Raising Awareness on Gender Equality and the Reality of Refugee Women

On the second day of the Erasmus+ Youth Exchange project "Humanity is No Borders" (Project No: 2023-2-TR01-KA152-YOU-000167854), coordinated by Artemis Women's Power MTÜ, participants explored the strong connection between gender inequality and forced migration. Bringing together young people from Türkiye, Romania, Georgia, France, Estonia, and Czechia, the project continues to raise awareness of the challenges faced by refugee women while promoting human rights, gender equality, and intercultural understanding.

The day began with interactive presentations and group discussions focusing on gender roles, stereotypes, and discrimination in contemporary societies. Participants examined how gender norms influence daily life and shared examples from their own countries, allowing them to compare different social perspectives while identifying common challenges faced by women around the world.

To reinforce their learning, participants transformed the knowledge gained during the sessions into creative poster designs. Working in international teams, they produced visual materials highlighting gender inequality and equal rights, using art as a powerful tool to communicate social messages. These posters are expected to contribute to the project's dissemination activities at the end of the exchange.

During the afternoon sessions, the focus shifted to migration and the concept of refugees. Participants received comprehensive information about the legal definition of refugee status, the causes of forced migration, and the consequences of war, conflict, and human rights violations. Through collaborative discussions, they analyzed the complex realities experienced by displaced people and reflected on the importance of building more inclusive societies.

The programme then concentrated specifically on the experiences of refugee women. Through activities centred on the realities of being a woman during forced migration, participants discussed issues such as gender-based discrimination, violence, economic hardship, social exclusion, and unequal access to opportunities. They examined the multiple layers of vulnerability experienced by refugee women and exchanged ideas on possible solutions that promote equality and protection.

Building on these discussions, participants designed another series of creative posters portraying the journeys, hopes, and struggles of refugee women. By transforming abstract concepts into meaningful visual messages, they created awareness-raising materials that encourage empathy and challenge stereotypes surrounding refugees.

The day concluded with a reflection and evaluation session, where participants shared their learning outcomes and personal impressions. In the evening, the Romanian and Georgian Cultural Night provided an opportunity to experience traditional dances, music, cuisine, and customs, further strengthening intercultural dialogue and mutual understanding among the participants.

By the end of the second day, participants had developed a deeper understanding of refugee women's experiences, not only from a theoretical perspective but also through the lens of gender equality and human rights. The activities significantly enhanced their empathy, critical thinking, and commitment to combating discrimination and promoting social inclusion.