Strategies to improve security of Muslim communities and reduce hate crime the focus of ODIHR-organized consultations in Frankfurt

Understanding hate crimes against Muslims and developing guidelines to address the security needs of Muslim communities was at the centre of regional stakeholder consultations for Western Europe co-organized by the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) in Frankfurt, Germany on 25 and 26 June 2018.

During the event, which was held in co-operation with the Goethe University's Academy for Islam in Science and Society, participants provided input and suggestions on a draft practical guide being developed by ODIHR on understanding hate crimes against Muslims and addressing the security needs of Muslim communities.

"This is an opportunity for participants, including representatives of law enforcement agencies, government agencies working on human and minority rights and Muslim communities to share their experiences and needs as we prepare the guide," said Dermana Seta, ODIHR Adviser on Combating Intolerance and Discrimination against Muslims.

The guide will support governments in assessing the specific security needs of Muslim communities and improving responses to hate crime by local authorities and law enforcement agencies. The guide will also include specific recommendations on improving co-operation between local authorities and Muslim communities as a means to strengthen the security of community members.