Publications

This report highlights the impact of activities carried out by the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) in 2020.

These present guiding principles are intended for use by state authorities and civil society bodies, as well as inter-governmental organizations in the OSCE region involved in developing, applying, evaluating and reforming national laws, policies and practices related to trafficking, in particular to the return of trafficked persons. They provide the target audience with guidance that can be used to direct policies, procedures and practices on the return process, as well as an overview of relevant international standards. The guiding principles can also serve as an advocacy tool for civil society organizations that support a rights-based approach to combating trafficking.

Gender-based hate crimes are a consequence of gender inequalities and disproportionately affect women, as well as anyone perceived as not complying with prevailing gender norms. Gender-based hate crimes often seek to intimidate and suppress ways of life or expressions of identity that are perceived as not complying with traditional gender norms. They have a significant, long-lasting impact on the victims, and undermine security and social cohesion by perpetuating gender inequalities. The existence of such crimes also underscores wider trends of intolerance towards other groups. Everyone has a role to play in countering this and all forms of intolerance.

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.