The Association SOS help-line invitation to collaborate

This year took a negative turn on women’s fundamental human rights, which is why protecting them is now more urgent than ever.

The Association SOS help-line and film production house Vertigo, Ljubljana produced three short fiction films, based on true events, about intimate partner violence. The short films are directed by Martin Draksler.
In the light of the International days of fight against violence on women, the short films will experience their online international premiere on Wednesday, 2nd of December starting at 6pm CET. They will be released on Facebook page of European Women’s Network against Sexual Violence and on other national and international portals of organisations which defend and fight for women’s fundamental human rights.
Short films about violence will be released at 6PM CET; short film about rape at 7PM CET and about homicide at 8PM CET.

Photo: Urša Premik

#metoo #endviolence #womensrights

More information can be found on the link: SOS_Invitation-to-collaborate

Women’s Room Intern Hosts Workshop

The newest Women’s Room volunteer, Emily Richey-Smith, age 20, is a student from Boston, USA, studying in Zagreb at the European Center for the Study of War and Peace. On May 7th, 2015, she presented a workshop examining the correlation between pornography and the rising sex trafficking industry. There were 14 people in attendance, mostly students around age 21, but there were also three faculty members from Gordon College in Boston, and two staff members from Women’s Room.

The workshop looked at the abusive nature of most pornography and the rise of demand of commercial sex, which is almost exclusively purchasing sex from women who sell sex. Many of them are actually trafficking of person victims forced by their traffickers to sell themselves while the traffickers collect all of the money. Emily presented statistics which showed that men who watched porn are much more likely to purchase sex from women who sell sex than men who do not consume porn. Also, men who watch porn and purchase sex are more likely to force the women who sell sex to engage in abusive behaviors they observed in porn. She concluded that one of the most effective ways to decrease the demand for commercial sex, thus hopefully decreasing the number of trafficking of persons victims, is to end the production of pornography as an industry, as well as fighting gender inequality and the over-sexualization of women.

The workshop attendees were very attentive and engaged. The workshop was comprised of a presentation, an activity, and a closing discussion, totaling just over one hour in length. The activity compared the audience’s idea of pornography and sex trafficking. Many words could be applied for either term, such as “abusive” and “money-focused”. One attendee said, “It was incredibly eye opening and posed some serious questions about an over-sexualized culture. The workshop masterfully addressed the complexities of an exploitative industry coupled with individual and societal responsibility.”

The workshop was very well received and Emily hopes to present it again in the near future. She thanks Women’s Room for their incredible support and encouragement throughout the development of the workshop.

IMAG0071

Public panel and symposium “Sexual abuse of women, research and case studies”

Coordinator of the Women’s Room Maja Mamula, Ph. D. gave an introductory presentation at the symposium “Sexual abuse of women, research and case studies” held on March 19, 2013 from 13.00 to 15.00 in Zagreb. Public panel was moderated by Lana Petö Kujundžić, Judge of the County Court in Zagreb, and organized by the Association of judges for youth, family judges and experts for children and youth.

This aim of this symposium was to present the research on women’s sexual rights in Croatia, as well as encourage experts and professionals to show greater commitment to women’s rights in the area of accessing the assistance of administrative and judicial bodies. Furthermore, recently introduced Rules of Procedure in the case of sexual violence, which the government adopted on November 29, 2012, should contribute to a more effective fight against illegal conduct.

Our voice against violence

Our voice against the violence is a theme that Maja Mamula, Ph. D. addressed in the City Library in Požega. Maja Mamula is, among other, an expert and activist for women’s human rights, coordinator of the Women’s Room, lecturer at the Croatian Studies, Faculty of Philosophy in Osijek, award recipient of the Woman of the Year from the City of Zagreb. The lecture was organized by the City of Požega on the occasion of the Day of the City and the International Women’s Day in order to sensitize the public and empower them to combat violence.According to data from the Požega-Slavonia Police Administration, last year 360 people were reported for family violence misdemeanor, which included 297 men and 63 women. There were also four reports of the offense of violent conduct within a family in which four people were injured, three women and one man. Maja Mamula noted that some positive changes are noticeable due to mechanisms for gender equality but that in order to achieve better results, it is necessary to strengthen cooperation between different institutions and civil society organizations for the benefit of the victim, so that she becomes a priority, along with the provision of long-term assistance to victims survivors of violence.To mark the International Women’s Day, mr. sc. Ivan Čolak extended congratulations, on behalf of the Mayor Zdravko Ronko, and gave a rose to each woman participating in the event. The music gift was performed by the guitar quartet of students from the Music School, Laura Bušić, Silvester Fridrich, Monika Banović and Dominik Šporčić. The program was complemented by fragments of famous films about women’s side of reality.

Celebrating the International Women’s Day

Ombudswoman for Gender Equality, Višnja Ljubičić, and three women’s union groups – Women’s Section of the Alliance of Independent Croatian Unions, Women’s Committee of the Independent Croatian Unions, and Women’s Coordination of Croatian Union Association, organized a celebration of the International Women’s Day. The performance “They are among us” was created by Mario Kovač, in collaboration with Petra Radin and participation of: Mia Begović (actress), Ina Čavlina (director), Dora Delbianco (playwright), Sanja Doležal (singer), Marija Husar (singer), Ivona Juka (director), Marija Khon (actress), Jasmina Lovrić (scientist), Larisa Navojec (choreographer), Barbara Nola (actress), Željka Ogresta (producer), Ecija Ojdanić (actress), Mirela Priselac Remy (singer), Maja Sever (journalist), Anica Tomić (director), Davorka Vidović (scientist ), Nina Violić (actress), activists volunteers, among them Paula Zore, a member of the Women’s Room.

Through the presentation of several stories of women victims of sexual harassment, the performance reminded everyone of discrimination and violence against women in the workplace. In addition, leaflet and guide for union representatives and lawyers “Gender discrimination and harassment in employment and labor market” was promoted.

Theater Play „Why Me?“ entered 35th SKAZ

Theater play “Why Me?” was registered for the 35th Meeting of Theater Amateurs Zagreb in the Cultural Center Pešćenica. The play was created in the scope of the project “L and K in Action”, financed by the Office for Human Rights of the Government of the Republic of Croatia. The premiere of the play took place on December 20, 2010. The meeting of theater amateurs will take place between March 28 and April 8, 2011. Selected plays will participate in the 15th Festival of theater amateurs between April 15 and 16, 2011. The best play of the Zagreb festival will participate in the 51st festival of Croatian theater amateurs to be held between May 18 and 22, 2011 in Stari Grad on the island Hvar and organized by the Croatian Cultural Association.

Check our website for further information and support our play by attending!

One Billion Rising: Dance Uprising

Founder of the global V-Day, Eve Ensler, has launched a new global campaign to end violence against women, in which you can take part by – dancing.

This year, V-Day – a global movement against violence against women and girls marks 15 years of combating violence against women and girls. However, traditional performance of Vagina Monologues by the author Eve Ensler, which “promotes awareness about violence against women and women’s activism against violence against women and girls,” has lost the strength and visibility, and the ‘mother of the movement’, Ensler created a new campaign.

The campaign is called One Billion Rising, which is an estimated number of abused women in the world. The official announcement says how One Billion Rising is a “global protest and call to women to dance thereby refusing to accept the status quo as long as rape and the culture of violence do note cease to exist. It emphasizes solidarity, which aims to demonstrate the unity of women’s struggle, but also the power of their numbers. Billion rising is the call to millions of abused women, the men who love them, women who have been beaten, raped, economically devalued and sold, as well as those who know that the destruction of women leads to the end of humankind, to come out of their homes, take over the streets and squares, invite their friends, protest and dance … ”

In Zagreb, this dance uprising will take place in Zrinjevac on February 14 at 2 pm. It is being organized by the Centre for Women Studies, the Center for Women War Victims, the Women’s Room, K-Zone, an Association of Persons with Disabilities of Croatia, UNDP Croatia, and prominent individuals.

Action is supported by public figures who will celebrate this Valentine’s Day through singing, playing music and dancing in protest against the violence. Among them are: Nina Romić, Zdenka Kovačiček, Maja Vučić, Le Zbor, Žen, U pol 9 kod Sabe, Apokalipso, Hladno pivo, Boa, Goran Bogdan, Goran Navojec, Vesna Mimica and VEM, 5 Ritmova, Centar salsa, COREnesa … . and many, many others … One Billion Rising Croatia invites citizens of Croatia to get involved in this global protest and come to Zrinjevac on February 14 (2-6 pm).

Goran Bogdan has joined the campaign for raising public awareness on the issue of domestic violence

From May to December 2012, the Women’s Room, in collaboration with the Office of Mayor, implemented a project with the aim of raising awareness and sensitizing the public on the issue of domestic violence. In addition to advertising on public transport, and organizing a public action, a short TV spot was filmed. Through participation in the TV spot Actor Goran Bogdan has supported the campaign and once again contributed to the prevention of violence against women.

The Convention on the Prevention and Combating Violence against Women and Domestic Violence signed

On January 22, 2013, Croatia became 26th Member State of the Council of Europe to have signed the “Convention on the Prevention and Combating Violence against Women and Domestic Violence“. The Council of Europe adopted the Convention in April 2011 and its signing began during May in Istanbul. In March of last year, Turkey was not only the first country that has signed it, but also the only Member State of the Council of Europe, which has ratified this Convention. The Convention is the first legally binding European instrument in this area that identifies measures for prevention of all forms of violence and discrimination against women, including psychological, physical and sexual violence, stalking, forced marriage and female genital mutilation, and points to the connection between gender-based violence and gender equality.

Among the key areas of the Convention are prevention, protection, monitoring, criminal responsibility, and a set of policies and measures, which involve cooperation between governments, nongovernmental organizations, agencies, etc. The legal framework for the prevention of violence against women is focused on the work of non-governmental organizations and the media in campaigns aimed at raising awareness and promoting gender equality, victim assistance programs, and programs for work with perpetrators.

The Convention defines the offenses that Member States will be required to include in their legislative systems, and consequently criminally prosecute the perpetrators. Offenses include psychological and physical violence, sexual violence and rape, stalking, forced marriage, forced abortion and forced sterilization as well as female genital mutilation. Through this Convention, Croatia will for the first time introduce, in its legislative framework, genital mutilation as a form of violence against women. Besides women, victims under the Convention include men, children and the elderly.

Among the key areas of the Convention are prevention, protection, monitoring, criminal responsibility, and a set of policies and measures, which involve cooperation between governments, nongovernmental organizations, agencies, etc. The legal framework for the prevention of violence against women is focused on the work of non-governmental organizations and the media in campaigns aimed at raising awareness and promoting gender equality, victim assistance programs, and programs for work with perpetrators.

The Convention defines the offenses that Member States will be required to include in their legislative systems, and consequently criminally prosecute the perpetrators. Offenses include psychological and physical violence, sexual violence and rape, stalking, forced marriage, forced abortion and forced sterilization as well as female genital mutilation. Through this Convention, Croatia will for the first time introduce, in its legislative framework, genital mutilation as a form of violence against women. Besides women, victims under the Convention include men, children and the elderly.

Support the Guide Dog and Mobility Association by purchasing calendar with hockey players Medveščak

On January 12, 2013, hokey players of Medveščak presented a calendar through which they want to attract attention and remind all of us of the importance of guide dogs and consideration for people who are safer in the streets because of them. In order for their training to be more numerous and easier, we have teamed up with the Croatian Guide Dog and Mobility Association and produced a calendar “Always Together” starring Lala, Xanta, Bono, Vili and Heidi alongside the players.

Gal Koren, Alan Letang, Saša Martinović, Andy Sertich, Brandon Buck and Michael Ouzas presented everyday situations, such as tram or taxi ride or going to a restaurant where they were always accompanied by their guide dogs, which should be possible in everyday life!

Photographs were a volunteer work of the member and photographer of the Women’s Room, Boris Krstinić.

You can support this action by purchasing a calendar that will be available at all matches of the Arena Ice Fever, and at the Guide Dog and Mobility Association.

Calendar can be viewed at the following link .

Theater play “Why me?” in Osijek

In the scope of the project “Through acting against violence,” implemented by the Women’s Room, and supported by the City Office of Education, Culture and Sports of the City of Zagreb, a theater performance “Why me?” on the subject of human trafficking was organized at the Children’s Theatre Branko Mihaljević in Osijek.

The play delighted everyone again, and educated more than one hundred young people on the issue of human trafficking.

Theater play “Why me?”

In the scope of the project “Through acting against violence,” implemented by the Women’s Room, and supported by the City Office of Education, Culture and Sports of the City of Zagreb, a theater performance “Why me?” on the subject of human trafficking was organized on December 4, 2012.
The aim of the play is to educate youth about the problem of human trafficking and the dangers which they may encounter in their employment search. In addition, the goal is to familiarize them with the mechanisms of protection and to actively involve them in the prevention and combating of this problem. The play shows the process of trafficking in human beings, from the recruitment to the final stage, so-called exploitation phase.
The play was created through the establishment of a drama group “Minimalists” led by Maja Vukmanić (project coordinator, social pedagogist, the Women’s Room) and Ana Đordić (Prof. Croatian language and literature, XIII. Gymnasium in Zagreb). Drama group “Minimalists” is comprised of: Robert Budak, Marta Dugandžić, Valentina Lončarić, Ana Pavlović, Tomislav Brodarić and Luka Žučko, students at the University of Zagreb.

Public lecture on violence against women in Đakovo

Coordinator of the Women’s Room, Maja Mamula held a public lecture at the invitation of the Commission for Gender Equality of the City of Đakovo. The lecture entitled: “Violence against women in Croatia: progress made and next steps” took place on November 29, 2012 and was organized on the occasion of the International Day Against Violence Against Women. It was interesting that a significant number of young people was in the audience, who got actively involved, after the lecture, in the discussion.

Lecture at the Scientific-expert conference dedicated to the issues of violence

Maja Mamula participated in the 4th scientific-expert conference dedicated to the issues of violence, which took place from November 29 to December 1, 2012 in Osijek. The organizers were the Department of Psychology at the University of Osijek and Osijek Psychological Society in cooperation with the Croatian Psychological Chamber and the Croatian Psychological Association. The conference is held biennially, and each time has a specific theme. This year’s theme was violence and mental health – an interdisciplinary approach. As evidenced by this year’s theme, it gathered experts from different fields, which is a great advantage for joint efforts in the area of combating violence.
Maja Mamula and Ivana Dijanić Plašć held a presentation “A typical victim of domestic violence in the Republic of Croatia – socio-demographic profile,” stemming from results of a research conducted in 2010 by the Office for Gender Equality and the Women’s Room.

Round table “Violence against women with disabilities”

The Women’s Room organized on November 21, 2012 in hotel International a round table entitled: “Violence against Women with Disabilities” on the occasion of the International Day Against Violence Against Women.

Guests with the opening remarks at the roundtable were:

  • Anka Slonjšak, BSc – Ombudsperson for persons with disabilities;
  • Višnja Ljubičić, BA – Ombudsperson for Gender Equality;
  • Gordana Jurčević – President of Network of Women with Disabilities;
  • Maja Mamula, Ph.D. – Coordinator of the Women’s Room.

The goal of the roundtable was to open a discussion about specific problems and difficulties of women with disabilities in relation to experience of different forms of violence and discrimination to which they are systematically exposed and the problems they face when reporting violence.

Roundtable brought together a number of participants from the public and civil sectors, relevant bodies and institutions as well as civil society organizations dealing with violence against women and/or protection of the rights of persons with disabilities. The round table has provided the ability to exchange information in the field of protection of women’s human rights with the emphasis on women with disabilities who are survivors of violence.



Of the total population, women with disabilities comprise about 77 percent of the lower educational level, which means they have completed a four-year or eight-year school or did not finish elementary school. This is important information that illustrates the seriousness of the problem and difficulties with their involvement in the community, and return to work or employment, warned the Ombudsman for Persons with Disabilities Anka Slonjšak. She pointed out that according to data from the Croatian National Institute of Public Health, there are 518 389 people with disabilities, 40% of which are women. Speaking about the problem of violence against women with disabilities, she noted that the most common forms of violence are domestic violence, violence in the community and at the workplace, but that the most alarming issue is that this violence goes unreported.

Ombudsperson for Gender Equality, Višnja Ljubičić, pointed out specific problems of women with disabilities in Croatia in terms of economic problems such as the inability to find employment, pointing out that it is harder for them to become employed than for men with disabilities. Ljubičić has presented data obtained from the workshops with disabled women who say that only 30 percent of the women were granted the right to a disability pension, compared to 70 percent of men. The largest number of women with disabilities, 74.3 percent live in families, 19 percent lives alone, and 53 percent of women live in institutions.


President of the Network of Women with Disabilities, Gordana Jurčević, emphasized that when we talk about violence against women with disabilities, we should keep in mind that neglect also represents violence. She pointed out that the psychological violence is dominant, since women with disabilities, she said, do not recognize it due to their dependence on assistance from others. Most often, it occurs in the family, and is done under the guise of overprotection of parents or spouses and therefore they cannot exercise their choice, she warned.

Organization of this round table was financially supported by the Ministry of Social Affairs and Youth and carried out in cooperation with the Department of Social Welfare and People with Disabilities of the City of Zagreb.

20th Annual Conference of Croatian Psychologists in Dubrovnik

20th Annual Conference of Croatian Psychologists took place in Dubrovnik, from November 7 through 10. Coordinator of the Women’s Room, Maja Mamula, who is also the Head of the Section of Psychology of Sexuality and the Psychology of Gender, was a member of the Conference Program Committee and organized several round table discussions and a symposium in the field of work of the Women’s Room. Besides her, the members Women’s Room, Ida Šamanović, Dalibor Stanić and Goran Arbanas also participated in the conference with their presentations.

On November 8, 2012, a round table discussion was organized by the Section of Psychology of Sexuality and Psychology of Gender“Position of the psychological profession in the area of ​​sexuality,” which was prepared by Ida Šamanović and Maja Mamula. The round table was attended by 30 psychologists.


On November 9, 2012, a round table discussion was organized by the Section of Clinical and Health Psychology and the Section of Psychology of Sexuality and Psychology of Gender “Different forms of partnerhips” that was led by Iva Žegura. Guests included the Ombudsperson for Gender Equality Višnja Ljubičić and Maja Mamula. At the roundtable, a documentary film about same-sex parenting “Homo Baby Boom” (Anna Boluda, 2008) was screened. 30 psychologists participated in the discussion.


On the same day, a round table “Inclusion and effects of therapeutic dogs on family users – children with developmental difficulties” took place, which was hosted by Maja Mamula. Guests included Mira Katalenić and Lucija Katalenić from the Croatian Guide Dog and Mobility Association. Ksanta, yellow Labrador guide dog was present at the round table and caused great attention. In spite of very high quality and brilliant lecture by Lucija, the round table was attended by only 12 psychologists, given a series of parallel events at this year’s conference. After the round table, numerous psychologists met with Mira and Lucija.


On November 10, 2012, a symposium of the Section of Psychology of Sexuality and Psychology of Gender was organized, entitled: Violence in the family – the other side of the coin, and led by Maja Mamula. Symposium included a series of presentations related to the less recognized victims of domestic violence, and the dilemmas that psychologists working with victims of violence encounter in their practice. Although the symposium took place on the last day of the conference, it was attended by more than 50 psychologists.

  • Domestic violence against women with disabilities (Maja Mamula)
  • 
Domestic violence and psychiatric patients (Goran Arbanas)
  • When parental concern turns into violence – children of different sexual and gender orientations (Iva Žegura and Dalibor Stanić)
  • Psychologist from  the”Shelter for victims of domestic violence” as emotional support to victims when they go to a hearing in the court. Yes or no? (Željka Barić and Senka Damjanović)
  • What if the violence does not end? (Paula Bogović)

Minimum quality standards of the shelters and counseling centers for women victims of violence

The Women’s Room is organized a three-day training “Minimum quality standards of the shelters and counseling centers for women victims of violence” in Daruvar, Hotel Termal from November 15 to 17, 2012. Training is an integral part of the Women’s Room’s project “Safe Zone,” which is financially supported by the European Union and the Office for Cooperation with NGOs (National Programme for Croatia under the IPA – Transition Assistance and Institution Building Component for 2009). The project is being implemented in collaboration with three partner organizations: the Center for Support and Development of Civil Society Delfin (Pakrac), Center for Women Adela (Sisak) and SOS phone – call for help (Virovitica).

Guests lecturers were Lepa Mlađenović, a longtime feminist activist with exceptional experience in direct work with women survivors of violence (Belgrade) and Maria Rösslhumer, executive director of WAVE (European Network Against Violence Against Women) and director of the Network of autonomous Austrian women’s shelters. The training was facilitated by Maja Mamula and Maja Vukmanić from the Women’s Room.



The main theme of the training was to establish quality standards and affirm the importance of their implementation in working with women victims of violence, strengthening the interconnection of related organizations that work with women victims of violence and the creation of an informal network of such organizations that adopt minimum standards in their work.

Participants of this training will have the opportunity, in eighteen months, at the follow up training session, to share their experiences and considerations related to the implementation of minimum standards in their work.

Ovo je priopćenje nastalo uz financijsku potporu Europske unije. Za sadržaj priopćenja je odgovorna Ženska soba i ni u kojem slučaju se priopćenje ne može uzeti kao stav Europske unije.

Action in support and solidarity with the LGBT community in Macedonia

On Saturday, October 27, 2012, an action was organized in front of the embassy of the Republic of Macedonia in support and solidarity with the LGBT community in Macedonia. This protest was organized by members of the Association of Zagreb Pride as a response to almost daily violations of human rights of LGBT persons in the Republic of Macedonia. The action was attended by members of the Women’s Room.

Invitation to a training “Prevent Sexual Violence”

We are pleased to invite you to a training for volunteers “Prevent Sexual Violence”, conducted by the Women’s Room – Center for Sexual Rights.

Training will be held on November 30, 2012 (from 10:00 h – 18 h) and December 1, 2012 (from 10.00 am -16.00 pm) at Hotel Palace Square of J.J. Strossmayer 10, Zagreb.

Training sessions will focus on themes such as gender-based violence, forms and  prevalence of sexual violence, consequences of sexual violence, the Code of conduct in cases of sexual violence in schools, forms of assistance and protection, and the methodology of working with youth.

The training will be led by Maja Vukmanić (social pedagoguish) and Antonija Hojt (social pedagoguish). Also, the training will include a guest lecturer Ana Ergović Kuzmanović (social worker), head of the Committee for organizing and providing support and assistance to victims/witnesses who will present their work and introduce the participants with the process of reporting violence to relevant institutions.

After the training, each volunteer will, in collaboration with the Women’s Room, conduct two workshops for youth in secondary schools in their local communities. Participants will receive a certificate of completion of the training and conducted workshops.

Experience in the design and implementation of workshops is desired, and preference is given to those who reside outside of Zagreb.

Training is free and the attendance is mandatory during the entire duration of the training. The training is implemented with the financial support by the Ministry of Social Affairs and Youth, in collaboration with the City Office for Social Welfare and People with Disabilities.

Deadline for applications is November 11, 2012.

Please send us completed application and resume before the deadline via e-mail.

Registration form can be downloaded here: prijavnica

Contact:
Antonija Hojt – project assistant
e-mail: zenska.soba@zenskasoba.hr
tel: 01/6119-174

Public action „Raising public awareness about the issue of domestic violence!“

Within the scope of the project implemented by the Women’s Room, in collaboration with the Office of the Mayor, we organized a large public action on Saturday, October 20, in Zagreb, on the intersection of Gajeva and Bogovićeva Streets. The action lasted from 11h to 13h and sparked a great interest of citizens.
Support for the action was demonstrated by the Mayor of Zagreb, Milan Bandić, who expressed his support for women victims of domestic violence in a short speech.
Celebrities who joined the action were Lana Banely, Zdenka Kovačiček, Teo Perić, Mirela Holy and many others. Program of the action was led by Sonja Šarunić who called concerned citizens to show their support and contribute to the prevention of domestic violence.

T-shirt „ Save your strength for tenderness!“, created for this occasion by our renown designer Teo Perić was presented at the action. For those who were not able to come on Saturday and would like a T-shirt, and thus to support this action – contact the Women’s Room via e-mail or phone.

We would like to thank numerous volunteers of the Women’s Room who generously donated their time, energy, and provided support for this action and the entire Women’s Room!

Read more about the action:

www.libela.org

www.ladylike.hr

mojzagreb.info

Public action for raising awareness about the issue of domestic violence

We invite you to a public action organized by the Women’s Room in collaboration with the Mayor’s Office as part of the projectSensitization and public awareness about the issue of domestic violence – media campaign “In three clicks choose a life free of violence”

 

October 20, 2012
from 11h to 13h
location Gajeva / Bogovićeva

 

Schedule of events:

  • distribution of leaflets and info materials,
  • broadcasting jingles on the issues of violence against women,
  • raising funds for the continuation of the campaign by selling T-shirts, “Save your strength for tenderness!” whose design is created Teo Perić, a prominent fashion designer.

 

We anticipate the presence of Mr. Milan Bandić, mayor of Zagreb and a brief speech for the public regarding the issues of domestic violence.Public action will be joined by many celebrities who support the campaign: Ida Prester, Zdenka Kovačiček, Olga Pakalović, Nataša Škaričić, obitelj Rucner, Julijana Matanović, Marina Tomašević, Ivana Marić, Ksenija Marinković, Ivica Skoko, Ivana Banfić, Uršula Tolj, Sonja Šarunić, Irina Čulinović and many others.

Objectives of the action:

  • to ensure the availability of information on protection from domestic violence;
  • to sensitize the general public on the issue of domestic violence, with a focus on violence against women.

Lecture in Osijek

On the occasion of the National Day Against Violence Against Women, Family Center of the Osijek-Baranja County, in cooperation with the Prevention Department of the Police Administration of the  Osijek-Baranja County and the County Team for Violence Prevention, organized a public lecture “Violence against Women in Croatia: progress made and next steps” on September 21, 2012.

The two-hour lecture was held by the Coordinator of Women’s Room, Maja Mamula, Ph.D., a psychologist, at the premises of the Croatian Chamber of Economy, County Chamber Osijek. The response to the lecture was extremely positive, and the lecture was followed by an interesting discussion accompanied by a myriad of examples from the practice of representatives of numerous institutions.

Invitation to the promotion of the web site “Safe Zone”

10.03.2012.

Flowers Square, Zagreb

Women’s Room – Center for Sexual Rights is organizing on Saturday,March 10, 2012 from 12-14h promotion of the web site “Safe Zone” at the Flowers Market in Zagreb as part of a national campaign against violence against women “In three clicks choose a life free of violence”, and we would like to invite you to join us and contribute to this event.

Promotion features:
  • musical program
  • numerous public figures who support this campaign
  • delicacies that will be prepared for this occasion by last year’sfinalists of the MasterChef
  • T-shirts designed by a famous Croatian fashion designer Ivica Skoko
  • promotion hosts: Sonja Šarunić and Irina Čulinović

All proceeds from the sale of T-shirts and snacks prepared by MasterChefs will be used for the media campaign “In three clicks choose a life free of violence”, which is implemented as a public campaign for 0 kunas.

More about the campaign “In three clicks choose a life free of violence”:

The core of the campaign “In three clicks choose a life free of violence” is promoting the website “Safe Zone” (www.sigurnomjesto.hr), which was officially launched on February 22, 2012, and is intended for women victims of violence, as well as institutions and civil society organizations that work on this very important social issue. The main objectives are to assist women who are victims of any form of violence in finding help and support by including in one place all the necessary information on reporting violence, or for the decision to exit the violence, as well as to improve the exchange of information between the various bodies and institutions with civil society organizations.

Campaign objectives:

  • Informing citizens about the existence of a unique website “Safe Zone” for women victims of violence
  • Raising public awareness about the issue of violence against women

Launching of the website a “Safe Zone” is financially supported by the Ministry of Social Policy and Youth and, and the City of Zagreb – Office for Social Welfare and People with Disabilities, which is a partner in the project.

Two-day training “Violence against Women” in Sarajevo

On March 3 and 4, 2012. Women’s Room, in collaboration with the association “Women to Women” from Sarajevo (BIH) organized a two-day training for representatives of Centers for Social Welfare in Sarajevo. The training was attended by 26 persons who had, over the course of two days, opportunities to get educated about the issue of violence against women as well as about the protection of mental health of people who work with victims of violence. Training was held as part of the project “Violence against women, detect and prevent”, implemented in partnership between Women for Women and the Women’s Room and funded through the Foundation Open Society Institute. The training was conducted by Maja Mamula, coordinator of the Women’s Room and Maja Vukmanić, coordinator of the Center for Victims of Sexual Violence. We thank all the participants on their participation and the association “Women for Women” on cooperation.

Presentation of the website “Safe Zone”

The Women’s Room presented on February 22, 2012, at Hotel Dubrovnik website “Safe Zone”, intended for women who are victims of violence, as well as institutions and civil society organizations that work on this very important social issue.

 

Presentation of the website was opened by Anita Valo from Meritas with the song, “You know” which is the official song of this campaign and speaks about violence against women. Audience also had the opportunity to hear radio jingles created and recorded for this campaign. Following were the keynote presentations through which presenters expressed their support for the campaign:

 

  • mr. sc. Zrinka Vrabec Mojzeš, Office of the President of the Republic of Croatia
  • mr. sc. Helena Štimac Radin, Office for Gender Equality of the Republic of Croatia
  • Branka Žigante Živković, sutkinja Visokog prekršajnog suda, a judge at the High Misdemeanor Court
Coordinator of the Women’s Room, Maja Mamula, presented the “Safe Zone” website, and the presentation was concluded with music by Anita Valo and Meri Jaman from Meritas and Jelena Radan that moved everyone present.

 

Moderation of the whole event was a contribution to the campaign “In three clicks choose a life free of violence” given by Ida Prester.

 

Website “Safe Zone” is part of a national campaign against violence against women ” In three clicks choose a life free of violence,” which is financially supported by the Ministry of Social Affairs and Youth, and the City of Zagreb – Office for Social Welfare and People with Disabilities, which is a partner on the project.Web site consists of two parts. The part intended for victims includes the ability to search the relevant institutions and organizations to find assistance. It also includes information related to the types of violence, prevalence, consequences, frequently asked questions, as well as other information which may help victim in the process of making the decision to end the cycle of violence and to find appropriate help and support.

The part designed for state bodies, institutions and civil society organizations, besides the contact data and relevant texts about the problem will be open for sharing information on current events and
trainings in order to improve cooperation between all actors, which provide help and support to women victims of violence.

The campaign is supported by a number of public figures from the world of music, art and science. Among them are many musicians – Jelena Radan, Meritas, Sandra Bagarić Martina Tomčić, Nina Badrić, Luka Nižetić, Ida Prester Maja Vučić, Ivica Propadalo and the band Teška industrija, Davorin Bogović, Žan Jakopač, Ana and Mario Rucner, radio hosts Irina Čulinović, Sonja Šarunić, Barbara Kolar, writers Rujana Jeger and Mima Simić, sociologist and sexologyst Aleksandar Štulhofer, actors/actresses-directors group comprised of Ksenija Marinković, Urša Raukar, Goran Bogdan, Vinko Brešan, Mario Kovač, Ana Begić, Petra Dugandžić, Lada Bonacci, designerr Ivica Skoko and other public figures.

We thank our guest lecturers as well as everybody who supported this campaign by attending the presentation of its website “Safe Zone”.

Search for “Safe Zone” at www.sigurnomjesto.hr

Invitation to the presentation of Web page “Safe Zone”

The Women’s Room invites you to the presentation of the website “Safe Zone” to be held on

 February 22, 2012

HOTEL DUBROVNIK AT 11 AM

Website Safe Zone is intended for women who are victims of violence, as well as institutions and civil society organizations that work on this very important social issue. The main objectives are to assist women who are victims of any form of violence in finding help and support by including in one place all the necessary information on reporting violence, or for the decision to exit the violence, as well as to improve the exchange of information between the various bodies and institutions with civil society organizations.

Guests who will give a short address will be:

  • mr. sc. Zrinka Vrabec Mojzeš, Office of the President of the Republic of Croatia
  • Milanka Opačić, Minister of Social Policy and Youth
  • mr. sc. Helena Štimac Radin, Office for Gender Equality of the Republic of Croatia
  • Branka Žigante Živković, Judge of the High Misdemeanor Court
  • mr. sc. Maja Mamula – Coordinator of the Women’s Room
Promotion of the project and its website will be supported through performances of Meri Jaman and Anita Valo of Meritas, along with Jelena Radan.
Presentation of the website will bring together a number of participants from the public and civil life, relevant institutions, governmental bodies and civil society organizations that are engaged in preventing and combating violence against women.Website “Safe Zone” is part of a national campaign against violence against women ” In three clicks choose a life free of violence” which is supported by a number of public figures from the world of music, art and science. Among them are many musicians – Jelena Radan, Meritas, Sandra Bagarić, Martina Tomčić, Nina Badrić, Luka Nižetić, Ida Prester, Maja Vučić, Ivica Propadalo and the band Teška industrija, Davorin Bogović, Žan Jakopač, Ana and Mario Rucner, radio hosts Irina Čulinović, Sonja Šarunić, Barbara Kolar, writers Rujana Jeger and Mima Simić, sociologist and sexologyst Aleksandar Štulhofer, actors/actresses-directors group comprised of Ksenija Marinković, Urša Raukar, Goran Bogdan, Vinko Brešan, Mario Kovač, Ana Begić, Petra Dugandžić, Lada Bonacci, designerr Ivica Skoko and other public figures.

This presentation is financially supported by the Ministry of Social Policy and Youth, and the City of Zagreb – Office for Social Welfare and People with Disabilities, which is a partner in the project.

Meeting of the European Commission: “Raising awareness to combat violence against women and girls”

Maja Mamula from the Women’s Room has participated as an independent expert at the European Commission meeting in London on February 7 and 8, 2012. The meeting was held in order to exchange good practices in the area of gender equality, and the theme was“Raising awareness to combat violence against women and girls.”

The meeting was attended by representatives from 15 countries (2 representative from each country – people from relevant institutions/authorities and independent experts), the European Commission and the European Institute for Gender Equality. Public campaigns from the United Kingdom and Greece have been presented, while all participants had the opportunity to talk about examples of campaigns and preventive actions against violence against women and girls in their countries.

Before the meeting, independent experts had an obligation to send brief reports on violence against women and girls, with an emphasis on prevention activities in their countries, which will be posted on the official website of the European Commission.

Meeting with President Josipović on the occasion of signing the Convention

Today, on January 30, 2012 Maja Mamula, Rada Borić, Branka Žigante Živković and Gordana Sobol met with the Croatian President Mr. Josipović on the occasion of the signing of the Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence by the Republic Croatia. Initiative to support the signing of the Convention was started a Dubravka Šimonović, Ph.D., former Co-Chairman of the Committee of CAHVIO who prepared the Convention and a member of the UN CEDAW Committee, and Maja Mamula, Coordinator of the Women’s Room.

In April 2011, the Council of Europe adopted the Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence, and on May 11, 2011 in Istanbul, it was opened for signing. To this date, it has been signed by 17 countries, but not Croatia.

The Convention, as a first binding European instrument creates a comprehensive legal framework for the prevention of violence, protection of victims and punishment of perpetrators, and envisages the establishment of the group of international experts, which will monitor the implementation of the Convention at the national level.

President Josipović expressed his support for signing and ratification of this Convention.

Training for volunteers of the Department for organizing and providing support to witnesses and vict

The Women’s Room held a training day for volunteers of the Department for organizing and providing support to witnesses and victims at hotel “Dora” in Zagreb. The training was conducted by members of the Women’s Room, Maja Vukmanić and Antonija Hojt. The participants of the training were educated about sexual violence, consequences of sexual violence, and the basics of counseling work. We would like to thank the Department for organizing and providing support to witnesses and victims for the invitation, and volunteers on their interest and participation.

Platform 112 for the rule of law in Croatia

Today (December 22, 2011), 70 Platform 112* activists from the Coalition for the rule of law in Croatia, which represents 57 non-governmental organizations, sent a message at St. Mark’s Square on the occasion of inaugural session of the new assembly of the Croatian Parliament. Activists distributed 112 requests of the Platform 112, to be fulfilled by the Republic of Croatia would in order to become a state with a rule of law, and announced that after the first 100 days of the Croatian Parliament’s work, an analysis will be conducted of the fulfilled requests.

 

Fotografije u visokoj rezoluciji s Markovog trga možete preuzeti na:
http://zelena-akcija.hr/uploads/zelena_akcija/document_translations/000/000/789/akcija112.zip?1324548494

Kontakt: Sanja Sarnavka, 098/982 4645

* Platformu 112 – za Hrvatsku vladavine prava čine sljedeće organizacije:
B.a.B.e., Centar za edukaciju, savjetovanje i istraživanje (CESI), Centar za LGBT ravnopravnost, Centar za mirovne studije (CMS), Centar za mir, nenasilje i ljudska prava Osijek, Documenta – Centar za suočavanje s prošlošću, GONG, Kuća ljudskih prava, Pravo na grad, Srpski demokratski forum, Transparency International Hrvatska, Udruga za društvenu afirmaciju osoba s  duševnim smetnjama – Sjaj, Udruga za nezavisnu medijsku kulturu, Udruga za promicanje inkluzije, Udruga za promicanje istih mogućnosti, Udruga roditelja djece s posebnim potrebama “Put u život – PUŽ”, Udruga za samozastupanje, Zbor istraživačkih novinara, Zelena akcija.

 

„Platformu 112 – za Hrvatsku vladavine prava“ podržavaju sljedeće organizacije:
Amnesty International Hrvatska, Brodsko ekološko društvo, Centar inkluzivne potpore IDEM, Centar za građanske inicijative Poreč, Centar za mir, pravne savjete i psihosocijalnu pomoć Vukovar, Centar za podršku i razvoj civilnog društva DELFIN Pakrac, Eko Pan, Eko-eko Komin, Ekološko turistička udruga Šolte, Eko-Zadar, Forum za slobodu odgoja, Hrvatska udruga gluhoslijepih osoba Dodir, Hrvatska udruga za školovanje pasa vodiča i mobilitet, Hrvatski savez slijepih, Iskorak – Centar za prava seksualnih i rodnih manjina, Koalicija udruga Info zona, Koalicija udruga u zdravstvu, Krka Knin, Kurziv – platforma za pitanja kulture, medija i društva, Lezbijska grupa Kontra, MIRamiDA Centar regionalne razmjene mirovnih iskustava, Mreža mladih Hrvatske, Radio Mreža, Roditelji u akciji, Udruga Delta, Fade In – Fantastično dobra institucija, Savez udruga stanara Hrvatske, Socijalna politika i uključivanje (SPUK), Udruga za pomoć i edukaciju žrtava mobbing, Udruga za pomoć osobama s mentalnom retardacijom Međimurske županije, Udruga za prirodu, okoliš i održivi razvoj Sunce, Udruga za promicanje ljudskih prava i medijskih sloboda CENZURA PLUS, Udruga za razvoj civilnog društva SMART, Volonterski centar Zagreb, Zelena Istra, Zeleni Osijek, Zeo Nobilis, Ženska soba.

Theater play „Why Me?“ in Zagreb

Women’s Room organized the theater play “Why me?” as a part of the project, which is financially supported by the City of Zagreb – City Office of Education, Culture and Sports. Theater play was organized in KNAP (heatre on Pešćenica) on December 12 and we performed in front of a full theater.

We would like to thank 13th Gymnasium, all teachers and pupils for your interest and support!

Also, we would like to thank again the theater group Minimalists and its members: Ana Pavlović, Marta Dugandžić, Valentina Lončarić, Luka Žučko, Robert Budak, Tomislav Brodarić and coordinator of the theater group, Ana Đordić!

Despite the fact that we are done with performances for this year – we will continue with the same energy in the next year!

International Human Rights Day

The Office for Human Rights of the Government of Croatia organized on Saturday December 10, 2011 events on Ban Jelačić Square to mark the International Human Rights Day. On this occasion, in addition to the special program on stage, representatives of civil society organizations had booths at the square and  distributed leaflets, brochures and other materials created as part of numerous projects for the improvement of human rights in Croatia, and answered questions by citizens. Women’s Room’s was represented at the booth by Antonija Hojt and Paula Zore.

Theater play „Why Me?“ in Split

Theater Play „Why Me?“ about trafficking in human beings was organized on December 3 in the City Youth Theater in Split. The theater play was created as a part of the project financially supported by the Office for Human Rights of the Government of Croatia. The theater group “Minimalists” consists of pupils from 13th Gymnasium, students from different faculties of the University of Zagreb, coordinator Ana Đorđić, teacher of Croatian language and philosophy, and Vukmanić Maja and Dalibor Stanić, members of the Women’s Room.

We would like to thank Tourism – Hospitality School, Natural Sciences – Technical School, and 5th Gymnasium for your interest in the play and the issue of trafficking in human beings!

Next play is scheduled for December 12 at 8 pm in the Cultural Center Peščenica! See you!

Round table “Introducing Prevention Programs against Sexual Violence into Schools”

On November 24, 2011, the Women’s Room – Center for Sexual Rights organized a round table “Introducing Prevention Programs against Sexual Violence into Schools” thereby marking theInternational Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. Guests, who gave introductory presentations, included:Gordana Sobol (president of the Committee for Gender Equality of the Croatian Parliament); Vesna Jureša, Ph.D. (Faculty of Medicine, Zagreb, School of Public Health „Andrija Štampar“); Sanja Cesar(CESI- Center for Education, Counseling, and Research) and Emina Bužinkić (Initiative for Introducing Human Rights Education and Democratic Citizenship).

Apart from depressing statistics about victims of sexual violence, participants learned about experience in work with youth on prevention of sexual violence as well as research results related to these issues. The emphasis was placed on cooperation between all relevant stakeholders in order to efficiently work on prevention of sexual violence. We would like to thank all guest-presenters and participants.

Training regarding launching the web site „Safe Zone“

On November 18 and 19, 2001, the Women’s Room organized training pertaining to launching web site «Safe Zone» for representatives of institutions and civil society organizations. The concept of the web site «Safe Zone» was presented and discussion covered content of the web site, potential problems related to web site, and criteria for active participation of civil society organizations. Knowledge, experience, and ideas were shared by representatives of State Attorney’s Office and courts, Ministry of the Family, War Veterans and Intergenerational Solidarity, Ministry of Internal Affairs, and civil society organizations. We would like to thank everyone for participating.

Training “Through Volunteering against Sexual Violence”

The Women’s Room organized a two-day training for students on November 4 and 5, 2011. Training “Through Volunteering against Sexual Violence” covered topics of gender inequality, sexual violence, and methodology of work with youth. Guest lecturers who shared their knowledge and experience included Ida Šamanović (sexual therapist), and Vesna Zelić from the Department for Organizing and Providing Support to Victims and Witnesses. Training was co-led by members of the Women’s Room, Maja Vukmanić, Antonija Hojt and Paula Zore. We would like to thank all volunteers who participated in the training as well as guest lecturers for their time, interest, and contribution to the prevention of sexual violence and achieving gender equality.

Lecture at the military barracks in Požega

A representative of the Women’s Room, Vukmanić Maja, was invited by the civil society organization «Dolphin» to deliver a lecture for 50 representatives of Military barracks Požega. Mirjana Bilopavlović (Delfin) started the two-hour lecture by presenting the phenomenon of trafficking in persons. Following was a lecture about sexual violence as a dominant form of exploitation of women in the process of trafficking in persons.

Invitation to a training “Through Volunteering against Sexual Violence”

Dear all!

It is our pleasure to invite you to participate in training for volunteers (students) «Through Volunteering against Sexual Violence», implemented by the Women’s Room – Center for Sexual Rights.



Training will be held on November 4, 2011 (from 10am to 5pm) andNovember 5, 2011 (from 10am to 5pm) in Maksimirska 51a, First Floor.

Training will cover topics related to gender-based violence, forms and prevalence of sexual violence, consequences of sexual violence, Code of Conduct in Cases of Sexual Violence in Schools, forms of support and protection, and methodology of work with youth.

After completing the training, and in cooperation with the Women’s Room, each volunteer will lead two workshops for youth in secondary schools in their local communities.

Participants will receive certificate for completed training and implemented workshops.

Experience in development and implementation of workshops is desirable.Preference will be given to persons residing outside of Zagreb. Training is free of charge and the attendance at entire training is required.

Application deadline is October 28, 2011 at noon. 



Please send us your resume before the deadline.

Warm regards,

Antonija Hojt – project assistant

e-mail: zenska.soba@zenskasoba.hr
phone: (385) 01/6119-174

19th Annual Conference of Croatian Psychologists in Osijek

19th Annual Conference of Croatian Psychologists was organized in Osijek from October 12 to 15, 2011. Members of the Women’s Room have been very active in the annual conferences. We accomplish our work through Sections on Psychology of Sexuality and Psychology of Gender. Maja Mamula chairs the latter one.A workshop and a symposium were organized this year.

Workshop themed «Ask sexual therapist» was held on October 13, and it was co-led by Maja Mamula and Goran Arbanas. Despite early morning time slot and change in schedule, 47 psychologists were in attendance.
Symposium of the Section titled «Different approach – similar goals» was held on October 15 and 50 psychologists attended. It included eight presentations, and the Women’s Room’s members presented the following ones:
Sexual functioning among people with psoriasis (Arbanas, G., Mamula, M., Cvitanović, H.)
Sexual dysfunction related to different categories of mental disorders (Ivezić, E., Arbanas, G., Maroević, S., Mužinić, L.)
Risky behavior of youth (Šamanović, I.)
Mirror, mirror, who is the most beautiful in the world – physical appearance and gender differences (Mamula, M., Arbanas, G., Mehić, N., Bistrović, I.)

Over 3,600 signatures collected in public actions “I am signing!”

We collected over 3,600 signatures of citizens in public actions „I am signing!“ Actions were held in Sisak, Virovitica, Pakrac and Zagreb. Signatures support introduction of systematic education about the prevention of sexual violence. Citizens gave their full support to this initiative, obtained information about problems related to sexual violence, and joined the prevention efforts.

We would like to thank everyone once again for support and interest!

The Women’s Room’s Team

Lecture in the Penitentiary for women in Požega

On October 6, 2011, Mirjana Bilopavlović from Dolphin, Pakrac, and Ksenija Ivančnik Blažević, Chief of the Penitentiary for women in Požega, organized three-hour lecture for women.

Topic of the lecture was trafficking in persons and sexual violence. Workshop was co-led by Mirjana Bilopavlović (trafficking) and Maja Mamula (sexual violence). There were ten participants at the workshop who actively participated, shared their personal stories, and examples related to numerous forms of violence against women.

Large number of signatures collected in the public action symbolically named “I am Signing”

The Women’s Room organized, from September 30 through October 2, 2011, on Trg kralja Tomislava in Zagreb, public action symbolically termed «I am Signing!», which is part of the project «Prevention of Sexual Violence – Step by Step». The project is financially supported by Cooperating Netherlands Foundations for Central and Eastern Europe.

Aims of the action were:

  •   to draw public attention to the need for introducing systematic and compulsory education on prevention of sexual violence among youth in secondary schools;
  •    to collect signatures of citizens who support such initiative;
  •    to express support for the campaign of the Council of Europe to stop sexual violence against children.

The public action included stand with info materials (leaflets and badges created for this event), setting up a ten-meter long sheet and performance by «Zli bubnjari».

Sheet, which was installed for citizens to express support for the action through their signature was filled after the first day. Consequently, we installed another sheet, which was also filled with numerous signatures, but also with comments in support of many strategies for combating violence.

The same public action was organized in Virovitica, Pakrac, and Sisak, in cooperation with partner organizations in the project: S.O.S. Telephone – Call for Help Virovitica, Center for Support and Development of Civil Society «Dolphin», and Center for Women Adela.

A large number of citizens signatures indicates awareness of the public about the problem of sexual violence and violence among youth in general, and their support to all initiatives for combating violence.

 

Sheets from all towns where the action was organized will be delivered to the Ministry of Science, Education, and Sport. We hope this will prompt initiatives to introduce continuous and systematic education about sexual violence into secondary schools.

This action would not be possible without the assistance of our dear volunteers, whom we would like to thank wholeheartedly. We would also like to thank «Zli bubnjari» for their fabulous performance, and all citizens who supported this action.

Invitation to the public action “I am Signing!”

Trg kralja Tomislava
30.09. – 02.10.2011.

The Women’s Room – Center for Sexual Rights is organizing the public action “I am Signing!” from September 30 through October 2, 2011 starting at 10 AM. Representatives of the Youth Council of the City of Zagreb will join the action.

Schedule of events:

Friday: 10h – 17h, collecting signatures on the installed sheet (10 meters), distributing materials designed specifically for this event

Saturday: 10h – 14h; collecting signatures of citizens on the installed sheet (10 meters), distributing promo materials (leaflets, badges, balloons) designed specifically for this event, performance by Zli Bubnjari 11h – 12h;

Sunday: 10h – 14h, collecting signatures on the installed sheet (10 meters), distributing materials designed specifically for this event

Goals of the action:

 

  • to raise awareness of the public about the need for introducing systematic and compuslory education on prevention of sexual violence among youth into secondary schools;
  • to collect signatures of citizens who support this initiative;
  • to deliver signatures, together with letter of requests, to competent persons from the Ministry of Science, Education, and Sport.

 

Reasons for introduction of systematic education about

sexual violence into secondary schools:

  • the most frequent victims of sexual violence: children (32%), adolescents between 14 and 18 years old (30%) and young adults between 19 and 22 (15%);
  • the most frequent age range of perpetrators: between 19 and 29 years old (24,11%).

As evident from these statistics (data from the Ministry of Interior Affairs), youth is a vulnerable group who needs additional education in order to recognize sexual violence and protect themselves, and also get sensitized to rights and needs of others.

Prevention is the most effective way to reduce prevalence of violence and enable youth to grow up in a safe environment.

Motivated by this situation, we decided to initiate these actions because we believe that introduction of education that would be aimed at prevention of sexual violence should be systematically covered by school curricula.

Training “Violence against women” held in Mostar in cooperation with the association Women to Women

In cooperation with the organization “Women to Women” from Sarajevo (Bosnia and Herzegovina), the Women’s Room held a three-day training “Violence against women” from Sept 8-11, 2011 in Mostar. Training represents one of the activities of the project “Violence against Women, Recognize and Prevent!”. This project is implemented in partnership between Women to Women and Women’s Room, and supported by Foundation Open Society Institute. Training was led by Maja Mamula, coordinator of the Women’s Room and Maja Vukmanić, coordinator of the Center for Victims of Sexual Violence. Participants of the training were representatives of women’s nongovernmental organizations that work on combating all forms of violence against women.

Women’s Room at CSO Days of Virovitičko-podravska County

CSO Days of Virovitičko-podravska County were held on September 3, for the firth time, as a part of celebration of Virovitičko-podravska County Days. In cooperation with the Virovitičko-podravska County, CSO Days were organized by the association “SOS Phone – call for help” from Virovitica, which invited Women’s Room to present its work at the promotional stand. Dalibor Stanić represented the Women’s Room at the stand and engaged in friendly conversations and encounters with representatives of other associations and citizens.

Invitation to training

“Using Gender Equality to Combat Sexual Violence”

Dear all!

It is our pleasure to invite you to participate in the training for volunteers “Using Gender Equality to Combat Sexual Violence” implemented by the Women’s Room – Center for Sexual Rights.Training will be held on February 4, 2011 (from 10.00h-17.00h) and February 5, 2011 (from 10.00h-17.00h) at 51a Maksimirska Street, 1st floor.Training will encompass topics of gender-based violence, forms and prevalence of sexual violence, Code of Conduct in Cases of Sexual Violence in Schools, types of assistance and protection available, gender/sex stereotypes and prejudice as well as methodology of work with youth.

After completing the training, each volunteer will implement two workshops for youth in high schools in cooperation with the Women’s Room and in the volunteer’s local community.

Participants will receive a certificate of completed training and implemented workshops.
Experience with development and implementation of workshops is a plus, advantage will be given to persons residing outside of Zagreb. Training is free of charge and participation throughout all training sessions is required.


Deadline for applications is January 31, 2011.

Please send us your resume before the deadline.

Best regards,

Antonija Hojt – project assistant
e-mail : zenska.soba@zenskasoba.hr
Phone: 01/6119-174

Women’s Room at the Week of Civil Society Organizations

The week of CSOs has begun. This manifestation has been organized by the City Office for Health, Labor, Social Welfare and War Veterans for the past eight years. This year, the manifestation is being held on Zrinjevac in Zagreb. At the manifestation, citizens are informed about specific civil society organizations and their programs. This week, citizens had opportunity to get informed about work of organizations that deal with persons with disabilities, older persons and veterans of the Homeland War, organizations that implement socio-pedagogical programs (counseling, help lines), programs of technical culture (sailing and Scout clubs), cultural-artistic societies and associations for socially disadvantaged persons who are not included in the existing system of social welfare, as well as associations for prevention of addictions. Maja Vukmanić and Antonija Hojt represented Women’s Room at this manifestation.

Students visit Women’s Room

A group of students of psychology from the Croatian Studies and social pedagogy from Faculty Education and Rehabilitation Sciences in Zagreb visited Women’s Room on June 8 in order to learn about work of the Women’s Room and Center for Victims of Sexual Violence.

Last lecture at the Police Academy

On Thursday, June 9, Maja Mamula delivered last in the set of lectures at the Police Academy in Zagreb. Attendees of the last lecture were over 30 chiefs of shifts of the police stations across Croatia. They were introduced to situation in Croatia related to violence against women, the role of civil society organizations in combating this form of violence as well as support and assistance services provided to victims by civil society organizations. We would like to thank the Police Academy for the invitation and we hope this successful cooperation will continue in the future.

9th meeting of the Network of Cooperation between Governmental Institutions and NGOs organized

9th meeting of the Network of Cooperation between Governmental Institutions and Nongovernmental Organizations against Sexual Violence, organized by the Women’s Room took place on June 10 and 11, 2011 in Terme Jezerčica. Network of Cooperation has over twenty members from the police, public attorney’s office, judiciary, hospitals, centers for social welfare and nongovernmental organizations.Results of previous meetings-seminars were establishment of solid network between representatives of different institutions and organizations, accessibility of information needed for improvement of quality of work, development of the Code of Conduct in Cases of Sexual Violence in Schools, development of the document Proposals for Changes regarding Sexual Violence: Legislative Changes, Victims’ Protection and Development of Prevention Programs, as well as work on solving specific cases from everyday practice.

At this year’s meeting, Women’s Room report “Sexual Violence in Croatia 2000 – 2010” was presented and there was discussion about proposals for changes to the Penal Code related to sexual violence, changes to the Criminal Procedure Act and about specific cases. Maja Mamula also delivered a lecture about trauma and its consequences on reporting violence and witnessing.

Meeting was supported by the Embassy of Finland and the National Foundation for Civil Society Development.

See you next year at Split Pride!

Split Pride took place this past Saturday. Our member Paula Zore also participated in the march!Counter-arguments that reached Paula included a rock thrown in her head as an expression of disagreement. Among hundred and fifty march participants, majority was target of rocks, lighters, glass bottles, cans, tar gas, plants ripped from city premises and other objects that hooligans found handy.

Extremely high level of hate, homophobia and intolerance was expressed in Split by the city authorities, media, Catholic Church and its representatives, and unfortunately by the police, which failed to undertake all required measures to protect march participants.

We would like to invite all citizens to support fight for the right to diversity and the right to public assembly by participating in ZAGREB PRIDE on June 18 at 2 pm!

Let us rebel against intimidation and violence perpetrated by the homophobic part of the Croatian society, supported by institutions and part of public either by open support for hatred or by failure to sanction the violence.

Team of Women’s Room  

Copyright: 2011 Basic Marijo; basicm.net, All rights reserved.

Another lecture at the Police Academy

On Wednesday, May 18, Maja Mamula delivered another regular monthly lecture at the Police Academy in Zagreb. Over 30 chiefs of shifts of the police stations across Croatia also attended this lecture. They were introduced to situation in Croatia related to violence against women, the role of civil society organizations in combating this form of violence as well as support and assistance services provided to victims by civil society organizations.

Days of Civil Society Organizations 2011 in Pula

Maja Vukmanić and Antonija Hojt represented Women’s Room at the CSO Days 2011 in Pula from May 26 through 28, 2011. “Civil society in Croatia 2016 – vision, strategy and action”, organized by the Office for Cooperation with NGOs of the Government of Croatia, TACSO project in Croatia, and the National Foundation for Civil Society Development was focused on the promotion of partnerships and development of civil society.The aim of this year’s CSO Days was to create space and time for hundred participants, representatives of civil society organizations, to discuss and creatively shape proposals for development of civil society in the Republic of Croatia and in this way contribute to development of draft proposal for the National Strategy and Plan of Action for 2012 – 2016.

Panel „Trafficking in Human Beings“ at the Faculty of Law in Zagreb

By invitation from the Association Lawyer, Maja Mamula presented at the panel „Trafficking in Human Beings“ on May 11, 2011. Presentation focused on psychological consequences of traumatic experiences on the victim as well as influence of trauma on giving reports and witnessing. Apart from Mamula, presenters were Lovorka Marinović, coordinator of the program for combating trafficking in human beings of the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and Davor Derenčinović, professor of Criminal Law at the Faculty of Law in Zagreb.

Participants of the panel were 50 students, predominantly from the Faculty of Law, but also from other Faculties.

„Follow up“ meeting with volunteers

Women’s Room organized a follow-up meeting on May10 with volunteers who supported our work through the project “Using Gender Equality to Combat Sexual Violence”. The meeting was facilitated by Antonija Hojt and Maja Vukmanić. Topics covered included positive and negative experiences from workshops volunteers led in the past three months. They actively participated in combating sexual violence by delivering 60 workshops on the topic of gender equality and prevention of sexual harassment. We would like to thank again all of our volunteers for unselfish investment of their time, knowledge and energy, and we are looking forward to cooperation on future Women’s Room’s projects.

Training on sexual rights

On May 6 and 7, the Women’s Room organized a two-day training on sexual rights in Mali Lošinj. Training was organized in cooperation with the “Center for Healthy Growth – Idem i ja” and participants included first and second grade high school students. Training was lead by Maja Vukmanić and Antonija Hojt and topics included sexuality, sexual health, sexual rights and gender equality. We would like to thank all participants and  “Center for Healthy Growth – Idem i ja” for their interest and invitation!

Report “Sexual Violence in Croatia 2000 – 2010” presented

At the press conference held in the Women’s Room on April 21, Maja Mamula and Maja Vukmanić presented report “Sexual Violence in Croatia 2000 – 2010”. Apart from data related to sexual violence in Croatia in the past 11 years, journalists were familiarized with important changes that took place during this time period, which lead to improvement of protection of rights of victims of sexual violence. Report is available here (pdf).

Training for teachers and expert associates

The Women’s Room organized a one-day training on April 16, 2011 for teachers and expert associates in the scope of the project “Step by Step”, financially supported by Cooperating Netherlands Foundations for Central and Eastern Europe (CNF-CEE). Training was held in the Hotel Palace and over twenty teachers and expert associates were educated on sexual violence, gender equality and the Code of Conduct in Cases of Sexual Violence. We would like to thank all teachers and experts for participation and we are looking forward to future cooperation.

Members of the W R participated in the regional conference „Networking and Advocacy“ in Tirana

The Women’s Room’s members Antonija Hojt and Paula Zore represented Women’s Room at the regional conference „Networking and Advocacy“ from April 6 – 10 in Tirana. The conference was organized by Kvinna till Kvinna, and participants consisted of numerous activists from Macedonia, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Kosovo, Croatia, and Albania. Participants exchanged their experience related to networking and advocacy.

Another lecture at the Police Academy

On Wednesday, April 6, Maja Mamula delivered lecture at the Police Academy in Zagreb. More than thirty shift chiefs from police stations across Croatia were familiarized with the situation in Croatia related to violence against women, the role of civil society organizations in combating this form of violence as well as support and assistance services provided to victims by civil society organizations.

Maja Mamula at the workshop “Integrated Security of Women Human Rights Defenders”

Maja Mamula participated in a regional workshop for women human rights defenders from former Yugoslavia, organized by Kvinna till Kvinna in Jahorina, Bosnia and Herzegovina from March 25 through 27. Three-day workshop “Integrated security of women human rights defenders” was attended by 30 representatives of civil society organizations from the region.

Invitation to one-day training “Using Gender Equality to Combat Sexual Violence”

It is our pleasure to invite you to one-day training “Using Gender Equality to Combat Sexual Violence”, carried out by the expert team of the Women’s Room – Center for Sexual Rights, and financially supported by Cooperating Netherlands Foundations.

This project was designed as a continuation of systematic, long-term education of youth as well as expert associates and teachers, with the emphasis on prevention of sexual violence among youth and education on gender equality.

Training for expert associates and teachers lasts one-day (7 hours) and starts at 10 am on April 16, 2011 in Hotel Palace, Zagreb. Since training is free of charge, we expect all participants to implement at least one workshop on this topic with youth. Training has been reported to the Croatian Psychological Chamber for points. Invitation letter, short program of the training as well as application can be accessed on the website of the Croatian Psychological Chamber.

Deadline for applications of teachers and expert associates is April 10, 2011. Applications should be submitted by regular or electronic mail to Women’s Room (Maksimirska 51 a, Zagreb). Due to limited number or participants (25 people), advantage will be given to the earliest applications.

Costs of trainings (work premises, coffee break, lunch) is covered by the Women’s Room, thanks to support of Cooperating Netherlands Foundations. For additional information, please feel free to contact us (01/ 61 19 174 or zenska.soba@zenskasoba.hr)

We are looking forward to working with you!

Theater play „Why Me?“ one of the best at 35th SKAZ!

Theater group “Minimalisti” and the play “Why Me?” was chosen for top selection by the expert committee and passed for further competition! Expert committee was comprised of Dubravka Crnojević Carić, actor and director, Andrija Tunjić, actor and theater critic and Borivoj Radaković, playwright. After they watched forty-one play, we were selected! Next performance is on April 16 in the Cultural Center Peščenica (Ivanićgradska 41a) at 15th Festival of Zagreb Theater Amateurs!
Come and support us!

Cooperation with the Police Academy in Zagreb is continuing

On Monday, March 21, another monthly lecture was delivered at the Police Academy in Zagreb. Attendees of this week’s lecture were thirty chiefs of shifts in police stations across Croatia. Maja Mamula introduced the audience to the situation in Croatia related to violence against women, the role of civil society organizations in combating this form of violence as well as support and assistance services provided to victims by civil society organizations.

Lecture in the Vocational School Virovitica

Maja Mamula delivered a lecture on March 16 within the scope of the project “Using Gender Equality to Combat Sexual Violence”, implemented in cooperation with SOS Telephone Virovitica and with the financial support of the Ministry of Science, Education and Sport. The lecture was entitled: Sexual Violence among Adolescents and the audience included forty-one teachers and expert associates of the Vocational School Virovitica.

35th SKAZ is starting!

Theater play “Why Me?”, created within the scope of the project “L and K in action”, which was financially supported by the Office for Human Rights of the Government of Croatia, is being performed at 35th SKAZ! Festival of theater plays starts on March 28 in the Cultural Center Peščenica (Ivanićgradska 41a), ticket price is 10 HRK (15 HRK after March 25) and is valid for the entire day. Women’s Room and the theater group “Minimalisti” are performing on March 29 at 6.30 pm!Come and support us!

Maja Mamula participated in the round table in the Office of the President of the Rep. of Croatia

On March 7, 2011, in regards to the upcoming International Women’s Day, Maja Mamula participated in the round table in the Office of the President of the Republic of Croatia entitled “Changes and amendments of the Penal Code pertaining to women’s rights, domestic violence, protection of victims of violence and protection of maternity”. The round table covered the topic of “Women and the employment market”. The round table was organized by the Council for Social Justice, which was founded by the President of the Republic. Apart from members of the Council, participants of the round table included representatives of other women’s civil society organizations.

Workshops in the 3rd High School of Economics

Women’s Room – Center for Sexual Rights implemented nine workshops between March 7 and 10, 2001 in the 3rd High School of Economics within the scope of the project “Using Gender Equality to Combat Sexual Violence”, financed by the Ministry of Science, Education and Sport.

Aim of these workshops was to raise awareness among high school students about the prevalence of problems related to sexual harassment, as the most prevalent form of sexual violence among youth, as well as teach them about prevention methods. Workshops focused on differences between gender and sex, and through examples of gender roles we emphasized gender and sexual stereotypes and prejudice, which can potentially lead to gender-based violence.

We would like to thank 3rd High School of Economics in Zagreb for their interest and enabling implementation of workshops.

Training held for teachers and expert associates in Virovitica

On February 26, Women’s Room, in cooperation with SOS Telephone Virovitica, organized one-day training for teachers and expert associates from Virovitičko – Podravska County. The training was organized in the scope of activities envisioned in the project “Using Gender Equality to Combat Sexual Violence” financed by the Ministry of Science, Education and Sport. We would like to thank all participants and our partner organization SOS Telephone Virovitica!

Conversation about gender equality

On February 21, Maja Mamula and Paula Zore, together with Hrvoje Jurić, participated in conversation entitled “Women are from Špišić Bukovica, and men are from Babina Greda – male – female relationships in the context of the Croatian society”, and organized by Sirius – Center for Psychological Counseling, Education and Research. Conversation, met by active participation of the audience, covered topics of gender equality, violence against women, work with youth, situation in the media and the employment market. This was one in the set of conversations organized by Sirius for youth with special needs, whose experience and problems are rarely addressed, and even less frequently regarding this topic.

Benefit concert Homerfest held for the Women’s Room

Benefit concert for Women’s Room was organized by Homerfest – humanitarian association of the students of the Classical Gymnasium on Saturday, February 19, 2011. The concert started at 8 pm and performing bands were Lobotomija, Ignor, Artoo Deetoo, Free Ride and Achromatic Attic. We would like to thank again the organizers, all bands who invested their time and the audience who supported work of the Women’s Room!

Thank you and we wish you the same success and fun for Homerfest 3!

Lecture held at the Police Academy in Zagreb

Maja Mamula held a two-hour lecture at the Police Academy on February 9, 2011. Participants included over thirty shift supervisors from different police stations. Topic of the lecture was: The role of civil society organizations in combating violence and victims’ assistance.

This was one in the set of numerous lectures delivered by representatives of civil society organization at the Police Academy with the aim of informing about and promoting work of various organizations that work on combating violence and providing assistance and support to women who are victims of violence.

Announcement of benefit concert for the Women’s Room

Members of the Women’s Room, Antonija Hojt and Paula Zore delivered lecture for students of Classic Gymnasium in Zagreb on February 12, 2011. Topic of the lecture was prevention of sexual harassment. Apart from information related to sexual harassment, students were educated about methodology of work with youth and will implement workshops “Prevention of sexual harassment” in elementary schools in Zagreb. In addition to planned workshops, they organized concert at 8 pm on February 19, 2011 in the Culture Factory in Zagreb. Performers will include demo bands from the Classic Gymnasium. Ticket price is 25 HRK and revenue from the concert will be donated to victims of sexual violence through the Center for Victims of Sexual Violence. We would like to thank high school students again for such valuable initiative and we would like to invite everyone to support and help victims of sexual violence through attendance.

Two-day training for volunteers organized

The Women’s Room has organized and implemented two-day training for volunteers from February 4 through 5, 2011. Training was lead by Women’s Room’s members: Antonija Hojt, Maja Vukmanić and Paula Zore. Topics covered included: gender equality, sexual violence, sexual harassment and methodology of work with youth. Participants at the training “Using Gender Equality to Combat Sexual Violence” were: Vinka, Ivona, Tajana, Kristina, Sara, Anja, Dina, Jelena, Sandra, Marija, Ana, Iva, Ana, Marina, Doroteja, Kristina, Doris, Lana, Blanka, Nina, Ivana and Aleksandra – thank you and good luck with the upcoming workshops!

Supporting the Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence

During November 2011,  Maja Mamula from the Women’s Room and Dubravka Šimonović, former Co-Chairman of the CAHVIO Committee and a member of the UN CEDAW Committee were collecting signatures in support of signing and ratification of the Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence by the Republic of Croatia. A letter of support was signed by 21 organizations and 36 individuals.

Premiere of the theater play “Why Me?”

In the scope of the project “L and K in action”, financed by the Office for Human Rights of the Government of Croatia, the premiere of the theater play “Why Me?” took place on December 20, 2010. The play’s theme is focused on trafficking in persons and describes all phases, from solicitation to the final phase – exploitation of victims. The reason behind this place is an attempt to approach youth, convey issues in interactive and understandable way with the am of prevention and protection of youth. Theater group “Minimalists” which created the play is comprised of Robert Budak, Marta Dugandžić, Valentina Lončarić, Ana Pavlović, Matea Stipetić and Luka Žučko (high school students from Tituš Brezovački Gymnasium and students from University in Zagreb) coordinated by professor Ana Đordić. Play was also attended by the deputy president of the Office for Human Rights of the Government of Croatia, mister Šipka and coordinator of PETRA Network, Đurđica Kolarec as well as other associates of the Women’s Room.

Our Antonija received the Volunteer Oscar!

Antonija Hojt, our volunteer, and since recently member of the Women’s Room’s Team, was pronounced the Volunteer of the Year of the city of Zagreb. At the 2nd Volunteer Meetings, organized by Volunteers’ Center Zageb, held on December 15 in the Town Hall, Antonija was presented with the Volunteer Oscar award, which is given for individual volunteer contribution in the City of Zagreb. This year, second round included Dora Dobrica (Volunteers’ Center Zagreb) and Josipa Vučica (Blue Phone), whom we would also wish to congratulate.We would like to congratulate Antonija for deserved award and we would like to thank everyone who voted for Antonija and the Women’s Room.

Women’s Room’s volunteer – a candidate for Volunteer Oscar

 Anotnija HojtVolunteer Oscar is an annual award given to the Volunteer of the Year for individual contribution in the City of Zagreb. Award Volunteer Oscar recognizes specific and irreplaceable contribution that volunteers provide in community development and increasing quality of life in the City of Zagreb. The award Volunteer Oscar is given by the Volunteers’ Center Zagreb. It was established through the project “Volunteer Service – Solidarity and Community”, funded by the European Commission (program PHARE 2006) and the city of Zagreb.At this moment, the second round is open of the award process for the Volunteer Oscar, Zagreb award for the volunteer of the year. In the first round, decision was made by the expert commission, based on criteria of the competition, and three candidates were chosen for the second round of the competition. Now citizens will decide which candidate deserves this award by voting on the website of the Volunteers’ Centre Zagreb .

One of the candidates is our volunteer and more recently full-fledged member of the Women’s Room’s Team, Antonija Hojt, who has, through her creative ideas and selfless devotion of her time, energy and knowledge, significantly contributed to the prevention of sexual violence, trafficking in persons and achieving gender equality. Support Anotnija Hojt by your vote and, at the same time, work and vision of the Women’s Room: “Society without patriarchy, discrimination, misogyny and gender-based violence where individual expressions are basic values”.

Thank you!

Women’s Room’s Team

International Day of Human Rights Marked

On Saturday, December 11, 2010, the Office for Human Rights of the Republic of Croatia organized event to mark the International Day of Human Rights. Apart from program on the stage, representatives of civil society organizations distributed leaflets, brochures and other materials, created in the scope of numerous projects aimed at improving human rights in the Republic of Croatia, and answered questions of citizens. Women’s Room was represented at the booth by Antonija Hojt, Paula Zore and Dalibor Stanić.

Lecture held at the Police Academy in Zagreb

On December 7, 2010, Maja Mamula delivered two-hour lecture at the Police Academy for thirty-five chiefs of shifts of numerous police stations on the topic Role of civil society organizations in combating violence and victims’ assistance.

This is one in set of lectures delivered by representatives of civil society at the Police Academy, with the aim of providing insight in work of organizations that work on combating of violence and providing assistance and support to women victims of violence.

3rd scientific-professional symposium devoted to issues of violence

3rd biennial scientific symposium was held in Osijek from November 25 to 27, 2010. Symposium was devoted to issues of violence and the aim was to bring together experts of different professions who deal with issues of violence: prevention, causes and consequences, in order to establish optimal forms of prevention and minimize consequences of violence through multidisciplinary approach.

The topic of the symposium was Psychosocial Aspects of Violence in Contemporary Society – Challenge to Families, Schools and Communities.

Coordinator of Women’s Room, Maja Mamula, MA, presented lecture Gender-based Violence – Situation in Croatia and the Role of Civil Society Organizations. In the scope of the lecture, research findings were presented about civil society organizations that provide specialized services to women victims of violence. This research was conducted during 2010 with the financial support of the National Foundation for Civil Society Development. Presentation was attended by 80 experts of different professions who work in the area of violence.

Research presented in Virovitica

Members of the Women’s Room, Maja Mamula and Maja Vukmanić, presented research and brochure “Civil Society Organizations which Provide Specialized Services to Women Victims of Violence as Key Actors in the Process of Democratization of the Society” in premises of the Family Center of Virovitičko-podravska County. Promotion of the research was held on November 30, and it was organized in cooperation with the SOS Telephone Virovitica. Speakers at the promotion included Maja Mamula (Women’s Room) and Desa Kolesarić (SOS Telephone Virovitica). Participants were representatives of police, courts, centers for social welfare, family center and local media.

Panel of the SDP’s Forum of Women of Međimurska County

SDP’s Forum of Women of Međimuska County organized on November 19, 2010 in Čakovec a panel themed “Violence against Women and Civil Society Organizations – service for women victims of violence”. Speakers at the panel included Gordana Sobol, deputy in the Parliament and a president of the Committee for Gender Equality of the Parliament of the Republic of Croatia, and Maja Mamula from Women’s Room who presented research “Civil Society Organizations which Provide Specialized Services to Women Victims of Violence as Key Actors in the Process of Democratization of the Society” which was conducted by Women’s Room thanks to the financial support of the National Foundation for Civil Society Development.

Round Table of the Commission for Gender Equality of the City of Zagreb

The Commission for Gender Equality of the City of Zagreb organized round table on November 22, 2010 to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. Participants at the round table included representatives of various institutions and bodies, such as police, courts, centers for social welfare and civil society organizations. The round table was moderated by the Coordinator of Women’s Room, Maja Mamula, who also gave lecture about the City of Zagreb’s model for combating violence against women.

Research – Protection of Rights and Providing Assistance to Victims/Witnesses of Domestic Violence

The International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, determined by the United Nations as November 25th, was marked by the presentation of the research “Protection of Rights and Providing Assistance to Victims/Witnesses of Domestic Violence” on November 23, 2010 in hotel Dubrovnik. This research was conducted by the Office for Gender Equaity of the Government of the Republic of Croatia and the Women’s Room.Presentations covered research, its results as well as conclusions and recommendations that came out of findings of this research. Speakers included: Helena Štimac Radin, president of the Office for Gender Equality of the Government of Croatia, Maja Mamula Coordinator of the Women’s Room and Ivana Dijanić Plašć, psychologist from the Home for Children and Adult Victims of Domestic Violence” and a Women’s Room external associate.

Aims of this research were to establish existing level of protection of rights of victims/witnesses of domestic violence, identify real need for provision of support and assistance to victims/witnesses of domestic violence in Croatia and determine directions of possible improvement of protection of victims and provision of assistance and support to victims/witnesses of domestic violence.

Summary of the research and recommendations can be found here (in Croatian).

Women’s Room’s Research Presented

On November 18, 2010, Women’s Room organized round table in the European House, regarding presentation of the research “Civil Society Organizations which Provide Specialized Services to Women Victims of Violence as Key Actors in the Process of Democratization of the Society” which was conducted this year with financial support of the National Foundation for Civil Society Development. Topic of round table, as well as of the research, was civil society organizations that provide specialized services to women victims of violence as key actors in the process of democratization of the society.

 

After presenting research results, Maja Mamula gave word to round table guests who provided reflection on the research, but also opened a set of topics for discussion. Representatives of civil society organizations and institutions, associates and supporters of Women’s Room’s work joined discussion. Speakers at the round table included: Gordana Sobol, deputy in the Parliament and a president of the Committee for Gender Equality of the Parliament of the Republic of Croatia, Andreja Smajlović, expert advisor, Office for NGOs of the Government of the Republic of Croatia, and Suzana Kunac, member of the association B.a.B.e. and a representative of the Council for Civil Society Development.This research came as a result of a need to identify the real number, types, as well as forms of work of civil society organizations with women who are victims of all forms of violence. Apart from that, we were interested in researching how much work has been done in Croatia in regards to the protection of victims in adherance to Recommendations of the Council of Europe.

For more information about the research, see our brochure.

Vanja Blumenšajn – creative person of the year for the campaign of Women’s Room

At the Independent Festival of Creative Communications – Judgment Day held on October 1, 2010, Vanja Blumenšajn from Imago Agency, creator of the idea, copywriter and creative director of the Women’s Room campaign “Bring the issue to the light of day” was pronounced the creative person for 2010. This award is significant, because the jury comprised of 200 creative persons from Croatia made decision through online vote. At the festival, the campaign “Bring the issue to the light of day” received award in categories: print ad and use of new media. This is not the first award that Imago Agency received for this campaign. At the festival Eurobest, held in the Netherlands at the end of last year, they received bronze award in the category of creative usage of media.

Participation in the 18th annual Conference of Croatian Psychologists

18th annual Conference of Croatian Psychologists was held in Opatija between October 13 and 16, 2010. The topic of this year’s conference was Cross-cultural Psychology. Section for Psychology of Sexuality organized symposium Sexuality, Culture, Context, which was coordinated by Maja Mamula, head of the Section for Psychology of Sexuality of the Croatian Psychological Association. Symposium was composed of 9 presentations, and two of them were presented by members of the Women’s Room: Ida Šamanović: Sexual dysfunction among women – vaginism and Maja Mamula: Sexuality, Culture, and Gender. The symposium was very successful and it attracted over 100 psychologists.

Section for Psychology of Sexuality and Section for Clinical and Health Psychology also organized a panel: Mandatory Psychological Counseling during the Process of Medically Assisted Reproduction – Ethical Concerns, moderated by Jasna Belamarić and Maja Mamula.

At the conference, Maja Mamula received an award of the Croatian Psychological Association „MARULIĆ: FIAT PSYCHOLOGIA“ as a public recognition for significant contribution to development and promotion of Croatian applied psychology.

Donation by the company Velinac

Last week, Women’s Room received donation by the company Velinac, specialized in office furniture manufacture and trade, which has been present both on domestic and international markers for over a decade.

Donation includes office armchairs, which will serve for equipping new premises of Women’s Room, and furnishing the waiting room of the Center for Victims of Sexual Violence.

European Day against Human Trafficking

On Saturday, October 16, 2010, the Office for Human Rights of the Government of Croatia, organized fourth time in a row an event in regards to the European Day against Human Trafficking. As a member of PETRA Network, Women’s Room participated in the event on the Flowers Square. The aim of the event was raising awareness and knowledge of the general public about issues related to trafficking in human beings. Program of the European Day against Human Trafficking consisted of cultural and art program such as performances of popular dance and music groups, theater performers, and art workshops.

Another Award for Women’s Room’s Campaign

Women’s Room received yesterday (Nov 9th, 2010) the OUTWARD  award in the Museum of Modern Art in Zagreb,. Maja Mamula was presented with the award for the 1st place in the category: city light series. This is an annual award for the best design of large posters, established in 2001 by outdoors advertising company Outdoor akzent with the aim of promotion and awarding the quality and creativity of poster designs.

This award result of the work of the agency of market communication McCann Erickson, which created series of poster’s “A Doll – room and the office” for Women’s Room’s media campaign in scope of the project Zero Tolerance to Sexual Violence.

This is already third award that Women’s Room’s campaign has received. We received the first one last November from the Netherlands from the festival Eurobest, where the campaign was awarded bronze in the category of creative use of media. The creator of the idea, copywriter and creative director of the interactive print ad is Vanja Blumenšajn from Imago Agency, who has been pronounced the Creative Person of the Year at the Independent Festival of Creative Communications – Judgement Day, and the ad of Women’s Room was awarded in the categories: print ad and use of new media. A jury of 200 creative persons from Croatia voted for these awards, which gives them special meaning.

Women’s Room would like to thank everyone who contributed through ideas and work in realization of this campaign and assisted in raising public awareness about the issue of sexual violence, which continues to be marginalized topic in our society.

Also, we would like to thank everyone for investing energy in advancing the quality of wok of Women’s Room. We would like to congratulate awardees with wishes for many future awards for their work!

Team of Women’s Room

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