Словакия

ODIHR recognizes Slovakia's recent efforts to understand unreported hate crimes by conducting a victimization survey, as well as to regularly report hate crime data to ODIHR. However, based on the available information, it observes that law enforcement agencies have not recorded the bias motivations behind hate crimes. In addition, ODIHR observes that Slovakia would benefit from developing its victim support system to ensure effective access to justice, assistance, and protection for hate crime victims. 

ODIHR recalls that in Ministerial Council Decision 9/09, OSCE participating States committed to promptly investigating hate crimes and ensuring that the motives of those convicted of hate crimes are acknowledged. To that end, law enforcement agencies must first record the bias motivations behind hate crimes. Furthermore, in Ministerial Council Decisions 9/09 and 13/06, participating States committed to providing hate crime victims with access to counselling and legal assistance, as well as effective access to justice. Participating States also committed to ensuring positive interactions between police and hate crime victims by training front-line officers, including on providing referrals for victim assistance and protection. ODIHR stands ready to support Slovakia in meeting its relevant commitments through the provision of comprehensive resources and tailored assistance in the area of hate crime recording and data collection, as well as by providing further resources and assistance in the area of hate crime victim support. 

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