OSCE’s Achievements vs. Shortcomings in the Resolution of Armed Conflicts
OSCE’s Achievements vs. Shortcomings in the Resolution of Armed Conflicts

Summary/Abstract: What are the main advantages of the OSCE in conflict resolution issues? On the other hand, why cannot the OSCE solve the “eternal” problems in Transnistria or Northern Karabakh region? The present article consists of three main parts. First the author identifies strengths and opportunities of the OSCE in conflict resolution. The main advantages of the OSCE are distinguished in relation to the resolution of “frozen conflicts” and protracted crisis situations in the post-Soviet space. The questions on weaknesses and shortcomings of the OSCE are raised in the second part of the article. Lack of legislative power, non-legally binding decisions, and other weaknesses are revealed through an analysis of views on the organization and its activities by representatives of major states. Attention has to be paid to the position of Russian Federation regarding the ability of the OSCE to address potential conflicts in the post-Soviet space as well as the organization’s goals to ensure the protection of human rights. The limitations of the OSCE are apparent in the cases concerned with territorial integrity issues. The last section of the article is devoted to an analysis of the situation in Kyrgyzstan, which reflects both positive and negative features of the OSCE in regulating conflict situations in 2010.

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