Reducing discriminatory gender attitudes between women and men in institutions and in the community, and even in housework, will be addressed within the second phase of the regional program “Together against gender stereotypes and gender-based violence”, implemented in partnership with UN Women and UNFPA, with the financial support of the European Union. At the opening of the event, the participants mentioned the important role of men in promoting gender equality and initiating harmonious relationships in the couple and in the family.
UNFPA Moldova Representative Karina Nersesyan expressed her regret at the fact that gender stereotypes are a global phenomenon, noting that each state faces this problem that is manifested in different forms, and Moldova is no exception. In our country, a number of activities have already been carried out in this regard, but there is still more to be done, in particular as regards the involvement of men in this problem. “The involvement of both parties is required to change the situation. Although women are very active in defending their rights and trying to change the reality, the goal of what we do is to make men leaders of change, hoping that their examples will inspire others to join the fight and ultimately change stereotypes together,” said the UNFPA representative.
Karina Nersesyan stressed that actions should be focused on explaining to men that when a woman deals exclusively with household chores, she does not contribute to the economic prosperity of the country and it is essential that husbands assist their partners in integrating into the labor market. At the same time, organizations should create opportunities that allow women to successfully combine the role of mother with that of employee. These changes can gradually transform the deep-rooted perception that women should stay at home and men should work, thus contributing to an increase in the number of people who bring economic prosperity in the country.
UN Women Representative to Moldova Dominika Stojanoska underlined the importance of this project, which brought significant progress in the communities involved in the first phase. The actions focused on eliminating stereotypes and were accompanied by a number of initiatives aimed at reducing the existing gaps in gender equality, including promoting female leadership and women’s participation in political life, as well as combating violence against them. Moldova has made incredible progress in this area, thanks to the adopted legislation, the gender quota and measures that contribute to closing the existing gaps, including in terms of women’s economic participation. “It is necessary to work together to eliminate these stereotypes as a social norm that influences the perspectives of our children and harms society,” said Dominika Stojanoska.
EU Ambassador to Moldova Jānis Mažeiks stated that gender equality is not only a fundamental human right, but is also a cornerstone for sustainable development and social cohesion, being one of the key values of the European Union. Gender equality is essential for a society in which women and men, including those who are part of linguistic and national minorities, refugees have equal opportunities and can contribute to a united, diverse, just and peaceful future. “Today’s event highlights the important engagement of the community in making these changes. Through local engagement we can be sure that changes not only take place, but are lasting,” said Jānis Mažeiks, stressing the importance of engaging more in open conversations about gender roles and equality in communities.
In Moldova, the program was carried out in Fălești and Strășeni districts, good practices being also transposed to the districts of Ialoveni, Rezina, Drochia, Glodeni, Dondușeni and to Chisinau municipality.
