To mark the 50th anniversary of the Helsinki Final Act, a conference of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) was held in Helsinki on 31 July and 1 August 2025 under the Finnish Chairmanship. The Liechtenstein delegation was led by the Permanent Representative to the OSCE in Vienna, H.S.H. Ambassador Princess Maria-Pia of Liechtenstein.

The Helsinki Final Act of 1975 was an innovative and groundbreaking document at a time when the Cold War and the Iron Curtain were dividing Europe into two camps and ideological differences were at their peak. While the "Helsinki+50 Conference" paid tribute to this legacy, it also reminded us that the OSCE's common principles are not only a thing of the past, but must also provide guidance in the present day. This is particularly true in the context of the ongoing Russian war of aggression against Ukraine.

Importance of the OSCE for Liechtenstein:
As a non-aligned country without a military, Liechtenstein was one of the founding members of the Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe (CSCE) in 1975, which led to the creation of the OSCE based in Vienna in 1995. As a unique forum for dialog on European security issues, the OSCE remains an essential and valuable part of the European security architecture. With its 57 participating states, it covers the northern hemisphere from Vancouver to Vladivostok. The OSCE is the only organization to which Liechtenstein belongs that deals with European security issues and conflicts on the European continent in a comprehensive sense. This makes the OSCE increasingly important for Liechtenstein's security.

Role of civil society and future issues:
The "Helsinki+50 Conference" focused in particular on the role of civil society in promoting and protecting OSCE principles and commitments. In addition, the current and future role of the OSCE was discussed at Political Director level against the backdrop of existing political and institutional challenges.

Involving young people in security debates:
In the days leading up to the conference, a Youth Forum organized by the Finnish OSCE Chairmanship was also held in Helsinki. Liechtenstein was represented there by Johanna Niepelt. The Youth Forum offered young experts and leaders as well as representatives of selected international organizations the opportunity to discuss the youth, peace and security agenda and the OSCE's engagement from a holistic perspective.