Mannequins highlight women's stories of violence in Chisinau
Several mannequins representing the stories of 16 women affected by violence were installed in different institutions throughout the capital.
This initiative is part of the campaign against gender-based violence, which will run until December 10.
“Do you see me?”—this is the message the figurines send to all passersby who notice them. These institutions include the National Theater "Mihai Eminescu," the State University of Moldova, and Chisinau Airport.
“Next to the statues, there are stories as well. These are real stories, though the names are hypothetical. They depict cases of various forms of violence. The female statues we see represent real women—women who could be our neighbors, mothers, or sisters. We need to see them, believe them, and stand by them,” said Dominika Stojanoska, a representative of UN Women.
In addition to the stories, a QR code is placed next to the mannequins, which, when scanned, directs the reader to real-time statistics on gender-based violence in Moldova.
“It’s a thought-provoking message, a cry for attention, and I believe it fulfills its purpose of stopping and raising questions.”
“This violence particularly affects women and girls, who can be very young, unfortunately. It may be sexual, physical, or moral violence, all of which profoundly impact the person.”
“I am a man too. We face challenges every day. I agree, although I am not married, it is never acceptable to act this way, especially in front of children.”
“Girls should not be afraid to tell authorities, parents, acquaintances, or friends what happened to them, because it is not shameful. It is not shameful to be a woman, nor is it shameful to love,” noted those interviewed.
“We all speak nicely. It’s important for all of us who recognize these realities to speak out and condemn them, so they reach places where abuse is unseen, and, in most cases, where the worst happens in silence,” said actor Dan Melnic.
“The longer the violence lasts, the more inhibited the victims become. That’s why it’s important for women who are suffering not to hesitate to reach out to support resources, such as the helpline for women: 080088008, to learn what rights are being violated, what services are available, and where they can seek concrete help,” said Viorelia Rusu, a program specialist at UN Women.
In 2023, 21 women lost their lives due to domestic violence. Meanwhile, 73 percent of women experienced at least one form of violence, only 11 percent of which was reported. The “16 Days Against Gender-Based Violence” campaign will continue its activities for the next eight days to minimize this phenomenon as much as possible.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
