An OSCE workshop in Ashgabat on November 18-19, 2024, addressed strategies for preventing and responding to gender-based violence in Turkmenistan. Conducted by gender expert Malin Palm, the event discussed assessment findings and recommendations for enhancing support systems and creating safe environments for survivors. John MacGregor emphasized the broader societal impact of gender-based violence and the need for concerted action among stakeholders.
An OSCE-organized workshop held on November 18-19, 2024, in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, focused on measures aimed at preventing and responding to gender-based violence, including domestic violence. The workshop was informed by a needs assessment conducted by Malin Palm, a Swedish gender expert, under the extra-budgetary project “Supporting Strengthened Mechanisms for the Prevention of, and Response to, Gender-Based Violence, including Domestic Violence.” This initiative is undertaken with financial backing from the governments of Norway and the United States. The expert’s preliminary findings and recommendations were discussed, emphasizing the need for effective strategies over a three-to-five year period. John MacGregor, the Head of the OSCE Centre in Ashgabat, noted the pervasive impact of gender-based violence, stating, “Gender-based violence is a global phenomenon that transcends borders, cultures, and socio-economic status. It weakens the very fabric of our societies by perpetuating inequality, fear, and discrimination.” He highlighted the workshop’s purpose to explore practical implementations for creating safe environments and enhancing support structures for survivors of such violence. The seminar also addressed novel areas of concern, including the response to violence on the internet and programs aimed at changing the behavior of domestic violence perpetrators. Gathering a diverse group of stakeholders, including representatives from the Mejlis (parliament), the Office of the Ombudsperson, and various public organizations, the workshop aimed to foster collaboration across institutions relevant to the fight against gender-based violence.
Gender-based violence remains a critical issue worldwide, affecting individuals regardless of their cultural or socio-economic status. The OSCE Centre in Ashgabat has taken steps to assess and enhance mechanisms for prevention and response to such violence in Turkmenistan. This workshop served as a platform for experts and stakeholders to align their efforts and develop actionable strategies that address the multifaceted nature of gender-based violence, including innovative solutions to emerging challenges such as cyber violence.
The OSCE workshop in Ashgabat underscored the importance of collaborative efforts in preventing and responding to gender-based violence. By engaging various stakeholders and presenting preliminary findings from a needs assessment, the workshop aimed to create actionable recommendations for overcoming this pervasive issue. Continued focus on innovative strategies, especially regarding internet violence and support for survivors, remains essential in fostering a safer society.
Original Source: www.osce.org
