OSCE Mission to Serbia hosts workshop on prevention of violent extremism
A two-day workshop on the prevention of violent extremism, organized by the OSCE Mission to Serbia and the Serbian Interior Ministry, took place on 20 and 21 March 2017 in Belgrade.
The event is meant to initiate a country-wide discussion on the prevention of violent extremism in Serbia, aiming to increase understanding of the phenomenon, improve co-operation among key actors and lay the foundations for future activities in this field.
“This is the first workshop in Serbia addressing the prevention of violent extremism that brings together top political, religious and social leaders, confirming their common engagement. It is an example of how the OSCE, through its expertise, unique multi-dimensional approach and flexibility, is able to provide tailor-made assistance in response to the country’s needs and priorities,” said the Head of the OSCE Mission to Serbia, Ambassador Andrea Orizio. “The ownership of our joint efforts lies fully with national institutions, thus ensuring sustainability and effectiveness.”
“National efforts alone are not enough to counter this phenomenon, however. Substantial regional and international co-operation is key to overcoming challenges,” said Orizio. “There is no alternative to international co-operation and information-sharing in preventing and repressing radicalization and terrorism.”
The workshop brought together some 90 participants representing Serbian authorities responsible for law enforcement, education, local self-government and health, representatives of religious communities, educational institutions, social services, and international organizations, as well as municipal safety councils from Belgrade, Bujanovac, Leskovac, Niš, Novi Pazar, Novi Sad and Zemun.
The event is part of the project “Supporting the prevention of violent extremism and terrorism in Serbia”, implemented jointly by the OSCE Mission to Serbia and the Serbian Interior Ministry and financed by the Governments of the United Kingdom and the United States.