Knut Vollebæk new OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities

Minister of Foreign Affairs congratulates Knut Vollebæk with today’s appointment as OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities.

Ambassador Knut Vollebæk was today appointed as the OSCE’s High Commissioner on National Minorities. The High Commissioner is responsible for investigating the problems of national minorities in OSCE participating states, and assists in conflict prevention through project work and quiet diplomacy.

“I am pleased that Knut Vollebæk has been appointed as the OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities. The OSCE has chosen a very capable, knowledgeable and active person. His extensive diplomatic experience and personal qualities give Mr Vollebæk the best possible basis for succeeding in this demanding post,” said Minister of Foreign Affairs Jonas Gahr Støre.

Ambassador Vollebæk served as Norway’s foreign affairs minister from 1997 to 2000, and headed the OSCE during Norway’s chairmanship in 1999. In 2005, he was given the task of chairing the OSCE’s reform panel. Mr Vollebæk has been Norway’s ambassador in Washington, DC since 2001.

Knut Vollebæk will take up his new position shortly. He has been appointed for a three-year period, with a possible extension of a further three years. Mr Vollebæk will be taking a leave of absence from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs during his time as High Commissioner.