The Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine (SMM) of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) was a crucial international operation initiated in response to the crisis in Ukraine, which started in 2014. Its primary objective was to observe and report in an impartial and objective way on the situation in Ukraine, and to facilitate dialogue among all parties involved in the conflict.
The SMM was established on March 21, 2014, following a request by Ukraine’s government and a consensus decision by all 57 Participating States to the OSCE. The mission was a direct response to the escalating tensions and military activities in Ukraine, particularly in the eastern regions of Donetsk and Luhansk, and the annexation of Crimea by the Russian Federation. The OSCE, with its holistic and comprehensive approach to security that encompasses politico-military, economic, environmental and human dimension aspects, was deemed the appropriate body to deploy such a mission.
The main objectives of the SMM were to observe and report on the security situation in Ukraine, monitor and support respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, and facilitate dialogue and cooperation among all parties involved in the crisis. Specifically, the SMM monitored compliance with the Minsk Agreements aimed at de-escalating the situation, putting a halt to the fighting and ensuring a political resolution to the conflict.
The SMM operated under a mandate that allowed for the deployment of civilian monitors across Ukraine. It was an unarmed, civilian mission that relied on the consent, cooperation and support of all the parties to the conflict, to effectively carry out its work. The monitors come from various OSCE Participating States and had diverse backgrounds, including diplomacy, military, human rights and journalism.
The mission used a range of tools and technologies to gather information, including patrol reports, technical monitoring imagery and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). This information was used to compile detailed daily and thematic reports that were made available to the public and the OSCE Participating States, providing a factual basis for dialogue and decision-making.
The SMM faced significant challenges in its operations, primarily due to security risks, restrictions on its freedom of movement and instances of harassment and targeting of its monitors and assets. These challenges hindered the mission’s ability to access certain areas, particularly those controlled by armed groups, and to fully assess the situation on the ground. Despite these obstacles, the SMM has demonstrated resilience and adaptability, adjusting its methodologies and leveraging technology to fulfil its mandate.
The SMM has played a pivotal role in providing a reliable and impartial account of the situation in Ukraine, which is critical for informed decision-making by the international community. Its reports have contributed to raising awareness about the human rights situation and the humanitarian consequences of the conflict. Additionally, by facilitating dialogue and supporting local ceasefire initiatives, the SMM has contributed to reducing tensions and fostering peace and stability in certain areas.
The Special Monitoring Mission to Ukraine represented a significant effort by the international community, under the aegis of the OSCE, to address the crisis in Ukraine. While facing considerable challenges, the mission has made important contributions to understanding the complex dynamics of the conflict and facilitating efforts towards a peaceful resolution. Its activities were essential for monitoring the evolving situation, promoting respect for human rights and supporting the conditions for peace in Ukraine.