Religious Leaders are Better Equipped to Promote Gender Equality and Prevent Domestic Violence Thanks to EU Support

Ten religious leaders are now better prepared to contribute to preventing and responding to domestic violence. This progress was made possible through a project implemented by the Social Mission “Diaconia” as part of the “EU 4 Gender Equality: Together against gender stereotypes and gender-based violence" programme (phase 2), funded by the European Union and jointly implemented by UN Women and UNFPA.

Throughout one year, the priests involved in the project participated in trainings and conferences on promoting gender equality and eliminating domestic violence, and later organized discussions with parishioners in ten communities.

On 15 October 2025, religious leaders, representatives of central authorities, international organizations and philanthropic partners gathered to reflect on the results of the project “Love for One’s Neighbour: Empowering the Religious Community to Prevent Domestic Violence in Rural Areas.” The event provided space to review activities undertaken, achievements, and future priorities for action.

Key Statements:

His Grace Veniamin, Bishop of Southern Bessarabia, said that through initiatives like this, they can prevent violence, bring hope, and encourage those living through such situations to speak up. He urged everyone, in their respective roles, to help instill a Christian conduct worthy of the civilized world to reduce violence and its impact.

Viorica Țîmbalari, General Director of the Agency for Preventing and Combating Violence against Women and Domestic Violence, noted the reality that only one in ten women report violence, and recognized the vital role of the Church in supporting survivors during moments of suffering.

Julda Kielyte, Team Leader at the Delegation of the European Union to the Republic of Moldova, underlined that the protection of fundamental rights is essential as Moldova advances towards EU accession, and the EU Growth Plan emphasizes expanding shelters and specialized services for survivors.

Yesim Oruc, UN Resident Coordinator in Moldova, highlighted that the initiative aligns with the core mission of the UN to prevent violence and maintain peace globally, a purpose also pursued by religion and faith.

Dominika Stojanoska, UN Women Moldova Country Representative, demonstrated how important it is to collaborate with the Church, the institution with the highest level of trust and one of the few reaching the most remote communities.

Karina Nersesyan, UNFPA Representative in the Republic of Moldova, emphasized that religious leaders are trusted voices and moral guides who can help challenge harmful social norms and promote relationships based on respect and dignity.

Igor Belei, Executive Director of the Social Mission Diaconia, stated that they have taken an important step toward building a systemic response to domestic violence and are creating a support network capable of bringing guidance and assistance to every parish and community.

Key Activities and Results:

The project included several community-based initiatives:

• Conference “Family Under the Protection of Faith: An Interdisciplinary Dialogue on Domestic Violence”. This aimed to build on the training experience of the Romanian Patriarchate, enabling participants to gain practical knowledge and strategies to prevent gender-based violence.

• Training of Trainers (ToT): “Domestic Violence and Addressing Stereotypes in the Light of Christian Orthodoxy”. The sessions strengthened priests’ skills in recognizing domestic violence, raising awareness, and facilitating survivors’ access to specialized services.

• Training of Spiritual Mediators. Trained clergy continued their mission by delivering education activities and dialogue sessions with young people.

• Community events “Family – Fortress of Love”. These were held in ten communities (Ștefan Vodă, Răuțel, Căușeni, Cahul, Palanca, Stăuceni, Puhoi, Strășeni, Bălți and Chișinău). The events communicated a clear message: domestic violence has no justification, and those affected can always seek help through specialized hotlines or by calling 112 in emergencies.

Project’s Long-Term Impact:

The project strengthened a network of priests better prepared to promote gender equality and prevent domestic violence. The Church is not only a place of prayer; it provides counseling, supports people in distress, and collaborates with local actors to offer real solutions. The closing event marks the beginning of a continued mission to sustain the commitment to support families, promote mutual respect, and help eliminate domestic violence.

This article is developed in the framework of the “EU 4 Gender Equality: Together against gender stereotypes and gender-based violence" programme (phase 2), funded by the European Union, implemented jointly by UN Women and UNFPA. Its contents are the sole responsibility of UN Women and UNFPA and do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union.