Promoting security and stability across the OSCE region through sustainable development and inclusive economic growth were in focus at the 2023 Forum on the Economic and Environmental Dimension of the OSCE, which took place in Prague from 14 to 15 September.
Hosted by 2023 OSCE Chairman-in-Office, Minster of Foreign Affairs of North Macedonia Bujar Osmani, the Forum provided a platform for in-depth discussion and exchange on environmental and economic security, the so-called OSCE's second dimension of security.
"Climate change is by far the most pressing challenge of today and tomorrow. However, there are many other lingering challenges that continue to trouble us. Natural and man-made disasters, such as the destruction of the Kakhovka Dam, pose a serious threat to the human and environmental security of the OSCE area and beyond. People are first to feel the severe impact of such catastrophes," said Chairman Osmani. "Building on its own experience, capacities and structures, I believe that the OSCE can play a particular role in finding ways and mitigating disasters," he added.
The event was co-hosted by the Czech Republic, represented by Minister of Foreign Affairs Jan Lipavský.
"Ukraine is a victim of the war of aggression waged by Russia, that's why it belongs at the top of the OSCE agenda. I am very grateful to Minister Osmani that under the Chairpersonship of North Macedonia the situation of Ukraine is receiving the attention it deserves, and to the OSCE for the commitment to its values," said Lipavský.
"The OSCE has always taken a comprehensive approach to security: We cannot build lasting security without addressing economic and environmental issues," stressed OSCE Secretary General Schmid. "Today's challenges are multifaceted, but the OSCE has significant expertise in addressing them: We are promoting regional co-operation to address climate-related risks, we help strengthen transport links between Europe and Central Asia to enhance economic opportunities, and we support participating States in the fight against corruption including through new technologies. In these ways and so many more, we are helping to support sustainable peace and stability."
The two-day event convened delegates from governmental and state institutions, the private sector, academia, civil society, and international organizations to discuss co-operation to tackle climate change, good governance and anti-corruption, trade and transport facilitation for sustainable development and food security, and disaster risk management.
The event also offered a platform to address these challenges against the backdrop of the war against Ukraine, which has posed unprecedented threats to the security, economy and environment of Ukraine and the OSCE region as a whole.
The event built upon discussions held at the 2023 Struga Conference on the Economic & Environmental Dimension of the OSCE and the 2023 High-Level Conference on Climate Change.
