In the framework of the STEPSS Follow-up project the Hungarian Helsinki Committee organizes local consultative meetings for the police and the local community, especially members of the Roma minority. The aim is to improve their relationship by offering a framework for a structured conversation on systemic discrepancies, concerns and experiences, to raise confidence, to combat bias and to develop a common understanding of policing, law enforcement, crime and safety issues.
STEPSS Follow-up
Project owner: Hungarian Helsinki Committee (HHC)
Responsible person: Balázs Tóth
2011
1,000 Euro Prize
HU
Civil Society / Social Economy
Social welfare, health care
Law, Justice
Diversity
What is it about?
Appreciation of the Jury
The significance of these ‘local meetings between police officers and members of the Roma community’ is evident against the backdrop of the increasing nationalization of politics and a police union which comprises around 18% of police and in 2009 entered into cooperation with the far right-wing Jobbik movement – partly due to its symbolic power and partly to avoid leaving safety issues to the right-wing political fringe and its shocking effects on social cohesion. Courageous, necessary and all party encompassing for a secure and more understanding cohabitation. It would certainly be useful to reduce the social rift!