Europe’s responsibility to prevent both at home and abroad

European civil society in conversation with Adama Dieng, UN Special Adviser on the Prevention of Genocide

Every state has a responsibility to protect its populations – including their migrant populations – from atrocity crimes. If the responsibility to protect is, as is so often stated, first and foremost the responsibility to prevent then the European Union and all European states must look to worsening trends occurring within their borders as well as those situations of graver concern abroad. It is a responsibility that does not and must not fall upon one country, region, or one sector alone; rather, effective and timely prevention relies upon closer collaboration between civil society, international institutions, and States. This dialogue will provide rare and timely opportunity to bring civil society stakeholders together to discuss what can be done to better coordinate and harmonise European efforts to protect and prevent.

The manipulation of identity to create division can be seen worldwide. Hate crimes and other identity-based attacks continue to rise across Europe as populist and far right politics threaten hard won values and institutions. As Mr Dieng has said, “[w]e are seeing cynical politicians encouraging xenophobia and discrimination against those who look different to gain political power.” In Europe, “[t]he victims have primarily been migrants and refugees.” Speakers will offer ideas of how Europe, the EU, and its vibrant civil society might enhance contributions to prevention before opening up the floor for Q&A, followed by a networking reception where conversation can continue.

The EU office of the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung, the UN Office on Genocide Prevention and the Responsibility to Protect, and Protection Approaches have the pleasure to invite you to this exchange, which will be held under Chatham House rule.

Contact: Sidonie.Wetzig(at)fes-europe.eu