Empowering women with disabilities to overcome stereotypes and prevent violence

Fifty-five women and girls with disabilities from six regions of Moldova strengthened their abilities to combat stereotypes and gender-based violence through a series of trainings. Organised under the project “Together for a Life Without Violence!” the trainings were developed by the Motivatie NGO through the EU-funded programme EU4Gender Equality, jointly implemented by UN Women and UNFPA.

Held between 7 October and 26 November, the trainings gathered participants from Orhei, Ialoveni, Ștefan Vodă, Căușeni, Fălești and Chișinău. Women shared their experiences, learned strategies to overcome challenges and found a safe space to voice their struggles and support each other. 
 

Svetlana, a participant from Edineț, shared: “My motivation to join this activity was to stay informed and ensure I do not become a victim of violence. Reflecting on my own experiences of workplace discrimination due to disability and ethnicity, I encourage women facing violence to seek help. If you encounter any form of violence, reach out to someone you trust or call the Women and Girls’ Trustline at 0 8008 8008.”

For Oxana, another participant, the training offered a chance to connect with others and learn from their stories of resilience. “I have faced physical and verbal violence within my family. Many women living in violent environments find it difficult to talk about it. I sought specialised services, which helped me secure temporary refuge and break free from the cycle of violence.” 

Djunara from Chișinău emphasised the importance of timely action: “Don’t endure violence. Reaching out to competent authorities can save lives. Through my own example, I want to encourage other women with disabilities to raise their voices and defend their rights in their communities.”

 “It’s one thing to know this information theoretically and entirely different to hear personal stories and understand how others overcame obstacles,” said Marina, a participant from Sîngerei.

The trainings offered a supportive environment where participants could freely express their thoughts and emotions. Through exercises, educational videos, case studies and creative therapeutic activities, the women gained practical tools for preventing violence and advocating for their rights. The initiative provided knowledge and fostered solidarity among women with disabilities, empowering them to challenge discrimination.

By supporting initiatives like “Together for a Life Without Violence!” and working closely with UN Women and UNFPA under the “EU4GenderEquality: Together Against Gender Stereotypes and Gender-Based Violence” programme, the EU continues to make a profound difference in the lives of vulnerable communities, ensuring that no one is left behind.