PART I 1 HUMAN RIGHTS AND THE OSCE The OSCE’s comprehensive approach to security and its specific commitments create a context for the work of all OSCE field operations. It is within this context that OSCE field operations carry out their mandates to assist host governments in solving specific problems and in meeting their commitments. Since the human dimension cannot be separated from the other work of the organization, all field operations have a responsibility to ensure that their activities contribute to the fulfilment of OSCE principles and commitments. This is the framework in which OSCE field personnel should understand the human dimension and should be prepared to deal with human dimension issues, including individual complaints of human rights violations, in the course of their work. 1.1 THE HUMAN DIMENSION The term “human dimension” encompasses human rights and fundamental freedoms, democracy, tolerance, and the rule of law, as well as national minorities, human contacts, and international humanitarian law. OSCE participating States have agreed in their human dimension commitments that pluralistic democracy and the rule of law are prerequisites for peace and security and are essential for ensuring respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms. The OSCE commitments in the field of human rights are broad and detailed. In a number of instances, they go beyond those adopted by the United Nations or other international organizations. An outline of some of the principal issues likely to be faced by field operations is included in the chapters that follow. The OSCE and its field operations have an important role to play in the area of promoting human dimension commitments, as they can help to point out weaknesses in state structures and practices and can assist in finding solutions. OSCE field operations are often located in states in transition to democracy where, in some cases, the highest authorities want change but others “in the system” may be stuck in their old ways. Resolution of individual complaints can therefore be helpful to the leadership, as the steps taken in individual cases may pave the way for greater changes. The OSCE is equipped with a variety of mechanisms, structures, and activities aimed at the effective implementation of human dimension commitments. It is involved in following, and intervening in, both individual cases and patterns of alleged human rights violations. Unlike some other human rights treaties, e.g., the European Convention on Human Rights, the OSCE’s basic texts have not created a court or other individual petition body to enforce 20