Belgium announces priorities as FSC Chair amidst Russia’s war against Ukraine

The OSCE Forum for Security Co-operation remains the forum in which to discuss security issues, despite Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine emphasised Deputy Permanent Representative Fiel Vanthemsche as he outlined Belgium’s priorities as FSC Chair during today’s opening session.

“Despite Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine and its devastating impact on civilians and infrastructure, dialogue on politico-military issues is essential in the OSCE. This is true even when no solution seems to be in sight,” said Vanthemsche. “As the FSC marks its 30^th anniversary this year, although some participating States throw their commitments over board, there remains a need for those committed to our common OSCE values and principles to discuss essential security topics. Belgium firmly considers dialogue as the only way forward.”

While the war against Ukraine will remain at the heart of the FSC’s discussions during Belgium’s tenure as FSC Chair from September to December 2022, Vanthemsche highlighted five priority areas for discussions.

“Our aim is to raise the awareness on the politico-military relevance of Children and Armed Conflict, and the nexus between the Environment and Security, topics that have not been featured by the FSC before,” he said. “Three other topics, on Women, Peace and Security, effectively dealing with Explosive Remnants of War, and the pursuing discussions surrounding the Code of Conduct on Politico-Military Aspects of Security, will be at the heart of our efforts. The cruel war in Ukraine unfortunately demonstrates, again and again, the need to continue working on all of these issues.”

The Chairmanship of the Forum for Security Co-operation rotates three times a year. It takes the lead in setting the agenda for each meeting of the Forum and brings attention to issues concerning the implementation of commitments adopted by the Forum.