CHALLENGES
North Macedonia ranks last among 32 surveyed European countries in its acceptance of the LGBTQI+ community. Discrimination and violence persist against LGBTQI+ individuals, often unreported due to fear of reprisal. Further, gender-based violence (GBV) remains a major challenge, exacerbated by cultural norms and institutional barriers. In 2022, 517 cases of GBV were reported, but the real number remains unknown due to under-reporting tendencies. Accessing support services and securing justice for survivors remains difficult. There is a need for a comprehensive effort to address systemic issues to protect every person‘s human rights.
ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION
This activity will support improved response to the needs of survivors of GBV and marginalized communities in North Macedonia. Stakeholder engagement across the country aims to strengthen capacity, raise awareness, and enhance services to ensure the rights of LGBTQI+ citizens and survivors of GBV are upheld. In addition, the activity will foster collaboration and partnerships to create social change and promote inclusivity, ensuring every voice is heard and every individual is treated with respect and dignity. This approach not only amplifies impact but also builds stronger diverse communities, leading to a more accepting and just society.
EXPECTED OUTCOMES
- Increased societal acceptance of marginalized communities.
- Improved effectiveness in the processing of acts of intolerance and GBV.
- Increased number of evidence-based policies related to LGBTQI+ issues and survivors of GBV grounded in relevant and accurate data.
- Strengthened support service delivery from designated national institutions and civil society organizations to vulnerable populations.
- Establishment of a supportive ecosystem for survivors of anti-LGBTQI+ attacks and GBV, prioritizing justice through improved implementation of
- legislation.