ABSTRACT
The OSCE’s interventions in post-Soviet ethnic and regional conflicts reveal important insights into the impact of the international dimension on post-Soviet transition. While the impact of the OSCE has been positive in a few cases, as in Crimea, for the most part it has been ineffective in conflict resolution and prevention. The contribution argues that the weakness of the OSCE is mainly due to the tension between competing principles of respect for territorial integrity and the right of self-determination which inform the OSCE’s activities. The OSCE seems to be most effective in situations where territorial integrity is not challenged, and its solutions are inappropriate where it is. As a result, instability in the area is expected to continue and the OSCE’s credibility as an institution for preventing, managing and resolving regional and ethnic conflicts is ultimately undermined.
