Supporting the resilience and rehabilitation of women who have experienced violence in North Africa

In Morocco, Tunisia, and Egypt, an average of 59% of women experience violence. Violence comes in many forms and has numerous consequences, some of which are invisible (physical, economic, psychosocial, reproductive, and sexual). Coupled with this are feelings of guilt, isolation, and low self-esteem among victims, which leave them in a state of extreme vulnerability. Combined with other discriminations (based on class, origin, race, etc.) and a lack of adequate public services, women struggle to find the resources to break out of this vicious cycle.

Despite social movements and changes in legislation, the legal definitions of violence remain vague, and women still encounter difficulties in asserting their rights in the southern Mediterranean countries. Launched in 2018, the Karama project supports several local associations that support women at every stage of their journey. The partner associations provide comprehensive care for women and their children, including accommodation, psychological, legal, and administrative support, access to healthcare, and women's support groups. Women also have access to professional training and support for their (re)integration, which are necessary for true empowerment.

In a context in which violence is banalized, our local partners also raise awareness among women's relatives and among the general public, with a focus on bringing about sustainable change in their environment. At the same time, they carry out prevention campaigns targeting state and/or NGO actors involved, directly or indirectly, in supporting women.

The partner organizations are advocating with state decision-makers to change national laws. They are also joining forces around a regional advocacy campaign, backed by Batik Int. The main demands are: to guarantee holistic care for women survivors of violence; to ensure legal recognition of the status of single mothers in order to guarantee equal rights for all children; and to establish equal inheritance laws.

The project contributes to a society that is more aware of violence and its harmful consequences and is mobilized to put an end to it. In addition, it aims to provide all women victims of violence with dignified support and enable them to break out of cycles of violence.