The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has joined the initiatives of the Finnish Chairpersonship of the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Helsinki Final Act, signed on 1 August 1975 by the Heads of State and Government of 35 countries.

A document of historical significance that concluded the Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe (CSCE) - later to become the current OSCE. Fifty years later, the Helsinki Final Act remains a pillar of multilateral dialogue that helps promoting peace, stability and respect for human rights through its three 'baskets': the political and military aspects of security, co-operation in the field of economics and the environment, respect for human rights, fundamental freedoms and democratic institutions.

On this occasion, reference is made to the active role played by San Marino, one of the first signatories, which took part in all stages of the negotiations leading to the adoption of the Final Act. Through its participation in the CSCE, San Marino took its first steps into the multilateral arena. This was followed, in the successive decades, by its membership of the main international organisations.

During the celebrating events in Helsinki these days, representatives of OSCE participating States, international organisations and civil society reaffirmed the relevance of the principles set out in 1975, including the inviolability of frontiers, sovereign equality, non-intervention in internal affairs and respect for human rights. The purpose of the Helsinki+50 Conference (Respecting the Legacy, Preparing for the Future) is not only to pay tribute to the past but also to reflect together on the future of these principles, even in turbulent times. The latter discussion (Preparing for the Future) will mark the work of the OSCE also in the near future.

The Republic of San Marino is also participating in today's commemorative Conference, represented by a diplomatic delegation led by Ambassador Elena Molaroni, Permanent Representative to the OSCE. San Marino has also contributed, together with other OSCE participating States, to the Helsiki+50 Fund launched at the Conference to support and promote the OSCE’s operational capacity and implement the principles set out in the Final Act.

Camilla Zavoli – a young Sammarinese citizen selected following an application procedure – has participated in the OSCE Chairpersonship Youth Forum, which brought together young people from all participating States, with the aim of strengthening the work of the OSCE in the framework of the Youth, Peace and Security Agenda (YPS).

“Today more than ever, in an international context marked by new challenges to peace and international order, the principles of the Helsinki Final Act must guide the collective action of States. - said the Foreign Minister Luca Beccari. Half a century later, the Helsinki vision is still one of the essential tools for preventing conflict and strengthening mutual trust. The legacy of the Final Act must also continue to inspire the work of multilateral institutions and the aspirations of the peoples of Europe towards a united, free and peaceful continent'.

San Marino, 31 July 2025