Statement In Response to the Presentations by the Chairpersons of the Economic and Environmental and the Human Dimension Committees as delivered at the 1259th Meeting of the OSCE PC

13 February, 2020

Mr. Chairman,

Let me start by congratulating the distinguished Ambassador Sherzod Asadov on the assumption of duties of the Chair Economic and Environmental Committee. Let me also thank Ambassadors Ivo Šrámek – for his readiness to continue leading the Human Dimension Committee. I would like to once again reiterate Armenia`s willingness for constructive engagement and cooperation in both dimensions based on our shared commitments and values. I would also like to thank Ambassadors for the presentation of indicative work plans and topics for our discussions. Let me also wish speedy recovery to Ambassador Neil Bush.

Mr. Chairman,

Let me start with a general remark. My delegation on a number of occasions has expressed its principled position regarding our work in all three dimensions. We have stated and I would like to reiterate it once again that we consider all three dimensions as integral parts of a comprehensive and indivisible security, which is the fundamental and underlying concept of this Organisation. We also consider any attempt to promote one dimension at the expense of others, let alone specific activities or projects to that end, to be counterproductive, to say the least. It is our strong belief that de-linking the dimensions will lead to the fragmentation of the concept of comprehensive security, thus turning this organisation into a single-issue mechanism or arrangement.

We also believe that the second dimension should and could have a specific role in complementing security and human rights issues. There is a fundamental and agreed commitment that second dimension related cooperation or activities should be based on solidarity, transparency, equal and non-discriminatory partnership, mutual accountability and full respect for the interests of all participating States. Therefore, it is unacceptable that in certain cases such cooperation is obstructed and even more, when such cooperation is used to further deepen the dividing lines in the OSCE area. This delegation will not be in a position to support any activity that is seeking to sideline any participating State of this organization or is clearly introduced and designed for that purpose.

We do recognize the potential of the OSCE’s economic and environmental dimension in fostering dialogue and easing the tensions. These important tasks are reflected in relevant Ministerial Council Documents. However, we are still far from delivering on these commitments. The huge confidence and security building potential of the second dimension, unfortunately, remains untapped due to the non-constructive approach/position of some participating States. To overcome this situation and to achieve a genuine inclusive cooperation, determination on the part of the Secretariat and participating states, is needed.

Mr. Chairman,

We took note of the wide range of topics selected for our works and deliberations in the Human Dimension Committee. We welcome that Freedom of assembly, media, information and expression, tolerance and non-discrimination, gender equality and empowering of women as well as many other key topics continue to stay high on our agenda.

We fully share the opinion, that Human Dimension is the cornerstone of our activities. In fact, many problems and challenges that we continue to face in the OSCE area are consequences of disrespect, suppression and violation of the Human Rights and Fundamental freedoms. The practice of hostage taking of the activities of the Human Dimension by linking them with non-related issues is, in fact, another manifestation of such disrespect for Human Rights.

Armenia, on numerous occasions, has presented its consistent position regarding the unhindered and unrestricted access of the Representatives of the Civil Society at the HDIM meetings. We were clear that this is a fundamental issue not only for the HDIM and Human Dimension but for the credibility of this Organization as a whole.

We continue to insist on the application and enjoyment of the Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms throughout the whole area of the OSCE without any exception. In the same vein, we also believe that different human rights mechanisms should have unhindered access anywhere in the OSCE area. There should be no so called “grey zones” when it comes to human rights and fundamental freedoms. Thorough consideration and inclusion of these topics would contribute to the promotion and protection of human rights in all area of the OSCE without exception. We believe that this issue is pertinent and have to be addressed.

In conclusion, let me once again express our support to the Chairs of the two Committees and readiness to engage constructively in the activities of the Committees. My Delegation is looking forward to working closely with you.

I thank you.

MFA RA
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