ASSET

Acting to Stop the Silent Epidemic Together

We Are ASSET

In the echoes of silence, a pressing issue demands our collective attention. ASSET is Erasmus+ project where our commitment goes beyond borders, aiming to illuminate the shadows surrounding women who suffer in silence from the grip of violence. Today, we stand together not just as advocates but as allies, ready to amplify the voices that go unheard and empower those who need us the most.

This is more than a project; it is a rallying call for compassion, understanding, and collective action. In every side of the globe, women bear the weight of violence silently, hidden away from society’s gaze. Our mission is clear – break the silence, extend a hand, and empower those in need.

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What ASSET is

Introduction

In the pursuit of building inclusive societies, the European Union recognizes the importance of addressing gender imbalances and empowering young women to shape a more equitable future. The ASSET project, which stands for „Acting to Stop the Silent Epidemic Together,” is a collaborative initiative aimed at supporting and empowering young women to combat gender-based violence across Europe. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, this project takes on added significance as it seeks to address the underreported violence that has disproportionately affected young women.Understanding the Silent EpidemicThe COVID-19 pandemic brought about a surge in gender-based violence, much of which went unnoticed and unreported.

Lockdowns and extended restrictions trapped many young women in dangerous situations, leading to increased incidents of domestic abuse, sexual exploitation, forced marriages, and even murder. As these atrocities remained hidden from public view, young women bore the brunt of the pandemic’s social and economic consequences.The ASSET project recognizes that gender-based violence affects women of all ages. However, it places a particular emphasis on supporting young women who are often more vulnerable and face unique challenges.

These young women aspire to build successful careers, assert their independence, and live in a world that values equality. ASSET seeks to empower them to overcome the violence they encounter and contribute to a more just society.Project ObjectivesThe ASSET project outlines clear and actionable objectives to address gender-based violence among young women:Capacity-building: Through expert interventions, young women will be equipped with alternative perspectives and strategies to combat gender-based violence.Support for victims: ASSET will provide a safe space for victims of gender-based violence, enabling them to share their experiences, seek support, and develop measures for self-protection.

Amplifying young women’s voices: The project aims to ensure that young women are heard and involved in shaping their own futures, particularly during the vulnerable period when they are building their careers and lives.Empowerment through education: Young women will be educated about recognizing various forms of violence, not only in their lives but also in the lives of others, enabling them to provide self and communal support.

Project Activities

The ASSET project was implemented through a series of Learning, Teaching, and Training Activities (LTTAs) and result in the creation of a valuable handbook and platform. Valorous ASSET (February 2023): This activity focused on providing young women with a space to share their experiences and break taboos surrounding violence towards women.  Psychologists mediated these discussions to support young women in sharing their experiences while helping others identify early signs of violence.

Resilient ASSETs (May 2023): Sharing best practices and research on empowerment across countries and Europe focused of this activity. By learning from each other, young women can propose and implement resilient strategies to combat gender-based violence.

Tangible Solutions: Europe’s Real ASSET (Oct 2023): Empowerment will be the central theme of this activity. It aims to provide young women with tools and support structures to counter violence effectively. The project will draw from the wealth of knowledge present in Europe to develop innovative approaches.

Project Results

In the quest for a more inclusive and equitable society, the ASSET project stands at the forefront, championing the rights and well-being of young women in Europe. Two pivotal results have emerged from this ambitious initiative: the Handbook with Policy Recommendations and the Web-Platform for Networking and Collaboration. These two pillars are instrumental in empowering young women and advocating for change, fostering connections, and providing valuable resources to combat gender-based violence.

Handbook with Policy Recommendation

The Handbook with Policy Recommendations is a cornerstone of the ASSET project. Tailored specifically for young women in Europe, this comprehensive guide is a compendium of knowledge, insights, and best practices. It represents a vital resource for a wide range of beneficiaries, including young women themselves, youth workers, researchers, psychologists, women-centric NGOs, and local stakeholders. Here’s a closer look at what this handbook entails:

Our Handbook

Handbook with Policy Recommendations: A Comprehensive Guide to Empowerment

Empowering Young Women

The handbook equips young women with invaluable life skills and knowledge to navigate the complexities of modern life. It goes beyond traditional education, offering practical insights to help them build resilience and confidence.

Recognizing Violence

It provides tips and guidance to help young women identify potential episodes of violence in their personal lives and the lives of others. This knowledge is a powerful tool for self-protection and intervention.

Best Practices from Across Europe

The handbook compiles best practices not only at the national level but also on a European scale. This cross-border sharing of successful strategies enhances the collective effort to combat gender-based violence.

Policy Advocacy

Perhaps most critically, the handbook includes policy recommendations. These recommendations serve as a roadmap for policymakers to address the issue of gender-based violence, particularly in light of the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Handbook

Read here our Handbook in English

Web-Platform for Networking and Collaboration

In today’s interconnected world, digital platforms play a crucial role in fostering collaboration, sharing knowledge, and building networks. The Web-Platform for Networking and Collaboration developed by the ASSET project is a testament to the project’s commitment to leveraging technology for positive change. Here’s a closer look at this dynamic platform:

The Web-Platform for Networking and Collaboration developed by the ASSET project is a testament to the project's commitment to leveraging technology for positive change

Web-Platform

Connectivity in Multiple Languages

The platform is available in six European languages, ensuring accessibility and inclusivity. It transcends language barriers, enabling individuals and organizations from diverse backgrounds to connect and collaborate seamlessly.

Knowledge Sharing

The platform serves as a hub for knowledge sharing. It provides a digital space where project consortium members and future partners can share insights, best practices, and research findings. This knowledge exchange is instrumental in accelerating progress in the fight against gender-based violence.

Downloadable Resources

The handbook, including policy recommendations, is readily accessible on the platform. Users can easily download these resources in PDF format, making them widely available for reference and dissemination.

Networking Opportunities

The platform offers networking opportunities, facilitating connections among individuals and organizations dedicated to supporting young women and combating gender-based violence.

Amplifying Voices

It amplifies the voices of young women and advocates for change. By providing a digital space for dialogue, the platform enables young women to share their experiences, concerns, and aspirations.

Advocacy and Action

Beyond knowledge sharing, the platform serves as a catalyst for advocacy and action. It empowers users to take concrete steps to address gender-based violence in their communities and societies.

Our Objectives

These goals reflect the multi-faceted approach of the ASSET project, which combines capacity building, support, advocacy, education and policy development to address the complex issue of gender-based violence and empower young women in Europe. Through these goals, the project aims to make a significant and lasting impact on the lives of young women and society as a whole.

Our Objectives

The ASSET project outlines a set of concrete objectives aimed at addressing gender-based violence and empowering young women in Europe.

Capacity-Building

The project seeks to build the capacity of young women by providing them with expert interventions and alternative perspectives. Through educational programs and support, young women will develop the skills and knowledge necessary to protect themselves from and respond to gender-based violence

Support for Victims

ASSET aims to provide support for victims of gender-based violence. This support includes creating a safe space for young women to share their experiences, seek help, and develop strategies for self-protection. Psychologists and experts will mediate these discussions to ensure a supportive and empathetic environment.

Amplifying Young Women's Voices

The project places a strong emphasis on giving young women a platform to be heard. It aims to create opportunities for them to share their views, experiences, and concerns, thereby ensuring that their voices are an integral part of the conversation on gender-based violence.

Preventing Violence

ASSET aims to empower young women to recognize and respond to violence in their lives and the lives of others. By providing tools, information, and resources, the project seeks to help young women identify and address potentially harmful situations

Supporting Vulnerable Years

The project recognizes the vulnerability of young women, especially as they strive to build their careers and lives. ASSET aims to provide support and guidance during these critical years, helping young women make informed decisions and navigate challenges effectively.

Empowering Through Education

ASSET seeks to empower young women with education and awareness. It aims to provide them with the knowledge and skills needed to protect themselves, advocate for their rights, and contribute to building a more equitable society.

Our Activities

5 countries, 8 meetings, 3 trainings, 60 participants

I. TPM 1 POLAND

The TPM01 Kick-off meeting, which took place in September 2022 in Poland, was a pivotal event at the outset of the two-year ASSET project. During this meeting, agreements were signed, and a plan of action was established for the duration of the project. The meeting was attended by 10 individuals representing various countries participating in the ASSET project. Participants came from Poland, Latvia, Malta, Spain, and Portugal. The attendees included directors and project managers from their respective organizations. The meeting was crucial to kick-start official operations and analyze the next steps. The primary objectives of the meeting were to sign agreements, establish common principles, validate the action plan for the two-year ASSET project, determine how to promote the project, and clarify responsibilities and rights. The meeting also aimed to introduce the project team members, discuss expectations and mutual responsibilities, and set timeframes and communication procedures. The meeting was organized in the form of presentations, discussions, planning sessions, and contract signings. Within the meeting, the project’s goals, expectations, and tasks for each participating country were discussed. The project budget, action schedule, methods for monitoring progress, and reporting methodology were also covered.

II. LTTA 1 PORTUGAL

Held in February 2023, was named Valorous ASSET. It was aimed at young people and those interested in the topic, with the goal of promoting gender equality and women’s rights. The meeting provided a platform for sharing experiences and ensuring participants felt included in today’s diverse society. It was attended by 20 people, primarily young individuals and those interested in gender equality and women’s rights, as well as those who had experienced aggression and youth workers from various organizations. Participants had the opportunity to share their experiences, listen to others’ stories, and reflect on gender equality and women’s rights issues. The meeting yielded many positive outcomes, allowing participants to gain a deeper understanding of gender equality and women’s rights through the exchange of experiences and reflections. They also built a support network and understanding, which made them feel more included and motivated to take action. Addressing the issue of the „silent epidemic” raised awareness in society about this problem and created a space for discussion and actions to address it. The event was attended by both women and men, ensuring that ASSET would benefit our communities.

III. TPM 2 MALTA

Which took place in March 2023, was a crucial event for project managers involved in the ASSET project. The meeting aimed to coordinate project activities, exchange information and experiences among participants, and adjust plans for the project’s next stages. The primary goal of the TPM meeting was to ensure effective communication and coordination among project managers and to adapt plans for the project’s subsequent phases. The meeting also aimed to identify potential issues, assess project progress, and make decisions regarding future actions. Participants had the opportunity to present the current state of their activities, discuss encountered challenges, and propose solutions. Topics covered during the meeting included project management, progress monitoring, resource management, internal team communication, and setting priorities for LTTA02 in Spain.

IV. LTTA 2 SPAIN

In the city of Malaga, in May 2023. The meeting was aimed at 20 participants of the Erasmus+ project, primarily young people and individuals interested in women’s rights and combating aggression in society. Participants had varying levels of involvement and experience in the project’s themes. The main objective of the LTTA 02 meeting was to build a bridge between our groups by sharing difficult stories related to ourselves or our loved ones. The meeting aimed to inspire participants to develop resilience and assist those affected by these issues, as well as seek best practices for dealing with difficulties. Participants had the opportunity to share their stories, reflections, and coping techniques. They also had the chance to exchange experiences and learn from each other. The meeting helped strengthen participants and enhance their abilities to deal with challenges. Strategies and tools were identified that could be effective in helping our loved ones and other women in need of support.

V. TPM 3 SPAIN

The ASSET project continues to make significant impact in its mission to empower young women and combat gender-based violence across Europe. The Third Transnational Project Meeting (TPM 03), held in the Malaga, Spain, marked a crucial milestone in the project’s journey. Participants convened to discuss project advancements, reflect on the previous meeting in Malaga, and outline the next steps, including preparations for the upcoming meeting in Malta. Here’s a recap of the key discussions and outcomes from this important gathering.

VI. LTTA 3 MALTA

People from our organizations gathered in Malta to learn about gender inequality. We played games, got to know each other, and talked about our hopes. We used a tool called Action Bound to explore different types of inequality, even in our city. We learned about the history of how women were treated differently using ahoot. Also we learned about women in different countries and the challenges faced by „Modern Men.” We heard stories about positive changes in communities regarding gender inequality. We also learned about tools used by youth workers to teach young people.

We visited the Commission on Gender-Based Violence in Malta and learned about their important work. We created tools and projects to help young people understand gender inequality for future.

The event in Malta brought people together to understand gender inequality and find ways to make a positive impact in their communities. The tools created will help many young people learn about this important topic.

VII. TPM 4 PORTUGAL

The ASSET project is doing important work to help young women and stop violence based on gender in Europe. The Forth Transnational Project Meeting (TPM 04) happened in Gumaraes, Portugal. Project leaders talked about what they have done, thought about the last meeting in Malta, and made plans for the next steps, like finishing the webpage and Handbook. Here is a summary of the main talks and results from this big meeting.Thinking About Malta Meeting. The meeting started with thinking about what happened since the last meeting in Malta. People talked about what they achieved and learned, saying that working together and sharing knowledge is very important. The Portugal meeting helped make partnerships stronger and build a good team for the ASSET project.

VIII. TPM 5 RIGA

The fifth and final Transnational Project Meeting of the ASSET project took place in Riga, Latvia, concluding the collaborative efforts of the partner organizations. The event focused on key activities essential to wrapping up the project, starting with the presentation of the ASSET Handbook, a comprehensive resource summarizing the methodologies, findings, and best practices developed throughout the project. This handbook will serve as a valuable tool for future initiatives in gender equality and empowerment.

The meeting also involved finalizing all project deliverables, ensuring the integrity and accountability of the outcomes. It marked the formal closure of cooperation between the partner organizations, providing an opportunity to reflect on the project’s successes and challenges while acknowledging the contributions of each partner.

Additionally, the event laid the foundation for upcoming local Multiplier Events, which will disseminate the results and insights from the project to a broader audience. These events aim to engage local communities and stakeholders, maximizing the impact and reach of the ASSET project.

Our Partners

We would like to express our sincere gratitude to our partners from Latvia, Malta, Portugal, Poland, and Spain for their invaluable contributions to the ASSET project. 

Fraternitas

Polish NGO

UNTU

Latvia NGO

PRISMS

Maltese NGO

Núcleo de Inclusão

Portuguese NGO

This project has been funded with support from the European Commission through Fraternits, the National Agency in Polish based in Warsaw. This publication reflects the views only of the contributors editor towards content preparation and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use that might be made of the information contained therein.

©2024. Project ASSET. All Rights Reserved.