WASHINGTON– Congresswoman Hilda L. Solis (D-CA), who serves as a Commissioner on the Commission for Security and Cooperation in Europe (U.S. Helsinki Commission), has been appointed as the Special Representative on Migration for the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe’s (OSCE) Parliamentary Assembly. The appointment, made by OSCE PA President Goran Lennmarker of Sweden, recognizes Solis’ leadership within the U.S. Congress on the issue of immigration and her ability to assist OSCE countries to further the development of their migrant labor systems. Solis remarked on her appointment, “I am truly honored to have been given this appointment. While each country’s immigration policies are unique and different, I believe there is a common goal that we can all work toward. I look forward to working closely with President Lennmarker and my fellow OSCE colleagues to capitalize on the positive aspects of migration in each of our countries.”
The U.S. Helsinki Commission leadership of Congressman Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL), Chairman and Co-Chairman Senator Benjamin L. Cardin (D-MD), praised Solis’ appointment by commenting, “We laud the appointment of Congresswoman Solis as Special Representative on Migration for the OSCE PA. Throughout her career, Hilda has made improving the lives of working families one of her top priorities. We know that she will continue this work in her new position and be the voice for those who seek to live a better life and earn a liveable wage. In her position, Hilda will examine ways in which sound policy can be developed to ensure a migrant labor system that is humane and meets the economic needs of laborers in the OSCE region. We are honored to serve with Hilda on the U.S. Helsinki Commission and in Congress and we know that she will be an excellent representative of the United States in her new position,” said Hastings and Cardin.