Dimensions and Topics

The Organization deals with three dimensions of security:

1st dimension: politico-military
The OSCE takes a comprehensive approach to the politico-military dimension of security, which includes a number of commitments by participating States and mechanisms for conflict prevention and resolution. The Organization also seeks to enhance military security by promoting greater openness, transparency and co-operation.

2nd dimension: economic and environmental
Activities in the economic and environmental dimension include the monitoring of developments in this area among participating States, with the aim of alerting them to any threat to security and stability, while assisting in the creation of economic and environmental policies and related initiatives to promote security and co-operation in the OSCE region.
3rd dimension: human dimension
The commitments made by OSCE participating States in the human dimension aim to ensure full respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms; to abide by the rule of law; to promote the principles of democracy by building, strengthening and protecting democratic institutions; and to promote tolerance throughout the OSCE region.

All 56 participating States enjoy equal status, and decisions are taken by consensus on a politically, but not legally binding basis.