OSCE supports an international exchange visit to Albania for Tajik public authorities to discuss national referral mechanisms for victims of domestic violence

The OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe organized a study visit to Tirana, Albania for eight representatives from various state institutions responsible for preventing and responding to domestic violence. This visit took place from 3 to 6 December 2024, and was facilitated by the OSCE Presence in Albania.

The participating institutions included the Ministry of Health and Social Protection, the Committee on Women and Family Affairs, the General Prosecutor’s Office, the Ministry of Justice, the Office of the Ombudsperson, the Ministry of Education, and the Executive Office of the President.

The purpose of the study visit was to learn about Albania's normative framework and effective practices in the prevention and response to domestic violence. The visit aimed to familiarize the Tajik delegation with the coordination of a multi-sectoral approach to domestic violence, mechanisms for referring victims to specialist services, and the protection and support systems available for victims. Additionally, it sought to explore preventive practices related to domestic violence. This study visit will aid the Tajik authorities in adapting the related normative framework in Tajikistan.

During their visit, the Tajik delegation met with representatives from relevant government entities and NGOs. These included the Ministry of Health and Social Protection of Albania, the Ministry of Justice, the People’s Advocate Office, the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the Commissioner for Protection against Discrimination, the National Centre for Treatment of Cases of Domestic Violence, and various counseling services for women and girls, as well as for men and boys.