July 2014. Link was appointed to a three-year term in May this year.