In this respect, content and strategic changes have been made. Amongst other things, in December 2016 we completed our work on the improvement of sanitary conditions in the Mali capital of Bamako. New projects are being planned, for example, the building of accommodation for women affected by violence in Mali, and the implementation of a transnational West Africa project on the theme of feminine hygiene.
The engagement of men and boys was also a priority theme in the past year. Within this, gender transformative approaches were further developed within project work, with the aim of challenging gender relations. These approaches are aimed at creating gender-fair social norms and structures, and expanding the scope for action for men and women.
In the Western Balkans, the integration of services into the state system and the establishment of service contracts have unfortunately progressed slowly. In spite of the provision of professional counselling services from our partner organisations, women affected by violence are having to fight for survival because of the lack of State contributions.
Alongside our engagements in West Africa and the Western Balkans, we are also active in Switzerland. During the 16-days campaign, we presented the film festival “Frauenstark!” (“Women’s Strength!”) to send out a clear message against every form of violence against women.
