Information as Protection: Workshop on Preventing Sexual and Gender-Based Violence in Cahul

What is sexual harassment and what forms does it take? How does gender-based violence manifest, and where can support be found by those who experience it? These essential questions were at the core of the workshop “Resources and Support Against Sexual and Gender-Based Violence”, organized by the Regional Community Development Center in partnership with Ophelia NGO, the Peer-to-Peer Educators Network (Cahul Medical College and “Iulia Hasdeu” College), and Community Center Cahul.

The activity brought together young women from educational institutions in the municipality of Cahul and provided a safe space for information, open dialogue, and clarification of sensitive but critically important topics related to violence prevention and protection.

During the workshop:

• Peer-to-Peer Educators clearly explained the forms of sexual harassment and gender-based violence, how they manifest, the parties involved, and their impact on victims;

• Ophelia NGO presented its free psychological and legal counselling services, emphasizing confidentiality, safety, and victim-centered support, as well as outlining the legal framework related to sexual violence;

• The CRDC team introduced the “Support Guide for Girls and Women in Cahul – Response and Resources in Cases of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence”, a practical tool that centralizes information on rights, available services, and steps to take in situations of risk.

An important component of the activity was ensuring easy access to information: the guide can be accessed by scanning the QR code included in the materials, and is intended both for those in need of support and for individuals who wish to help someone else.

Through such initiatives, we aim to transform information into protection, encourage reporting, and contribute to building a more informed, safer, and more supportive community.

Prevention begins with awareness.