Religious Leaders Advance Gender Equality and Combat Domestic Violence in Moldova
Ten religious leaders in Moldova have enhanced their capacity to prevent and address domestic violence through an EU-supported initiative titled Love for One’s Neighbour: Empowering the Religious Community to Prevent Domestic Violence in Rural Areas.
Over the span of a year, these priests engaged in various trainings and conferences centered on fostering gender equality and eradicating domestic violence. Following their education, they led community discussions in ten rural parishes, sharing knowledge and raising awareness.
This initiative successfully built a more capable clergy network committed to promoting gender equality and preventing domestic abuse across their communities.
Project Reflection and Key Statements
On 15 October 2025, religious leaders joined representatives from central authorities, international organizations, and philanthropic partners to review the project’s outcomes.
“Through initiatives like this, we can prevent violence, bring hope and encourage those who are living through such situations to speak up,” said His Grace Veniamin, Bishop of Southern Bessarabia.
“To reduce violence and its impact, each of us, in our respective roles, must help instill in young people, in families, and in children a Christian conduct worthy of the civilised world we live in.”
Summary
This EU-backed effort strengthened religious leaders' roles in advocating gender equality and combating domestic violence, promoting safer rural communities in Moldova.