Georgia assumes the Chairpersonship of the OSCE Forum for Security Co-operation

Georgia has assumed the Chairpersonship of the Forum for Security Co-operation (FSC) of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE). Georgia’s Chairpersonship officially began at the opening session held in Vienna on 22 April.

 

At the opening session of the OSCE Forum for Security Cooperation (FSC) under Georgia’s chairmanship, Georgia’s Vice Prime Minister, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Maka Botchorishvili, delivered a speech in which she extensively addressed the security environment in the region, the prevailing challenges and Georgia’s priorities.

 

According to the Minister, the security situation across the OSCE area continues to be deeply concerning and demands urgent attention.

 

The Minister highlighted the contemporary, rapidly evolving threats that transcend traditional security frameworks. She explained that, in light of this reality, the FSC should not only reinforce existing commitments but also foster cooperation and develop innovative approaches – “Georgia firmly believes that restoring respect for agreed principles and rebuilding confidence among participating States must remain at the center of our collective efforts”.

 

Drawing on the country’s experience, the Minister explained that Georgia supports constructive engagement and practical solutions within the FSC and seeks to ensure that the Forum remains a platform for dialogue and results-oriented cooperation.

 

“Our country faces complex security challenges and understands firsthand the consequences of unresolved conflict, violations of sovereignty, and the erosion of confidence among participating States, as Russia continues the occupation of two regions of Georgia and maintains its illegal military presence there,” stated Minister Botchorishvili. 

 

Maka Botchorishvili focused on the implementation of the commitments undertaken within the Organization, particularly in the context of shared challenges.

 

„The implementation of the commitments, including those enshrined in the Vienna Document and other confidence- and security-building measures, faces ongoing challenges. Risk reduction mechanisms are under strain, transparency and military predictability are at a low point, and opportunities for dialogue are too often limited by political or security constraints,” stated the Minister.

 

Building on these principles, the Minister presented the three main directions of Georgia’s chairmanship: strengthening the Code of Conduct, the impact of armed conflicts on women and girls, and human rights violations during conflicts.

 

In conclusion, Minister Botchorishvili noted that Georgia formally put forward its candidacy for the OSCE Chairmanship in 2027, which reflects the country’s deep commitment to the values of the Organization. According to the Minister, overcoming the existing challenges is possible only through joint efforts, cooperation and mutual respect, and Georgia is prepared to play an active and responsible role in this process.

 

The Chairpersonship of the Forum for Security Co-operation rotates three times a year. Georgia will Chair the FSC until September 2026.