What is the human dimension?

The OSCE was created as a security organization, but with a broad concept of security, beyond traditional military security, disarmament and border issues. The OSCE concept of security deals equally with human rights and democracy issues. All OSCE participating States have agreed that lasting security cannot be achieved without respect for human rights and functioning democratic institutions. They have committed themselves to a comprehensive catalogue of human rights and democracy norms. These form the basis of what the OSCE calls the “human dimension” of security.