News

Little Earth conducts training on gender equality for local women in the Yagnob Valley, Tajikistan

16.07.2024

From 23 to 24 June 2024, a two-day training session titled "The Role and Participation of Women in the Development of Local Communities" was held in the village of Piskon, Yagnob Valley, Tajikistan. This event, organized by the environmental organization Little Earth, a member of the Mountain Partnership, brought together 26 local women from six target villages. The main goal was to enhance the knowledge of Yagnob women about gender equality and their rights, including their participation in the decision-making process.

An experienced female trainer, skilled in working with rural regions, was invited to lead the training. Various interactive methods were employed, such as general discussions, small group work, mini-lectures, brainstorming sessions, role-playing games, and energizers. These methods created an environment conducive to overcoming existing barriers and engaging participants in discussions.

"This is my first time participating in such an event. The training was useful and interesting. We discussed the challenges we face every day and the impact we could have if we were more involved in our villages. We realized that without considering our opinions, there will be few results. Thank you to the organizers," shared Atobuloeva Makhina, one of the participants.

The participants learned about the legislation ensuring women's rights and examined specific examples of women's mobilization in other regions of Tajikistan. Additionally, they discussed the socio-ecological issues their villages face and the potential roles women could play in addressing them.

"Traditional stereotypes and negative social and religious norms tend to seriously limit the rights and opportunities of women. By raising awareness among rural women and providing them with new knowledge, we contribute to their empowerment and involvement in the processes taking place in their own communities," said Anton Timoshenko, executive director of Little Earth.

Another training on sustainable energy solutions will be organized soon for the target group of women, who have expressed their eagerness for its implementation.

These activities are part of the project "Sustainable Management of Natural Resources and Participation of Women in Mountain Communities of Yagnob," implemented by Little Earth with the support of Forum CIV and the assistance of the Swedish partner Centralasiengrupperna.

News by Little Earth

Photo: © Little Earth / Anton Timoshenko