Human Rights 2012 has seen challenges to the protection of human rights in the OSCE region, in spite of the detailed and extensive commitments undertaken by the participating States to respect, protect, promote and fulfil universal human rights. In a number of participating States, this has included legislative changes restricting freedom of peaceful assembly and the operation of civil society organizations and their ability to raise funds. Declining financial resources and austerity measures have affected human rights protection, including the ability of state bodies to meet their human-rights protection obligations. Attacks on human rights defenders continued in 2012, including physical attacks, intimidation and other forms of harassment. Many of these attacks were not followed by effective responses from authorities. The global effort against terrorism continues to pose a challenge to participating States in ensuring that human rights are adequately safeguarded in the process of maintaining security. In line with its mandate, ODIHR assists participating States in the implementation of their human dimension commitments through its monitoring efforts, capacity-building activities and the development of practical tools and resources. ODIHR’s human rights programmes have addressed key issues and developments in participating States, ensuring prompt reaction to requests and providing tailored assistance to best fit the needs expressed. In this effort, ODIHR has engaged extensively with governmental authorities, national human rights institutions and civil society alike. MAIN ISSUES Freedom of Peaceful Assembly Legislative changes in some participating States have imposed undue restrictions on assemblies, including the establishment of disproportionate penalties in cases of non-compliance with legal requirements. In some cases, assemblies have been unduly restricted or even banned. Notification procedures for assemblies have sometimes been abused and law enforcement agencies have resorted to disproportionate use of force. The practice of establishing encampments and other temporary structures, which is redefining the concept of an assembly, has posed additional challenges. The increased use of social media is, moreover, changing the notion of assembly notification, and of the roles of organizers and participants. This has led authorities to respond to some assemblies organized on-line without regard to OSCE human dimension commitments. In many cases, nevertheless, authorities have successfully and effectively facilitated assemblies, even in challenging circumstances such as multiple large events or significant security considerations. Support for Human Rights Defenders and National Human Rights Institutions The right of individuals to know and act upon their rights and duties in the field of human rights and fundamental freedoms has been enshrined in the OSCE concept of security since 1975. Participating States have reiterated the important role played by civil society and free media in helping to ensure full respect for human rights ever 44 ODIHR Annual Report 2012