9. Applying Regional Approaches to SSG/R – 5

Following a Step-By-Step Approach

National ownership is a key prerequisite for the OSCE’s support to SSG/R. If the will necessary to engage in regional initiatives is lacking in a given State, the OSCE should recognize it. In order to support the development of interest in regional initiatives, taking an incremental, step-by-step approach could still be considered. Such an approach could, for example, initially only aim to support regional co-operation on a technical level by, for instance, supporting the participation of national experts in regional training courses. This may contribute to both building confidence between participating States and highlighting the benefits of a regional approach, thus paving the way for a more comprehensive form of regional co-operation in the future.