Sweden will support the implementation of the Strategic Note of UN Women in Moldova for 2023-2027 with 60 million Swedish kronor. For the purpose, a cooperation agreement was signed to promote gender equality and to contribute to developing an equal and sustainable society free from discrimination, in which each girl and woman feels safe, IPN reports, quoting a press release of UN Women Moldova.

According to Katarina Fried, Sweden’s Ambassador in Chisinau, a number of activities will be carried out to ensure the women and girls, including those from underrepresented groups, equally enjoy human rights in a safe and peaceful environment and build together with men and boys an inclusive society free from violence and harmful social norms.

The UN Women’s strategic priorities for 2023-2027 refer to gender-sensitive governance and women’s participation in public life, the empowerment and economic resilience of women, elimination of violence against women and girls, etc.

UN Women Representative to Moldova Dominika Stojanoska noted that the partnership between Sweden and UN Women is strategic and long-lasting. “We recognize the crucial role and support offered by Sweden to girls and women in the Republic of Moldova for these to become promoters of changes and significantly and equally contribute to the development of a sustainable society,” stated Dominika Stojanoska.

The press release also says that important progress has been made in the Republic of Moldova in the field of gender equality over the last few years. The women gradually, but constantly grew their representation in administrative and decision-making processes, including women from underrepresented groups. The Republic of Moldova ratified the Council of Europe Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence and amended different laws and policies to remove the main obstacles that prevent women from taking part in the labor market.

Despite the made progress, gender inequality persists and gender stereotypes still prevail in society. In election campaigns, the female candidates are subject to calumny, sexist hate speech, gender discrimination, and violence. The women remain underrepresented on the labor market owing to the persistence of patriarchal attitudes and deep-rooted stereotypes.