Civil servants in Bosnia and Herzegovina are strengthening their ability to recognise, respond to and prevent hate speech, following a tailored training organised by the Council of Europe in co-operation with the BiH Civil Service Agency.

The training, held in Mostar on 24-25 March, brought together 33 participants and combined expert input, discussions and a “human library” session, where individuals shared personal experiences to help participants better understand the impact of hate speech.

Participants explored how to identify hate speech, understand the role of prejudice and stereotypes, and assess how hate speech and hate crimes affect public safety. The training also covered the legal framework, including national legislation in Bosnia and Herzegovina and relevant case law of the European Court of Human Rights.

Particular attention was given to the role of institutions and the need for stronger co-operation in addressing hate speech. The training was especially relevant for representatives of the Central Election Commission of Bosnia and Herzegovina, which is responsible for handling cases of hate speech during election periods.

As noted by the Secretary General of the Commission, Goran Mišković, the institution regularly deals with complaints related to possible hate speech and faces challenges in distinguishing it from freedom of expression.

“The biggest problem when dealing with these cases is the very thin line between hate speech and freedom of speech. This training was excellent and will certainly contribute to strengthening our institution’s capacities,” Mišković said.

Such initiatives contribute to more effective responses to hate speech and support a safer and more inclusive public space in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The training programme was carried out as part of the action “Towards an equal, inclusive and tolerant Bosnia and Herzegovina”, funded under the joint European Union and Council of Europe programme “Horizontal Facility for the Western Balkans and Türkiye”, and Council of Europe projects “Combating discrimination, hatred and fostering inclusion in Bosnia and Herzegovina - phase II” and “Supporting transparency, inclusiveness and integrity of electoral practice and processes in Bosnia and Herzegovina”, which are funded through voluntary contributions under the Council of Europe Action Plan for Bosnia and Herzegovina 2026-2029.