The OSCE Mission recognizes violence against women as a serious threat that undermines the security and well-being of both individuals and communities, the OSCE announced.
It is stated that the OSCE Mission, as part of its continued commitment to preventing and addressing the problem of violence against women and girls, and promoting the economic empowerment of women who have experienced gender-based violence, provided immortelle plants, technical equipment and materials to support the launch of an aromatherapy and cosmetics production program at the non-governmental organization (NGO) SOS Hotline for Women and Children Victims of Violence in Nikšić.
"For the third year in a row, the Mission is assisting this NGO in improving and developing occupational therapy for women who have experienced gender-based violence, providing resources that help them maintain psychological resilience and acquire skills they can use after leaving the shelter," the statement said.
This innovative occupational therapy initiative, it is added, involves establishing a fully equipped production unit within the NGO shelter, which will enable the production of essential oils, natural cosmetics and soaps.
"The program offers shelter residents a holistic, hands-on experience in aromatherapy and natural product creation, with the goal of fostering their long-term economic independence and personal empowerment," the statement said.
During a visit to the NGO SOS Hotline for Women and Children Victims of Violence Nikšić, the Mission's Democratization Program Manager Bernd Burvic praised the NGO's key role in supporting women to rebuild their lives with dignity, strength, and renewed hope.
"We are truly honored to be able to support initiatives aimed at women who have experienced gender-based violence, which not only provide safety and support, but also create concrete opportunities for empowerment, healing, and long-term independence," said Burwitz.
Executive Director of the NGO SOS Hotline for Women and Children Victims of Violence Nikšić, Nataša Međedović, thanked the Mission for its significant support.
She pointed out that, by combining technical training with personal development, the occupational therapy initiative will enhance the practical skills of residents, while strengthening their sense of achievement, confidence and self-worth.
The statement states that in 2023 and last year, the Mission supported the NGO SOS Hotline for Women and Children Victims of Violence in Nikšić by providing equipment and materials for growing microgreens, including a greenhouse, as well as a Manual for Growing Microgreens.
The initiative is said to have introduced microgreen cultivation as a form of occupational therapy, helping residents gain skills they can use after leaving the shelter – further supporting their path to financial autonomy.
"The OSCE recognizes violence against women as a serious threat that undermines the security and well-being of both individuals and communities," the statement said.
The mission, it added, remains committed to promoting a society with zero tolerance for violence against women and girls.
"In order to combat this problem, the Mission remains committed to partnering with national institutions and civil society organizations in advancing gender equality and promoting a society with zero tolerance for violence against women and girls," the statement said.
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