At the Warsaw Human Dimension Conference 2023, Ambassador Neil Holland says that inclusive, democratic and accountable institutions are the key building blocks for secure and prosperous states
Thank you Madam Moderator, the UK is committed to promoting democracy and defending democratic freedoms.
Against the backdrop of Russia’s brutal war in Ukraine, it is important that we redouble our efforts to build inclusive democratic and accountable institutions, where all citizens can participate. These are the key building blocks for secure and prosperous states.
Democratic and open societies cannot flourish without credible and inclusive elections.
Elections allow citizens to choose how they are governed, and by whom, and to hold those in public office to account. So let me take this opportunity to reiterate the UK’s strong support for ODIHR and its vital work in observing elections across the OSCE space.
Technological progress provides an opportunity to strengthen democratic institutions, promote accountable governance and enhance individuals’ human rights. Yet open societies and democratic freedoms are coming under growing pressure online through the propagation of hateful narratives and disinformation and through the restriction of the online democratic space.
So the UK is focused on taking advantage of the opportunities and mitigating the risks:
Madam Moderator, the UK calls on all OSCE participating States to fully support ODIHR and to work together to build accountable, effective and inclusive democratic institutions. That way we can ensure that all citizens can have a say in the decisions affecting their lives.
Thank you, Mr Chair.