OSCE brings together women professionals from Central Asia and South-Eastern Europe combatting violent extremism and radicalization that lead to terrorism

The meeting of the OSCE Central Asia and South-Eastern Europe regional networks for women professionals in preventing and countering violent extremism and radicalization that lead to terrorism (P/CVERLT) concluded today in Vienna. The event was organized by the OSCE Secretariat’s Gender Issues Programme/WIN Project, in collaboration with the OSCE Secretariat's Transnational Threats Department/Action against Terrorism Unit.

The regional networks, comprising of 55 women professionals, representing state agencies, civil society, academia, media and OSCE field operations, were established in February 2023. Since then, their members have been meeting online on a monthly basis.

The first in-person meeting aimed at further strengthening the connections among the networks’ members, both regionally and cross-regionally. Discussions on challenges and trends in P/CVERLT provided a platform for the participants for expanding the knowledge by learning from each other as well as exchanging their experiences with external experts.

In her welcoming remarks, OSCE Secretary General Helga Maria Schmid highlighted: “By supporting these networks, the OSCE emphasizes the need for gender-sensitive responses to the threat that violent extremism poses to societies. Because it is not only a question of representation; it is a question of integrating women’s unique perspectives and expertise into P/CVERLT policy and programming.”

In the framework of the event, participants developed comprehensive work plans, consolidating the strategic direction for the two regional networks, and laying the foundation for their forthcoming initiatives.

“Preventing and countering violent extremism – is not a small task, nor is it one that government or civil society can tackle on their own. It requires co-operation, and co-operation requires trust, close relationships, and networks such as the one established by the OSCE, to work together to address the complex root causes and drivers of violent extremism,” emphasized Alena Kupchyna, OSCE Co-ordinator of Activities to Address Transnational Threats.

The meeting reiterated OSCE commitments towards strengthening the capacity of women professionals in the crucial field of preventing and countering violent extremism and radicalization that lead to terrorism.