The OSCE (Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe), leading the WIN and CHANGE projects focused on achieving gender equality, organized a conference titled “Women and Men: Collaboration for Equal Rights.” Capitalizing on the humanitarian mandate to promote gender equality and strengthen male involvement, the event aimed to provide new energy and tools for existing practices while raising awareness of best practices within the OSCE region. Held in Warsaw, the conference brought together representatives from individuals and organizations actively involved in engaging men, various sectors addressing gender equality issues, human rights advocates, and civil society organizations focused on gender equality. It also included scholars, practitioners, and delegates from OSCE participating states and executive structures. The collaborative efforts of WIN for Women and Men and CHANGE embody their commitment to gender equality and unwavering belief in the power of cooperation. Their clear goal is to strengthen male involvement, energize existing practices, and draw attention to successful initiatives within the OSCE region. The organizers of this conference recognize that true progress can only be achieved through joint efforts and the involvement of all stakeholders. Exchange of experiences, support for best practices, and the creation of a robust professional network play a crucial role in confronting severe inequalities. The main goals of the OSCE conference “Women and Men: Collaboration for Equal Rights” included: Bringing together formal and informal networks working with men in the field of gender equality to exchange best practices and learn lessons from what constitutes success and obstacles in interacting with men to achieve gender equality. Identifying opportunities for the development of institutional structures, including internal structures and policies of the OSCE, that support the involvement of male allies. Formulating a set of recommendations regarding the OSCE’s further work on involving men across the three dimensions of the OSCE.
