OSCE organizes networking event for members of the Gender Equality Platform on Border Security

Members of the OSCE Gender Equality Platform on Border Security and Management and representatives of border agencies from the OSCE region and beyond discussed the importance of an inclusive approach to gender equality in the security sector on 18 October 2021.

The networking event was held in a blended format, in Vienna and online. Forty representatives from border agencies of 18 OSCE participating States and Mediterranean Partners for Co-operation attended.

The event was organized by the Border Security and Management Unit of the OSCE Transnational Threats Department and the Gender Issues Programme.

At the event, the upcoming Needs Assessment of the OSCE Gender Equality Platform was launched and its aim is to analyze current gaps and needs in border services regarding women’s equal participation on all levels was launched. The Assessment is part of the project entitled “The Women and Men Innovating and Networking (WIN). Strengthening Comprehensive Security through Innovating and Networking for Gender Equality” implemented by the Gender Issues Programme.

Participants discussed the crucial role men play as partners in promoting gender equality. OSCE representatives highlighted the importance of leadership’s engagement and the need to create appropriate gender-inclusive conditions for men and women to work in law enforcement.

“If the leadership is not engaged in efforts towards gender equality, no sustainability is guaranteed,” said Dennis Cosgrove, Head of OSCE’s Border Security and Management Unit, in his opening remarks.   

Representatives from North Macedonia shared successful practices of the Mentoring Programme for women in North Macedonian Police and discussed possible ways of initiating a mentoring network within the Gender Equality Platform.

International expert and retired Belgian Major Stefan Steyaert engaged participants in several practical exercises following interactive discussions on gender-inclusive border security and management.

The  Gender Issues Programme’s multi-year WIN project aims to build capacity and increase participation of women in conflict prevention, mediation and other processes relevant to comprehensive security. This event was possible thanks to the financial support of Sweden and Ireland.