20 representatives of law enforcement agencies and LGBTI activists from Albania and Kosovo* gathered in Tirana to exchange on their respective practices in addressing hate crimes against LGBTI persons. The purpose of this exchange was to establish a common and shared practical knowledge in the field of combating and investigating hate crime and fighting discrimination, but most importantly building a trust relationship within the communities and contribute to overcome the underreporting on hate crimes against LGBTI persons. Furthermore, it aimed at promoting mobility and exchange of police officials focused on Council of Europe standards in countering hate crime and discrimination. Representatives of the Albanian equality bodies shared with the participants their work’s experience in cooperation local and international stakeholders, which further enriched the discussions.

This event was organised as part of the regional component of the action “Promotion of diversity and equality in the Western Balkans”, within the “Horizontal Facility for Western Balkans and Turkey” a joint programme funded by the European Union and the Council of Europe, and implemented by the Council of Europe.

*This designation is without prejudice to positions on status, and is in line with UNSCR 1244 and the ICJ Opinion on the Kosovo Declaration of Independence.