“Women’s Power – Economic and Political Participation for Inclusive Societies in Georgia.”, or in short “Women’s Power for Inclusion”, is a new Programme run by WECF International’s Georgian office, in cooperation with Women’s Fund in Georgia, Woman and Reality, Young Pedagogic Union, Pankisi Women’s Council, and Racha Community Organization.

Power for Inclusion

Georgia has anchored the rights of women, youth, and minority groups in its constitution and legislation, but in everyday life discrimination and marginalization continue. The COVID-19 crisis has worsened the situation of women, youth, and minorities, decreasing their chances for empowerment due to increased domestic labour burden on women, restrictions on gatherings, risk of violence, and limited access to information and education. Many have lost or left their jobs, resulting in socio-economic hardship. The majority of the front-line workers are women.

Thus, the project “Women’s Power for Inclusion” aims to support women and girls in four regions of Georgia (Kakheti, Guria, Racha, and Imereti) to participate equally in economy and politics and change patriarchal mindsets and stereotypes. Feminist activists, including young people, will be trained and funded to implement local actions that contribute to increased women’s political and economic participation. The action will result in tangible changes improving the lives of local women and men, girls and boys, including ethnic minorities and women with disabilities.

Kick-off meeting with partner organisations

Following a series of online meetings, the project team held a kick-off meeting with partner organisations on March 25-26 to discuss the concept and administration of the project. Highlights were a mini training on the involvement of women with disabilities in project activities and strategic planning on strengthening women’s economic empowerment. The partner organizations shared their work to the participants and they were able to find common crossing points in their activities. Especially young people will be trained to formulate their priorities for their participation in society and enabled to implement projects that will make people view traditional roles of women and minorities in a different perspective.

This project is financially supported by the European Union