Thursday morning saw the opening of the second day of BIC`s participation at the OSCE-ODIRH Human Dimension Implementation Meeting, which focused more precisely on fundamental freedoms, including freedom of peaceful assembly and association. This day allowed for an in-depth exchange amongst OSCE Member States, independent experts and civil society representatives. The morning sessions specifically focused on current practices and worrying patterns of violations of the right to freedom of peaceful assembly. As observed by many civil society representatives, overly broad legislation and policies aimed at countering terrorism and “extremism” are sometimes used to target and restrict dissenting and critical voices. Some states, such as Turkey and Russia, have introduced legal reforms or other measures leading to the criminalization of legitimate human rights work, using indiscriminate and excessive force to counter or repress some peaceful protests.
Insights on digital technology were also brought into the discussions. As highlighted, digital technology represents an opportunity in the hands of people looking to come together to advance democracy, human rights, peace and development, but also presents a range of new risks and threats, such as surveillance of civil society, online smear campaigns and restrictions on use of social media to convene peaceful assemblies.
The afternoon session was concerned with the relationship between freedom of thought, conscience, religion or belief and the need to provide safety. This session was careful to incorporate approaches from multiple geographic regions and contexts within the OSCE area. Participants were able to learn more about projects and activities that are being run by the OSCE community. More particularly, representatives from the ODIRH, namely Ms. Anete Erdmane, presented the ODIHR 4th Report on Monitoring of Freedom of Peaceful Assembly in Selected OSCE Participating States. Ms. Erdmane indicated how the tools and recommendations produced in the report can be used by human rights defenders and civil society to support advocacy in this field of human rights law.
The afternoon session also discussed how freedom of religion or belief can provide the normative basis and a minimum rule for the peaceful coexistence and co-operation of people belonging to different religions and beliefs, including non-believers. The session examined how disproportionate restrictions on the universal right to freedom of religion or belief threaten the stability and security of OSCE countries and the wider region.
The BIC is pleased that such a fruitful and open discussed took place on such an important topic within the fundamental rights field. Worth noting, however, that much needs to be done systematically as a number of participating States still violate the fundamental rights they are supposed to comply as members of the OSCE community.