Women of African descent at OSCE/ODIHR workshop examine ways to deal with discrimination

The unique experiences and challenges confronting women of African descent in the OSCE region was the focus of a two-day workshop organized by the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) in Warsaw on 29-30 May 2014. Twenty-one women from 15 OSCE participating States detailed the issues that women of African descent face on a daily basis, notably the dual challenges of racial and gender discrimination.

The workshop is part of an ODIHR initiative to work with people of African descent and to counter hate crimes and discrimination from a gender perspective. Participants recommended that ODIHR continue its work by reaching out to women of African descent in the OSCE region through local events and by supporting dedicated civil society organizations. 

“This is a great opportunity to listen to the community and tailor our efforts to meet specific needs,” said Larry Olomofe, ODIHR Adviser on Combating Racism. “As the main OSCE institution of the human dimension, ODIHR must listen to the voices of civil society and adapt its activities to best assist the participating States in fulfilling their commitments in the area of tolerance and non-discrimination.”

Engaging with women of African descent is part of ODIHR’s continued commitment to People of African Descent communities in the OSCE region. This was the first ODIHR event organized for women of African descent to voice their concerns and give them the opportunity to provide their assessment of the issue.

“It is exceptional to have a meeting dedicated to women of African descent,” said Miriam Ekiudoko, a participant from Hungary. “This allows us to identify issues and concerns from our perspectives, which can be overlooked in other cases. Events like this one will help us create strong support networks for women of African descent. ”