Observatory for Violence Against Women in Crete – WOMEN’S WATCH

Grantee: Union of Women Associations of Heraklion Prefecture
Call: Protecting and Promoting EU rights and values
Project Duration: 12 months
Budget: 50.951,30€
Country: Greece
Location: Crete

The project aims to establish the groundwork for systematic monitoring and enhancement of the regional response to violence against women in Crete. This will be realized through the establishment of the Regional Observatory on Violence against Women, which will inform targeted advocacy interventions directed at key actors within the system. Drawing on valuable expertise from the National Observatory on Violence against Women in Ireland, the establishment of the Regional Observatory contributes to the transfer of good practices and experiences, fostering cooperation between the two EU countries.

Targets groups:

The target groups of the project consist of stakeholders, including professionals, involved in the issue at the regional level. This includes law enforcement agencies, prosecutorial authorities, social services, counseling centers, and civil society organizations engaged in supporting victims and managing survivors.

Activities:

  • Launch of the Observatory on Violence Against Women in Crete (WOMEN’S WATCH) in March 2024 to monitor and address gender-based violence across the island.
  • Establishment of a data collection mechanism involving social services, NGOs, and support agencies, using specially designed tools.
  • Publication of four thematic reports (March 2024 – March 2025), including statistical findings, policy analysis, and reform recommendations.
  • Working meetings and partnerships with public authorities and civil society, promoting inter-agency cooperation and the exchange of good practices.
  • Study visit to the National Observatory of Ireland and collaboration with VOULIWATCH and the European WAVE Network, enhancing transparency and legislative monitoring.
  • Development of an Advocacy Plan proposing legislative reforms and improved victim support services, with direct engagement of policymakers.
  • Raised public awareness and strengthened policy dialogue on gender-based violence, laying the foundation for long-term systemic improvements in Crete.

 


Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

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