On October 28, 2025, a public event under the project “Gather strength and say STOP to violence” was held at the “Mihail Gelev 1926” Community Center, Chelopechene. The project is implemented by the Bulgarian School of Politics “Dimitry Panitza” with the financial support of Sofia Municipality – “Europe” 2025 Program, in partnership with the Municipality of Kremikovtsi district and Mihail Gelev 1926” Community Center – Chelopechene.
The event was officially opened by Ivan Nachev, Executive Director of the Bulgarian School of Politics, who presented the main objectives and activities of the project and emphasized the importance of community engagement in the fight against domestic violence. The opening was actively attended by Ekaterina Yordanova, Deputy Chair of the Program Council of “Europe” 2025 Program, as well as Lilia Donkova, Mayor of the Kremikovtsi District, who emphasized the importance of prevention, awareness and support for victims.
The main focus of the initiative is aimed at increasing public sensitivity to the various forms of domestic violence, their recognition and overcoming. The program included a lecture and an open discussion with the special guest Prof. Alexey Pamporov from the Institute of Philosophy and Sociology at the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences on the topic: “The Invisible Chains of Domestic Violence: Learning to See Beyond Shame and Pain”. The event brought together representatives of the local community and active citizens engaged in efforts to limit domestic violence and create a safe and supportive environment for all.
