Addressing anti-Semitism through education the focus of OSCE/ODIHR workshop in Belgrade

Education professionals joined up with representatives of government and civil society to  explore policies and tools to address anti-Semitism within educational systems, as well as how to address needs and gaps in existing policies and resources, at a workshop and meetings organized in Belgrade from 15 to 18 November 2016 by the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR).

“We need to collect various approaches and ideas, rooted in the broader human rights framework, that governments can follow to address the rising trend of anti-Semitism in parts of the OSCE,” said Azra Junuzovic, Deputy Head of ODIHR’s Tolerance and Non-Discrimination Department, who opened the meeting. “Governments have a responsibility to make it clear that intolerance of this type is not acceptable in a democratic society and ODIHR is here to assist them in doing that.”

The event created a platform to discuss key elements for effective educational policies that address anti-Semitism. Participants shared experiences and helped guide the development of education policy guidelines. They also explored the practical considerations of implementing new policies within different educational systems.

“This is a vital issue for Europe right now,” said Nevena Bajalica from the Anne Frank House. “So much is changing and governments have to take the lead on responding to a new situation for an age-old phenomenon. In the long run, the best prevention strategy is education.”

This event was held as part of the “Turning Words into Action to Address Anti-Semitism” project, which focuses on three components: security, education and coalition building. As part of the project, ODIHR will also carry out consultations with teachers and students, with the goal of having the education policy guidelines ready at the beginning of 2018.