Commissioner for the Protection of Equality Brankica Janković met with experts of the United Nations Working Group on Discrimination Against Women and Girls during their official visit to Serbia. In a constructive discussion, the Commissioner presented the work of the institution, as well as numerous activities aimed at improving gender equality.

Special attention was given to initiatives and recommendations for improving the legislative framework, particularly in the section of the Criminal Code related to an adequate response to gender-based violence. The conversation also addressed femicide, artificial intelligence, and the importance of education, culture, and the media in combating discrimination. The “Bodyright” campaign, launched by the institution in cooperation with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) with the goal of raising awareness about gender-based harassment in the digital space, was also presented. The experts expressed interest in the mechanisms used by the institution, such as public warnings and strategic litigation, as well as in the methods used to ensure a high rate of compliance with the Commissioner’s recommendations. Janković also announced the upcoming presentation of the Special Report on Discrimination Against Women, which will soon be made available to the public.

During their stay in Serbia, the UN Working Group is organizing consultations with relevant stakeholders in preparation for a thematic report on gender equality in the digital space and the challenges of the artificial intelligence era. The Working Group delegation consisted of Claudia Flores (Chair), Dorothy Estrada Tanck, Haina Lu, Laura Nyirinkindi, and Prof. Dr. Ivana Krstić, while Ilona Alexander, Indra Namindranasoa Ny Haja, Megan Manion, Atia Ahmed, and Jessica Anania also attended the meeting.