We aimed to improve knowledge, skills, and cross-sector cooperation, with a strong focus on education, training, and awareness. First, the project enhanced the ability of our staff and educators in the adult education sector to recognize, understand, and respond to hate speech and hate crimes. It strengthened our institutional capacity to support victims and address hate speech effectively. Through dedicated training sessions, participants gained practical tools to support victims, prevent secondary victimisation, and respond appropriately in both online and offline settings. Second, the project used education as a key strategy to prevent hate speech. Educational materials and activities were developed for the adult education sector (e.g., NGOs) to improve communication with victims and avoid re-traumatisation. The tools created during the project were not only designed but also tested in real-life situations, ensuring their practical value. Third, a public awareness campaign helped raise understanding of hate speech and its harmful impact. This campaign encouraged victims and witnesses to speak out and promoted universal values. As a result, our organisations are now better equipped to provide educational support.
We applied for this project to address the urgent need for professional, cross-disciplinary support for victims of hate crimes and hate speech, especially at the grassroots level where services are often lacking. The project responded to low public awareness, insufficient reporting mechanisms, and the limited capacity of local organisations to provide adequate prevention and assistance. It aimed to strengthen the skills of NGO staff, local authorities, educators, and law enforcement through targeted training, networking, and awareness campaigns. We wanted to establish a local /regional coalition of organisations to create synergy and develop sustainable skills that would last beyond the project's lifespan. The project also addressed the need to develop educational methods for supporting victims of hate speech and preventing secondary victimisation. By developing educational tools, promoting cross-sector cooperation, and enhancing digital literacy, the project built a sustainable framework to empower victims, support their recovery, and prevent future incidents. Transnational cooperation was intended to enrich this process through shared expertise and best practices.