Publications

The Analysis explores the multidimensional approach and complexity of the introduced measures during the pandemic on gender and diversity in North Macedonia. The first chapter provides an overview of the gender analysis of measures adopted by the Government from human rights perspective, while the second chapter focuses on the participation of women and men in the labor market, violence against women, participation of women and men in decision-making in the COVID-19 response, etc. The third chapter presents and analyses the gender gaps created by COVID-19 response, while the final chapter includes proposals for measures to be taken in the post-COVID-19 period. The Analysis was developed by the OSCE Mission to Skopje in partnership with the Centre for Research and Policy Making (CRPM) and the CSOs Radar, Polio Plus, Rural Coalition, and the National Network to End Violence against Women and Domestic Violence.

Ombuds institutions provide independent oversight of the armed forces by handling complaints, conducting investigations, issuing reports and developing recommendations. Their fundamental purpose is to protect the rights and well-being of armed forces personnel and in this way improve the effectiveness of the military.

Armed forces personnel are subject to the same criminal laws as civilians. In many countries, they must also adhere to a separate system of military discipline. Military justice systems are usually set up in order to maintain high standards of discipline necessary for military operations. A system of military discipline separate from the civilian courts is also useful in establishing common legal systems for all personnel, including those deployed abroad.

All commanders play a central role in upholding the rule of law and respect for human rights in the armed forces. A leadership style is needed that builds trust among personnel while ensuring individual accountability. The principle of individual accountability underpins respect for human rights, and promotes responsible behaviour by each member of the armed forces.

Human rights education helps service personnel understand their rights and obligations. It also helps to create a positive working environment free from discrimination, intolerance and bias. This is particularly true in countries that have experienced intercommunal conflict or violence, where human rights education can contribute to post-conflict reconciliation and recovery.

OSCE participating States have a legal obligation to implement just and favourable working conditions “by all appropriate means” as laid out in the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR). Good working conditions help prevent accidents, sickness and casualties in the workplace and have a positive impact on work and life in the barracks.

In addition to violating the fundamental rights of service personnel, ill-treatment and abuse create fear and mistrust, undermine unit cohesion and military effectiveness, and damage the reputation of the armed forces among potential recruits and the general public.

OSCE participating States have committed to ensuring that the recruitment practices for service in its military, paramilitary and security forces are consistent with human rights obligations, including the Convention on the Rights of Children. The threshold for voluntary recruitment should not be less than age 16. Countries that allow young people between 16 and 18 years of age to enlist must ensure that their recruitment is strictly voluntary, that they are fully informed of their duties, have parental consent and provide reliable proof of their age.

Across the OSCE region, a growing recognition of widespread discrimination against LGBTI service members is resulting in greater efforts to protect their rights. LGBTI people have historically been banned from serving in the armed forces of many OSCE participating States.

Ethnic and linguistic minorities are part of the diverse societies found across the OSCE region. Their participation and the protection of their cultural, religious and language rights are essential to social cohesion. This is no less true in the armed forces, where the equal representation and nondiscrimination of ethnic and linguistic minorities can become a source of national unity. Equally, promoting equality and preventing discrimination is important for ensuring the operational effectiveness of the armed forces.