70 women, primarily from northern and southern Moldova, strengthened their knowledge of leadership and civic engagement, exploring how they can contribute to greater social cohesion and the development of their communities. They took part in the Women’s Community Action Accelerator, organised by UNDP with financial support from Switzerland.

Held from 12 to 16 October, the workshop brought together women from Taraclia, Basarabeasca, Căușeni, Ștefan Vodă, Orhei, Ocnița, Dondușeni, Briceni, Soroca, Edineț, Chișinău, Ialoveni and other localities.

Over five days, participants attended thematic sessions and practical activities, exploring how to move from participation to influence, facilitate dialogue within their communities, respond to crises and put concrete initiatives into practice. The activities included reflection exercises, discussions and presentations of project concepts.

“IInvesting in women as leaders of social cohesion efforts means investing in stronger, more resilient communities. The 70 women who joined the Women's Community Action Accelerator now have greater knowledge, stronger skills, and broader connections to return to their communities and drive positive change. Moreover, they are part of a wider network that advocates for the meaningful participation of women in decision-making processes,” said Daniela Gasparikova, UNDP Resident Representative to the Republic of Moldova.

Participants said the activities gave them an opportunity to reflect on their experiences, learn from one another and develop ideas that they could put into practice in their home communities.

“Until now, my focus had been on the school community. During these five days, I learned how to identify crisis situations in the community and how to help people facing difficulties. I particularly appreciated learning how to write project proposals, with each stage explained to us. It was a productive experience,” said Tatiana Pînzari, a primary school teacher from Sudarca village.

“We will put into practice what we previously knew only in theory. To make a meaningful contribution to your community, whether in a village or a town, you need to be willing to keep learning. As a librarian and a member of a local non-governmental organisation, I will try to bring my colleagues together so that we can develop a project for our community,” said Stela Domentii from Chiperceni village.

The Women’s Community Action Accelerator was organised within the framework of the project “Enhancing social cohesion in Moldova through dialogue and community empowerment”, implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Moldova in partnership with UNFPA Moldova, with financial support from Switzerland.