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Astrid ThorsFinnish politician
Date of Birth: 06.11.1957
Country:  Finland |
Content:
- Asko von Hertzen
- Political Career
- Minister of European Affairs and Immigration (2007-2011)
- OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities (2013-Present)
- Human Rights Advocacy
Asko von Hertzen
Early Life and EducationAsko von Hertzen was born on November 6, 1957, in Helsinki, Finland, to Professor Karl-Erik Turs. Growing up in an intellectual and politically active household, von Hertzen developed a keen interest in public affairs from a young age.
Political Career
Deputy to the European Parliament (1996-2004)Von Hertzen's political career began in 1996, when she was elected as a Member of the European Parliament (MEP) representing Finland. During her tenure as an MEP, she served on various committees, focusing on issues of human rights, gender equality, and environmental protection.
Minister of European Affairs and Immigration (2007-2011)
In 2007, von Hertzen was appointed as the Minister of European Affairs and Immigration in the second Vanhanen Cabinet. She continued to hold this position in the subsequent Kiviiniemi Cabinet, playing a key role in shaping Finland's European Union policy and addressing immigration issues.
OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities (2013-Present)
On July 17, 2013, von Hertzen was elected as the OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities. In this role, she is responsible for promoting the rights of national minorities in OSCE participating states, working to prevent discrimination and fostering intercultural understanding.
Human Rights Advocacy
Throughout her career, von Hertzen has been an outspoken advocate for human rights. She has consistently condemned political repression and called for the protection of minorities and vulnerable groups. In 2019, she joined a group of Nobel laureates and other prominent figures in signing an "Open Letter Against Political Repression in Russia."
