On 26 November 2014 SIPRI hosted a specialist discussion on the role of field missions undertaken by the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE).
The event was timed to coincide with the visit to Stockholm of Ambassador Peter Burkhard, Head of the OSCE Mission to Serbia.
The OSCE currently supports 17 field operations in South-Eastern Europe, Eastern Europe, the South Caucasus and Central Asia.
Issues discussed included the potential role the OSCE can play in security environments which show worrying signs of deterioration; and the ways in which the OSCE can contribute to reducing tensions, resolving conflicts and building peace and security in and for Europe through its field presence.
Special emphasis was placed on how the role of individual OSCE field missions may evolve and adapt in local conditions, and on field missions' possible contributions to stability.
Contact SIPRI Director Dr Ian Anthony for further questions or read more about SIPRI's research on the OSCE.