Top police executives at a workshop on gender equality

A two-day workshop on the subject "Raising awareness of gender equality in the police for top executives" began today (September 17, 2020) in Jahorina. The workshop is realized within the project "Raising awareness of gender equality in police structures in BiH through training of executives", implemented by the "policewomen's Network" Association" and funded by the Agency for Gender Equality of BiH from FIGAP II Program.

The workshop is the first in a series of activities within the said project aimed at decision makers in the police, as practice has shown that in the past, managers in police agencies did not attend trainings on this topic, as gender equality issues are still seen as "women's issues ", and not the capacity building activity of police services.

The aim of the workshop is to raise awareness about gender equality in the police, pointing out the need to adopt a program of measures aimed at achieving gender equality, bearing in mind the fact that women are underrepresented in police agencies at all levels in BiH. Also, raising awareness about discrimination based on gender and sexual harassment, as the research showed that there is a high dark number of these cases in the police structures in BiH and it is difficult for opolicewomen to decide to report it.

Through the training of executives, efforts are made to raise awareness on this issue, which will contribute to the promotion of equal participation of women in decision-making, and the integration of gender issues in all spheres of police work (admission to the police, promotion to higher ranks, participation in working groups and commissions). education, budget planning, etc.), all with the aim of improving the position of women in the police.

Since education is the best way to overcome gender stereotypes and prejudices about the police as a "male occupation" and women as a "weaker sex", we appreciate that it is extremely important that top police executives undergo training on this topic, in order to begin take concrete measures towards the integration of a gender perspective in all spheres of police work, and the application of affirmative measures that will contribute to gender equality and ultimately greater efficiency of police bodies.

The workshop is attended by top executives from 15 police agencies, including police commissioners and chiefs.