Diversity was used by relevant authorities to develop comprehensive strategies to respond to and prevent incidents that risked deepening visible divisions and exacerbating feelings of insecurity and instability. Moreover, the information allowed for targeted training, awareness raising, informed policy development, and advocacy by the OSCE. The OSCE also advised national institutions on how to improve and implement anti-discrimination policies and how to improve the capabilities of institutions and civil society to address bias and hate speech. In support of equality for all, the OSCE assisted with the drafting and implementation of legal frameworks and, on the request of local communities, conducted research, public outreach, and training for judges and public prosecutors. 2. Lessons learned The promotion of social cohesion by fostering tolerance and respect for diversity is essential for the building of sustainable peace and democracy in multi-cultural and multi-ethnic societies. The OSCE’s experiences show how raising awareness and promoting common interests—for example, through arts, sports or environmental activities—can bridge divides in polarized societies and between conflict-affected communities. Arts exhibitions and sports tournaments provide non-politicized ways to bring members of different communities together and allow them to get to know each other, sometimes for the first time. This can contribute to a common understanding that everybody 93