A peer-to-peer session focused on operating in a multicultural environment was attended by 30 local police officers. In their daily work, they cover various aspects related to combating hate crimes, promoting equality and non-discrimination, including protecting rights of vulnerable groups such as the local Roma community.

Participants gained knowledge on how to qualify different forms of discrimination and hatred; what are the duties and the role of the Police when working with Roma but also about the redress mechanisms and institutions responsible for the protection of human rights.

As stated by one of the trainers: ‘’Every person in our society or community has the moral duty and responsibility to stand up against hate, prejudice, and negative stereotypes. But the Police has a legal obligation to prevent and combat discrimination and negative attitudes towards any individual’’.

This seminar is part of a series of workshops aimed at increasing the effectiveness of the investigation of hate crimes at local level in the Republic of Moldova, including by monitoring and implementing initiatives to raise awareness and promote equality and non-discrimination among the law enforcement personnel. The trainings are used as a platform for discussions and exchange on good practices and contribute to understanding of the negative impact of the crimes motivated by prejudice against the victim, the community and the society.

The training was organised in cooperation with the General Police Inspectorate of the Republic of Moldova, within the framework of the Council of Europe Project ”Enhancing diversity and equality in the Republic of Moldova” which is part of the Council of Europe Action Plan for the Republic of Moldova for 2021–2024. The project is funded by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.