OSCE Human Dimension Commitments and State Responses to the Covid-19 Pandemic

Abstract

This report is the culmination of ODIHR's efforts to respond to human rights challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic throughout the OSCE. It aims to help OSCE participating States learn lessons from the Covid-19 pandemic in order to strengthen their institutions ahead of future challenges. It begins with an overview of obligations when declaring a state of emergency and any attendant restrictions on fundamental freedoms and human rights, and goes on to describe the impact of the emergency measures implemented around the OSCE region on democratic institutions and human rights.