In his opening remarks, Ambassador Šrámek pointed out that the Copenhagen Document was indeed a revolutionary document, which captured the spirit of the time and provided a basis for the transition processes in Europe in the following decades. At the same time, as a key OSCE document outlining a number of commitments on democracy, rule of law and human rights and fundamental freedoms, it remains relevant today as it was 30 years ago. This is particularly valid in extraordinary situations, when states face unprecedented challenges, including deteriorating security environment, growing human rights violations and the current Covid 19 pandemic. He further emphasized the important role of civil society and human rights defenders in the efforts to face these challenges and to shape effective responses to potential crises. Following up on his remarks, Mr. René Rosager Dinesen, Ambassador and Head of Mission of Denmark to the OSCE, has further emphasized the need for the respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms in today’s world, including in situations of emergency, as well as the valuable contribution of civil society organizations in the implementation of OSCE commitments.

The guest speakers included Ms. Jennifer Croft, Acting Head of the Human Rights Department of ODIHR, Mr. Michel Forst, former UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights defenders (FR), Mr. Harry Hummel of the Netherlands Helsinki Committee (NL), and Ms. Gandolgor Sainkhuu (MN), a civil society activist from Mongolia. Within the discussion, the speakers reflected on the ways of collaboration and mutual inspirations between the OSCE and other international organizations; on the current challenges for the enjoyment of human rights and fundamental freedoms in the OSCE region, including in the extraordinary situations; on the role of civil society organizations and human rights defenders in today’s world, as well as on the empowerment of women.