Domestic and Gender-based Violence

Programme Summary

Why we contribute to combating domestic and gender-based violence in Romania Domestic violence and trafficking in human beings remain grave challenges in Romania, despite increasing attention being paid to both issues. Government bodies and NGOs lack the necessary resources to provide coordinated responses and to protect victims. There is an urgent need to build capacity among law enforcement agencies and the judiciary, and to improve support for victims. The Romanian law on prevention and fight against domestic violence was revised in 2012, expanding the definition of violence as well as the rights of victims. The same year, a Council of Europe expert group on action against trafficking in human beings welcomed steps already taken by the Romanian government, but also pointed to shortcomings, including the need to improve support services for victims of trafficking. Roma women make up a particularly vulnerable group of victims, due to ethnic and gender discrimination. The programme will draw not only on the national legislation, but also on relevant Council of Europe conventions on domestic violence and trafficking.  What the key priorities are •    Improving support services for victims of trafficking and violence •    Raising public awareness of the harmful effects of domestic violence •    Improving the law enforcement and prosecution’s response to domestic violence, related to the recently updated legislation on domestic violence •    Specific measures target the Roma community, including awareness-raising and a national prevention campaign to reduce vulnerability to trafficking What we will achieve •    The establishment of at least one shelter or recovery centre for victims of domestic and gender-based violence •    The establishment of a shelter for victims of trafficking in Bucharest •    At least 100 trafficking victims in Bucharest will receive assistance •    Training of at least 135 professionals dealing with human trafficking •    The training of at least 500 professionals, including law enforcement agencies, prosecutors and judges in acknowledging and enforcing Romanian legislation on domestic violence •    The setting up or supporting of a counselling centre for perpetrators of domestic violence •    Informing at least 15 vulnerable communities, including Roma communities, of dangers associated with forced begging. The communities that will benefit are located in the six main regions (Moldova, Transylvania, Oltenia, Muntenia, Dobrogea and Bucharest)Who will benefit The programme will benefit victims of domestic and gender-based violence and trafficking, including victims belonging to vulnerable groups such as Roma. Professionals working in the field of victim support, law enforcement and judiciary, as well as gender equality organisations, policy makers and public administration are also target groups of the programme.Partnership opportunities and bilateral relations Networking, experience sharing and transfers of best practices will be a central element to the programme, which has potential for long term cooperation and partnerships. Project level partnerships between relevant entities in Romania and Norway are encouraged and facilitated, and the programme will make available funds for the search for relevant partners.