Major economic debate expected on austerity vs. stimulus
Delegations from Middle East and North Africa to come together for Mediterranean Forum

COPENHAGEN, 6 June 2012 – For the first time lawmakers from Europe, Asia and North America will convene 5 July to debate the economic question at the heart of the global economic crisis: austerity measures or economic stimulus?

The Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe Parliamentary Assembly will convene its 21st Annual Session in Monaco 5-9 July at the Grimaldi Forum. Representatives from more than 50 countries are expected at the session under the theme of "The OSCE: Region of Change".

Members will debate and vote on more than 30 resolutions focusing on:

• economic recovery,
• Iran's nuclear programme,
• democracy in the Arab World,
• military co-operation, and
• human rights, specifically in Belarus, Russia and Ukraine.

All committee reports and resolutions are available here. The session will also include a Mediterranean Forum with delegations from the Middle East and North Africa – the first such meeting since democratic elections were held in Tunisia and Egypt.

"To support democracy throughout our region, these types of meetings are critical," said Speaker Jean-Francois Robillon (Monaco), host of the meeting. "We look forward to hosting such a diverse group of leaders to discuss today's top policy questions in Monaco this July."

The session will conclude 9 July with the election of officers and the adoption of the Monaco Declaration, which helps shape OSCE and national policy.

"Debate in parliament is the proper forum for the people's voice to be heard and reflected in economic policy," said Assembly Secretary General Spencer Oliver. "Challenges facing the Eurozone impact all our nations, which is why the OSCE with its Asian and North American members is well positioned to host this debate."