For the Empowerment of all Women

Women are structurally disadvantaged and discriminated against in all areas of life. In many places, they have no access to education, careers or social participation and are unable to exercise their rights for themselves. Around the world, women are suffering in greater numbers and more systematically from sexualised and gender-based violence – particularly in conflict regions. Women and girls who have suffered abuse are often excluded from their communities, driven into poverty and left with no home, no rights and no protection.

Regardless of the political achievements for women – such as at the level of the United Nations – the power relations between the sexes are anything but balanced. Together with other social inequalities, they shape social institutions, family, state and even partners.

For a number of years, conservative and fundamentalist factions in churches, societies and states have been trying to push back on the women’s rights that have been achieved so far. Their aim is to end the participation of women in the economy, politics and society – in short: their right to self-determination and gender equality.

We support women and women’s rights organisations in standing up for their own rights and forming networks.

We promote equal access to education for girls and young women. They are encouraged and empowered to contribute and to take on leadership responsibilities.

We are especially committed to the protection of women, girls and children fleeing violent conflicts and wars. Together with churches and church-based networks, we are providing increased support for medical and mental health services for victims of sexualised and gender-based violence.

We promote culturally sensitive critical examination of male-dominated structures of power. A key element of this involves working with men on their role and gender perceptions.

We support the development of the churches’ theological positions on equality, gender justice and violence against women. We support churches and church-based partners in their role as change agents.