Economic Empowerment Of Women

About the project:

According to the latest research in the contemporary economy and business sphere, so called typical women skills are more in demand: cooperation rather than competition, team-work rather than an individualistic approach, consultations rather than compromises, flexibility instead of strict working times and caring for the environment rather than “business as usual”. Still, very small numbers of women in Macedonia are taking the steps to start up a business. Long-term crisis and patriarchal surroundings have contributed to this situation. Many unemployed women stay at home and are economically dependent and that makes them more vulnerable to other forms of discrimination such as family violence. The main goal of this project was to encourage women to take initiative and improve their financial situation. When women learn to take initiative and apply their skills they have more self-confidence, better living conditions for themselves and their families, the overall business environment is enhanced and society as a whole will start developing in a positive manner. After women are empowered, the second phase can initiate – creating partnerships between women and men in business sphere.

Timeframe:

2004 – 2007

Partners:

Local women’s NGOs, Finnish Women’s Association "Martha", Commission for Equal Opportunities from Struga

Results:

Established forum with individuals from all women’s organizations and women activists in the region
Drafted the assessment, “Enlarging Economic Educational Activities of Women”
Organized a meeting between local women’s associations and the Finnish Women’s Association "Martha"
Drafted a program with concrete suggestions for empowerment of local women from the Municipality of Struga.