OSCE Mission trains Kosovo police on identification of domestic violence

The OSCE Mission in Kosovo concluded a five-day ‘train-the-trainer’ course on identification of domestic violence for community policing units. The course  was held from 27 to 31 August 2018 at the Kosovo Academy for Public Safety in Vushtrri/Vučitrn.

The course focused on early indicators such as physical evidence and psychological signs of the victims; the first police response and assistance to the victims of domestic violence and sexual abuse; and on ensuring the safety of police officers and victims involved. 

“The fight against domestic violence is a priority for the Mission,” said Kilian Wahl, Deputy Head of the OSCE Mission in Kosovo. “Prevention is crucial to effectively reduce cases of domestic violence. We support the Kosovo Police in expanding the knowledge and skill sets of police officers on the prevention aspect. This will enable them to properly identify early indicators for domestic violence and react before something happens.”

Ramadan Krasniqi, police sergeant, said that the course was an excellent opportunity to learn new approaches in dealing with cases of domestic violence. “Along with such training activities in the future, we need to also focus on raising the awareness of the public about domestic violence and enhancing our co-operation with them, in order to minimize this negative phenomenon.”

Following the course, the participants will become certified trainers and will develop similar training course to be delivered in turn to their fellow patrol officers in their police stations. 

The OSCE Mission in Kosovo is mandated with the protection and promotion of human and community rights, as well as with democratization and public safety sector development. It regularly delivers advanced and specialized training courses for law enforcement agencies to further improve their capacities.