January 15, 2024 Bridge Team
A Recap of the Two-Day Capacity Building Workshop…
The BRIDGE to EQUALITY project conducted an impactful two-day on the 11th and 12th of January 2024, aimed at equipping 10 dedicated Case Officers with essential skills and knowledge to enhance their effectiveness in the crucial task of case collection. The workshop covered a diverse range of topics, including understanding SOGIE (Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, and Expression), fundamental rights, common crimes, practical identification of human rights violations, and networking strategies. Let’s delve into the key sessions that unfolded during this transformative event.
This Workshop was a milestone in enhancing the capabilities of Case Officers in their crucial role as advocates for human rights within the LGBTQ community. By combining theoretical knowledge with practical skills and fostering connections within the broader community, the workshop laid a solid foundation for the continued success of these dedicated individuals. As they return to their roles armed with new insights and capabilities, the impact of their work is poised to reach new heights, positively influencing the lives of those they serve.
Understanding Fundamental Rights and SOGIE
The first day of the workshop began with an enlightening session on fundamental rights and SOGIE, conducted by the Legal Case Manager and the Senior Advocacy Officer of the BRIDGE project. Participants gained valuable insights into the legal framework surrounding human rights that they might encounter in their line of work. The session fostered a comprehensive understanding of the legal landscape, empowering Case Officers to navigate complexities effectively.
The workshop emphasized the importance of staying abreast of legal developments, ensuring that Case Officers were well-versed in the rights of individuals and the corresponding legal ramifications for perpetrators of common crimes. This foundational knowledge set the stage for the subsequent sessions, providing a robust framework for approaching the identification and documentation of human rights violations.
Delving into SOGIE
The workshop continued with a session on Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, and Expression (SOGIE), facilitated by the Project Manager. This crucial session aimed to sensitize Case Officers to the unique challenges faced by individuals with diverse SOGIE backgrounds through several group activities. Understanding the nuances of these identities is paramount to providing empathetic and effective support to survivors, ensuring that their cases are handled with the utmost sensitivity.
Understanding Common Crimes
The session on Common Crimes helped the Case Officers identify the various crimes of the Penal Code and identify the punishments for each crime. This session is helpful for the case officers in their case collection process in differentiating different crimes.
Networking Strategies
The Executive Director of the National Transgender took the reins to lead an engaging session on networking. Case Officers were guided through the intricacies of building meaningful connections with other organizations, advocacy groups, and support networks. Networking skills are essential for amplifying the impact of their work, as collaboration often proves to be a catalyst for positive change in the realm of human rights.
Interacting with Survivors and Finding Cases
A significant highlight of the workshop was the emphasis on the delicate art of interacting with survivors and finding cases. Case Officers were provided with strategies and communication skills to engage with survivors empathetically, ensuring a supportive environment for individuals to come forward with their experiences. The workshop underscored the importance of building trust and creating safe spaces for survivors, recognizing the pivotal role Case Officers play in amplifying the voices of those who have experienced human rights violations.
