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Two new OSCE regional networks to amplify women’s work on combatting violent extremism and radicalization that leads to terrorism in Central Asia and South-Eastern Europe

Women professionals in Central Asia and South-Eastern Europe now have two new regional networks for generating new ideas, learning from each other and amplifying their work on preventing and countering violent extremism and radicalization that lead to terrorism (P/CVERLT).

Issued on:
Issued by:
OSCE Secretariat, Transnational Threats Department
Fields of work:
Countering terrorism, Gender equality

Women professionals in Central Asia and South-Eastern Europe now have two new regional networks for generating new ideas, learning from each other and amplifying their work on preventing and countering violent extremism and radicalization that lead to terrorism (P/CVERLT). The networks were launched by the OSCE on 22 and 28 February 2023 with the aim to connect women professionals from civil society organizations, state agencies, academia, media and OSCE field operations for more effective, human-centered, and gender-sensitive P/CVERLT policies.

“Good communication and collaboration between practitioners across sectors is required for creating more effective and inclusive prevention and response mechanisms for addressing violent extremism and radicalization that leads to terrorism,” said Lara Scarpitta, OSCE Senior Advisor on Gender Issues. “Our assessment showed that networks of women are an effective way to build connections across sectors to enhance coordination and exchange expertise.”

The networks comprise 50 women professionals that have extensive experience with P/CVERLT. During the first online launch meetings of the two networks, the members shared their motivations, expectations and priorities for the network. Their discussions and collaboration will continue through monthly online meetings.   

“We are confident that establishing regional networks for Central Asia and South-Eastern Europe will provide a space for exchange and connection across sectors and borders that can give you new perspectives and will generate ideas and initiatives that you can make use of in your everyday work,” said Irfan Saeed, Head of the OSCE’s Action against Terrorism Unit, during the opening remarks of the launch meeting.

The networks were established by the WIN project through the OSCE Gender Issues Programme in co-operation with the OSCE Action against Terrorism Unit.