UN Women and UNFPA, with funding from the European Union, hosted the networking event "Partnerships for Strong Communities" as part of the second phase of the programme “EU4Gender Equality: Together against gender stereotypes and gender-based violence." The event united over 40 participants, including partner organisations, public authorities, beneficiaries, and media representatives, to enhance community engagement in promoting gender equality and challenging gender stereotypes.
“The European Union’s support extends to initiatives like this, which focus on changing perceptions and behaviors at the community level. But this work cannot be done alone. It requires partnerships — between governments, civil society, youth, fathers, faith leaders, and the entire community. Through local engagement, we can ensure that change not only happens but lasts,” emphasized H.E. Jānis Mažeiks, Ambassador of the European Union to the Republic of Moldova, during the event’s opening.
“By working together with various local stakeholders, we can promote lasting changes in harmful attitudes and perceptions, which unfortunately still disproportionately affect women and their ability to exercise their political, economic, and social rights,” highlighted Dominika Stojanoska, UN Women Moldova’s Country Representative.
Karina Nersesyan, UNFPA Moldova’s Country Representative, issued a powerful call to action, urging men to engage as equal partners in change: "Men who embrace equality aren't just doing the right thing. They become beacons of hope, illuminating the path towards a world where the lives of women and girls are profoundly improved."
Participants engaged in interactive discussions on topics such as raising community awareness, working with youth and fathers, empowering women with disabilities, and collaborating with religious leaders to overcome gender stereotypes, promote positive social norms, and prevent or address gender-based violence.
Given setbacks in Moldova's "Perceptions and Stereotypes" indicator, as highlighted by the 2024 Gender Equality Index, such events are crucial for raising awareness and mobilising representatives from communities to combat gender stereotypes.
The "EU4GenderEquality" programme continues its efforts to promote equal rights and opportunities for women and men in Moldova. Led by UN Women and UNFPA, the initiative is leveraging the expertise of four organisations: Institutum Virtutes Civilis, Motivație, the Diaconia Social Mission of the Metropolis of Bessarabia, and the Child Rights Information Center. Now in its second phase, which will last until June 2026, the programme focuses on five regions: Orhei, Ialoveni, Ștefan Vodă, Căușeni, Fălești, and Chisinau municipality.
The participants of the "Partnerships for Strong Communities". Photo credit: Dinu Bubulici
Panel discussions at the "Partnerships for Strong Communities". Photo Credit: Dinu Bubulici
