OSCE Office in Yerevan supports discussion on strengthening role of police in combating domestic violence

A roundtable discussion on the outcomes of a project supported by the OSCE Office in Yerevan and implemented by the Social Justice NGONGO
non-governmental organization with the aim of strengthening the role of police in combating domestic violence was held on 26 November 2015 in Yerevan.

About 80 representatives of the police and other agencies dealing with domestic violence discussed the results of the project, which was undertaken with the objective of enhancing the partnership and co-operation between the police and all state and non-state institutions dealing with domestic violence.

“Although domestic violence contradicts all the international and national norms and human values, it is unfortunately still a rather widespread problem in many countries,” said Ambassador Andrey Sorokin, Head of the OSCE Office in Yerevan. “It is an example of a social problem that demands and needs effective co-operation between the police and other related specialized agencies.”

During the discussion, participants gave recommendations on developing and improving multi-agency co-operation in the field of domestic violence, and for elaborating a mechanism for responding to domestic violence cases. They also focused on the role of education and awareness-raising in combating domestic violence.

On the margins of the event, an exhibition of photos – A happy family in my eyes - showcasing artwork by children and video material on domestic violence prepared by high school students, was held.

The project on strengthening police responses to domestic violence, conducted since last year, saw the creation of information corners on domestic violence at police stations and the mapping of organizations providing services to victims.