OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities
From left: Former High Commissioners Knut Vollebæk, Astrid Thors and Lamberto Zannier and current High Commissioner Kairat Abdrakhmanov discuss the work of the institution of the High Commissioner on National Minorities and how they carried out their mandate, as part of the institution’s 30th anniversary conference at the Peace Palace, The Hague, 24 October 2023. https://www.osce.org/hcnm/556398 (OSCE/Arnaud Roelofsz) Photo details
The High Commissioner on National Minorities (HCNM) gets involved in a situation if, in his judgement, there are tensions involving national minorities which could develop into a conflict. Much of the day-to-day work is in identifying and addressing causes of ethnic tensions and conflicts. The High Commissioner addresses the short-term triggers of inter-ethnic tension or conflict and long-term structural concerns. If a participating State is not meeting its political commitments or international norms, the High Commissioner will assist by providing analysis and recommendations. Based on experience, the HCNM publishes thematic Recommendations and Guidelines that give advice on common challenges and best practice. The HCNM also provides structural support through small collaborative projects that aim to achieve sustainability through increasing local ownership.