OSCE Workshop Focuses on Combatting Gender-Based Violence in Turkmenistan
The OSCE hosted a workshop in Ashgabat on November 18-19, 2024, to address gender-based violence in Turkmenistan. Gender expert Malin Palm discussed preliminary findings from a needs assessment, revealing urgent needs and proposing future recommendations. The event emphasized collaboration among various stakeholders, reaffirming the commitment to combat violence and support survivors effectively.
A workshop hosted by the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) took place on November 18 and 19, 2024, in Ashgabat to deliberate measures aimed at preventing and addressing gender-based violence in Turkmenistan. Led by gender expert Malin Palm from Sweden, the workshop was dedicated to discussing the findings and recommendations from an ongoing needs assessment, which is part of the OSCE project aimed at enhancing mechanisms to combat both gender-based and domestic violence. The project, supported by the governments of Norway and the USA, is a continuation of a previous evaluation of the OSCE Centre’s efforts against domestic violence. During the workshop, Ms. Palm presented her preliminary findings and shared proposed recommendations for improving preventive and responsive strategies over the next three to five years. John MacGregor, Head of the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat, emphasized the far-reaching implications of gender-based violence, stating that it undermines societal integrity and fosters inequality. He added that the workshop aimed to work towards implementing safe environments where survivors receive adequate support and justice. Additional discussions focused on theoretical frameworks for addressing gender-based violence, including responses to online violence and behavior modification programs for domestic violence offenders. The event gathered a diverse group of attendees, including representatives from the Mejlis (Turkmen Parliament), the Office of the Ombudsperson, the Institute of State, Law and Democracy, law enforcement agencies, relevant ministries, public organizations, and various stakeholders, fostering collaboration and commitment to addressing this critical issue.
Gender-based violence remains a pressing global issue affecting individuals across various demographics and cultural contexts. This workshop organized by the OSCE aims to confront this challenge head-on by assessing current needs and developing effective responses. Turkmenistan, like many nations, faces unique societal dynamics that necessitate tailored approaches to prevention and support for survivors of violence. By fostering collaboration among government, legal, and civil society entities, the workshop seeks to strengthen mechanisms that address the complexities surrounding gender-based violence.
The OSCE workshop in Ashgabat represented a significant step towards enhancing the response to gender-based violence in Turkmenistan. By synthesizing expert assessments and fostering collaborative discussions among key stakeholders, the workshop underscored the importance of implementing effective preventative measures and support systems for survivors. The commitment articulated by the participants, including law enforcement and parliamentary representatives, signals a positive movement towards creating safer environments and addressing the pervasive issue of gender-based violence.
Original Source: www.osce.org
