28 police officers and CSOs from 16 countries just completed a 3-days (10-12 March) Training of Trainers in Barcelona to better identify and investigate hate crimes against LGBTI persons. The event was organised by the SOGIESC Unit of the Council of Europe, in collaboration with Gaylespol, the association of LGBTI+ police officers in Spain, and the European LGBT Police Association (EGPA), in order to train participants on the updated training manual “Policing Hate Crime against LGBTI Persons: Training for a Professional Police Response”. Police officers from various countries have been equipped with the essential skills to identify and investigate hate crimes against LGBTI persons, ensure justice and protection for all victims, and contribute to the fair and transparent application of national hate crime laws.

Led by two experienced trainers, specialised in combating hate crimes and LGBTI+ discrimination, the training aimed to provide police officers with a comprehensive understanding of why hate crimes and other forms of violence against LGBTI persons require a tailored approach. It emphasises the critical role of police leadership in driving improvements in this area and ensuring these efforts are supported across all levels of law enforcement.

The training also sought to raise awareness about the prevalence and profound impact of hate crimes, including domestic violence, on LGBTI communities. Finally, it highlighted the core duty of the police to protect individuals, thoroughly investigate crimes, and deliver an equal, respectful, and inclusive service to all citizens.

This event is part of the EU/CoE joint project “Combating Anti-LGBTIQ Violence and Hate Speech, and Strengthening Awareness and Fact-based Narratives about LGBTIQ People.” 

The agenda for this training can be found here.