On March 9, the international forum titled “MELINEE: Mobilizing Empowered Leaders: Inclusion, Networking, Engagement, and Equality” took place at the Vanadzor Puppet Theater . This initiative is a significant outcome of decentralized cooperation between the cities of Strasbourg and Vanadzor, aiming to promote women’s involvement in community life and develop their leadership skills . The forum, which was attended by approximately 150 representatives, is named after the legendary Armenian figure of the anti-fascist resistance, Melinee Manouchian .
During the official opening, Jeanne Barseghian, the Mayor of Strasbourg, delivered a video message, noting that this forum honors women involved in community life and various structures . She emphasized that equality progresses through the exchange of experience and expressed hope that “Melinee” would become a prime example of sisterhood and cooperation between France and Armenia .
The forum’s agenda was filled with panel discussions, the first of which was dedicated to women’s leadership and the obstacles encountered on the path to holding executive positions . During the discussion moderated by Arpine Hakobyan, President of the “NGO Center” Civil Society Development NGO, leading specialists in the field shared their experiences .
The second panel discussion focused on the current state of women’s rights, achievements, and future steps . Under the leadership of Karine Davtyan, President of the “Women’s Rights House” NGO, speakers addressed the legal and social challenges that women face .
Participants also had the opportunity to watch the theatrical performance “Mari,” which is based on Hovhannes Tumanyan’s work “Maro” and the real-life stories of beneficiaries from the “Women’s Rights House” . The performance highlighted painful topics such as domestic violence, early marriages, and sexual harassment .
This forum serves as an exceptional platform within an 18-month project aimed at strengthening women’s self-confidence and leadership skills at both individual and community levels . Through your participation, you will contribute to the formation of a safe environment and the implementation of social transformations aimed at women’s empowerment .
Several organizations have joined forces to implement the project . From Strasbourg, the Information Center on the Rights of Women and Families (CIDFF), the Association of French University Graduate Women (AFDU), and the “Cité des Lionnes” association are involved . On the Armenian side, the project is implemented by the “NGO Center” Civil Society Development NGO and the “Women’s Rights House” NGO .