Georgia outlines three security priorities as it takes over OSCE Forum for Security Co-operation chairmanship

Georgian foreign minister Maka Botchorishvili on Wednesday addressed the OSCE Forum for Security Co-operation, emphasising the importance of collective action amid growing security challenges across the OSCE area, as Georgia formally assumes the chairmanship of the body.

Speaking in Vienna, Botchorishvili described the role as a “particular responsibility” for Georgia and thanked France for its previous leadership, while also expressing readiness to work closely with the United Kingdom within the OSCE Troika to ensure continuity in the Forum’s work.

She warned that the security environment across the OSCE region remains “deeply concerning”, pointing in particular to the ongoing war in Ukraine, which she said continues to undermine regional stability and highlights the need to uphold core OSCE principles.

“The security situation across the OSCE area continues to be deeply concerning and demands our urgent attention. In particular, the war in Ukraine continues to significantly affect the security environment across the OSCE area and underscores the urgent need to uphold and respect the principles on which this Organization is based. We are witnessing a continued erosion of the trust and predictability that underpin our shared security framework. The implementation of agreed commitments, including those enshrined in the Vienna Document and other confidence- and security-building measures, faces ongoing challenges. Risk reduction mechanisms are under strain, transparency and military predictability are at a low point, and opportunities for dialogue are too often limited by political or security constraints”, the minister said.

Botchorishvili drew attention to emerging threats, including the rapid development of advanced military technologies, expanding cyber operations, and hybrid forms of conflict that blur traditional security boundaries. She called for stronger cooperation, innovation, and improved implementation of existing commitments.

“The Forum for Security Co-operation must respond to these challenges not only by reinforcing existing commitments but also by fostering innovation, enhancing cooperation, and sharing best practices among participating States. In this context, Georgia firmly believes that restoring respect for agreed principles and rebuilding confidence among participating States must remain at the center of our collective efforts. Georgia approaches its chairmanship with a clear set of priorities, which we intend to pursue in close cooperation with all participating states”, she continued.

Outlining Georgia’s priorities for its chairmanship, she announced three key security dialogues. The first will focus on strengthening compliance with the OSCE code of conduct on politico-military aspects of security. The second will address the impact of armed conflict on women and girls, highlighting both their vulnerabilities and their role in peacebuilding. The third will examine conflict-related human rights violations and the relationship between international humanitarian law and human rights law.

She further stressed that “across all three priority areas, Georgia will emphasise the importance of translating commitments into practical implementation”.

Referring to Georgia’s own security situation, Botchorishvili highlighted ongoing challenges, including what she described as Russia’s continued occupation of two Georgian regions and its illegal military presence. She said this experience reinforces Georgia’s commitment to constructive engagement and practical measures to strengthen peace and stability across the OSCE area.

She also announced that Georgia has officially submitted its candidacy for the 2027 OSCE chairmanship, describing it as a reflection of the country’s commitment to multilateralism and the principles of the Helsinki Final Act.

“Our country faces complex security challenges and understands firsthand the consequences of unresolved conflict, violations of sovereignty, and the erosion of confidence among participating States, as Russia continues the occupation of two regions of Georgia and maintains its illegal military presence there. This experience shapes our approach to leadership within the FSC: we are committed to constructive engagement, and practical measures that advance peace, stability, and security across the OSCE area. We are also aware that security is not achieved through formal instruments alone. It requires sustained engagement, trust-building, and the willingness to listen and respond to legitimate concerns. Georgia is determined to ensuring that the FSC remains a platform for constructive dialogue and practical solutions. Allow me also to inform you that Georgia has formally put forward its candidacy for the OSCE Chairmanship in 2027. This candidacy reflects our deep commitment to the Organization and our belief in the value of continuity, inclusiveness, and proactive engagement. Georgia brings to this role a proven record of constructive participation in OSCE activities, a steadfast adherence to the principles of the Helsinki Final Act, and practical experience in addressing complex security challenges. Georgia’s experience in navigating difficult regional security dynamics positions us to contribute effectively to the OSCE’s work at the highest level”, Botchorishvili said.

“The challenges we face are significant. They demand careful attention, innovative solutions, and unwavering commitment. But so too is our collective capacity to address them, if we act in the spirit of cooperation and mutual respect that defines the OSCE. Georgia assumes this Chairmanship with humility, resolve, and a firm belief in the value of multilateralism. We look forward to working closely with all participating States to strengthen the FSC, advance our shared objectives, and ensure that the OSCE continues to deliver results in the interest of security, stability, and peace across the OSCE area”, she concluded.