28 January 2026
The MELINEE project is a decentralized cooperation initiative between the cities of Strasbourg (France) and Vanadzor (Armenia). The project bears a symbolic name that pays tribute to Mélinée Manouchian, an emblematic figure of the anti-fascist resistance and an engaged woman of Armenian origin.
Project Objective
The main objective is to strengthen young women’s leadership skills and their capacity to take on responsibilities, creating a women’s network built on the engagement of local actors and institutional and associative partners.
Through intercultural and intergenerational exchanges, the project fosters women’s empowerment and active participation within their communities
Main Activities
- Forum in Vanadzor (March 9, 2026): Symbolically aligned with International Women’s Rights Day, this Forum will bring together 200 participants from civil society, institutional and academic sectors. It serves as a space for dialogue to discuss the state of women’s rights and the obstacles women face in their professional and personal journeys.
- Mentorship Program: A six-month program (March–September 2026) bringing together 16 women (8 from Armenia and 8 from Strasbourg). Experienced women leaders will mentor young professionals to strengthen their self-confidence, public speaking skills, and leadership capacity.
- Production of a Mentorship Guide: At the conclusion of the program, a mentorship guide will be produced, gathering participants’ experiences, best practices, and methodological tools to serve as a resource for future initiatives.
- Closing Event in Strasbourg: The official closing of the project will be held in late November 2026 during Strasbourg’s annual conference on combating violence against women, where the results and broader impact of the project will be highlighted.
The project is implemented through the cooperation between the cities of Strasbourg and Vanadzor, institutional and associative partners, and civil society organizations.