The OSCE Group of Friends of Georgia marked the fifteenth anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Georgia by underscoring the principles of the Helsinki Final Act.
Russia’s Actions in Georgia Contradict Helsinki Final Act, Claims OSCE Group
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Ambassador Holland delivered the collective message on behalf of 18 nations, shedding light on Russia’s continuous military aggression in Georgian territories of Abkhazia and South Ossetia. The Helsinki Final Act, established to improve relations between the Communist bloc and the West, plays a pivotal role in the contemporary geopolitics of the region. The address brought forth the international community’s growing concern over Russia’s ongoing military actions, emphasizing the blatant violations of the Helsinki Final Act. This pivotal international treaty signed in 1975, aimed at promoting peace and security in Europe, has repeatedly been cited in discussions surrounding Russia’s territorial ambitions. Yet, the longstanding friction between Russia and Georgia seems to resist the peaceful ethos of the Helsinki Final Act. Notably, the statement hailed Georgia’s adherence to the EU-mediated 12 August 2008 ceasefire agreement. The continued conflict starkly contrasts the intent behind the Helsinki Final Act, which aspires to peaceful conflict resolutions based on mutual respect and cooperation among European nations. The group pressed Russia to honor its obligations, especially those outlined in the Helsinki Final Act, to pave the way for a lasting peace.
OSCE Group Highlights Helsinki Final Act in Demand for Peaceful Georgian Resolution
Helsinki Final Act Invoked as OSCE Group Advocates for Georgia’s Territorial Integrity (PHOTO: Elina)
The recent judgments from the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) were highlighted, pointing to Russia’s control over Georgian territories post-ceasefire. These rulings, aligned with the principles of the Helsinki Final Act, demand Russia to bear a monetary responsibility towards the conflict-affected Georgian citizens. The consistent invocation of the Helsinki Final Act serves as a testament to its significance in resolving European territorial disputes. Moreover, the OSCE Group expressed concern over arbitrary detentions around administrative boundary lines (ABLs) and the ongoing installation of barriers, which further strains the relationship between the two nations. These actions directly contradict the spirit of the Helsinki Final Act, which champions the cause of human rights and the free movement of individuals. It’s a reminder of the pressing need for upholding the principles of the Helsinki Final Act in contemporary geopolitical standoffs.
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