Held in Vienna on 28-29 March 2022, the event is the first out of the OSCE’s three annual Supplementary Human Dimension Meetings customarily organised by the country holding the OSCE chairmanship. The meeting focuses on international cooperation to prevent violations of international humanitarian law and human rights. This issue is of particular importance in the context of the ongoing Russian aggression against Ukraine. 

In his address, Minister Zbigniew Rau presented examples of international law violations committed by Russian forces. He declared that every effort will continue to be made to galvanise the international community into action aimed at putting an end to Russia’s aggression against Ukraine. “This is the only way to restore respect for international humanitarian law and human rights in the country under attack,” said the top Polish diplomat.

The Polish foreign minister noted that the war in Ukraine has caused the worst refugee crisis in Europe since World War II. Most of the refugees have come to Poland. “They are warmly welcomed both by Poles and the Polish government,” stressed Minister Rau, recalling the aid measures Poland has taken as well as a special act recently adopted in this regard.

The minister also emphasised that every country is obliged to respect international law. This is necessary to ensure human rights and fundamental freedoms. “I am calling on the Russian Federation to withdraw its troops from the territory of Ukraine and to respect international law and OSCE obligations,” stressed the Polish minister of foreign affairs.

 

MFA Press Office