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France

France, a republic located on the western coast of Europe, has been an OSCE participating State since June 25, 1973. It is a founding member of NATO, the EU, and the Council of Europe, and home to several international organizations and EU institutions including UNESCO and the European Parliament.  Its highly diversified economy includes defense, power and public transportation, and tourism industries.  Its population of over 66.5 million is made up of French, Northern and Sub-Saharan African and Caribbean, Middle East, and Eastern Europe populations that represent diverse faiths

France has hosted numerous OSCE and OSCE PA events that have been attended by Commissioners, and has periodically had its elections observed by the OSCE/ODIHR.  Helsinki Commission events have included a roundtable with the US Ambassador to France and hosting diverse youth delegations.  In the wake of attacks in January and November 2014, France has had an increased OSCE and Commission focus on issues related to security, human rights, and migration. 

Staff Contact: Michael Cecire, senior policy advisor

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  • Justice Overseas

    Human rights within states are crucial to security among states. Prioritizing respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, defending the principles of liberty, and encouraging tolerance within societies must be at the forefront of America's foreign policy agenda. Peace, security, and prosperity cannot be sustained if national governments repress their citizens, stifle their media, or imprison members of the political opposition. Authoritarian regimes become increasingly unstable as citizens chafe under the bonds of persecution and violence, and pose a danger not only to their citizens, but also to neighboring nations. The Helsinki Commission strives to ensure that the protection of human rights and defense of democratic values are central to U.S. foreign policy; that they are applied consistently in U.S. relations with other countries; that violations of Helsinki provisions are given full consideration in U.S. policymaking; and that the United States holds those who repress their citizens accountable for their actions. This includes battling corruption;  protecting the fundamental freedoms of all people, especially those who historically have been persecuted and marginalized; promoting the sustainable management of resources; and balancing national security interests with respect for human rights to achieve long-term positive outcomes rather than short-term gains.

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