The Italian Buddhist Institute Soka Gakkai is pleased to announce the opening of a 30-day window for the submission of project proposals eligible for 8×1000 funds, focusing on the issue of violence against women. Individuals and organizations are invited to contribute innovative ideas and practical solutions to address the challenges related to the protection of women who have experienced violence and their children.
A brief description of the proposal can be submitted via the 8×1000 Management Platform, accessible through the following link. After registering on the platform, it is necessary to fill in the “Anagrafica” area and proceed with the submission. Once you have received confirmation of the activation of the master data from the administrative office, the system allows access to the Windows.
The deadline for proposal submission is September 26, 2024. Project durations should range between 12 and 24 months. Projects must be carried out entirely within Italy.
This initiative falls within the “Human Rights” intervention area, aiming to promote the shift from a passive tolerance attitude — where there is no real understanding of the difficulties faced by others — to the creation of a society where no one is left behind.
This window represents an initial step, based on the alignment and relevance of the proposal with the objectives outlined by IBISG. It seeks to gather preliminary project concepts, including a summary of goals and target beneficiaries.
Selection results will be notified within 45 working days following the closure of the submission window.
Selected proposals will be asked to submit a more detailed project proposal, including a comprehensive budget, at a later stage.
The selection of projects and initiatives to be funded, as well as the amount awarded, will be at the sole discretion of the Italian Buddhist Institute Soka Gakkai.
Context
Violence against women is a serious and widespread issue that demands urgent action. In Italy, in 2020, one in three women experienced physical or sexual violence, highlighting the need to protect women and their children. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated the situation, with an increase in calls for help during lockdowns, described as a “shadow pandemic” by the United Nations. Pandemic containment measures amplified the challenges faced by victims of domestic violence.
In 2023, there were 13,793 requests for help related to domestic or gender-based violence, underscoring the psychological and social impact of gender violence. In 2024, one woman is killed every three days due to gender-based violence.
These statistics underscore the urgent need for adequate resources and concrete interventions to support and protect victims and their children.
Objectives
This window aims to provide effective and concrete solutions to support women victims of violence and protect their children.
Proposals should aim to achieve at least 3 of the following specific objectives:
- Establish and support anti-violence centers and shelters to provide safe spaces and immediate assistance to women and their children.
- Provide free psychological and legal support to victims of violence, helping them overcome trauma and pursue legal action against their abusers.
- Promote socio-occupational reintegration programs to assist victims in reintegrating into society through vocational training and job search support.
- Offer psychological support services for children, including therapy and counseling programs to help them process and overcome the trauma of domestic violence.