In the long term security is not possible without respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms. It is with this in mind that the OSCE is also active in such areas as democratisation, elections, gender equality, media freedom, minority rights, rule of law, tolerance and non-discrimination, and efforts to combat human trafficking.

Switzerland was appointed Chair of the Human Dimension Committee in 2011 by the Lithuanian Chairmanship of the OSCE, and thus has responsibility in this area. The task is basically two-fold. On the one hand there are periodic meetings to discuss current human rights issues, such as democratic elections. The Committee thus serves as a forum for dialogue between the Participating States. The newly introduced standardised agenda also brings with it the possibility for voluntary reporting by the Participating States on implementation of their OSCE commitments. The other main task is to offer rapid unbiased mediation in crisis situations within the OSCE region.

The response to Switzerland’s chairmanship has been very positive. As Chair Switzerland is seen as a credible moderator of discussions and in general as an “honest broker”. It comes as no surprise therefore that Ireland, as the OSCE Chair for 2012, is already in favour of Switzerland continuing as Chair of the Human Rights Committee.

The main concerns are as follows:

• Media freedom, a pluralistic media in the digital age, and the safety of journalists 
• Freedom of assembly and association 
• Prevention of hate crimes
• Democratic elections and election observation
• Roma and Sinti
• Gender equality
• Combating human trafficking