Helsinki: The Helsinki+50 discussions on the future of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) have been a focal point throughout 2025, spearheaded by Finland with support from the OSCE Troika. These discussions have engaged all participating states, Partners for Co-operation, OSCE executive structures, the Parliamentary Assembly, and civil society representatives amid the ongoing conflict involving Russia’s actions in Ukraine.
According to EMM, the primary objective of the Helsinki+50 discussions has been to ensure the OSCE remains committed to its core mandates, firmly rooted in the Helsinki principles. The talks also served as a platform for OSCE reform discussions. The OSCE Troika emphasized the importance of the Helsinki principles and the concept of comprehensive security, highlighting their continued relevance and necessity for guiding the OSCE and future European security discussions.
The OSCE remains a valued forum for inclusive dialogue. Emphasis on accountability for viola
tions of principles and commitments remains a crucial task, with states encouraged to explore new formats for respectful and substantive dialogue, drawing from Finland’s experiences this year. Modernization of the OSCE is seen as essential for maintaining its effectiveness and relevance, with a swift budget adoption deemed crucial for successful modernization efforts.
Reform discussions requiring consensus are expected to continue, with states urged to work toward ambitious reforms, including potential changes to the budget structure and leadership roles. The OSCE Troika aims to focus on tangible results beyond 2025, targeting the next Ministerial Council in 2026. During the discussions, a call was made for prioritization by executive structures to enhance areas where the OSCE provides unique value, with the OSCE Troika ready to support these efforts in collaboration with participating states and executive structures.
The Helsinki Final Act principles, such as state sovereignty, territorial integrity, non-u
se of force, and human rights respect, remain the foundation of collective security efforts. The OSCE Troika reiterates the shared responsibility to equip the OSCE to meet upcoming challenges and opportunities over the next 50 years.