France begins Forum for Security Co-operation Chairpersonship, pledges focus on dialogue and European security challenges

France began its term as Chair of the OSCE Forum for Security Co-operation (FSC) on 21 January, outlining priorities that include addressing ongoing conflicts, strengthening dialogue, and organizing four security-focused discussions throughout its tenure.

David Bertolotti, Deputy Secretary General of the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, opened the first session under the French Chairpersonship, emphasizing the forum's mandate in conflict prevention and confidence-building across the OSCE region.

"It is up to all participating States to fulfill its mandate by engaging in good faith dialogue, serving risk management and the prevention of escalation and threatening behavior. Only under this condition can this forum fully serve the mission we collectively entrusted to it,” said Bertolotti.

Bertolotti underlined the importance of upholding the Helsinki principles and international law as the foundation of the OSCE, highlighting the FSC’s role in promoting accountability for the conduct of armed forces under agreed commitments. He stressed that respect for international law remains essential for peace, stability, and security across the OSCE area.

The Deputy Secretary General also addressed developments in South-Eastern and Eastern Europe, the South Caucasus, and the ongoing war in Ukraine.

"Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine constitutes the principal threat to peace and stability in Europe,” he added. “France's primary commitment, together with its European and American partners, is to serve a just and lasting peace in Ukraine. I reiterate our call on Russia for a complete, immediate and unconditional ceasefire." 

France announced that it will organize four security dialogues during its Chairpersonship, covering the rehabilitation and reintegration of war veterans, the role of women in the armed forces, the treatment of prisoners of war under the OSCE Code of Conduct on Politico-Military Aspects of Security, and the 30th anniversary of the Dayton-Paris regional arms control agreement.

The Chairpersonship of the Forum for Security Co-operation rotates three times a year. France will Chair the FSC until April 2026.