VDAY2020_BoardPresentationOBR | Page 33

CROATIA

OBR has synergized many social justice movements together . Croatian women ’ s NGO ’ s , civic initiatives and activists have been more active and “ loud ” on the issue of victims of sexual violence . As pressure was put on government , it has said it would set aside another 9.3 million euros to provide shelters for women victims of violence , and by the end of the year will work to finish six safe houses in counties that do not have them . The government has also admitted it is acting on the clear voice of the public – the women ’ s groups in particular .

ZIMBABWE

Risings focused on identifying negative norms which promote violence towards women , therefore deeper conversations took place in communities about trying to unlearn behaviors and attitudes to be able to work towards societies that are reforming and embracing the true and ethical value of women and girls .

VANUATU

In Vanuatu , transwomen are not given much space or voice . So having transwomen lead OBR in the country was very empowering for the trans community and helped bring their issues affecting their community to the forefront .

FIJI

OBR brought young women from minority ethnic groups to the forefront and in public spaces who are generally shunned by their communities on being visible ( especially through dancing ) in public spaces . It also provided opportunities and a safe space for Muslim women to participate , especially in the climate of strong Islamophobia in Fiji . From the beginning , OBR has been able to provide spaces to young women who generally would not participate in any advocacy .
Children and teenagers actively participated with adults , which resulted in deeper conversations around intergenerational feminism and activism .
There was also a huge increase in participation of men who are queer and from minority ethnic groups .