Session of the OSCE PA © OSCE-PA

The OSCE is a regional security organization whose 56 participating States span the geographical area from Vancouver to Vladivostok. The OSCE, which was established on the basis of the Helsinki Final Act, is a primary instrument for early warning, conflict prevention, crisis management and post-conflict rehabilitation. It applies a comprehensive approach which encompasses the three dimensions of security - the politico-military, the economic and environmental, and the human dimension. The OSCE's approach is based on cooperation, with all participating States enjoying equal status. 320 Members of Parliament from the participating States support the OSCE's political process through the Parliamentary Assembly, which was established in 1991. The German delegation has 13 regular Members and is thus one of the largest in the OSCE PA. It is headed by Ms Doris Barnett, Member of the Bundestag.