Commitment to Comprehensive Security
The United Kingdom firmly endorses the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) and its holistic approach to security, particularly emphasising the significance of the human dimension. The principles of democracy, human rights, fundamental freedoms, and the rule of law are integral to ensuring our collective security. As articulated by the UK Foreign Secretary, the defence of these values represents the most genuine path towards peace and prosperity across our continent.
Consequently, the UK is dedicated to bolstering the OSCE’s autonomous institutions, including the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR). The work carried out by ODIHR in areas such as election observation, democratic governance, and the protection of human rights not only supports the participating states but also enhances public confidence in democratic processes.
The Importance of Election Observation
In an era marked by escalating hybrid threats and efforts to undermine democratic elections, the role of ODIHR is more crucial than ever. The independent election observation provided by ODIHR has proven invaluable in recent electoral processes, particularly in Armenia and Hungary this year.
As the co-chair of the Media Freedom Coalition for 2026, the UK remains committed to advocating for independent and diverse media. We staunchly support the mandate of the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, whose contributions are critical in combating the intimidation, harassment, censorship, and violence faced by journalists across various parts of the OSCE region. Minister Elmore, the UK’s Foreign Office Minister for Human Rights, will address these pressing issues during his upcoming visit to Warsaw for this conference.
Support for Ukraine’s Sovereignty
Prioritising support for Ukraine stands as the UK’s foremost objective within the OSCE framework. ODIHR and other international bodies continue to document Russia’s ongoing, widespread, and systematic violations of international humanitarian and human rights laws, including arbitrary detentions and enforced disappearances in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine.
The UK unequivocally condemns Russia’s unlawful war of aggression, which includes its assaults on civilians and civilian infrastructure, as well as its oppressive actions in the occupied regions of Ukraine and its broader infringement on the nation’s sovereignty. The intensity of Russian air attacks has escalated significantly this summer, with increased deployments of ballistic missiles and aerial drones in urban areas resulting in substantial civilian casualties.
Rejection of Illegitimate Elections
Russia’s unlawful attempts to conduct Duma elections in Crimea, Donetsk, Kherson, Luhansk, and Zaporizhzhia are not representative of democratic principles but rather serve as tools of occupation. These regions remain an integral part of Ukraine, and no facade of elections can alter that reality.
It is imperative that Russia ceases these violations, withdraws its forces from Ukraine, and honours its commitments to the OSCE. The UK remains steadfast in its support for Ukraine and in holding Russia accountable for its actions.
Fostering Future Democratic Processes
We also commend ODIHR and other OSCE institutions for their ongoing support of Ukraine and for their efforts in preparing its institutions for future democratic processes when circumstances permit.
The human dimension lies at the core of the OSCE’s mission, and this conference serves as a platform to reaffirm our collective dedication to upholding human rights and fundamental freedoms. The UK will persist in voicing concerns wherever these commitments fall short and will continue to support participating states, civil society, and independent institutions dedicated to upholding OSCE principles.
Thank you.