The implementation of the project “Gather your strength and say STOP to violence”, 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, has been successfully completed. The project aimed to increase the awareness, sensitivity and capacity of women leaders from the region to recognize and deal with domestic violence, as well as to encourage active civic position and support in the community.
The project began with a survey among 100 women leaders from the region, which showed that almost a quarter of them encounter victims of domestic violence at least once a year, and more than half admit that they have limited knowledge of how to react and support victims. The most commonly recognized forms of violence are physical and emotional, while more hidden forms such as financial or digital violence remain less noticeable. The results of the analysis helped structure the training program, aimed at the real needs of women leaders and the community.
As part of the initiative, two two-day trainings were held for over 50 women leaders – representatives of the municipal administration, education, healthcare, culture and business. The program included lectures, discussions, simulations and case studies, with the participants gaining knowledge and practical skills to recognize the different forms of violence and to adequately respond and support the victims.
The culmination of the project was the public event and the photo exhibition “Let’s Stop the Silence”, presented at the “Mihail Gelev 1926” Community Center in the Chelopechene district and at the “Svetlina Kremikovtzi – 1906” Community Center. The exhibition visualizes the different forms of domestic violence through realistic photo scenarios with the participation of models from the local community. In addition to the impactful images, the visitors received informational materials with contacts and resources for supporting victims. The project envisages expanding the exhibition to other public institutions in the country.
