U.S. Helsinki Commission to Hold Hearing on OSCE’s Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights

(Washington, DC) The Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe (U.S. Helsinki Commission) today announced the following hearing:

The OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights:

Accomplishments and Challenges

Tuesday, May 21, 2013

2:30 p.m.

Capitol Visitors Center, Room SVC 210/212 (Senate Side)

Scheduled to testify:

Ambassador Janez Lenarcic, Director of the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR)

For over two decades, the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe’s (OSCE) Office of Democratic Institutions and Human Rights has been at the forefront of efforts to promote human rights and democracy throughout the OSCE region, now comprising 57 countries. Although probably best known for its election observation work, ODIHR conducts many other activities including reviewing countries’ legislation to ensure it is in accordance with international standards, strengthening the capacity of human rights defenders, assisting governments in combating hate crimes, working to strengthen independent judicial systems, and developing guidelines to support protection of freedom of religion and freedom of assembly.

The hearing will examine the unique role played by ODIHR, its contribution to strengthening human rights, and the challenges it faces. Among the issues expected to be discussed include: crackdowns on civil society in Russia and other countries of the former Soviet Union; anti-Semitism and discrimination in the OSCE region; challenges faced by Roma in various countries; recent and upcoming election observations; and protecting human rights in the fight against terrorism.

This event is open to the public. Room SVC 210-212 is located on the Senate side of the Capitol Visitor Center, the main entrance to the U.S. Capitol.  You may enter on the north side, below the East Plaza of the Capitol between Constitution and Independence Avenues (across the street from the Supreme Court). The closest metro stop is Capitol South (orange or blue line).

Please allow adequate time to clear through the security check.  On the lower level, visitors will need to show a picture ID at the Senate appointment desk before proceeding to the Senate rooms.

Map of the Capitol:

http://www.visitthecapitol.gov/visit/us_capitol_map/index.html

Map of the Visitor Center:

http://www.visitthecapitol.gov/visit/visitor_center_map/index.html

Political Imprisonment in Ukraine

Hungary

International Human Rights Day

Commemoration of the Anniversary of the Warsaw Uprising

OSCE Parliamentary Assembly