OSCE/ODIHR delivers workshop on understanding and countering hate crime for civil society organizations in Romania

Enhancing the capacity of civil society organizations to prevent and respond to hate crimes was the focus of a workshop organized by the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) in Bucharest on 2-3 June 2016.

Over the course of event, 18 participants explored the key elements of hate crimes, and strengthened their ability to identify them and to recognize the impact of these crimes on victims and society.

"Because they work within communities, civil society groups are well placed to make a significant contribution to efforts to address hate crime," said Christina Sell, ODIHR’s Adviser on Civil Society Relations. "The additional knowledge and practical skills gained at the workshop will equip the participants to do so effectively."

The workshop also covered practical measures civil society can take to address hate crimes, including monitoring, reporting and victim support. Participants were also encouraged to contribute to ODIHR’s hate crime reporting efforts.

"The workshop deepened my understanding of hate crimes and practical methods to counter them. The information about working closely with ODIHR on reporting hate incidents was especially beneficial, building upon previous co-operation between my organization and ODIHR," said Maximilian Marco Katz, from MCA Romania - the Center for Monitoring and Combating Anti-Semitism. "Overall, the workshop provided an opportunity to exchange experiences and good practices with other participants."