In Italy, gender stereotypes that undermine women’s rights are still deeply rooted and can discourage women from reporting acts of violence which, according to ISTAT data (2006 and 2015), affect 1 in 3 women over the course of their lives. Supporting those who experience this violence is the mission of Pangea, a Foundation that works on behalf of people, very often women, who experience different forms of violence and gender-based discrimination linked to social conditions, seeking to restore and protect their rights. One of its active projects is the national anti-violence network “REAMA”, established in 2018 to provide tangible support to survivors of violence, strengthen the implementation of the Istanbul Convention in Italy, foster dialogue with institutions, local authorities and various public and private organizations, and raise greater public awareness of the issue. Thanks in part to our support, Pangea will be able to improve the coordination of the REAMA national anti-violence network, strengthen the training of specialized professionals, expand its capacity to provide direct support to survivors and open a new shelter in Sicily. The region is affected by organized crime, job insecurity and social vulnerability, and violence against women remains a widespread yet often hidden and dramatic reality. Every day, women, alone or with their children, try to escape abusive relationships but often face a lack of safe places where they can rebuild their lives. The objectives of the project we support are: Expansion of the Frieda Kahlo Anti-Violence Center in the Municipality of Barcellona Pozzo di Gotto, in the province of Messina, to welcome women — up to 800 each year — providing appropriate spaces for the children accompanying them, as well as listening services, legal protection, psychological support and pathways for women and mothers to escape violence and regain empowerment; Creation of the first shelter at a confidential location in districts D27 and D28 of the province of Messina, designed to accommodate at least 10 women and 5 children facing an immediate threat to their lives, providing physical protection and pathways toward housing, employment and financial independence; Initial and ongoing specialized training for a multidisciplinary team of psychologists, lawyers, educators and cultural mediators, to ensure highly qualified and integrated support in line with regional standards; Strengthening solid local networks with institutions, law enforcement agencies, hospitals and social services, so that the project can become a permanent part of the public protection system. Details Location: Sicily Association: Fondazione Pangea Onlus Beneficiaries: women experiencing violence Contribution: up to €360,000.00 Period: June 2023 – September 2026
