In 1975 thirty-five countries committed themselves to ten principles guiding their diplomatic relations. These notably included the respect for each other’s sovereign equality, the inviolability of frontiers, and refrainment from the threat or use of force. Yet half a century onwards, the premises of what became the Helsinki Final Act lie in ruins. The Russian Federation continues to wage a war of territorial conquest and pursue the subjugation of Ukraine. In response, NATO allies have collectively recommitted themselves to a strategy of averting conflict by relying on deterrence and operational defence. This begs the question in what ways and under what conditions the European security architecture can be stabilised again. Does the Helsinki Final Act still provide a sound foundation for doing so? Can the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) that now numbers no less than 57 states still provide an inclusive forum for political dialogue, and pave the way for a return to arms control? Is the commitment to human rights, fundamental freedoms and international law still relevant in a world in which autocratic government is increasing its appeal?

Programme

14h00              Introductory remarks by prof dr Alexander Mattelaer, Egmont Institute & VUB

14h10              Keynote Address by Ambassador Veronique Petit, Director General for Multilateral Affairs, Belgian FPS Foreign Affairs

14h30              Panel discussion with

• Eduard Auer, Head of Division, Regional Eastern Partnership, Regional Cooperation and OSCE, European External Action Service
• Thomas Lambert, Diplomatic Sherpa to Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever and former Belgian Permanent Representative to the OSCE
• Toni Sandell, Deputy Head of the OSCE Chairpersonship 2025 Task Force, Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland
• Wannes Verstraete, Egmont Institute & VUB

16h15              Closing remarks

16h30             Reception

(Photo credit: Wikipedia)