30/10/2023NEWS

Educational workshops on the Prevention of Discriminatory Procedures at Universities in the Region

Promoting equality and preventing discriminatory procedures in higher education institutions took center stage at the two-day event organized by the TPO Foundation as part of the UNIGEM project. From October 27 to 28, an informative seminar was held with the aim of raising awareness and implementing measures to combat discrimination within academic settings

The event commenced with an opening speech by Prof. Edita Nakaš PhD, who welcomed attendees on behalf of the University of Sarajevo’s rectorate, followed by an address from the Academic Director of the University Gender Center, Prof. Jasna Kovačević PhD, and Lamija Subašić, the coordinator of the UNIGEM project. They highlighted the significance of this initiative in promoting an inclusive and just academic environment.

Distinguished speakers explored various aspects related to combating discrimination in academic environments. The event began with a lecture by Professor Midhat Izmirlija PhD from the Faculty of Law at the University of Sarajevo, shedding light on the regulatory framework for combating discrimination in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Continuing the education, Prof. Daria Glavan Šćulac PhD, Head of the Office for Legal Affairs at the University of Rijeka, provided insights into the institutional framework for preventing discrimination at universities, drawing examples from successful practices in Croatia. The latter part of the first day focused on journalist Arijana Saračević Helać, who highlighted the portrayal of discrimination within academic institutions in the media. Following this, there was a presentation by Professor Jasna Kovačević PhD from the Faculty of Economics at the University of Sarajevo, sharing relevant practices from UNSA.

The conclusion of the education was initiated by Professor Jasminka Gradaščević – Sijerčić PhD from the Faculty of Law at the University of Sarajevo, discussing discrimination as part of labor-legal status. The final session was led by Miroslav Živanović from the University of Sarajevo’s Rectorate, who presented the Model Rulebook on Prevention and Protection from Discrimination at Universities, outlining practical strategies for its implementation.

The primary conclusions from the event emphasized the imperative need to simplify the processes for reporting incidents of discrimination. Faster and more efficient processes were deemed necessary, along with a call for appropriate consequences for perpetrators, ensuring justice and support for victims of discrimination. This event underscored the collective commitment of academic institutions to create a safe, inclusive, and just environment, free from discriminatory practices. By sharing knowledge and best practices, participants emphasized the importance of proactive measures to promote equality and combat discrimination in academic settings.