A workshop to explore the cross-cutting subject of freedom of religion or belief (FoRB) and freedom of expression (FoE) as they relate to security was organized by the OSCE Mission to BiH (Mission) in Sarajevo today.
The event was attended by representatives of religious communities, BiH State, Entity and Brčko District of BiH security institutions and agencies, journalists, and NGOs.
During the workshop a recent OSCE publication Freedom of Religion or Belief and Security: Policy Guidance | OSCE was elaborated as a useful tool for navigating these important and complex spheres.
Ambassador Brian Aggeler, Head of the Mission, addressed the participants underscoring the essential role BiH authorities and policy makers play in finding sustainable and long-term solutions in a manner that also benefits from the expertise and views of religious communities, civil society and other relevant stakeholders. "The BiH new Strategy for Preventing and Combating Terrorism systemically promotes respect for human rights and freedoms and upholds the rule of law. It also takes concrete steps to ensure that activities to prevent terrorism do not cause unintended harm to individuals and communities, and that they enhance the impact and sustainability of community-level work," he added.
The event provided a valuable opportunity to further support representatives of relevant authorities from all levels in BiH in ensuring that their security measures are fully compliant with their international obligations and commitments pertaining to FoRB and FoE. The participants discussed how to recognize laws, security policies and practices that may undermine FoRB, FoE and other universal human rights.
The Mission's assistance will continue to focus on work with BiH authorities to take concrete actions in addressing the contemporary challenges related to the nexus between security and FoRB and FoE.
