OSCE to help Bosnian police deal with hate crime

An international human rights agency says it will assist Bosnian police in combating hate-motivated crimes.

The OSCE's Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights says it will train Bosnian police in recognizing and responding to hate crimes, and in engaging with communities victimized by hate-motivated crime.

Deputy Minister Mijo Kresic says harsher punishments will be introduced for crimes motivated by nationality, religious or political orientation.

The OSCE office, referred to as ODIHR, said in 2006 it was concerned about attacks on people returning after Bosnia's 1992-95 ethnic war and on minorities including Gypsies, or Roma.

The office reached the agreement Monday with Bosnia's Security Ministry.