In this video, Emir Kovacevic, former member of the OSCE/ODIHR Panel of Experts on Freedom of Religion or Belief, explains that the right to freedom of religion or belief applies to men and women equally. But in practice, many women in the OSCE region face major difficulties in accessing this right. Many harmful practices against women are justified by reference to religious traditions, whether these traditions are actually rooted in a religion or not.

WATCH VIDEO HERE.

The OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) provides support, assistance and expertise to 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. The Office conducts training programs for government and law-enforcement officials and non-governmental organizations on how to uphold, promote and monitor human rights. A panel of 16 experts was appointed to serve 2022-2025.