OSCE CiO Warsaw Human Dimension Conference Warsaw, 26 September – 7 October 2022

1. The functioning of effective democratic institutions at national, regional and local levels, through representatives, who are freely chosen in genuine democratic elections, is crucial for the immediate and appropriate democratic response in a time of crisis. These principles we agreed on in Copenhagen 1990 and Moscow 1991. They are as relevant today as ever.

2. The European Union is fully committed to supporting and promoting democratic standards and respect for rule of law, as well as human rights’ protection mechanisms in all parts of the world.

3. ODIHR plays a crucial role in helping participating States establish democratic processes and thus strengthening democratic societies, accountable institutions and public confidence across the OSCE area. We reiterate our full support to ODIHR’s mandate and autonomy, as well as its internationally recognized election observation methodology. We remain committed to follow-up on ODIHR's recommendations.

Ms / Mme Moderator,

4. The EU condemns Russia’s unprovoked and illegal war of aggression against Ukraine in the strongest terms. With a view to today’s topic of democratic institutions, the EU is particularly appalled by the arrests and deportations of elected Ukrainian officials by Russian military forces. The right to participate in elections in one’s own country, including the right to vote and to be elected, is protected by international human rights

law, and those who are eligible to vote or stand for office do not lose this right while displaced. Russia’s attempts to set up illegitimate alternative structures in Kherson, Mariupol and in many other towns in Ukraine are illegal. The EU strongly condemns the illegal “referenda” announced [and carried out] by illegitimate so-called “authorities” in territories of Ukraine which are temporarily under Russian military control. This is a blatant violation of the UN Charter, OSCE principles as well as Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity. The results of such actions will be considered null and void, and will not be recognised by the EU and its Member States. Russia, its political leadership, and all those involved in these sham “referenda” and other violations of international law in Ukraine will be held accountable, and additional restrictive measures against Russia will be considered.

5. According to the Moscow Mechanism report, the introduction of new legislation and the establishment of criminal courts by the occupying power in the Donetsk and Luhansk regions of Ukraine constitute a violation of international humanitarian law. The report also notes with concern the numerous cases of arbitrary detention and enforced disappearance of local officials, civil society activists and journalists.

6. In a crisis, such as the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine, national parliaments must be able to continue to make decisions, to exercise effective oversight of governments, and to ensure the inclusive and transparent adoption of legislative measures. In this regard, the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine is an example of resilience in times of war and we are impressed by the dedication of its members to continue working during these challenging times. The EU stands with Ukraine, and we will continue to do so for as long as it takes.

The Candidate Countries REPUBLIC of NORTH MACEDONIA*, MONTENEGRO*, ALBANIA*, UKRAINE and REPUBLIC OF MOLDOVA, as well as ANDORRA and SAN MARINO align themselves with this statement.

* Republic of North Macedonia, Montenegro, and Albania continue to be part of the Stabilisation and Association Process.