OSCE Security Conference considers fresh options

VIENNA, 26 June 2003 - The OSCE's first-ever Annual Security Review Conference closed yesterday with its main aim successfully met - that of identifying a range of practical options for the Organization to address the new threats and challenges to the security of its 55 participating States.

Among the options that were mentioned are adopting OSCE-backed common security features on travel documentation, tighter controls on MANPADS (man-portable air defence systems) and a bigger role for the OSCE in improving border security and policing methods. A workshop on combating bio-terrorism, one of the most terrifying WMDs (weapons of mass destruction), is also being mooted for as early as September.

After two days of discussions in closed working groups, the 350 participants met in the final plenary to list and review a number of proposals that will now receive closer study. Some of these may eventually feature in a strategy document on the agenda of the OSCE Foreign Ministers' meeting in Maastricht, to be held in December.

Winding up the conference, the Chairman of the Permanent Council, Ambassador Justus de Visser of the Netherlands said the OSCE had to continue to adapt to new risks and challenges in a flexible way: "By redefining its role in ever more rapidly changing international surroundings, the OSCE can continue to fulfil its unique role based on the notion of comprehensive security ... The discussion has clearly underlined that the multi-dimiensional character of threats and security can only be handled through co-operation with other international organizations."

Several delegations backed the idea that the OSCE should exploit its standards-setting role by proposing common security features on the travel documentation that participating States issue to their citizens. Some felt this work could make a significant, real contribution not only to the war on terrorism, but also to the fight against organized crime and illegal immigration, all issues that many delegations had identified as threats to their security and stability.

Concerns were also raised about the threat posed by the easily deployed MANPADS, sought by terrorists for launching concealed attacks on passenger aircraft. While other international organizations have addressed the issue, the OSCE could use its Document on Small Arms and Light Weapons as the springboard for additional steps against illicit trade in MANPADS.

Other areas where the OSCE could use its comparative advantages in terms of experience and access to expertise were cited. These included better border control and security and improvements to policing and anti-terrorism measures. The OSCE has both a Strategic Police Matters Unit and an Anti-Terrorism Unit which work in the area of training and capacity building to help participating States improve their own abilities to tackle these issues.

It was also felt the international community could make more use of the Organization's experience in arms control. In several regions, the OSCE has facilitated the destruction of stockpiles of weapons and ammunition, and prevented them from falling into the hands of terrorists. However, the existence of stockpiles elsewhere remains a potent threat to security and one that the OSCE could help the international community to reduce. A mechanism for this is under development.

Background information and speeches have been posted on a special conference website.