An OSCE workshop in Ashgabat on November 18-19, 2024, addressed gender-based and domestic violence through discussions on findings from a needs assessment conducted by gender expert Malin Palm. Participants included officials and representatives from various sectors, focusing on effective preventive measures and support systems for survivors. The need for innovative responses, including addressing online violence, was also examined.
On November 18 and 19, 2024, a workshop organized by the OSCE took place in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan. This event focused on addressing measures to both prevent and respond to gender-based and domestic violence. Conducted by Malin Palm, a gender expert from Sweden, the discussion stemmed from an assessment highlighting the urgent need for interventions within this sphere. Supported by the governments of Norway and the USA, this segment is part of a broader project aimed at enhancing mechanisms to combat violence against women, The workshop featured preliminary findings of the needs assessment, alongside potential recommendations aimed at scaling up efforts to address gender-based violence over a three to five-year period. John MacGregor, the Head of the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat, stated the pervasive nature of gender-based violence, remarking that it threatens the social fabric by fostering inequality and fear. The goal of the workshop was to forge practical pathways to create safer environments for survivors and ensure justice is upheld. Discussions also delved into innovative areas of action, including responses to internet violence and strategies aimed at behavioral change for domestic violence perpetrators. The seminar gathered a diverse range of representatives, including members of the Mejlis (parliament), the Office of the Ombudsperson, and numerous relevant institutions dedicated to law and democracy in Turkmenistan. This collaborative effort underscores the urgency and importance of tackling gender-based violence in a comprehensive manner.
Gender-based violence is a critical global issue impacting communities across various cultures and socio-economic backgrounds. The OSCE Centre in Ashgabat has launched a targeted project to assess and enhance local mechanisms for prevention and response to such violence, specifically including domestic violence. The involvement of international partners, such as Norway and the USA, reflects a shared commitment to combat this prevalent issue. Recognizing the multidimensional aspects of gender-based violence, such as its ties to inequality and discrimination, the workshop aimed to stimulate actionable strategies for improvement.
The OSCE workshop in Ashgabat signifies a concerted effort to address gender-based violence through collaboration among various stakeholders. By examining key findings and developing actionable recommendations, the workshop aims to foster improved mechanisms to support survivors and educate perpetrators. This initiative highlights an essential step toward creating safer environments and advocating for systemic change against gender-based violence in Turkmenistan.
Original Source: www.osce.org
