Funded projects
Organizations supported under the “FORCE – Feminist Opportunities for Resilience and Community Empowerment” program
- The Wake-Up Foundation
Project: “From needs to solutions” – a program activity for the benefit of those affected by violence and the organizations that protect them
Place of registration: Sofia
Scope of activity: National
Approved funding: 59,822.07 EUR
From Needs to Solutions is a strategic program initiative aimed at preventing and combating domestic and gender-based violence. The project aims to meet the real needs of victims through research, advocacy and building a supportive environment.
A national survey on the needs of women and children affected by violence is planned, and the results will serve to inform policies. It will continue to develop the largest online survivor community – the “You Are Not Alone” group with nearly 10,000 members, which provides a safe space for support.
The project includes information campaigns: for relatives of victims (“On the first line”), against cyber-violence and for employers to develop protection policies. Through the “Together Against Violence” coalition, efforts will be made to monitor the implementation of the Law on Protection from Domestic Violence, as well as to increase state funding for victim support.
2. Youth LGBT Organization “Deystvie”
Project: “Force in Action”
Place of registration: Sofia
Scope of activity: National
Approved funding: 59,167.60 EUR
The Force in Action project aims to counter gender-based violence against LGBTIQ+ people through legal aid, community events and an information campaign.
It is planned to provide free consultations for LGBTIQ+ victims of violence and legal analysis of the state’s unfulfilled commitments under decisions of the Court of Justice of the EU related to sexual orientation and gender identity.
The project will also include events on gender-based violence as part of Forum Rights and Sofia Pride Film Fest, as well as an educational video and podcast campaign. The goal is to raise awareness and support the LGBTIQ+ community.
- PULSE Foundation
Place of registration: Pernik
Scope of activity: Regional (Pernik and Kardzhali)
Approved funding: 59,985.68 EUR
The project aims to improve access to quality services for women and girls affected by violence and build a sustainable network for cooperation between institutions.
The main focus is the creation of multidisciplinary teams in Pernik and Kardzhali, which will work together on cases of domestic violence. Activities include the provision of support programmes, capacity-building training for professionals, development of coordinated response mechanisms and regular meetings to exchange good practices.
The project builds on the 25-year experience of the P.U.L.S. Foundation. in supporting victims of violence and will contribute to building a sustainable local protection and support system.
4. Association “Together for Future”
Place of registration: Vidin
Scope of activity: Regional (Vidin and its district)
Approved funding: 60,000.00 EUR
The project Together for a future without violence aims to create a sustainable model for support and protection of victims of domestic violence in Vidin, where resources and coordination between institutions are often lacking.
The project envisages the opening of a reception desk for free consultations with a social worker, psychologist and lawyer, training for specialists and institutions, as well as the creation of a multidisciplinary team to work on cases of domestic violence.
A broad information campaign targeting the local community will be carried out to raise awareness of the issue and support opportunities.
5. Indi-Roma 97 Social Foundation
Place of registration: Kuklen
Scope of activity: Regional (with a focus on Roma communities)
Approved funding: 45,965.85 EUR
The project Equal Rights and Security for all Women aims to raise awareness about gender-based violence, with a special focus on girls, women and Roma women, who are among the most vulnerable groups.
The main activities include trainings for professionals, working with young people in schools (15-19 years) and creating prevention and support networks.
The project will integrate the principles of gender equality and build sustainable mechanisms to protect victims of violence, actively involving Roma women in decision-making processes.
6. Association “NAIA”
Place of registration: Targovishte
Scope of activity: Regional
Approved funding: 59,993.86 EUR
The project Strong Programs and Systems to Support Women and Young Girls Affected by Domestic Violence aims to improve the systemic response to gender-based violence through coordinated actions in support of victims, work with perpetrators and prevention among young people.
Innovative services for women survivors of violence, tailored to their needs, as well as building a local coalition of domestic violence case management institutions are envisaged. The project also includes programs to work with perpetrators, as well as initiatives to engage boys and men in the prevention of violence.
7. Area 05, District 30, Zonta International
Place of registration: Stara Zagora
Scope of activity: National
Approved funding: 59,999.49 EUR
The project builds on the Rada Says NO initiative by expanding awareness and mobilization activities against gender-based violence from 7 to 11 regions in the country.
A large-scale study is planned, which will be presented at a round table with institutions and civil organizations, followed by working groups to prepare recommendations for legislative changes and improve support for victims.
A prevention campaign will be implemented with the participation of youth Z clubs to engage young people in the fight against violence.
8. Bulgarian platform to the European Women’s Lobby
Place of registration: Sofia
Scope of activity: National
Approved funding: 59,965.23 EUR
The project is aimed at the analysis and adaptation of Bulgarian legislation in relation to the new EU Directive (2024/1385) on combating violence against women and domestic violence.
An in-depth legal analysis, preparation of recommendations for legislative changes, as well as identification of obstacles to the effective implementation of the directive are foreseen. Bulgarian and international experts will be involved in the process, working groups will be created and exchange of experience with other countries will be encouraged.
The project also includes an information campaign for institutions, the civil sector and the media, as well as an international conference to promote the directive’s standards.
- GLAS-Bulgaria
Project: ”Rethinking masculinity – towards a non-violent society.”
Place of registration: city Sofia
Scope of activity: National
Approved funding: 59,797.01 EUR
The project aims to rethink the harmful stereotypes of masculinity associated with aggression and power that perpetuate gender-based violence. Through a national information campaign, educational initiatives for young people, public debates and the publication of the children’s book “Tales with reversed roles”, the initiative will promote new models of masculinity and the active participation of men in building a society without violence and discrimination.
10. Institute for Counterintuitive Ideas
Project: ”Cyberviolence as a form of domestic violence – legislative and institutional solutions”
Place of registration: Haskovo
Scope of activity: National
Approved funding: 50,849.78 EUR
The project aims to respond to the lack of legal and institutional mechanisms for recognizing and countering cyber- and technological violence as a form of domestic violence. Through trainings, data collection and analytical report preparation, the capacity of the civil sector will be increased, legislative proposals and policies will be developed in line with Directive (EU) 2024/1385, and concrete solutions will be proposed to protect victims. An information campaign is also planned to increase public awareness on the subject. The project will create a basis for long-term policies for prevention and protection from cyber-violence in Bulgaria.
11. Animus Association Foundation
Project: ”Effective implementation of laws to prevent gender-based violence”
Place of registration: city Sofia
Scope of activity: National
Approved funding: 59,988.24 EUR
The project aims to support the effective implementation of laws to prevent gender-based violence through an advocacy campaign targeting women survivors of violence, institutions and the general public. Key activities include analyzing cases and existing practices, identifying institutional challenges, consulting with stakeholders and developing concrete recommendations to improve victim protection. An information campaign is also planned to raise public awareness, counteract stereotypes and promote effective policies for prevention and protection.
12. Foundation for the Development of European Union Law in Bulgaria
Project: ”Women’s Rights and Protection from Violence: Integrating Directive 2024/1385″
Place of registration: city Sofia
Scope of activity: National
Approved funding: 59,990.29 EUR
The project aims to effectively introduce and implement the measures provided for in Directive 2024/1385, by developing legal and practical instruments to facilitate the implementation of European standards for protection from violence in Bulgaria.
The activities include the preparation of legislative proposals and recommendations to improve the Bulgarian legislation, preparation of training and information materials for citizens, CSOs and specialists, as well as a national campaign to raise awareness about the rights of victims. The project envisages trainings to increase the capacity of CSOs and specialists, analysis of legal support needs, as well as building sustainable partnerships between institutions, organizations and the private sector.
The expected result is better protection of victims of violence, harmonization of Bulgarian legislation with European requirements and enhanced cooperation between all involved parties.
13. Mission Wings Foundation
Project: ”Support for refugees and persons who have sought international protection, experienced violence”
Place of registration: Stara Zagora
Scope of activity: Regional (Harmanli and surrounding area)
Approved funding: 59,822.07 EUR
The project is aimed at supporting children and adults who have sought international protection, a significant percentage of whom have experienced violence. In response to the serious challenges in the Harmanli region, the project will provide direct social, psychological and legal assistance to victims of gender-based violence.
Training and supervision for specialists working with refugees are planned, with the aim of increasing their capacity to provide adequate support to the victims. Methodical assistance will also be provided in the field, to build skills for effective response in cases of violence.
The project includes an information campaign to reduce stigma and discrimination towards refugees and migrants, as well as to increase public sensitivity and awareness.
The main goal is to create a sustainable network of trained specialists, improve coordination between institutions and civil organizations and provide quality services for the protection and support of vulnerable groups.
14. Bilitis Resource Center Foundation
Project: ”The Courage to Speak Out”
Place of registration: Sofia
Scope of activity: National (with a focus on Plovdiv and Veliko Tarnovo)
Approved funding: 59,957.56 EUR
The project aims to counteract violence against LGBTI people in Bulgaria based on gender identity, sexual orientation or gender expression. By building an active and supportive community, the initiative will encourage open discussion about the problem and provide primary support for victims.
Among the main activities are facilitated discussions, creative workshops and information campaigns that will raise awareness of the rights of LGBTI people and reduce the stigma that prevents victims from seeking help. Direct support will be provided through the Bilitis Foundation and Queer Varna partners, as well as referrals to specialized services.
The project will develop a support network in Plovdiv and Veliko Tarnovo and create safe spaces for discussions and mutual assistance. Expected results include better awareness, more reports of violence, active participation of the LGBTI community in the fight against violence and building a society of equality and respect.
15. Foundation “FLY – first love yourself”
Project: ”Model for comprehensive support of victims of violence”
Place of registration: city Gabrovo
Scope of activity: Regional (Gabrovo region, with focus on Gabrovo and Tryavna)
Approved funding: 59,975.46 EUR
The project aims to create a sustainable model for comprehensive support of women and children who have suffered from violence, by providing integrated services tailored to their individual needs. In Gabrovo and Tryavna, protected spaces for temporary accommodation, accessible in case of emergency, will be created. Victims will receive medical, psychological and social assistance, legal advice and individual support plans.
The project also includes activities to raise awareness among the victims and the local community about the possibilities for protection and assistance. The expected results are better access to services, creation of protected spaces, increased awareness and building a model for working with victims that can be applied in other regions.
- Bulgarian Helsinki Committee
Project: ”Harmonization of Bulgarian legislation on protection from violence with international standards”
Place of registration: Sofia
Scope of activity: National
Approved funding: 34,533.18 EUR
The project aims to bring Bulgarian legislation on protection against violence against women and domestic violence into line with international standards, including the Istanbul Convention. Existing gaps in the legal framework will be identified, specific legislative proposals will be developed and public and institutional discussion of the necessary changes will be encouraged.
The main activities include analysis of current legislation and comparative review with international requirements, preparation of legislative recommendations, advocacy and information campaign, as well as conducting discussions and meetings with interested parties.
The project is implemented in partnership between the Bulgarian Helsinki Committee and the “Alliance for Protection from Gender-Based Violence” association.
The expected results are a prepared analysis and specific legislative proposals, increased awareness of institutions and the public, as well as activation of the debate on the ratification and implementation of the Istanbul Convention. The project will contribute to the creation of sustainable mechanisms for the protection of victims of violence.
17. Access to Rights Foundation
Project: ”From Victim to Victor”
Place of registration: Sofia
Scope of activity: National
Approved funding: 59,990.80 EUR
The project From Victim to Victor aims to provide comprehensive and individualized support for women, girls and LGBTIQ+ refugees who are victims of gender-based violence. The aim is to ensure effective protection and social integration of vulnerable groups by creating a sustainable support model.
The project envisages training for staff working with refugees to implement gender-sensitive approaches, as well as developing individual support plans, including psychological, legal and social assistance. A methodology for assessing the needs of victims will be created and newly adopted legislative measures for the protection of refugees will be promoted.
An important component is the digital platform Refugeelight.bg, which will provide information and referrals to services. The project also includes labor mediation aimed at economic integration of the victims.
Expected results: improved protection and support for victims, increased capacity of specialists, better social and economic integration of refugees, increased awareness of rights and opportunities for protection.
The project will create a workable support model that can be applied in other regions.
- Association “Lespectra”
Project: “Lesbophobia as a Form of Gender-Based Violence – Research, Advocacy and Awareness”
Place of registration: Sofia
Scope of activity: National
Approved funding: 56,227.63 EUR
The project aims to recognize, research and counter lesbophobia as a specific form of gender-based violence experienced by lesbian, bisexual, queer (LBQ) women and non-binary people. The initiative aims to respond to the growing challenges facing the LGBTI+ community in Bulgaria, in accordance with the recommendations of the Council of Europe (2024), by bringing the topic to public attention and encouraging political and social recognition of the problem.
Within the framework of the project, a study of the manifestations of lesbophobia and the experiences of LBQ women and non-binary people will be conducted, including the identification of obstacles to access to protection. The project will develop the capacity of feminist media ”Vechernitsa” for professional and sensitive coverage of the topic, with the aim of wider popularization of the problem. An information campaign is also planned, which will raise public awareness, work to eliminate stigma and encourage an open public debate about lesbophobia as a form of gender-based violence.
The main target groups of the project are LBQ women, non-binary people, trans and intersex women, as well as the media, public communicators and the general public.
The project is expected to contribute to a better understanding of lesbophobia as a form of violence, to collect and present data on the violence experienced by LBQ women and non-binary people, to increase the media’s capacity for responsible coverage of the topic, and to reduce public discrimination through awareness and engagement.
19. H and D Perspectives Foundation
Project: ”Empowering Women Victims of Domestic Violence”
Place of registration: Dimitrovgrad
Scope of activity: Regional (Haskovo region)
Approved funding: 59,995.91EUR
The project aims to create a structured model for supporting and empowering women and girls who have experienced domestic violence by combining individual assistance, training, information campaigns and work with perpetrators. The main activities include the provision of complex services – psychological, social and legal support, as well as individual and group counseling for victims. Trainings are planned for specialists from social, health and law enforcement institutions to increase their capacity in working with victims.
The project will implement programs to work with perpetrators of violence to prevent the recurrence of cases of violence and conduct information campaigns to encourage victims to seek help. Special attention will be paid to work in small and remote settlements in the Haskovo region to ensure access to aid for women and girls from vulnerable communities.
The project will empower victims through access to integrated services, raise public awareness of domestic violence and improve coordination between institutions working on the topic. It is also expected to reduce recidivism by working with the perpetrators.
- Emrpove Foundation
Project: ”Strong Direction”
Place of registration: Sofia
Scope of activity: National
Approved funding: 59,975.46 EUR
The Strong Direction Project uses the power of art to raise public awareness and challenge gender-based violence. The main goal is to provoke public debate and change in attitudes through artistic interventions inspired by the personal stories of women who have experienced violence.
As part of the project, an art residency will be held with Bulgarian and international artists who will create works based on stories from the Women Survivors community. The results will be presented in a traveling exhibition that will tour festivals and cultural events in the country, reaching a wide audience. A cultural-diplomatic exchange with foreign artists and organizations will be implemented to exchange experiences and build international partnerships.
The project also envisages a large-scale campaign to change public attitudes through art and the telling of personal stories of violence, overcoming and strength.
Expected results include higher public awareness of the problem of violence, mobilizing new audiences, building international connections and promoting the debate on equality through creative forms.
21. Association “Multi Cult Collective”
Project: ”Migrant Women Are Strong: Countering Gender-Based Violence Holistically”
Place of registration: Sofia
Scope of activity: National
Approved funding: 53,977.91 EUR
The project aims to support and empower migrant and refugee women at risk of gender-based violence through an integrated approach that combines legal, social and educational assistance.
Among the main activities are legal analysis of existing legislation and policies, preparation of recommendations to improve the protection of migrant women, advocacy for more effective policies, as well as training and information sessions for women themselves regarding their rights and access to services. There will also be campaigns to raise awareness in local communities and combat stereotypes, as well as creating coordinated support networks between institutions, CSOs and local organizations.
The project will contribute to better protection and access to services for migrant and refugee women, increased awareness of their rights, as well as building strong local support networks and promoting a culture of respect and equality.
22. Women’s Association “Ekaterina Karavelova”
Project: ”Together against gender-based violence”
Place of registration: Silistra
Scope of activity: National (focusing on Silistra and the region)
Approved funding: 58,819.92 EUR
The project aims to change public attitudes towards gender-based violence and build capacity to effectively support victims through training, advocacy and information campaigns. Within the framework of the project, trainings will be held for professionals from the institutions involved in the protection of victims, an interdepartmental working group for coordination will be created and a cooperation mechanism will be developed.
The project also envisages programs to work with perpetrators to prevent and reduce recidivism, as well as a large-scale information campaign to raise public awareness and encourage victims to seek help.
The initiative will contribute to better coordination between institutions, higher competence of specialists, more effective prevention of violence and wider public support for those affected.
23. Bulgarian association for people with oncological and other diseases “Life”
Project: ”Support for women with cancer who have survived violence”
Place of registration: Haskovo
Scope of activity: National (with a focus on women with cancer)
Approved funding: 58,546.89 EUR
The project is aimed at women with cancer who, in addition to health difficulties, are victims of violence in the family. The main goal is to provide complex support – legal, psychological and social, as well as to raise public awareness of the double vulnerability of these women.
Within the framework of the project, information campaigns on the specific needs of women with cancer, advocacy for legal and political changes, development of standards for psychological support and training for medical and social specialists to recognize violence will be implemented. A referral and support system will also be established through collaboration with hospitals and social services.
The expected results are improved protection and access to services for women with cancer, increased sensitivity of society and professionals, better quality of life for victims and effective mechanisms for detecting and responding to cases of violence.
24. Magna Silva Association
Project: ”Preventing and overcoming gender-based violence by working with youth and vulnerable groups”
Place of registration: Plovdiv
Scope of activity: National (with a focus on Plovdiv and the region)
Approved funding: 47,903.67 EUR
The project aims to reduce gender-based violence by working with youth, vulnerable groups and institutions, emphasizing education, changing attitudes and building practical support mechanisms.
Trainings for professionals (social workers, teachers, mediators), preventive programs in schools for youth aged 13-18, psychological and legal assistance for victims, as well as a “Zones free of violence” campaign to create a safe environment in institutions and companies are planned. Media campaigns against hidden violence, combating hate speech and for responsible media representation will be implemented.
The project also includes a study of the regional specifics of violence with recommendations to institutions, as well as certification of companies and institutions with policies for zero tolerance to violence.
The expected results are increased awareness and reduced violence among youth and vulnerable groups, improved capacity of professionals, safe spaces without violence, increased public sensitivity and sustainable victim support mechanisms.
25. Bulgarian Foundation for Business and Human Rights
Project: ”Gender-Based Violence in the Workplace: A Standard for Prevention and Action”
Place of registration: Sofia
Scope of activity: National
Approved funding: 26,971.57 EUR
The project aims to support the prevention of gender-based violence in the workplace by creating standards and tools for employers, in line with international good practices.
An evaluation of 2,000 global and Bulgarian companies is planned according to the methodology Gender Benchmarking of the World Benchmarking Alliance to measure progress in gender equality and anti-violence policies. Recommendations and mechanisms for protection against violence and harassment will be developed, and employers and employees will receive training on recognition, prevention and adequate response to violence. The project also includes advocacy for the ratification of ILO Convention 190 on the Elimination of Violence and Harassment in the World of Work.
Target groups are companies, HR departments, working women and vulnerable groups, business networks, as well as the general public.
The expected results are improved policies to protect against workplace violence, increased awareness among businesses and employees, development of a national standard based on international requirements, and support for the ratification of Convention 190.
26. Association “Akademika – 245”
Project: ”HeForShe & SheForHe: Equally important in the quest for equality!”
Place of registration: Antonovo
Scope of activity: National
Approved funding: 59,991.82 EUR
The project aims to change public attitudes towards gender-based violence by actively involving men and boys in gender equality efforts. The initiative will promote new roles for men as allies in the fight against violence by creating a space for dialogue and partnership.
Among the main activities are a large-scale communication campaign with the participation of public figures and influencers, creation of clubs HeForShe, in which men and boys will be involved as active ambassadors for equality and developing educational and interactive materials for young people. Public events, discussions and workshops aimed at youth and vulnerable groups will be organized, as well as consultations with institutions and organizations to prepare recommendations for better protection of victims.
Expected results include increased awareness and engagement of young people, active participation of men and boys in the fight against violence, formulated recommendations for structural changes, changing public attitudes towards gender stereotypes and creating a sustainable network of HeForShe clubs as a support and prevention mechanism.
27. Association “Amala – Friends”
Project: “Empowerment of Roma girls and women against violence”
Place of registration: Dupnitsa
Scope of activity: National, with a focus on the Roma community
Approved funding: 59,976.48 EUR
The project aims to prevent gender-based violence among Roma girls and women through empowerment, training and advocacy. The aim is to create sustainable support mechanisms and to increase public sensitivity to the multiple discrimination to which Roma women are subjected.
The main activities include trainings for 80 Roma girls, women and youth; creation of a volunteer women’s lobby for advocacy and gender equality; development of a methodology for the prevention of child marriages and a handbook for the empowerment of Roma girls and women. A round table with institutions and CSOs will be organized to present the conclusions and materials, as well as a broad information campaign.
The project will contribute to increased awareness and empowerment of Roma women, creation of an active women’s lobby and development of practical tools for work in Roma communities.
28. Open Door Center Foundation, Sofia
Project: “Security and support for women and children affected by domestic violence”
Place of registration: Sofia
Scope of activity: Sofia, Lovech, Kyustendil, Blagoevgrad
Approved funding: 59,208.51 EUR
The project is aimed at creating protected spaces and effective support mechanisms for women and children who have experienced domestic violence. The development of services and a coordinated approach between institutions is envisaged.
In four cities, sheltered spaces for working with victims will be opened, specialized recovery programs will be provided, new protocols will be developed for working under the Domestic Violence Protection Act, including for LGBTI+ couples. The project also includes programs to work with perpetrators, trainings for institutions, as well as information campaigns and local coordinated response initiatives.
The project will provide better protection for victims, improve coordination between institutions and reduce the risk of recidivism by working with perpetrators.
29. WomanUp Foundation
Project: “New Policies for Expectant Mothers”
Place of registration: Sofia
Scope of activity: National
Approved funding: 59,822.07 EUR
The project aims to improve care for pregnant and birthing women by advocating for better policies based on women’s real needs. Upgrades held in 2023. national survey of 700 women.
Activities include communication of research results, working with hospitals through surveys and interviews, developing recommendations and strategy to improve conditions for expectant mothers, advocacy for changes in hospital policies and public information campaign.
The expected results are specific proposals for improving maternity care, involvement of hospitals and institutions in the process of change and increased awareness of women about their rights.
30. Association “Demetra”
Project: “Necessary social change for an exit from violence”
Place of registration: Burgas
Scope of activity: National
Approved funding: 59,995.91 EUR
The project aims to build sustainable mechanisms to prevent and deal with gender-based violence through training, advocacy and coordination between institutions and communities.
Trainings for specialists from various fields, training programs for young people, a program for the reintegration of perpetrators, an information campaign to change public attitudes and public events are planned.
The project will contribute to better coordination of the institutional response, increasing the capacity of professionals, working with perpetrators and awareness of the problem in society.
- Dignita Foundation
Project: “Strong Together: Access to Rights and Empowerment”
Place of registration: Sofia
Scope of activity: National
Approved funding: 59,966.77 EUR
The project aims to reduce the vulnerability of girls in institutions and women in prostitution by preventing human trafficking for sexual exploitation, providing specialized services and advocating for political change.
Activities include training to recognize the risks of trafficking, individual support for victims, development of educational materials, advocacy for policy change and information campaigns to raise awareness.
The project will contribute to reduced vulnerability, better victim protection, improved policies and a more informed society.
32. Association “Women of Kazanlak”
Project: “Inspired to Change”
Place of registration: Kazanlak
Scope of activity: National
Approved funding: 59,826.16 EUR
The project creates a comprehensive and coordinated approach to the prevention and support of women and girls who have experienced violence by working with victims, perpetrators and communities.
It envisages the development of victim support programs, coordination between institutions, work with perpetrators, information campaigns, training for specialists and public events to promote equality.
The project will provide effective support for victims, better coordination, work to change public attitudes and sustainable prevention mechanisms.
