Building Resilience and Strengthening Families: UNODC and OSCE Support Training of Trainers in Serbia

 

On 16-17 October 2024, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), in collaboration with the OSCE Mission to Serbia, organized a pivotal Training of Trainers (ToT) workshop on the Strong Families programme. This initiative, designed to support families in fostering positive communication, resilience, and protective factors for children, gathered 39 professionals—37 school educators from Serbia and 3 independent trainers from Bosnia and Herzegovina and Serbia.

Funded by the OSCE Mission to Serbia and facilitated by Dr Aala El-Khani, a humanitarian psychologist and UNODC expert, the training focused on equipping participants with the skills necessary to implement the Strong Families curriculum within their schools and communities. This programme is part of UNODC’s global efforts to offer evidence-based prevention strategies that reduce vulnerability to substance use, violence, and criminal behaviour, while enhancing family bonds and resilience.

During the workshop, participants were introduced to practical tools to engage with parents and caregivers, helping them create supportive, safe, and nurturing environments for their children. Emphasizing positive parenting and communication, the training provided essential strategies for families to strengthen their relationships and reinforce the protective factors that can safeguard children and youth from risky behaviours.

 

 

The Strong Families Programme is recognized globally for its ability to reach families in diverse settings, including those living in challenging environments. By fostering family resilience and addressing risk factors, the programme helps to mitigate the adverse effects of stress, conflict, and societal pressures that often impact families. This training enabled the professionals to become advocates for family well-being and facilitators of change within their communities.

Through the active collaboration of UNODC, OSCE, and local educators, this initiative demonstrates a shared commitment to enhancing the well-being of families in Serbia and the wider region. By empowering local trainers with practical knowledge and evidence-based strategies, the Strong Families Programme is poised to make a significant impact on building healthier, more resilient communities.

This collaborative effort marks an important step toward promoting family-based prevention of substance use and violence, ensuring that the next generation grows up in environments that promote positive development, safety, and well-being.

For more information on how the Strong Families Programme and other UNODC initiatives are helping to strengthen families and communities, visit our website.