The following topics are the focus of the OSCE's work in the so-called "2nd dimension":
The participating States meet regularly in the framework of the Economic and Environmental Committee to discuss and elaborate OSCE projects in this field. These also serve as preparation for the annual Economic and Environmental Forum, where more than 600 participants from government, civil society, business and international organizations meet to find common solutions to economic and environmental challenges.
The OSCE's work in the second dimension is managed and supervised by the Office of the Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities in the OSCE Secretariat in Vienna. The Co-ordinator informs the OSCE Permanent Council -- the political body that steers the work of the Organization -- twice a year about activities in the second dimension.
Switzerland can look back on many years of engagement in the second dimension. In particular, it focuses on promoting environmental issues as a security policy challenge. For example, Switzerland is active in the field of water diplomacy. As part of its Blue Peace Initiative, it supports the OSCE in the efficient and peaceful management of freshwater resources across borders, sectors and generations. Switzerland also focuses on dealing with environmental problems in Ukraine and building confidence between participating states through economic connectivity. By providing expertise in the field of mediation and conflict management, Switzerland is also making an important contribution to expanding cooperation in the OSCE at the interface of environmental issues and conflict prevention together with partner states.
