The OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) provides support, assistance and expertise to its 57 participating States and civil society to promote democracy, rule of law, human rights and tolerance and non-discrimination. ODIHR observes elections, reviews legislation and advises governments on how to develop and sustain democratic institutions.

In order to address racism, xenophobia, and other forms of intolerance which continue to threaten security in the increasingly diverse societies across the OSCE region, ODIHR has developed a collection of resources and programmes to raise awareness about discrimination, hate crimes, anti-Semitism and other forms of intolerance, including against Muslims, Christians and members of other religions. Through advising on policy and the training of law enforcement personnel and educators, the Office works to build the capacity of governments in preventing and responding to this problem. ODIHR also works to increase the ability of civil society to monitor and report on hate crimes and incidents.

ODIHR values the complementary mandate of GAAMAC as the organizations work together to address the spectrum of intolerance and discrimination from hate speech to hate crimes to mass atrocities and genocide. In fact, GAAMAC’s focus on addressing and preventing hate speech, hate crimes, mass atrocities and genocide complements ODIHR’s mandate to work with OSCE participating States and civil society on addressing all forms of intolerance, discrimination, and hate crimes.

ODIHR partners with GAAMAC to host public events for governments, civil society, educators, and leaders from a wide variety of communities to ensure peaceful and secure societies for everyone.