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UNICRI and OSCE sign an agreement to strengthen efforts in the fields of capacity building and transfer of knowledge

Vienna -

 

A Memorandum of understanding was signed by the Ambassador Thomas Greminger, Secretary General of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), and Ms. Bettina Tucci Bartsiotas Director, a.i of UNICRI. The agreement aims at strengthening the cooperation between the two entities and exploring possible convergences to develop joint initiatives in areas of common interest.

Both organizations address issues related to crime prevention and criminal justice and are contributing to counter and reduce the risks of transnational threats. Since its creation in 1968, UNICRI has served the global community in formulating and implementing improved policies in the fields of crime prevention and justice. The Institute has enhanced knowledge of crime threats and identified practical measures to more effectively address them. UNICRI assists the international community with the development of targeted strategies to address crime in a way that positively impacts on good governance, sustainable development, human rights and security by offering a range of evidence-based responses. Its overarching objective is to support the achievement of key goals of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and in particular, Goal 16: to promote peaceful, just, inclusive and secure societies, free from crime and violence.

The OSCE has a comprehensive approach to security that encompasses politico-military, economic and environmental, and human aspects. It therefore addresses a wide range of security-related concerns, including arms control, confidence- and security-building measures, human rights, national minorities, democratization, policing strategies, counter-terrorism and economic and environmental activities. The OSCE has a mandate to ensure co-ordination and strengthen coherence and efficiency in addressing transnational threats, intensify efforts to promote more operational co-operation and co-ordination on issues related to transnational threats with other international and regional organizations and with the involvement of civil society.

This enhanced cooperation will result in efforts to achieve common objectives with a specific focus on the promotion on of an effective system of international justice. UNICRI and the OSCE share common objectives with regard to training and education and will collaborate to further these common goals. The growing complexity of threats and risks require transfer of knowledge, capacities and good practices to answer the growing needs of countries to address new scenarios. This agreement will foster institutional development and criminal justice response, thus contributing to the strengthening of the rule of law.