The Institute for Development and Social Initiative “Viitorul” launched the project “Strengthening the participation of women representing ethnic minorities in the decision-making process”. The beneficiaries were chosen from the towns with the largest number of ethnic minorities, IPN reports.

The women beneficiaries are from Vulcanesti, Ceadir-Lunga, Edinet, Ocnita, Rascani, Briceni, Donduseni, and Causeni. “We want the women to take a more active part in the decision-making process. The Institute “Viitorul“ already has experience in training women. This year we had a number of seminars, especially before the local elections, where we trained women running in elections and also taught local women councilors to set a work program. Through this program, we will continue the activities to strengthen women’s capacities. We aim to carry out activities in eight towns where there are many ethnic communities, especially in northern Moldova,” said project coordinator Veaceslav Berbeca.

“Viitorul” expert Corneliu Ciurea said the Western partners often suggest that the political class must be changed. “This process cannot occur instantaneously. It is a slow one. We want to engage in our activities both representatives of civil society and of the political parties,” he stated.

Gender expert Erica Zucec gave the example of Canada, whose government includes an equal number of women and men. “I hope we will be able to speak about such performance in Moldova too. Why is gender equality raised so often? Because it’s time. It is a level of democratization of society when women, who represent 54% of the population, must be present in institutions and in executive posts. The women’s presence increases the economic potential and responsibility as they are less corruptible. It’s time for women to be raised to the same level as men and to take part in the harmonization process,” she said.

The project is financed by the Embassy of Canada and is implemented by the Institute for Development and Social Initiative “Viitorul”.