Duration: Approx. 30-45 minutes
Introduction
In this exercise we will work on registering discriminatory incidents by listing (locally) relevant registrations and developing an understanding of why it is important to register discriminatory incidents, hate speech and hate crime and how to do so.
First there is research to do to become aware of existing statistics and registered discriminatory incidents. During the research you can also focus on whether you knew something or not, whether something surprised you, shocked you or what other feelings are coming up.
exercise
- Research:
In the framework of its country monitoring work, ECRI examines the situation concerning manifestations of racism and intolerance in each of the Council of Europe member states.
ECRI’s findings, along with recommendations as to how each country might deal with the problems identified, are published in country reports. These reports are drawn up after a contact visit to the country in question and a confidential dialogue with the national authorities. ECRI’s country monitoring deals with all member States on an equal footing. Monitoring cycles last some five years. ECRI’s sixth monitoring cycle has begun in 2019.
Check the actual reports of your country in comparison to another one. Which incidents and which numbers are reported? During your research you can also focus on whether you knew something or not, whether something surprised you, shocked you or what other feelings are coming up. -
Where can you register discriminatory incidents that occur in your town/country?
Take your time to do some research.
Debriefing
Registers record incidents of the forms of discrimination: racism, antisemitism, anti- feminism, activities organized by the extreme right and hostility against LGBTIQ* people, people with disabilities and homeless people.
Registers / Monitors can be general or specialised on monitoring specific types of incidents (verbal (hate speech) or physical (assaults) or groups discriminated against or contexts in which the incidents occure (e.g. sports)
Hate speech is based on the unjustified assumption that a person or a group of persons are superior to others; it incites acts of violence or discrimination, thus undermining respect for minority groups and damaging social cohesion (ECRI’s General Policy Recommendation No. 15)
The 2008 Council Framework Decision (Council Framework Decision 2008/ti13/JHA) requires the criminalisation of certain forms of hate speech and hate crimes.
Reducing criminal activities related to hate and prejudice is hindered by the lack of reporting and registration of hate incidents – creating blind spots especially in rural areas in western Europe and both urban and rural areas in eastern Europe.
Reporting discriminatory incidents to local registers that collect data and refer people to relevant support mechanisms is a useful and sensible approach for several reasons:
- Raise Awareness and Visibility:
Reporting discriminatory incidents helps raise awareness about the prevalence and nature of discrimination within a community or society. By submitting reports to local registers, individuals contribute to a collective understanding of the issues and help shed light on the magnitude of the problem. This increased visibility can lead to greater recognition and acknowledgment of discriminatory practices and the need for action. - Data Collection and Analysis:
Local registers play a crucial role in collecting and analysing data related to discriminatory incidents. Gathering accurate and comprehensive data allows policymakers, organizations, and authorities to identify patterns, trends, and areas of concern. This data-driven approach enables evidence-based decision-making, the formulation of targeted interventions, and the monitoring of progress in combating discrimination. - Informing Policy and Legislation:
Reporting discriminatory incidents provides valuable insights for policymakers and lawmakers. The data collected from local registers can inform the development or revision of policies, laws, and regulations aimed at addressing discrimination effectively. By understanding the types of discrimination occurring and the communities or groups most affected, policymakers can tailor their efforts to promote equality, justice, and inclusivity. - Support and Assistance:
Local registers often serve as a gateway to relevant support mechanisms. When individuals report discriminatory incidents, they can be connected with resources, services, and organizations that can provide guidance, counseling, legal assistance, or other forms of support. This ensures that those affected by discrimination have access to the assistance they need to address their concerns and seek redress. - Empowerment and Validation:
Reporting discriminatory incidents can empower individuals who have experienced discrimination by providing a platform to share their stories and have their voices heard. It validates their experiences and acknowledges the impact of discrimination on their lives. This validation can help individuals feel supported, encouraged, and empowered to take action against discrimination and advocate for change. - Accountability and Prevention:
By reporting discriminatory incidents, individuals contribute to holding perpetrators accountable for their actions. Local registers can be used as mechanisms to track and monitor incidents, enabling authorities to take appropriate action when necessary. This accountability serves as a deterrent, discouraging future instances of discrimination and promoting a more inclusive and respectful society.
Overall, reporting discriminatory incidents to local registers that collect data and refer people to relevant support mechanisms is a valuable approach to combat discrimination. It helps create awareness, informs policy and legislation, connects individuals with support, empowers affected individuals, ensures accountability, and works towards preventing future discrimination.
We want to highlight the importance of registration agencies (like self-organizations) who work independently of government agencies and the police. In contrast to the police crime statistics, the registers of independent organizations also include incidents in the documentatition that are not crimes or that were not reported. This includes acts of violence, insults and threats, arson, damage to property, events, stickers, spray-painting or discriminatory slogans. Nevertheless, every statistic assumes that there are unreported cases.