Raising awareness and strengthening knowledge on discrimination and antigypsyism through peer exchange, practical examples and self-reflection was the focus of a training for public servants held in Sarajevo on 4-5 March.

The training was jointly organised by the Ministry of Human Rights and Refugees of Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Institution of the Ombudsman for Human Rights of Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Association “Otaharin”, and the joint Council of Europe and European Union programme “Roma Integration – Phase III”. It brought together 28 public servants from 17 institutions at all levels of government in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Participants explored the mandates of relevant institutions for addressing discrimination, as well as the historical and social context of antigypsyism. The sessions focused on clarifying key concepts, strengthening knowledge of institutional protection mechanisms and encouraging professionals to reflect on their own practices. Through practical work, participants identified manifestations of antigypsyism and discussed appropriate professional responses.

The event was also an opportunity to introduce to the Report on the Position of Roma in Bosnia and Herzegovina, which draws on consultations with 132 respondents, including representatives of 59 institutions and 14 civil society organisations, as well as focus groups with 35 Roma community members in five local communities. The report highlights the need for continuous training and public campaigns, and to better inform Roma communities - especially young people - about their rights and available protection mechanisms.

This activity was supported by the Joint Programme "Roma Integration III", co-financed by the European Union and the Council of Europe, and implemented by the Council of Europe.