Thank you, Madam Chair,
Excellencies, colleagues, civil society representatives,
On behalf of the Republic of Albania, I extend our heartfelt appreciation to the Maltese Chairmanship-in-Office (CiO) and the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) and Poland for their exceptional organization of this year’s Human Dimension Conference. While we regret the fact that consensus on the annual mandated Human Dimension Implementation Meeting (HDIM) could not be reached, we are grateful for this invaluable opportunity to gather and engage in dialogue with civil society representatives, many of whom have shown immense courage and resilience to be present here today.
This conference stands as a vital manifestation of our shared commitment to preserving the OSCE’s capacity to defend and promote human rights and fundamental freedoms.
As we come together, it is imperative that we acknowledge the crucial efforts undertaken by the Maltese Chairpersonship in seeking solutions for the top four leadership positions within the OSCE. It is our collective responsibility to ensure the effective implementation of the strong mandates of the autonomous institutions, such as the ODIHR, the Representative on Freedom of the Media (RFoM), and the High Commissioner on National Minorities (HCNM). We must work together to secure their proper leadership, effective functioning, and the provision of adequate resources and budgets necessary for them to carry out their important missions.
The human dimension remains at the heart of the OSCE’s functioning, and Albania is fully committed to upholding and defending the independence, mandates, and budgets of its human dimension institutions.
It is essential that we ensure an open and inclusive dialogue on democracy and human rights, as these conversations are at the core of our collective progress and the values that bind our organization together.
This conference also offers a critical opportunity to acknowledge and reflect upon the difficult circumstances faced by many Ukrainians living in areas currently under temporary control. We express our deep solidarity with the Ukrainian people, who continue to face significant challenges, hardships, and restrictions on their fundamental rights and freedoms. In line with our shared commitments, Albania, alongside other participating states, urges Russia to fulfill its international obligations and respect human rights and fundamental freedoms. We remain committed to working with our partners to address these concerns and support those affected.
In closing, I would like to extend a special message to the representatives of civil society gathered here today. Your engagement and contributions are truly indispensable, and we deeply respect your unwavering courage and dedication to advocating for accountability in both governments and societies. You play a crucial role in giving a voice to those who often go unheard.
Allow me, Madam Chair,
I would like to add a few sentences regarding the issue previously mentioned about Kosovo and minority rights.
The rule of law and democracy are the strongest guarantees for ensuring lasting peace and security in Kosova and the broader region. The sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Republic of Kosova, or its right to consolidate the law and order and democratic and multi-ethnic institutions, must not be questioned.
Every citizen of Kosova, regardless of ethnicity or background, have equal access to the necessary services provided by Kosova’s legitimate and official institutions.
According to the latest report of the Council of Europe Framework Convection of National Minorities, Kosova, has a solid legal and policy framework for the protection of persons belonging to national minorities.
We fully support the improvement of the living situation for people across Kosova. We reinforce our call not to instrumentalize the Serb minority.
Any grievances can and should be addressed through institutional means and dialogue.
Unfortunately, Kosova continues to face serious threats to its security and stability from external forces. The deadly terrorist attack in Banjska last September was the most alarming in a series of such attempts to destabilize the country.
Regrettably, those responsible for this heinous act have yet to be held accountable. It is imperative that they face justice without delay, and we call on Belgrade to fully cooperate in ensuring that those responsible are brought to justice swiftly.
As two sovereign countries aspiring EU membership, we urge Kosova and Serbia to fully concentrate on the EU facilitated dialogue and focus on reaching agreements benefiting the day to day lives of people, while also securing a peaceful future.
Thank you.
