Structures and institutions

This is an image of a flag bearing the logo of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE). The OSCE logo features the acronym "OSCE" written in white letters within blue squares, arranged horizontally. The flag itself is white, and it is seen waving against a soft, cloudy blue sky in the background. The logo is a prominent element, signifying the organization's identity.

The OSCE comprises several structures and institutions that implement and co-ordinate the Organization’s operational activities, mandated by its participating States.

This is an image of a flag bearing the logo of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE). The OSCE logo features the acronym "OSCE" written in white letters within blue squares, arranged horizontally. The flag itself is white, and it is seen waving against a soft, cloudy blue sky in the background. The logo is a prominent element, signifying the organization's identity.

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Organizational structure

Chairpersonship

The Chairpersonship, rotating among participating States on an annual basis, is vested with the overall responsibility and co-ordinating role for the OSCE’s activities.

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Country

Finland – OSCE Chairpersonship 2025

Programme, priorities and updates from the Chairpersonship
Our people

Elina Valtonen

2025 OSCE Chairperson-in-Office
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Chairperson-in-Office Representatives

Mandated to represent the Chairperson-in-Office for specific diplomatic tasks

Secretariat

Under the direction of the Secretary General, the Vienna-based Secretariat provides operational support to the OSCE.

The image showcases a modern courtyard enclosed by a glass-fronted building. The perspective is from inside a classical-style room, framed by marble columns and an arched ceiling, looking out through glass doors. The courtyard features a minimalist design with a white gravel surface, a small wooden deck area, and greenery, including bamboo plants. The building’s exterior is made up of large glass panels, creating a sleek and contemporary contrast to the classical interior elements.
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Secretariat

Provides operational and administrative support
Our people

Feridun H. Sinirlioğlu

OSCE Secretary General

Former Secretaries General

OSCE institutions

Several specialized institutions focus on specific aspects of the OSCE’s comprehensive security mandate.

Logo of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights
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OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights

The OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) provides support, assistance and expertise to participating States and civil society to promote democracy, rule of law, human rights and tolerance and non-discrimination. ODIHR observes elections, reviews legislation and advises governments on how to develop and sustain democratic institutions. The Office conducts training programmes for government and law-enforcement officials and non-governmental organizations on how to uphold, promote and monitor human rights.
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OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities

The High Commissioner works to identify and prevent conflicts related to tensions involving national minority issues.
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OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media

The Representative’s activities can be divided into two groups: observing media developments as part of an early warning function and helping participating States abide by their commitments to freedom of expression and free media. This includes efforts to ensure the safety of journalists; assist with the development of media pluralism; promote decriminalization of defamation; combat hate speech while preserving freedom of expression; provide expert opinions on media regulation and legislation; promote Internet freedom; and assist with the process of switching from analogue to digital broadcasting. The Representative also holds annual regional media conferences, bringing together journalists, representatives of civil society and government, as well as academics, to discuss current media freedom issues.

OSCE in the field

Every field operation has a tailor-made mandate, agreed by consensus of the OSCE participating States and established upon invitation by the host country.

Parliamentary Assembly

The OSCE Parliamentary Assembly was created as part of the institutionalization of the CSCECSCE
Conference on Security and Co-operation in Europe at its 1990 Paris Summit.

Bringing together over 300 parliamentarians from across the participating States, the OSCE PA provides an important forum for parliamentary dialogue and plays an essential role in advancing the OSCE’s mission to promote stability, security and sustainable peace across the region.

Court of Conciliation and Arbitration

Based in Geneva, the Court aims to settle inter-State disputes through conciliation or arbitration.

Decision-making bodies

Working towards consensus

Evolved from a forum for consultation and negotiation among its participating States, the OSCE has several bodies where decisions and commitments are being negotiated, which are politically binding for the participating States.

Decision-making bodies