The OSCE has empowered North Macedonian police officers to combat gender-based violence through a comprehensive training program. The course included role-plays and film screenings to highlight the devastating impact of this crime and the importance of effective police responses.
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| The OSCE has successfully trained North Macedonian police officers to effectively handle cases of gender-based violence, ensuring victims receive the support they need while perpetrators are held accountable. Image Credit: OSCE |
Skopje, North Macedonia – September 26, 2024:
In a significant step towards enhancing women's safety, the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) has concluded a training course aimed at equipping North Macedonian police officers with the skills to effectively handle cases of violence against women and girls.
The week-long training, held in Idrizovo, brought together 505 police cadets from the Police Training Center. The course provided participants with a comprehensive understanding of gender-based violence, including its definitions, the importance of victim-centered approaches, and effective methods for prevention, detection, and response.
OSCE Project Manager Bjorn Tore Saltvik emphasized the critical role of police officers in building public trust by providing appropriate support to victims of gender-based violence while holding perpetrators accountable. The training covered topics such as reporting procedures, risk assessments, trauma-informed care, and the psychology of victims and perpetrators.
To underscore the devastating impact of gender-based violence, the training incorporated a powerful role-play, "Lullaby Goodbye," based on the true story of a teenage girl exploited online. The role-play served as a stark reminder of the growing prevalence of this form of violence and the need for effective measures to protect victims.
Furthermore, participants were shown the film "Domestic Violence," which highlighted real-life cases of gender-based violence in the United States. By exposing police cadets to these experiences, the training aimed to foster empathy and understanding of the challenges faced by victims.
The OSCE's initiative represents a crucial step in strengthening North Macedonia's capacity to address gender-based violence. By equipping police officers with the necessary knowledge and skills, the organization is contributing to a safer and more equitable society for women and girls.