OSCE releases new report, Gay Help Line, providing data on hate attacks based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

On the occasion of the International Day of Tolerance, 16 November 2022, the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) called on States to deepen cooperation with civil society organizations working to counter hatred and to make greater efforts to support victims.

“Hate crimes are devastating for the communities they affect, but they can also destabilize entire societies.”, said ODIHR Director Matteo Mecacci. “Civil society plays a critical role in addressing hatred and intolerance across the OSCE region. Civil society organizations therefore remain a valuable partner for States in responding to all forms of hatred and must be integrated into any response to hate crimes from the outset.

Victims of hate often turn to civil society organizations to report crimes, seek support, and access essential services. Through cooperation with state authorities, civil society can provide specialized support to victims of hate crimes, contribute to national policies to combat intolerance and hatred, and increase reporting among affected communities. By engaging in genuine collaboration with civil society, states can develop effective and targeted activities to address hate crimes and meet the diverse needs of individual victims.

Gay Help Line provides OSCE/ODHIR with data on reported hate attacks based on sexual orientation and gender identity annually.