After more than a year of dedication and hard work, supported by the SMART Balkans project and Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, we are proud to present another significant #Regional project! titled “Improved Implementation of the Istanbul Convention in the Western Balkans region,” which has delivered impressive results that justify its name.
The project, carried out by the SOS Hotline for Women and Children Victims of Violence in Nikšić, the Women’s Forum Elbasan, and the Women’s Wellness Centre from Montenegro, Albania, and Kosovo, aimed to contribute to the faster integration of these countries into the European Union by strengthening women’s NGOs, enabling them to monitor the implementation of the Istanbul Convention actively. Furthermore, this project focused on empowering women in the region, allowing them to play a more significant role in safeguarding their rights.
With ambitious goals set, what was the result? Reaching new heights!
Throughout the project, the capacities of women’s NGOs in the three target countries were significantly enhanced for effective monitoring and analysis of gender issues. This progress enabled better oversight of the implementation of the Istanbul Convention, which strengthened organizations’ abilities to advocate for their rights and those of other women. As a result, their activities became more visible and impactful within society.
Additionally, mechanisms were established to enhance the accountability of governmental and local authorities in fulfilling obligations assumed through the ratification of international conventions. This step has pressured institutions to take women’s protection issues seriously, laying the groundwork for a fairer and more inclusive society.
How were these significant results achieved? What activities empowered women and connected them with authorities?
Research on the implementation of the Istanbul Convention!
An engaging study was conducted from July to December 2023 to illuminate the application of the Istanbul Convention. Through analysis of the legal framework, 50 interviews with decision-makers, and 175 questionnaires with local officials, valuable data was gathered that reflects the current situation and challenges in the three countries. Studies on the implementation of the Istanbul Convention, totaling 150 pages each, also contain summaries prepared and printed in the three countries, in local languages and in English. Using the study findings, SOS Nikšić, in collaboration with the Safe Women’s House from Podgorica, prepared a shadow GREVIO report for Montenegro, and in collaboration with Lawyers for Human Rights, prepared a CEDAW shadow report for Montenegro. WWC – Kosovo presented the study findings at a round table to WNGOs and representatives of institutions at the local and national levels.
Workshops for activists from women’s NGOs!
Three-day workshops were organized for activists from women’s NGOs in Albania, Montenegro, and Kosovo, providing support for women who are victims of violence and domestic abuse. These workshops gathered 70 activists from 26 organizations and focused on strengthening the cooperation and capacities of NGOs in monitoring the implementation of the Istanbul Convention. Activists had the opportunity to share experiences and strategies, further empowering their work and impact within their communities.
9 public events in 3 countries!
As part of the project, nine public events were held in Montenegro, Albania, and Kosovo, aimed at empowering communities and supporting women who have survived violence.
In Kosovo, the Women’s Wellness Centre organized three events in Peći, attended by over 1,000 people. These gatherings served as opportunities to raise awareness, mobilize support, connect with the community, and discuss the importance of implementing the Istanbul Convention with support from local authorities, NGOs, and advocates.
In Albania, the Woman Forum Elbasan also held three events. At these events, citizens, with the help of local institutions, NGOs, and media, were informed about rights under the Istanbul Convention, offender penalties, and support systems for victims. The events included a campaign for “16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence” and activities for International Women’s Day, encouraging citizens to extend a helping hand to those in need.
In Montenegro, SOS Nikšić organized three events that gathered around 300 people, including a charity auction to raise funds for establishing the first Trauma Centre in Montenegro. This center will be crucial for the recovery and rehabilitation of women and children who are victims of violence. A Memorandum of Understanding was also signed between SOS Nikšić and the Municipality of Nikšić, the Women’s Club of the Municipal Assembly, and the Secretariat for Culture, Sports, Youth, and Social Protection of the Municipality of Nikšić, further solidifying collaboration in protecting and supporting those in greatest need.
17 universities, 726 participants, gaining knowledge about the Istanbul Convention!
Seventeen half-hour presentations on the Istanbul Convention were held at 17 universities, gathering as many as 726 participants across three different countries! These presentations focused on the importance of staff accountability, providing students and future service providers with insight into available services and protective mechanisms for women victims of violence.
This initiative was a formal process and a struggle that empowered women and created a community that fought for equality and justice. In the following steps, it is vital to maintain this momentum to ensure lasting change and improve the protection of women from violence.