Human Dimension

The following areas form part of the human dimension of security:

• commitment to develop and promote democratic structures
• fair and lawful elections
• freedom of the media
• minority rights
• rule of law
• tolerance and non-discrimination
• protection of civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights
• gender issues

The OSCE is committed to promoting respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms as without them, there can be no long-term security and stability. Three independent institutions of the OSCE are particularly important for the implementation of the OSCE commitments in the Human Dimension:

• the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights in Warsaw
• the High Commissioner on National Minorities in The Hague
• the Representative on Freedom of the Media in Vienna

During its chairmanship of the OSCE in 2014, Switzerland concentrated on implementing the organisation's existing obligations entered into by the OSCE participating states over the last 40 years. The main focus in particular is on obligations relating to combating torture and protecting human rights. Increasing the involvement of civil society also remains one of Switzerland's key concerns.

Switzerland focused on the implementation of existing commitments relating to the Human Dimension during its Chairmanship of the OSCE in 2014. OSCE Chairmanship comes with obligations and responsibilities. Switzerland dedicated itself to improving the fulfilment of standing OSCE pledges in Switzerland, and also conducted a self-assessment of its performance in office.