site.btaSurge in Violence Against Women Sparks New Zonta Initiative in Bulgaria

Alarming figures reveal a surge in violence against women in Bulgaria: in 2021, there were 12 women killed, and around 400 reports of violence against women were filed throughout the year. In just the first half of 2024, the number of victims has already climbed to 13, with over 500 cases reported, Diana Ivanova, director of Area 05, District 30, Zonta International, said here on Friday during a press conference marking the International Day of the Girl Child.

Zonta is one of the organizations working in partnership with other NGOs and institutions in Bulgaria to combat violence against women and children.

The organization has long-standing projects, and November is globally recognized as a month against domestic violence and all forms of aggression, including physical and cyber violence, Ivanova said.

Zonta is set to launch the I am Rada project in collaboration with the National Legal Aid Bureau, which includes promoting the Bureau's Help Me app. The app provides a comprehensive list of contacts throughout Bulgaria where victims of domestic violence and aggression can seek consultations, receive assistance, and find guidance on how to cope and which steps to take.

The I am Rada project is funded by the Bulgarian Fund for Women.

"I firmly believe and hope that these campaigns will bring greater awareness and, through the leadership we demonstrate, set an example," Ivanova added. "Women in these situations should feel supported and be encouraged to take that difficult first step."

Maria Stefanova, International Director of Zonta International, said that the organization will celebrate its 105th anniversary this November. Currently, more than 200 Bulgarian women have embraced Zonta's mission, which focuses on women's rights, education, and nurturing future leaders. As a member of the UN network of over 4,000 non-governmental organizations, Zonta is one of just 315 that hold voting rights.

Zonta Bulgaria has two clubs in each of the eight regional centres, including Sofia, Plovdiv (Southern Bulgaria) and Varna (on the Black Sea). Each club also has a youth club for pupils and students.