20 May 2013
With the welcome speeches given by Ambassador Branimir Mandic, RACVIAC Director, Ms Vesna Batistic Kos, Ph.D., Assistant Minister of Foreign and European Affairs, Croatia, and Ms Ana Trisic-Babic, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Conference on “Gender and Border Management/Peace and Security: Promoting Women’s Role” has started today in RACVIAC.
Being aware that the integration of gender issues is a key to the effectiveness and accountability of the security sector, RACVIAC has already organized two events dedicated to the this subject in the last 15 months.
The purpose of the conference is to bring together representatives from South East Europe (SEE) and provide them with relevant general information on the new trends in border management deriving from the needs of the SEE countries, as well as to exchange relevant information on the subject matter, thus ensuring higher level of human rights protection and the rule of law as the responsibility of border management institutions.
Opening the conference, Ambassador Mandic pointed out that border control activities could have potentially positive and negative consequences for the relevant actors, local population in the area of operation, general security environment, enjoyment of human rights and the rule of law. He also added that the integration of gender issues into border management reform processes could enhance operational effectiveness by contributing to effective and gender-responsive human trafficking training, enhanced recruitment of women in border management agencies, improving the prevention and detection of human trafficking and smuggling, strengthening the protection and promotion of human rights, resulting in more representative border management institutions and enhancing local ownership, oversight and collaboration.
The conference has gathered more than 30 participants representing Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Montenegro, the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia*, Slovenia, Turkey, NATO, SEESAC and other institutions engaged in human rights protection in the SEE region. The conference attendants include, among others: Ms Visnja Ljubicic, Ombudsman for Gender Equality of the Republic of Croatia, Col Harald Hiorth, Deputy Commander, NATO HQ Sarajevo, Ms Ankcia Tomic, Deputy Director, the Gender Equality Agency of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Ms Vanja Matic, Coordinator/Gender PM, NATO HQ Sarajevo, Ms Lidija Pentavec, Ministry of Interior, the Republic of Croatia, Mr Beno Arnejcic, PhD, Primorska University, the Republic of Slovenia, Ms Danijela Djurovic, Project Officer/Advisor, SEESAC.
* Turkey recognizes the Republic of Macedonia with its constitutional name.
14 May 2013
Co-organized with the Government Office for Mine Action of the Republic of Croatia, the Norwegian People’s Aid, the Ministry of Defence of the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia* and RACVIAC – Centre for Security Cooperation, a two-day workshop on the Implementation of the Convention on Cluster Munitions (also know as Oslo Convention) has started today in Skopje.
The purpose of this workshop is to share the latest developments related to the implementation of the Convention on Cluster Munitions. The workshop will provide an overview of the implementation of the Convention and results of the Third Meeting of States Parties (3MSP) held in Oslo, Norway, in September 2012.
The event also aims to provide a forum for discussion on the implementation of the Convention in South Eastern Europe with a focus on retention and destruction as well as national strategies, implementation plans, progress reports, possible international and regional cooperation and needs for support from outside the region. Additionally, there will be an opportunity to observe the disassembling of mortar M93 and BKF dispensing canister containing AO 2.5RT sub-munitions and disposal of cluster munitions stockpiles.The workshop gathered some 30 participants, representing relevant ministries, agencies and organizations from 11 countries.
Opening the workshop, Brigadier General Zdravko Jakop, RACVIAC Deputy Director, underlined that RACVIAC had contributed to the implementation of the Convention since 2008 by organising activities on this topic, thus supporting the countries of South Eastern Europe (SEE) in their efforts to put an end to the production, trade and stockpiling of cluster munitions.
* Turkey recognizes the Republic of Macedonia with its constitutional name.
08 May 2013
The Croatian city of Dubrovnik will host one of the largest political meetings in 2013 - the autumn session of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, taking place from 11 to 14 October this year. Some 800 parliamentarians from 28 NATO member countries are expected to attend the 59th NATO Parliamentary Assembly Session, the biggest political meeting ever to be held on Croatian soil. Among others, the conference will be attended by the entire Croatian state leadership, NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen and possibly the former US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. It will focus on the topics that have been dominating the world’s politics, such as Afghanistan, Syria, the Arab Spring and the smart defence concept.
In order to promote this event as much as possible, especially among high school and university students, the Croatian Parliamentary Delegation to NATO and North Atlantic Promotion Organization (NAPO) are organizing a NATO quiz competition in four South-Croatian Counties (Zadar County, Šibenik - Knin County, Split - Dalmatia County and Dubrovnik - Neretva County). The final competition will be held in RACVIAC, while the quiz winners will be awarded a trip to Brussels and a visit to the NATO HQ. They will also be introduced to the participants in the autumn session of the Parliamentary Assembly in Dubrovnik.
Supporting the Croatian Parliamentary Delegation to NATO in the organization of the above mentioned event, RACVIAC Deputy Director Brigadier General Zdravko Jakop took part in the promotion campaign organized from 06 to 07 May 2013 across the region of Dalmatia.
08 May 2013
Co-organized by RACVIAC - Centre for Security Cooperation and TAIEX - Technical Assistance and Information Exchange Instrument of the European Commission, and hosted by the Ministry of Defence of the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia*, a workshop on “The Aspects and Challenges of Defence Procurement” has started yesterday in Skopje.
The purpose of the workshop is to discuss and share information on aspects and challenges in the organization of defence procurement, with focus on corruption as one of the issues that needs special attention. It is also aimed at supporting and fostering the capacity-building process, exchange of experiences and best practices in the field of defence procurement.
The workshop was opened by Mr Sasho Stefanovski, State Secretary in the MK Ministry of Defence, and by Mr Lukas Melka, Head of Operations 1 Section, EU Delegation in Skopje, who underlined that more than 40 defence markets had been fragmented and that there were 27 different types of consumers and legal frameworks in the EU at the moment. Mr Melka also stressed that the goal should be the establishment of a single set of procurement rules in the European Union.
On behalf of the Director of RACVIAC, Ambassador Branimir Mandic, welcome address was given by Mr Milan Janicijevic, acting Programme Manager of the IRC Pillar, who said that gradual establishment of defence equipment market was essential for strengthening the defence technological and industrial base and developing military capabilities required to implement a national system and to be in alignment with the European Security and Defence Policy.
Bringing together more than 40 participants representing relevant state institutions and governmental and non-governmental organizations and agencies, the workshop is aimed at strengthening defence procurement organization, discussing the definitions, scope and principles of the European Public Procurement Policy as well as the Defence Procurement Directive 2009/81/E. More specifically, the event is an opportunity to discuss the financial and procurement rules of the European Defence Agency (EDA), security of supply for defence and security procurement, as well as to share best practices in fighting corruption in defence procurement and anti-corruption policies and strategies among EU candidate and potential candidate countries.
* Turkey recognizes the Republic of Macedonia with its constitutional name.
30 Apr 2013
Following good practice established in previous years, a fire-fighting exercise organized by the International Military Operations Training Centre (IMOTC) took place today in the Rakitje barracks. The exercise scenario started with a fire alarm siren and all RACVIAC staff was obliged to follow standard operating procedure in case of fire. Fire-fighters, coming from the local volunteer fire-fighting brigades based in Sveta Nedelja and Rakitje, demonstrated procedures in several cases: extinguishing of fire in a building, evacuation of injured personnel, extinguishing a burning vehicle.
All IMOTC and RACVIAC personnel had the opportunity to try out fire extinguishers and practice extinguishing flames outdoors. Finally, fire-fighting equipment and vehicles were exhibited. Thanks to fire-fighting brigades form Rakitje and Sveta Nedjelja all staff inside the barracks rest assured they are in safe hands in case fire breaks out. On that note, small tokens of appreciation were presented to the brigades by the barracks and IMOTC commander Lt Col Ivica Plejic and by RACVIAC Deputy Director Brigadier General Zdravko Jakop.
25 Apr 2013
A two-day seminar on P(M)SC / National Security, organized by RACVIAC - Centre for Security Cooperation, has finished today. Bringing together participants from South Eastern Europe (SEE): members of parliaments, representatives of ombudsman institutions, ministries, chambers of commerce, private security companies, NGOs, academics as well as experts from DCAF Geneva and various national institutions and think-thanks, the seminar addressed several issues related to the P(M)SC and their activities, performance, transparency, accountability, etc.
Divided into three panels, the seminar provided participants with relevant general information on the history and growth of P(M)SC. It also outlined the changing nature of the P(M)SC and the impact on civil-military relations, gave an overview of the pros and cons of using P(M)SC and of some lessons learned from privatizing and outsourcing security. The participants were introduced to the options available for the effective regulation of P(M)SC and international regulations, such as the Monteux Document and the International Code of Conduct for Private Security Service Providers. The seminar was also an opportunity to exchange the information on the current trends related to the national experiences of regional countries on P(M)SC from the academic as well as private security companies’ point of view.
On the second day a special emphasis was given to the options for effective regulation of P(M)SC at the international level, as well as national experience with transposing international regulations to national legislation. In that regard, DCAF project officers Mr Ben Buckland and Mr André du Plessis gave very comprehensive presentations on the latest developments with regard to the Montreux Document and International Code of Conduct for Private Security Service Providers.
They reminded the participants that the Montreux Document was the first international, legally non-binding document, applied to the activities of private military and security companies (PMSCs) whenever these are present in the context of armed conflict.
Today the Montreux Document has 44 implementing States. It is worth mentioning that only 4 RACVIAC Member states, namely AL, BA, GR, and MK, have joined the Document so far.
As a step forward in taking the responsibility to respect human rights and to comply with international humanitarian law towards all those affected by their business, so far 603 private security companies have signed the International Code of Conduct for Private Security Service Providers. Establishment of an oversight mechanism of the P(M)SC is the main problem the stakeholders are facing nowadays. Agreement has been reached on the Charter for the Oversight Mechanism of the International Code of Conduct for Private Security Service Providers (ICoC). A large group of representatives from the signatory companies, civil society and governments were involved in the successful negotiations, which were held in Montreux in February 2013. The purpose of this independent governance and oversight mechanism, which will be based in Geneva, is to ensure certification of the PMSC compliance with the International CoC-based standards reporting monitoring and assessing performance of private security providers as well as the adoption of a third-party complaint process. The oversight mechanism will probably be formally launched and established in the summer of this year.
In the end, all participants agreed that the topic was extremely interesting and challenging at the same time. Having practitioners, academics and representatives of national institutions gathered in one place provided an excellent opportunity to share information, knowledge and good practices, especially as related to the oversight and legislative issues. The seminar was closed with a conclusion that all expectations were fully met and that RACVIAC has to continue dealing with this issue in the forthcoming period as well.
24 Apr 2013
With the welcome addresses given by Mr Zoran Sajinovic, Assistant Minister, Ministry of Defence of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Mr Drago Radic, Civil Aviation Authority of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Ambassador Branimir Mandic, RACVIAC Director, Basic Regional Search and Rescue Course, hosted by the Ministry of Defence of Bosnia and Herzegovina, has started today in Sarajevo.
The Course is a follow-up to the events organized by RACVIAC in 2011 and 2012, dedicated to the topic of search and rescue in South-Eastern Europe (SEE). Recognizing the importance of efficient SAR structures, national and regional alike, as one of the security issues that should be further discussed and explored, this year’s event aims to open a way ahead in the search and rescue area.
In his welcome speech, Ambassador Mandic highlighted that search and rescue issues had grown in importance in light of recent major natural disasters and accidents and the number of human losses resulting therefrom. He pointed out that nowadays, close cooperation and coordination among countries had become mandatory in order to ensure successful search and rescue operations. He also emphasized that “once national resources have been identified and structured, the cross-border SAR agreements in accordance with international recommendations can be established. In order to optimize the conditions and efforts needed, it is recommended to attempt a regional development in order to share and overcome various issues that our countries are potentially faced with. Different training and fact-finding events such as this one are very important tools in the international SAR community, making it possible to support and accelerate this process.”
The opening part of the Course was concluded with the Signing Ceremony of the Letter of Intent, aimed at promoting and strengthening further regional cooperation on search and rescue. The letter, signed by Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro and the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia*, will further support the establishment of national requirements and legal basis as a background for initiating regional and bilateral cross-border search and rescue cooperation and establishment of national and regional level of interdisciplinary SAR working groups responsible for processing and implementing search and rescue.
This year’s course focuses on: SAR concept, terms of reference documents, international SAR organization obligations, SAR working group mandate and tasks, national SAR laws and national SAR providing authority agreements. The course, supported by the Kingdom of Denmark, has gathered around 30 participants from RACVIAC member countries, civilian and military officials at decision-making levels and experts representing relevant national institutions dealing with SAR issues: Defence/Armed Forces, national RCC authorities, national Directorates for Search and Protection, Civil Aviation Authorities, Ministries of the Interior, Civil Emergency Management Authorities, etc.
* Turkey recognizes the Republic of Macedonia with its constitutional name.
24 Apr 2013
A two-day seminar on P(M)SC / National Security Sector has started today in RACVIAC - Centre for Security Cooperation. This event is the first one in a series of similar events aimed at becoming RACVIAC mid-term project focused on the changes in civil-military relations and the effects of privatisation of the security sector.
The purpose of the Seminar is three-fold. Firstly, it aims to bring together representatives from South Eastern Europe (SEE) and provide them with relevant general information on the global trends, rapid growth and changing nature of the private (military) security sector in the last two decades. Secondly, the seminar is aimed at outlining pros and cons of the use of P(M)SC and lessons learned in the course of security privatisation and outsourcing. Thirdly, the event aims to present the options for effective regulation of P(M)SC on international level and types of national legislation.
The seminar has gathered more than 30 participants, representatives of parliaments, ombudsman institutions, ministries, chambers of commerce, representatives of P(M)SC and NGOs from the SEE countries, academics as well as experts from DCAF Geneva and various national institutions and think-thanks.
In the opening part of the seminar, DCAF Project Officers Mr André du Plessis and Mr Ben Buckland, gave a presentation on Definitions and Scope of P(M)SC, outlining also the main challenges related to the private (military) security sector, such as inherent governmental functions, personnel, multiple jurisdiction, oversight, etc. In accordance with the seminar agenda, the first day is divided into two major panels: Panel I on the History, Global Trends and Rapid Growth of P(M)S Sector and Impact on Civil Military Relations, and Panel II on Regional, National and Local Experiences of P(M)SC.
In the first Panel, presentations were given by Mr Robert Mikac, Ph.D., Head of Sector for Civil Protection – Commander of the Civil Protection of the Republic of Croatia, National Protection and Rescue Directorate; Mr Krisztian Varga, ELTE Faculty of Law Institute of Political Science, HU; Mr Vlatko Cvrtila, Ph.D., Professor, Faculty of Political Science, University of Zagreb and President of the Council of Croatian Association of Security Managers (UHMS).
Panel II started with the presentations “Regional Initiatives on P(M)SC Governance; the Sarajevo Code of Conduct“, given by Mr Emsad Dizdarević, CSS, Sarajevo, BA and “P(M)SC and Gender” given by Ms Ankica Tomić, Head of Department for International Relations, Ministry of Security of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Background: Private (military) security companies and other private security providers play an important role in protecting state and non-state clients engaged in various activities. In providing these services, the activities of P(M)SC can have potentially positive and negative consequences for their clients, the local population in the area of operation, the general security environment, the enjoyment of human rights and the rule of law. To ensure higher level of human rights protection and the rule of law as the responsibility of P(M)SC, the government of the Swiss Confederation and the International Committee of the Red Cross, in cooperation with the representatives of 17 states (Afghanistan, Angola, Australia, Austria, Canada, China, France, Germany, Iraq, Poland, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, Ukraine, and the United States) launched an initiative resulting in the Montreux Document. A further step aimed at improving the level of human rights protection was the adoption of the International Code of Conduct for Private Security Service Providers. Thereby, the Signatory Companies, PSCs, affirm their responsibility to respect human rights and fulfil humanitarian responsibilities towards all those affected by their business activities.
17 Apr 2013
On the margins of the 29th MAG Meeting RACVIAC SSR Pillar Research Project entitled “Defence Conversion Modalities in South-East Europe (SEE) – Specific Regional Model” was presented yesterday.
The project included experts nominated by the Republic of Albania, Republic of Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Republic of Moldova, the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia* and the Republic of Serbia, who were designated to two Project Areas: Transition of Military Personnel and Military Base Conversion. It is worth mentioning that this project also reflects the great cooperation and support provided by the Kingdom of Norway and the Republic of Slovenia.
Background: RACVIAC first started tackling the subject matter of defence conversion following the Concept Paper on Defence Conversion in South Eastern Europe issued after the meeting of Defence Ministries of South-East European Cooperation Process, held in Bucharest in 2005. In accordance with this Concept Paper, RACVIAC organized more than 20 workshops addressing transition of military personnel and military base conversion issues. This endeavour was continued with the project on defence conversion modalities in South Eastern Europe, launched in 2011.
* Turkey recognizes the Republic of Macedonia with its constitutional name.
17 Apr 2013
The 29th MAG & Budgetary Meeting, the semi-annual summit of RACVIAC’s steering body - the Multinational Advisory Group, took place in Rakitje, from 15 to 16 April. The meeting, gathering the majority of member countries of the MAG, as well as the representative of Regional Cooperation Council, was organized by the MAG Chairmanship of the Republic of Croatia. It started on Monday 15 April with the Budgetary Meeting, which gave an opportunity to MAG representatives to discuss all relevant issues regarding RACVIAC’s Budget for 2013 and projections for the future.
Ms Vesna Batistic Kos, the Chair Lady, opening the meeting outlined the main achievements gained in the past few months of her mandate: the Host Nation Agreement between RACVIAC and the Croatian Government was signed; Croatian Ministry of Foreign and European Affaires seconded a diplomat to the Centre in order to facilitate cooperation between RACVIAC and the host nation. She also pointed out that with the project oriented approach RACVIAC has a huge potential not only to conduct the planned programme activities, but also to broaden the scope of its cooperation within the network of international and regional organizations. “As a regionally based, staffed and owned organization RACVIAC is an excellent platform for increasing regional security and cooperation“, Ms Batistic Kos said.
The meeting Agenda consisted of a brief presentation of the Director’s Annual Report provided by the Director of RACVIAC Ambassador Branimir Mandic, who highlighted the most important achievements gained in the reporting period, especially in terms of intensified communication and cooperation with the member countries and international and regional organizations and initiatives. He informed the auditory about the Centre's intention to expand its scope of activities and a network of partners and co-operators, with the aim to secure sustainable funds and long-term partners. He also took this opportunity to present some ongoing challenges, particularly regarding the issues of secondment of personnel.
Brigadier General Zdravko Jakop, RACVIAC Deputy Director, informed the MAG representatives about the current personnel situation in the Centre, which is the biggest challenge the Centre is facing currently, since that during 2013 a significant number of the seconded personnel is leaving. It is especially worrying to find out that for some of them there are no replacement plans.
Deputy Director’s presentation was followed by the presentations given by RACVIAC Programme Managers, Colonel Zafer Kilic, Mr Branko Kromar, M.Sc. and Mr Milan Janicijevic with regard to respective programme achievements in 2012, activities in 2013 and projections for 2014. In addition to that, Major Sasa Konjevic informed the MAG about the work of RACVIAC Programme Development Group, introducing project oriented approach.
Subsequently, MAG accepted the recommendations form the Budgetary Meeting held day before as well as draft of the MAG conclusions. The whole event finished with the conclusion that in 2012 RACVIAC has continued to be widely recognized brand in the field of security cooperation in the region of South Eastern Europe (SEE), having at the same time very ambitious plans for the future.
15 Apr 2013
The 29th semi-annual meeting of RACVIAC’s steering body - the Multinational Advisory Group (MAG) has started today with the Budgetary Meeting.
MAG representatives were introduced with the current budgetary issues as well as projections for the future. The semi-annual meeting will continue tomorrow with the presentations and discussions on the Director’s Annual Report for 2012, as well as RACVIAC programme of activities and current personnel situation.
12 Apr 2013
The 29th semi-annual meeting of RACVIAC’s steering body - the Multinational Advisory Group (MAG) is taking place from 15 - 16 April 2013 in RACVIAC. The Meeting is organized under the Croatian MAG Chairmanship and it will gather the majority of RACVIAC member countries. The purpose of this Meeting is to introduce the Director’s Annual Report, which covers the period throughout the year 2012, as a primary tool of information on RACVIAC work, aims, achievements, status and all other relevant issues. The MAG members will also be provided with detailed information on: realization of the RACVIAC 2012 programme, ongoing 2013 programme, programme projections for the upcoming years, current personnel situation and budgetary matters.
11 Apr 2013
With regard to Article 19 of the Agreement on RACVIAC – Centre for Security Cooperation, the Host Nation Agreement (HNA) was signed today by Mr Zeljko Klisovic, Deputy Minister, Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs, on behalf of the Government of the Republic of Croatia, and Ambassador Branimir Mandic, Director of RACVIAC. The signing ceremony was also attended by Ms Vesna Batistic Kos, MAG Chairperson and Assistant Minister for Multilateral Affairs and Global Issues, Croatian MFEA, Mr Zoran Drca, Assistant Minister of Defence, and Brigadier General Zdravko Jakop, RACVIAC Deputy Director.
This Agreement defines legal personality, capacity, privileges and immunities of RACVIAC as an international organization seated in Croatia as well as privileges and immunities of RACVIAC personnel.
Upon signing the HNA, Mr Klisovic said that RACVIAC proved to be a reliable partner and an important factor in promoting regional security dialogue and common values. He added that the HNA was also a step forward, proving that RACVIAC was no longer an initiative, but rather an international, regionally owned organization.
Ambassador Mandic used this opportunity to express once more his appreciation for the great support Croatia has been providing to the Centre since its establishment. He pointed out that the HNA would be an additional incentive to the member countries to second personnel, thus fulfilling the obligations accepted under the Agreement on RACVIAC - Centre for Security Cooperation. He stressed that the HNA would also give an impetus to all RACVIAC staff continuing to follow the Centre’s mission to enhance and promote security dialogue in South East Europe.
10 Apr 2013
The second “Workshop on Early Warning Messages and Regional Risk Analysis”, under the DCAF Border Security Programme, co-organized by DCAF Ljubljana and RACVIAC – Centre for Security Cooperation, finished on 10 April 2013.
This event, aimed at technical and substantial training in the use of “Sentry”, a world wide web application for the management of the early warning messages that enables on-line data and information input, brought together police experts and police practitioners from Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia*, Montenegro, Slovenia and Serbia. The workshop also focused on the criteria under which national information is to be given the status of early warning information, important for other participating countries and therefore uploaded to “Sentry”.
The entire workshop was operationally oriented and focused on realistic scenario data input to the border “Sentry” application, possible changes to the application and on additional technical issues (screen-text language application, information-text language, geographical data input, etc.). There was an extensive discussion on the goals, methods, outputs and use of descriptive and inferential statistics as a tool for providing real-time risk analyses.
Since all the participating countries have their national early warning systems and are obliged to send data to FRONTEX on a monthly basis, this was also an opportunity to discuss how to harmonise the data needed for national use with FRONTEX in order to avoid duplication. Some legal aspects of the “ownership” of information available through the application were also discussed. Since the application is still in the testing phase, it will certainly undergo some changes and enhancements in the upcoming period.
All participants agreed that this application would be very useful for the authorized personnel, since it would enable them to have all the necessary information on illegal migration, drug and arms trafficking, counterfeiting, forged identity and travel documents in the region readily available in a timely manner.
* Turkey recognizes the Republic of Macedonia with its constitutional name.
09 Apr 2013
Second “Workshop on Early Warning Messages and Regional Risk Analysis”, under the DCAF Border Security Programme, started today in RACVIAC – Centre for Security Cooperation.
The workshop is the follow-up of the meeting held in Ohrid, MK in September 2012, with the aim to facilitate intelligence–led policing in the Western Balkans pertaining to the areas falling under the responsibility of the border police. Based on the outcomes of the Ohrid Workshop, DCAF experts have designed a logical structure of the relational data base management system, all the necessary code tables and data management processes. The working name of the world-wide-web application for the management of the early warning messages, which enables on-line data and information input, is “Sentry”.
Workshop participants, border police practitioners in the filed of early warning and risk analysis, coming from AL, BA, HR, ME, MK, RS, SI, and TR will be trained in the use of “Sentry” not only technically but also substantially. They will also focus on the criteria under which the national information is to be given the status of the early warning information, important for other participating countries and therefore uploaded to “Sentry”.
Opening the seminar, RACVIAC Director Ambassador Branimir Mandic said that the Centre was aware of the role and importance of international cooperation in creating a positive image of developing effective and efficient police systems as well as border security.
04 Apr 2013
RACVIAC Director Ambassador Branimir Mandic and Deputy Director Brigadier General Zdravko Jakop participated in the 6th Workshop of the South East Europe Regional Approach to Stockpile Reduction (RASR) of Conventional Weapons and Munitions, held from 4 - 5 April 2013 in Bled, Slovenia.
In accordance with the Workshop agenda, Ambassador Mandic chaired two sessions: “Western Balkan experiences in the area of import-export and transit of weapons/ammunition and dual use goods”, and “Presentations of RASR member states on their national frameworks regulating the area of import-export and transit of weapons/ammunition and dual-use goods”, while Brigadier General Jakop gave a presentation on RACVIAC - Centre for Security Cooperation.
Before handing over the floor to the speakers, Ambassador Mandic pointed out that Small Arms and Light Weapons, conventional weapons and ammunition and dual-use goods had been on the agenda of many events of different organizations for decades. However, he emphasized “it is clear that there is no single model for an export control system due to the great diversity in the legal and administrative systems in different countries”. He added that there were some key elements, which any export control system should have in order to be effective. These include clear legal basis establishing jurisdiction over relevant parties and activities, a transparent inter-agency coordination and decision-making, mechanism for licensing, enforcement authorities, etc. He concluded by saying that in the SEE there were several hundred thousand tons of surplus weapons and ammunition to be destroyed and while some of these could be destroyed in place, others had to be taken to a proper facility.
31 MAR 2013
On 28 March 2013, RACVIAC Director Ambassador Branimir Mandic paid an inaugural visit to the Ministry of Defence of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Ambassador Mandic was welcomed by Defence Minister Zekerijah Osmic and Deputy Defence Minister Mirko Okolic. During the meeting, Ambassador Mandic informed the hosts about RACVIAC programme of activities for 2013 and its future plans. The representatives agreed on the importance of cooperation between the countries of the region in the framework of RACVIAC and similar centres and initiatives.
The Defence Minister and his Deputy expressed their satisfaction with the meeting, reiterating that the Ministry of Defence would continue to support the work of RACVIAC. Finally, they have agreed that the cooperation between the Ministry and the Centre needs to be further intensified.
27 MAR 2013
On 26 March 2013, Brigadier General Zdravko Jakop, RACVIAC Deputy Director, gave a presentation on “Cooperative Security and the Role of RACVIAC - Centre for Security Cooperation” at the NATO Euro Atlantic Partnership Military Committee/Permanent Session at the NATO HQ in Brussels.
The presentation was made upon the request from NATO Military Committee in the Partnership for Peace format in order to provide a better understanding of RACVIAC - Centre for Security Cooperation in the context of cooperative security environment. The meeting was attended by representatives of 28 NATO member and 22 PfP countries, as well as by representatives of NATO HQ divisions. The presentation was focused on RACVIAC’s role in strengthening security dialogue in the SEE region and possibilities for more intensified cooperation between NATO and RACVIAC in the future.
27 MAR 2013
A two-day multi-beneficiary workshop on “Guidelines on Implementation and Evaluation of Restrictive Measures (Sanctions) in the Framework of the EU Common Foreign and Security Policy”, co-organized by RACVIAC - Centre for Security Cooperation, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina and Technical Assistance and Information Exchange Instrument (TAIEX), DG Enlargement, European Commission, has started today in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The purpose of the workshop is to support and foster capacity building process in Southeast European (SEE) countries that are EU candidate or potential candidate countries. The event aims to present Common Foreign Security Policy /Common Security Defence Policy objectives set out in the Treaty on European Union and legal EU instruments; to present the types and categories of sanctions or restrictive measures which the EU applies and their monitoring and evaluation; to review implementation and achievements of restrictive measures (sanctions) in the framework of Common Foreign and Security Policy; to provide the opportunity for the exchange of experience and lessons learned in the process of implementation of international restrictive measures in the SEE countries, thus highlighting and promoting further co-operation among the SEE countries.
The workshop has gathered more than 60 participants, officials at the decision-making level and experts representing relevant ministries dealing with the topic.
The workshop was opened by Ana Trisic-Babic, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Ambassador Branimir Mandic, RACVIAC Director.
During these two days, participants will be given an overview of the legal EU framework; EU sanctions regime; UN sanctions regimes and relation between EU and UN legal orders; principles and legal issues in establishing and implementing restrictive measures; practical tasks and challenges in enforcing restrictive measures; experiences and lessons learned from the process of implementation of international restrictive measures and monitoring of restrictive measures. These topics will be covered in the presentations given by representatives coming from Austria, Malta, Portugal, Slovenia and Sweden.
25 MAR 2013
On 25th March 2013, H.E. Pëllumb Qazimi, the Ambassador of the Republic of Albania to the Republic of Croatia, paid a courtesy visit to RACVIAC – Centre for Security Cooperation. The guest was welcomed by the Director of RACVIAC, Ambassador Branimir Mandic.
The two ambassadors discussed RACVIAC programme of activities, plans for the forthcoming period and possibilities for a more intensified future cooperation between RACVIAC and the Albanian national institutions dealing with security matters. Ambassador Qazimi used this opportunity to donate a book entitled Albania - the Military and Foreign Influence (1912-1991), which he authored himself.
21 MAR 2013
A four-day Chemical Weapons Convention Seminar, co-organized with the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), has finished today in RACVIAC – Centre for Security Cooperation.
The first day of the seminar primarily dealt with the status of implementation of Article X, capacity building, regional approach, role and capability of the OPCW in the delivery of assistance.
Continuing the well-established cooperation, the The second day was reserved for national presentations on the implementation of the CWC focusing on Article X. Mr Nuno Goncalves, Inspector, Chemical Production Technologist, OPCW, gave an overview of the main types of chemical warfare agents and toxic industrial chemicals, analysis of modern threats related to the possible use of warfare agents and toxic industrial chemicals as chemical weapons. Zoran Orehovec, PhD, gave a very interesting, comprehensive, independent view of the military, technical and defence security standards on industrial facilities protection in case of terrorism and military attack. On the last day, the participants took part in a tabletop exercise on typical Schedule 2 and OPCW inspections. Under the CWC, Schedule 2, contains chemicals which are considered to pose a significant risk to the object and purpose of the Convention but which also have legitimate commercial uses in quantities in excess of one tone per year.
The seminar was an opportunity to discuss and clarify CWC related matters that were not included in the Agenda, and to raise awareness of the CWC itself, thus contributing to successful CWC implementation in the SEE region. This event also proved to be a good example of a strong cooperation between RACVIAC and the OPCW.
19 MAR 2013
The Chemical Weapons Convention Seminar, co-organized with the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), has started today in RACVIAC – Centre for Security Cooperation.
The seminar is a continuation of a ten-year-long cooperation between RACVIAC and the OPCW in promoting the implementation of the CWC in South Eastern Europe, enhancing regional stability, transparency and confidence.
The purpose of this seminar is to discuss substantial issues related to the CWC and to provide a broad overview of the Convention implementation procedures as well as general outline of specific conditions in the region. The seminar has gathered 26 participants, civilian and military officials, from Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia*, and Serbia as well as lecturers from the OPCW.
Continuing the well-established cooperation, the Australian Ambassador to Croatia, H.E. Ms Susan Cox, made a contribution to the opening part of the seminar by giving a comprehensive presentation entitled ''The Recent Events - Activities of Australia Group and the Effort in Harmonizing Export Controls on Chemical Weapons''.
In his opening speech, Mr Andrew Jan Van Veen, Special Advisor on International Cooperation and Assistance, Office of the Deputy Director General, OPCW, has said that although this Convention is one of the most important arms control conventions ever, it is faced with several challenges. Among the operational and technical challenges, universality is the most important one. The Convention has 188 state parties, two signatories that haven’t ratified it yet and non-state parties: Angola, Egypt, North Korea, Somalia, South Sudan and Syria. Reminding the participants of the consequences of the chemical weapons use, he recalled that Saturday, 16 March, marked the 25th anniversary of the chemical attack carried out in 1988 by Saddam Hussein's regime in the Iraqi city of Halabja.
The seminar, in addition to the overview of the current status, tasks, activities and challenges regarding the CWC and OPCW, will give particular attention to Article X of the CWC related to assistance and protection against chemical weapons and toxic industrial chemicals. Special attention will be paid to the national protection programmes in the countries of the sub-region, problems and developments in this area, as well as to inspection and verification activities and procedures.
* Turkey recognizes the Republic of Macedonia with its constitutional name.
19 MAR 2013
Yesterday, on the 18 of March 2013, after the Ambassadorial Meeting, RACVIAC Director, Ambassador Branimir Mandic, and Deputy Director, Brigadier General Zdravko Jakop, met with the representatives of the South Eastern and Eastern Europe Clearinghouse for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (SEESAC) and the Migration, Asylum, Refugees Regional Initiative (MARRI).
The purpose of the meeting, agreed upon during bilateral talks initiated by RACVIAC, was to discuss the annual programme of activities, as well as the possibilities of intensified cooperation. The delegations also considered a possibility to organize a regular annual meeting, with the participation of all regional organization and initiatives, as a platform for regular data exchange and harmonization of planned activities in the region.
The interlocutors declared their willingness to open new areas of cooperation and pursued the objective of developing a regional approach to strengthening security and stability in the region.
On this occasion, the Memorandum of Understanding between RACVIAC and MARRI was signed with a view to establishing and enhancing the cooperation between the two organisations that undertook to support each other in the fields of migration, demographics and other issues of mutual interest.18 MAR 2013
Organized by RACVIAC – Centre for Security Cooperation and honoured with the attendance of the President of the Republic of Croatia, the Ambassadorial Meeting took place today. As RACVIAC successfully finished its process of transformation into the international, independent, academic and regionally owned organisation, the purpose of the Meeting was to introduce RACVIAC Members and partners with the current status, challenges and future plans of the Centre.
On this occasion the President of the Republic of Croatia, Mr Ivo Josipovic, delivered a speech on the "Regional Security and Cooperation". Mr President has pointed out that in the last decade Croatia has become a reliable actor in providing stability in the international scene, while RACVIAC, as the only international organisation based in Croatia, plays a significant role in fostering dialogue and cooperation on security matters in South East Europe.
A general overview of RACVIAC’s history, structure and aims was given by RACVIAC Deputy Director, Brigadier General Zdravko Jakop. Focusing on recent developments and future vision of RACVIAC, RACVIAC Director, Ambassador Branimir Mandic, highlighted the achievements made in intensifying cooperation with other regional organisations and initiatives with the aim to secure sustainable funds and long-term partners. He also stressed that the biggest challenge RACVIAC is facing at the moment is the lack of seconded personnel nominated by RACVIAC Member states.
Gathering more than 50 representatives of RACVIAC Member countries and partners, as well as heads of regional organisations, the Meeting proved to be a high-level event, reflecting a great interest of RACVIAC Members and partners in RACVIAC as a platform for dialogue and cooperation.
15 MAR 2013
Honoured with the attendance of the President of the Republic of Croatia, RACVIAC is organizing Ambassadorial Meeting on18th March 2013. On this occasion, the President, Dr. Ivo Josipovic, will deliver a speech on the "Current developments in the regional security and cooperation".
The purpose of the Meeting is to introduce RACVIAC Members and partners with the current status, challenges and future plans of the Centre.
The Meeting will gather more than 50 representatives of RACVIAC Member countries and partners, as well as heads of regional organisations.
With the ratification of the new Agreement in December 2011, RACVIAC - Centre for Security Cooperation successfully finished the process of transformation into the international, independent, academic and regionally-owned organisation with the mission to foster dialogue and cooperation on security matters in South East Europe.
15 MAR 2013
A two-day Round Table on “SSR and Gender: Implementation of the UN Security Council Resolutions 1325 and 1820”, co-organized by the Croatian Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs and RACVIAC – Centre for Security Cooperation, was closed yesterday.
The Round Table gathered more than 40 participants, the representatives from the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Ministries of Defence, Ministries of Interior and Ministries of Security from the following countries: AL, BA, HR, ME, MK, RS, and SI, as well as the representatives from the public sector, experts from various national institutions and think-thanks. Highly competent speakers included: Ms Vesna Batistic Kos, MAG Chairperson, Assistant Minister for Multilateral Affairs and Global Issues, Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs, HR; Ms Visnja Ljubicic, Ombudsperson for Gender Equality of the Republic of Croatia; H.E. Ms Nancy Rossignol, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Belgium to the Republic of Croatia; Ms Melita Mulic, Member of the Gender Equality and Human Rights and Minorities Equality Committees, Croatian Parliament; as well as the representatives from DCAF Geneva; SEESAC; The Ss. Cyril and Methodius University, Skopje, MK; Primorska University, Koper, SI; the Gender Equality Agency, BA; Belgrade Centre for Security Policy; Centre for Women’s Studies, Zagreb, HR; Gender Task Force, HR.
The Round Table addressed relevant information on gender as one of the core aspects of security sector reform from the international and national point of view and highlighted the gender perspective in different national institutions. Special attention was given to the representation of women at different levels of the decision-making process, especially in the security sector institutions. The last session was dedicated to the presentations of National Action Plans for the implementation of the UNSCR 1325 and related resolutions in the SEE countries. Some practical experiences in regional cooperation aimed at mainstreaming a gender perspective into security sector reform were also presented.
The Round Table was concluded with several proposals such as a need to organize training with regard to the implementation of the UNSCR 1325 and 1820.
The event met all expectations - it was interactive and challenging to some extent, producing a fine blend of institutional and civil society approach and visions concerning gender equality.
As a specific outcome of this Round Table, RACVIAC SSR Pillar, Gender Equality Agency of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Ministry of Security of Bosnia and Herzegovina put forward the initiative to organise a joint event addressing mechanisms and standardisation aspects of National Action Plans on Gender Equality. In addition, Mr Mirko Okolic, Deputy Minister of Defence of Bosnia and Herzegovina also launched an idea endorsing an event that could be organised in the field of Gender Equality.
15 MAR 2013
On 14 March 2013, the Ambassador of the French Republic, H.E. Ms Michèle Boccoz, accompanied by Colonel Eric Prigent, Military Attaché, visited RACVIAC – Centre for Security Cooperation. The occasion for the visit was the desire expressed by H.E. Ms Boccoz to make personal acquaintance with RACVIAC’s mission, aims and organisation.
The Director of RACVIAC, Ambassador Branimir Mandic, together with the Deputy Director, Brigadier General Zdravko Jakop, and RACVIAC staff members welcomed the distinguished guests.
After the presentation on the history, mission, annual programme of activities and accomplishments of RACVIAC, the French delegation and their hosts engaged in a very interesting discussion on RACVIAC’s programme, plans for the future and possibilities for further cooperation.
Ms Ambassador showed significant interest in RACVIAC’s achievements, current activities and plans for the forthcoming period, and expressed her willingness to create a more targeted and cooperative relationship between RACVIAC and France, as a RACVIAC Associate member. Since France used to be actively involved in RACVIAC, H.E. Ms Boccoz expressed her intention to explore the possibilities for France to get re-involved in the Centre more substantially than in the past few years.
15 MAR 2013
Yesterday, on the 14 of March 2013, RACVIAC - Centre for Security Cooperation hosted attendants of the Italian Joint Services Staff College led by Rear Admiral Valerio Boldrini. The purpose of this visit was to get the guest better acquainted with the status, function and Programme of RACVIAC, in the framework of their current study trip to the Ministry of Defence of the Republic of Croatia.
The Italian Joint Services Staff College representatives were welcomed by the Director of RACVIAC, Ambassador Branimir Mandic, RACVIAC Deputy Director Brigadier General Zdravko Jakop and senior RACVIAC staff members. During the visit, Brigadier General Jakop provided the guests with a brief outline of RACVIAC's history, mission, annual programme of activities, completed process of transformation, new Agreement on RACVIAC and plans for the forthcoming period.
Later on, all participants demonstrated a great deal of understanding of the subject matter through their to-the-point questions and comments during a lively Q&A session and a subsequent open discussion.
13 MAR 2013
A two-day Round Table on “SSR and Gender: Implementation of the UN Security Council Resolutions 1325 and 1820”, co-organized by the Croatian Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs and RACVIAC – Centre for Security Cooperation has started today at the premises of the Ministry. The opening speeches were given by Ms Vesna Batistic Kos, MAG Chairperson, Assistant Minister for Multilateral Affairs and Global Issues, Croatian Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs; Ambassador Branimir Mandic, RACVIAC Director; Ms Visnja Ljubicic, Ombudsperson for Gender Equality of the Republic of Croatia and H.E. Ms Nancy Rossignol, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Belgium to the Republic of Croatia.
The round table gathered more than 40 participants representing parliaments, national human rights protection ombudsman institutions, Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Ministries of Defence, Ministries of Interior, as well as representatives of the public sector and NGOs, DCAF, SEESAC and experts from various national institutions and think-thanks.
Opening the round table, Ms Vesna Batistic Kos said that the status and the role of women is an indicator of democratic maturity and stability, as well as the measure of success of every society. She also pointed out that continuous improvement aimed at keeping a national record of empowerment of women represents a way to gain legitimacy in addressing gender-based discrimination and violence in the world.
Expressing his personal appreciation to all the participants for recognising the importance of Security Sector Reform aspects addressed by RACVIAC, Ambassador Mandic said that in addition to other core aspects and elements of SSR which could be considered as strengthening regional countries in relation to others, the implementation of gender-driven principles could definitely make individual societies stronger and more secure internally.
A very interesting speech was delivered by H.E. Ms Nancy Rossignol, who pointed out that although the UN Security Council Resolution 1325 was a groundbreaking document when it was adopted in 2000, now progress has to be made in the official implementation as well as in monitoring of the implementation of that Resolution.
After the opening part at the premises of the Ministry, the round table was continued at RACVIAC, Rakitje, with comprehensive presentations on institutional experience delivered by Mr Mirko Okolic, Deputy Minister, MoD of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Ms Visnja Ljubicic, Ombudsperson for Gender Equality of the Republic of Croatia, and Ms Melita Mulic, member of the Croatian Parliamentary Committee for Gender Equality.
12 MAR 2013
A two-day roundtable on “SSR and Gender: Implementation of the UN Security Council Resolutions 1325 and 1820”, co-organized by Ministry of Foreign and European Affaires and RACVIAC – Centre for Security Cooperation starts tomorrow.
The round table will be opened by Ms Vesna Pusic, Croatian Minister of Foreign and European Affaires, at the premises of the Ministry. After the opening speeches given by Ambassador Branimir Mandic, RACVIAC Director; Ms Vesna Batistic Kos, MAG Chairperson, Assistant Minister for Multilateral Affairs and Global Issues, MF& EA, HR; Ms Visnja Ljubicic, Ombudsperson for Gender Equality of the Republic of Croatia and H.E. Ms Nancy Rossignol, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Belgium to the Republic of Croatia; the event will continue at RACVIAC, Rakitje.
The purpose of the event that will be executed in RACVIAC and the Croatian Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs in the period of 13-14 March 2013 is two-fold. Firstly, it aims to bring together the representatives from South Eastern Europe (SEE) and provide them with relevant general information on the norms guiding Security Sector Reform and gender with a main focus on the UN Security Council Resolutions 1325 and 1820, 2004 OSCE Action Plan, European norms and regional instruments for promoting gender equality. Secondly, it aims to encourage the participants from parliaments, ombudsman institutions, ministries, governments and NGOs from the SEE countries to present their experiences in implementing Action Plans with measures to strengthen the role of women in public sector.
The roundtable gathers more than 40 participants, representing parliaments, national human rights protection ombudsman institutions, Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Ministries of Defence, Ministries of Interior, as well as representatives of the public sector and NGOs, DCAF and experts from various national institutions and think-thanks.
11 MAR 2013
On 8 March 2013, Major Sasa Konjevic, RACVIAC Planning and Liaison Officer for SEE, gave a presentation on “Cooperative Security and the Role of RACVIAC - Centre for Security Cooperation” at the NATO HQ in Brussels on the occasion of the meeting of the Military Committee Working Group (Cooperation) + Partnership for Peace, which serves as a consultation forum for military issues between Allies and Partners, as well as a preparatory forum for EAPMC/PS meetings.
The meeting was attended by representatives of 28 NATO member and 22 PfP countries, as well as by representatives of NATO HQ divisions. The presentation was focused on RACVIAC’s role in the SEE region and possibilities for deepening and widening cooperation between NATO and RACVIAC.
08 MAR 2013
Five-day Vienna Document 2011 Formation/Unit Commanders’ Course, coorganized with the Hungarian Ministry of Defence at the premises of the Hungarian Defence Forces Non-Commissioned Officers Academy in Szentendre, Hungary, has finished today.
RACVIAC has been organizing Vienna Document courses for the countries of South East European region since 2001.
The purpose of this course was to give formation/unit commanders an overview of the VD ’11 and to provide a comprehensive theoretical analysis and guidance on the practical implementation of the relevant activities. It focused on the duties and responsibilities of the formation/unit commanders engaged in the implementation of the aforementioned document, thus demonstrating the real spirit of confidence and security building measures. During the practical part of the course, participants have been provided with the opportunity to exercise evaluation visit to a military unit, thus demonstrating the operations that should constitute a platform for future cooperation on the national, regional and international levels.
The course gathered more than 40 participants and lecturers from Albania, Austria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia*, Germany, Montenegro, Poland, Serbia, Slovakia, Spain and USA, as well as representatives from the Austrian Institute for Political Science and OSCE.
In the margins of the course, RACVIAC Director Branimir Mandic had a working lunch with Dr. László Deák, Deputy Director General, Department for Security Policy and Non-Proliferation, Hungarian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Mr Tas Kelemen, Head of Defence Policy Department, Ministry of Defence.
He also had a meeting at the Ministry of Defence with Mr Péter Siklósi, Deputy State Secretary for Defence Policy and Planning.
As a newly appointed Director of RACVIAC, Ambassador Mandic assured the Hungarian officials of his personal readiness to strengthen the Centre’s role and capacities in addressing new security challenges and responding to the changing security needs of the region while broadening the scope of activities and links with other international and regional organizations.
The hosts expressed their intention to continue supporting RACVIAC in the same manner as they did so far. Ambassador Mandic took this opportunity to invite MoD officials to visit RACVIAC and take part in RACVIAC activities as lecturers.
* Turkey recognizes the Republic of Macedonia with its constitutional name.
05 MAR 2013
Yesterday, on the 4 of March 2012, RACVIAC - Centre for Security Cooperation hosted students from the Croatian War College Ban Josip Jelacic, accompanied by Colonel Antun Cicak, War College Commander, and Colonel Miro Colic, Military Strategy and Operations Course Coordinator. The guests visited RACVIAC in the framework of the regular College Curriculum. They were welcomed by the Deputy Director of RACVIAC, Brigadier General Zdravko Jakop and RACVIAC Operations Manager, Captain Nevena Skender Markic. Brigadier General Jakop provided the guests with a brief outline of RACVIAC's history, mission, annual programme of activities, completed process of transformation, new Agreement on RACVIAC and plans for the forthcoming period. In the second part of the visit, RACVIAC Deputy Director delivered a presentation on Arms Control as Means of International Cooperation.
Later on, all participants demonstrated a great deal of understanding of the subject matter through their to-the-point questions and comments during a lively Q&A session and a subsequent open discussion.
28 FEB 2013
With the purpose of enhancing and strengthening cooperation and exchanging information with the Member countries, RACVIAC Director Ambassador Branimir Mandic paid a visit to the Ministry of Defence of Montenegro on 28 February 2013.
Ambassador Mandic was welcomed by the Assistant Minister for Defence Policy, Mr Ivan Masulovic and Minister’s Advisor for Military Issues LtCol Rajko Pesic. During their conversation, Ambassador Mandic informed the hosts about the programme of activities for 2013 as well as about the Centre’s intention to expand its scope of activities and a network of partners and co-operators. He took this opportunity to present some ongoing challenges, particularly regarding the issues of secondment of personnel. He also expressed his appreciation for the continuous support Montenegro has been providing to RACVIAC.
Mr Masulovic pointed out that cooperation, as an interactive relationship, should become constant in regional relations in all areas, particularly in the area of defence and security. He also announced continued support to RACVIAC, in line with their national capacities.
27 FEB 2013
On 27 February 2013, Mr Gurbuz Bahadir, Director General, Southeast European Law Enforcement Centre (SELEC), visited RACVIAC – Centre for Security Cooperation.
The visit was organized on the occasion of signing the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between RACVIAC and SELEC.
The purpose of the MoU is to continue and enhance the cooperation between the two Centres in order to combat trans-border crime and prevent threats to public order and security for the benefit of the SEE region.
Identification of common areas of concern related to the scope of activities of both Centres, planning and implementing common projects and seeking each other’s expertise will certainly strengthen abilities of the Centres to carry out their respective missions and responsibilities, while optimizing the use of resources and minimizing duplication. Subsequently, both sides expressed their hope that the MoU would meet RACVIAC and SELEC Member states’ needs and requests, while further fostering cooperation and dialogue in the SEE.
26 FEB 2013
On 25th and 26th February 2013, RACVIAC delegation, consisting of RACVIAC Director Ambassador Branimir Mandic and Planning and Liaison Officer for Western Europe and International Organizations Colonel Ferdinand Klinser MSD, visited UNODC, the Austrian Federal Ministry for European and International Affairs, and Major General Michele Torres - Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office for Article IV of Annex 1B of the Dayton Peace Accords, in Vienna.
As this was the inaugural visit to UNODC for the RACVIAC Director, Ambassador Mandic, he wanted to use this opportunity to introduce himself in person and to present the management’s approach that will be utilized in order to develop and further stabilize RACVIAC following its Strategy 2012-2015. An additional goal of the visit was to discuss the possibilities for deepening and widening the cooperation between the two organizations with a specific focus on an MoU between the two organizations and the UNODC’s Regional Programme for South Eastern Europe 2012-2015 which is aimed at working in strong partnership with regional organizations and officials.
These goals were fulfilled through a highly productive, efficient and promising meeting with the representatives of UNODC holding key positions for the future cooperation with RACVIAC: Mr Aldo Lale-Demoz, Director for Operations, Mr Tullio Santini, Chief Regional Section for Europe and Latin America and the Caribbean, Mr Diman Dimov, Project Coordinator, Ms Ekaterina Kolykhalova, Programme Officer Regional Section for Europe and Latin America and the Caribbean, and Mr Vladan Golubovic, Consultant Regional Section for Europe and Latin America and the Caribbean.
During the visit to the Federal Ministry for European and International Affairs of the Republic of Austria, Ambassador Mandic met with Ambassador Dr Jandl and Brigadier General Reinhard Trischak, Head of Military Policy Division in the Austrian Ministry of Defense and Sports. Their discussions covered a wide range of topics related to the current status of RACVIAC, programme of activities, vision for the future and development. The future-orientated approach aimed at making Austria RACVIAC's contact country, arbiter and broker in the EU-related security issues and in the access to the EU bodies was assessed as a “wonderful idea” and will be gladly supported by Austria.
The meeting with Major General Michele Torres, Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office for Article IV of Annex 1B of the Dayton Peace Accords, turned out to be an indispensable opportunity to exchange views on the latest developments and future steps to be taken in view of professional fulfilment of the Dayton Agreement.
22 FEB 2013
A two-day seminar entitled "Defence Accountability in the Framework of Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP)" finished yesterday in RACVIAC - Centre for Security Cooperation.
The purpose of the seminar was to present the role of national defence systems within the EU CSDP with a special emphasis on the context of budget cuts and general economic and financial hardship.
At the outset, the activity focused on explaining the meaning and use of terms responsibility and accountability, since the majority of the SEE countries have only one word (odgovornost) for both of these concepts. It continued with a presentation on European Defence Agency Code of Conduct aimed at increasing transparency and with the elaboration of horizontal and vertical accountability and their effects on the overall defence system output.
Additionally, the seminar provided an overview of the most recent accountability mechanisms implemented in various security sector settings, with an assessment of their weaknesses and strengths and elaborated on the benefits of institutionalisation of accountability within the defence system as well as on what would be some possible outcomes of justifiable public expenditures.
A very comprehensive discussion was developed with regard to the presentation on professional identity and integrity as well as on defence budgets cuts and subsequent repercussions on defence outputs and civil - military relations.
Opening some new questions with regard to the responsibility and accountability in defence systems, the seminar provided an excellent opportunity to exchange ideas and informational not only between defence system actors, but also between academics and independent, non-state actors.
20 FEB 2013
On 20 February 2013, H.E. Mr Hans Peter Annen, German Ambassador to Croatia, and the Director of RACVIAC, Ambassador Branimir Mandic, signed the Financial Agreement between RACVIAC – Centre for Security Cooperation and the Federal Republic of Germany for the year 2013.
With this Agreement, the Federal Republic of Germany allocated 60.000,00 Euro which will be used for the project “RACVIAC project work 2013” to cover the costs of seminars, courses and workshops, especially within the RACVIAC programme pillar “Cooperative Security Environment (CSE), with focus on Arms Control”.
RACVIAC representatives, Ambassador Branimir Mandic and Brigadier General Zdravko Jakop, acknowledged the cooperation with Germany as a mainstay of the SEE region’s progress and security for over a decade. Owing to continual German contributions, RACVIAC focused primarily on the training of verification experts in order to lay the groundwork for implementing arms control agreements such as the Dayton Agreement, Vienna Document, Open Skies Treaty, Chemical Weapons Convention and the Oslo Convention. In this way, RACVIAC and Germany significantly contributed to enhancing trust and cooperation among security forces in the region and beyond.
It is worth mentioning that in addition to the financial contribution, the Federal Republic of Germany supported RACVIAC with staff officers seconded to the Centre for more than 12 years, as well as with a number of highly competitive experts in a wide range of security issues.
20 FEB 2013
A two-day seminar entitled "Defence Accountability in the Framework of Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP)" has started today in RACVIAC - Centre for Security Cooperation.
The purpose of the seminar is to present the role of national defence systems within the EU CSDP with a special emphasis on the context of budget cuts and general economic and financial hardship. The necessity or relevance of adjustments or restructuring of national defence systems, where applicable within the framework of the CSDP, should be highlighted through redefining the system of responsibility and accountability.
The activity focuses on explaining the meaning and use of the terms responsibility and accountability, raising awareness of the concepts of accountability and responsibility, elaborating horizontal and vertical accountability and the effects of their implementation in the overall defence system output. Additionally, the seminar will provide an overview of the most recent accountability mechanisms implemented in various security sector settings, with an assessment of their weaknesses and strengths and elaborate on the benefits of institutionalisation of accountability within the defence system as well as on what would be some possible outcomes of justifiable public expenditures.
The seminar has gathered more than 30 participants, high-ranking officials from the Defence and Foreign Affairs Ministries, representatives of Parliamentary Defence Committees, as well as representatives of European Defence Agency, Security Governance Group from Canada, Zagreb Economy Institute, Belgrade Centre for Security Policy, Institute for International Relations, Zagreb, Primorska University, Slovenia and the Centre for Peace Studies, Zagreb.
Speaking about the need for and relevance of similar activities, the seminar was opened by RACVIAC Director Ambassador Branimir Mandic and Mr Boris Blazekovic, Head of the Delegation of the Croatian Parliament to the NATO Parliamentary Assembly. Both of the speakers emphasized that the exchange of experiences and ideas among the security sector reform actors and experts were very important for the future benefits of institutionalisation of accountability within the defence system, especially in light of the on-going budget cuts, and within the general context of financial constraints faced by EU members and potential members.
14 FEB 2013
On 14 February 2013 Ambassador Branimir Mandic, Director of RACVIAC – Centre for Security Cooperation and Dr. Ivan Zverzhanovski, SEESAC Coordinator signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two centres, continuing the cooperation which started back in 2003. The last MoU between the two organizations was signed in 2008.
The purpose of this MoU is the intention of RACVIAC and SEESAC to co-ordinate their efforts in order to avoid duplication of their activities and to establish effective co-operation in the field of small arms and light weapons, focusing on capacity building, public awareness and promotion of dialogue, regional harmonization of legislation, including arms export legislation in accordance with the EU standards.
Regular consultation and exchange of information on developments in the scope of activities and projects in both centres will certainly optimize the use of resources and provide a forum for regional dialogue and co-operation.
Subsequently, both sides expressed their hope that this mutual effort, meeting the needs and requests of regional countries, would further foster cooperation and dialogue in the SEE.
12 FEB 2013
With the aim to present a new approach to programme planning and new challenges lying ahead of RACVIAC, in the light of RACVIAC Agreement and ever-greater regional ownership, the MAG Point of Contacts (POCs) Meeting took place on 13 February 2013 in RACVIAC.
The MAG POCs Meeting gathered participants representing relevant ministries from MAG countries, namely Albania, Austria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, France, Hungary, the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia*, Serbia, Slovenia and Turkey, as well as OSCE and SEESAC/UNDP representatives, who readily engaged in discussions.
Opening the Meeting, RACVIAC Director Ambassador Branimir Mandic said that although the new RACVIAC management, assuming its positions last year, faced several challenges in terms of finance, election of MAG chairperson, execution of the Programme, it managed to solve these issues after all. He also pointed out that RACVIAC intends to focus more on further development of Programme in order to better meet the Members’ needs and requests in the future.
During the Meeting, the participants were provided with updates on the 2013 Programme and information on initial results of the Programme Development Group (PDG), with a special focus on projects as a methodology of RACVIAC Programme planning and execution. In addition, participants got an overview of the current financial situation. Special attention was given to the manpower issues, seconded personnel in particular, which seems to be the most important issue at the moment. More than 50 percent of seconded positions that are occupied now will be rotated in the next 12 months, mainly in the faculty part of RACVIAC structure.
After a comprehensive discussion on the ongoing challenges, the Meeting was concluded on a positive note, providing additional impetus to RACVIAC in implementing its strategic goals.
* Turkey recognizes the Republic of Macedonia with its constitutional name.
06 FEB 2013
A two-day “Seminar on the Facilitation of Common and Coordinated Measures in the Western Balkan Region”, co-organized by DCAF Ljubljana and RACVIAC – Centre for Security Cooperation, has finished today.
This event, aimed at facilitating and upgrading further practical cooperation among South East European countries, brought together police experts and police practitioners from Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia*, Montenegro, Slovenia and Serbia as well as Italian, Polish, DCAF and FRONTEX EU experts in the area of border security and cross-border police cooperation.
On the first day Mr Anton Travner, Director of DCAF Ljubljana and Head of Border Security Programme, presented developments in the DCAF Border Security Programme. He outlined the 2013 Annual Plan and the report from the DCAF Meeting of the Chiefs of Cabinets and Chiefs of Border Police Services held in December 2012 in Belgrade, Serbia.
His presentation was followed by the evaluation of the results of the Common and Coordinated Measures in 2012, lessons learned, gap analysis and areas that can be improved. In addition to this, a comprehensive discussion was held on future education and training needs and developments, and building mutual trust among the practitioners in the regional security sphere.
The second day of the seminar was operationally oriented and focused on the planning and modus operandi for the preparation and execution of the Common and Coordinated Measures in the Western Balkan region planned in 2013. Under these measures, two Common Operations are going to be executed: one in the period of 14 -20 April 2013, focusing on the Green Border between Greece and the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia*, and one from 4 to 22 September 2013 in Slovenia, on the occasion of the EuroBasket Championship.
It is worth mentioning that all countries participating in this event, except for the Republic of Croatia, are signatory states to the Police Cooperation Convention, which provides the legal basis for their mutual cooperation and cross-border operations.
* Turkey recognizes the Republic of Macedonia with its constitutional name.
06 FEB 2013
Colonel Nikola Zekic, Military Attaché of Bosnia and Herzegovina to Croatia, visited RACVIAC – Centre for Security Cooperation today. This was Col Zekic’s first official visit to the Centre, during which he wanted to make personal acquaintance with RACVIAC’s mission, aims and organization.
The Director of RACVIAC, Ambassador Branimir Mandic, together with the Deputy Director, Brigadier General Zdravko Jakop, and the officers from Bosnia and Herzegovina seconded to RACVIAC welcomed the distinguished guest.
Colonel Zekic and his hosts engaged in a very comprehensive discussion on RACVIAC as a new international, regionally owned organization and its role in the overall security environment in South East Europe. While Bosnia and Herzegovina has proved to be a reliable partner to the Centre in terms of finance and secondment of personnel, both sides expressed their strong willingness for the cooperation between Bosnia and Herzegovina and RACVIAC to be even more enhanced in the time to come.
05 FEB 2013
A two-day “Seminar on the Facilitation of Common and Coordinated Measures in the Western Balkan Region” started today in RACVIAC – Centre for Security Cooperation.
The seminar is co-organized with the DCAF office in Ljubljana, under the DCAF Border Security Programme, with the aim of facilitating and upgrading further practical cooperation among South East European countries.
In 2012, the DCAF Border Security Programme was transferred from Geneva to the permanent DCAF office in Ljubljana, Slovenia. In addition to some structural and organisational changes, the Programme has been transformed to make it more efficient and result-oriented. It consists of three main components – “EU/Schengen Integration”, “Education and Training”, and “Common and Coordinated Measures in Crime Prevention, Fight against Organised Crime falling within the responsibility of Border Police Forces, and the Fight against Illegal Migration”.
In accordance with the Exchange of Letters between RACVIAC – Centre for Security Cooperation and DCAF Ljubljana, signed on 18th December 2012 in Rakitje, Croatia, this mutual project, financed by DCAF, includes four events which will cover main challenges faced by the states in the region in their efforts to deal with the phenomenon of border security, improve capacity building and enhance common and coordinated measures.
The seminar brought together more than twenty regional police experts, police practitioners as well as Slovenian, Italian, Polish, DCAF and FRONTEX EU experts in the area of border security and cross-border police cooperation. They will discuss further measures to improve operational results, future needs and developments in the related education and training, and building mutual trust among the practitioners in the regional security sphere.
Opening the seminar, RACVIAC Director Ambassador Branimir Mandic said that the Centre was aware of the role and importance of international cooperation in creating a positive image of developing effective and efficient police systems as well as border security.
01 FEB 2013
In order to provide international working environment for the young people interested in deepening their knowledge on several security issues, RACVIAC signed two internship contracts on 01 February 2013.
Ms Vedrana Djukaric, who obtained her Master’s Degree in political science at the Faculty of Political Science in Zagreb, will be assigned to the Cooperative Security Environment with Focus on Arms Control Pillar, while Ms Mihaela Krsinic, a student of Journalism at the Faculty of Political Science in Zagreb, will be assigned to the PR Cell.
Taking into account RACVIAC's mission and role in the region, we believe that their active participation in RACVIAC’s programme of activities will prove stimulating and useful for persons of their profile, while at the same time, it will be a valuable contribution to the Centre.
29 JAN 2013
On 31 January 2013, RACVIAC Director Ambassador Branimir Mandic, paid an inaugural visit to the Regional Cooperation Council in Sarajevo. Ambassador Mandic was welcomed by the newly appointed Secretary General Mr Goran Svilanovic, who assumed his position on 01 January 2013, following the appointment by the South-East European Cooperation Process (SEECP) Foreign Ministers in Belgrade on 14 June 2012. Mr Svilanovic succeeded Hido Biscevic, the first RCC Secretary General, who held the post in the period of 2008-2012.
During the meeting Ambassador Mandic informed the Secretary General about RACVIAC programme of activities, current issues and challenges as well as some future plans. Ambassador Mandic took this opportunity to assure the RCC Secretary General of his personal readiness to strengthen RACVIAC’s role and capacities while broadening the scope of activities and links with other international and regional organizations, especially with the RCC.
Subsequently, both diplomats expressed their strong readiness to enhance and deepen cooperation between the two organizations, thereby contributing to enhanced dialogue and cooperation on security matters among the countries of Southeast Europe.
21 JAN 2013
RACVIAC Director, Ambassador Branimir Mandic, accompanied by Brigadier General Zdravko Jakop, Deputy Director, paid an inaugural visit to the Minister of Foreign and European Affairs of the Republic of Croatia, Ms Vesna Pusic, on 21 January 2013.
Ambassador Mandic took this opportunity to inform the Minister about the Centre's transformation into a regionally owned organization, ongoing activities, as well as plans and projects for the future.
As the newly appointed Director of RACVIAC, Ambassador Mandic assured the Minister of his personal readiness to strengthen the Centre’s role while broadening the programme of activities and fostering links with other organizations and institutions contributing to the stability and security in the SEE region. He also expressed his appreciation for the continuous support and uninterrupted assistance that the Republic of Croatia, as the host nation, has been providing to RACVIAC.
Ms Pusic availed herself of this opportunity to assure RACVIAC of the Ministry’s intention for an ongoing partnership, thereby contributing to enhanced dialogue and cooperation on security matters among the countries of Southeast Europe and supporting their NATO and EU integration processes.
The meeting also provided the opportunity to exchange opinions about RACVIAC activities that are taking place in the period of the Croatian chairmanship of MAG.
18 Jan 2013
On 18 January 2013, RACVIAC Director Ambassador Branimir Mandic, accompanied by Brigadier General Zdravko Jakop, Deputy Director, paid an inaugural visit to the President of the Republic of Croatia, Dr Ivo Josipovic.
During the meeting Ambassador Mandic informed the President about the current status of RACVIAC as a very specific, regionally owned organization, the ongoing programme of activities and some future plans and challenges. He also conveyed his genuine appreciation for the outstanding and unremitting support of the host nation, the Republic of Croatia, to RACVIAC - Centre for Security Cooperation in the twelve years of its existence.
President Josipovic pointed out that RACVIAC has a significant role in fostering dialogue and cooperation on security matters in Southeast Europe. He also reiterated Croatia's continued political and financial support to RACVIAC, not only with the aim to maintain the important role of RACVIAC in the SEE region, but also to raise it to a higher level.
* Turkey recognizes the Republic of Macedonia with its constitutional name.