Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE)

The Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) is the largest existing regional security organization with 55 participating States, from Europe, the Caucasus, Central Asia and North America.  It is active in early warning, conflict prevention, crisis management and human rights.  Canada is a participating State.

Canadian Heritage is active in the human dimension of the OSCE, a term that describes the set of norms and activities related to human rights and democracy.  The OSCE, particularly through its Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR), is a venue for engaging key partners in Europe on several files such as combating racism and promoting diversity, which are key components of Canada's commitment to promoting human security.

The International Relations Directorate works with the Multiculturalism and Human Rights Branch within Canadian Heritage, as well as with Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada (DFAIT) to coordinate the Canadian sharing of expertise on combating racism with other OSCE participating States.  Along with participating in annual and special OSCE meetings, Canadian Heritage also takes an active role in OSCE deliberations on commitments by participating States to promote mutual respect and understanding.

The OSCE actively supports participating States in combating all forms of racism, xenophobia, anti-Semitism and discrimination.  For example, ODIHR is responsible for:

• collecting and distributing information and statistics on hate crimes in the participating States;
• promoting best practices and disseminating lessons learned in the fight against intolerance and discrimination; and,
• providing assistance to participating States in drafting and reviewing legislation on crimes fuelled by intolerance and discrimination.