Economic and Social Rights

Modern, inclusive and equitable societies rest on the realization of economic, social, cultural and political rights, including the rights to social assistance and housing, effective social protection, as well as guarantees for adequate living standard. In the Helsinki Final Act, the OSCE participating States recognized the close link between social well-being and peace and security in Europe. 

In BiH, where, according to United Nations Development Programme in Bosnia and Herzegovina (UNDP) almost 6.5 per cent of the population experiences at least one form of poverty, it becomes even more critical to protect these rights. In doing so, the Mission focuses on identifying good practices and creating optimal conditions for the full and meaningful enjoyment of these rights by everyone. Several OSCE Ministerial Council decisions reinforce the OSCE commitments to labour rights, economic stability and sustainable development. 

While efforts to promote economic and social development spread across all levels of government, no single governmental agency has the mandate to monitor whether development is human rights-compliant. Given its unique field presence and experience in dealing with citizens and institutions throughout the country, the Mission is well placed to address the human rights aspects of economic and social development and plays a significant monitoring, co-ordinating and intervention role.