Seminar on Discrimination – Combating Racist Violence & Hate Speech

Discrimination, racist violence, and hate speech took center stage in a dynamic three-day training organised by Symbiosis – Council of Europe School of Political Studies in Greece. The event, held from May 22-24, was supported by the UNHCR Office in Thessaloniki and the Municipality of Neapolis-Sykes. The initiative brought together participants from diverse backgrounds, aiming to equip them with the necessary tools and knowledge to address and mitigate the impacts of discrimination and hate speech in their respective environments.

The training sessions revolved around critical themes, including the portrayal of stereotypes, stigma, invisibility, and representation of othering in the Greek media, while a workshop, integral to the training, aimed to explain how these representations can be decoded and countered. Furthermore, discussions extended to anti-Gypsyism, a particular form of racism, and examined how fires and climate change have contributed to the increase of xenophobia. The seminar underscored the vital importance of defending the defenders as well as the role of advocacy against racist crimes. Additionally, it delved into historical and institutional contexts, elucidating the roots of racist violence, and providing a framework for protecting and supporting victims. Through informative case studies and discussions on recognising and reporting racist violence, participants gained valuable insights into combating hate speech and hate crime.

The seminar’s focus on practical tools and open dialogue enabled attendees to take concrete steps toward combating racist violence and hate speech. By providing insightful perspectives and fostering a supportive environment, the seminar successfully equipped attendees to become proactive advocates for change within their communities.