U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, a Republican from Mississippi, has been appointed as the chairman of the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe, also known as the U.S. Helsinki Commission, for the 119th Congress. The announcement was made by the Presiding Officer on behalf of the Vice President.
“I am honored to be named chairman of the Helsinki Commission. European security is always good for the United States. For nearly fifty years, the Helsinki Commission has protected human rights, advanced democracy, and increased economic cooperation across the globe,” said Senator Wicker. “Today’s challenges are no less urgent. I look forward to working on a bicameral, bipartisan basis to seek a just end to Russia’s war on Ukraine, a stronger NATO alliance, and an international order that serves our national interest.”
Senator Wicker takes over at a crucial time for transatlantic security as Russia continues its large-scale military operations in Europe. This conflict poses threats not only to Ukraine but also to U.S. allies and partners in Europe. Additionally, there are ongoing tensions between Armenia and Azerbaijan with opportunities for peace after long-standing conflicts.
The situation in Georgia is another area of concern as political forces within the country pull it away from Euro-Atlantic integration towards closer ties with Russia. As Bosnia and Herzegovina approach three decades since signing the Dayton Peace Accords, they face challenges related to regional alignment with Western institutions.
Senator Wicker has been part of the U.S. Helsinki Commission since 2009 and has advocated for democratic values within this role. He served as Vice President of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly (OSCE PA) from 2017 until 2024 and chaired its Committee on Political Affairs and Security from November 2014 through July 2017.
In addition to his new role at the Helsinki Commission, Senator Wicker is currently Chairman of both Senate Armed Services Committee and member of U.S Merchant Marine Academy Congressional Board Visitors; previously serving roles include Chairmanship/Ranking Membership Senate Commerce Science Transportation Committee
Before entering politics full-time he served active duty US Air Force then joined Reserve retiring Lieutenant Colonel rank 2004
Originally hailing Pontotoc Mississippi holds B.A., law degrees University married former Gayle Long Tupelo together have three children eight grandchildren
