OSCE Mission to Serbia marks 10th anniversary

Key OSCE partners from Serbia’s government, civil society and media as well as other international organizations discussed the work of the OSCE in Serbia during a conference marking the Mission’s 10th anniversary, held in Belgrade on 16 May.  

The conference, organized jointly by the OSCE Mission to Serbia and the Belgrade Fund for Political Excellence, focused on the Mission’s work including building security and stability, developing a culture of inclusion, advancing the justice sector’s work, reforming the police, and supporting media.

Opening the conference, First Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Interior Ivica Dacic, praised the OSCE Mission’s role in supporting Serbia’s democratic transition,  highlighting support given to the Ministry of Interior in developing a more modern and professional police service.

Chairperson of the OSCE Permanent Council Ambassador Renatas Norkus of Lithuania said: “The Mission to Serbia is an excellent example of the invaluable contribution the Organization has made – and continues to make – in support of the states of South Eastern Europe in building and strengthening independent and accountable democratic institutions.”

OSCE Secretary General Marc Perrin de Brichambaut praised the spirit of genuine partnership that exists between OSCE and Serbia, stressing that “it has contributed to the common successes we see today.” He added that “The OSCE will remain a committed and trustworthy partner to Serbia.” 

Keynote speakers included the Head of the OSCE Mission, Ambassador Dimitrios Kypreos, and former Heads of the OSCE Mission Ambassador Hans Ola Urstad (from 2006 to 2009) and Ambassador Stefano Sannino (from 2001 to 2002). The speakers highlighted the importance of dialogue and close co-operation with the Serbian authorities and civil society as key elements for success. Kypreos stressed the spirit of partnership and continuity in Mission’s work.

Welcoming the guests, Foreign Minister Vuk Jeremic highlighted the road travelled by Serbia in the past ten years and the important role the OSCE played. He expressed gratitude of the Serbian government to the Mission, its leadership and staff.

The event was concluded by a reception, attended by the President of Serbia, Boris Tadic.

On the occasion of the anniversary, Perrin de Brichambaut held official meetings with President Boris Tadic, Prime Minister Mirko Cvetkovic, First Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Interior Ivica Dacic, Minister for Human and Minority Rights, Public Administration and Local Self-government Milan Markovic. He also held a working breakfast with representatives of independent regulatory bodies of Serbia. On 17 May, he met with the Speaker of the Parliament Slavica Djukic-Dejanovic, Minister of Justice Snezana Malovic, and leaders of the opposition parties.