Solidarity remains a core value for women’s organizations and women’s rights defenders — a truth reaffirmed at the annual network meeting held earlier this month in Struga. More than 30 activists from 20 organizations gathered to connect, learn new skills, and strengthen mutual support at a time when the space for civic engagement is increasingly restricted.
This year, in addition to the usual sharing of experiences and reflections, the meeting included a capacity-building component tailored to the needs of women’s organizations and rights defenders.
Practical sessions on comprehensive security, strategic advocacy, and effective communication proved to be critical for sustaining their activism, especially given the narrowing civic space and the rise of anti-democratic narratives. The meeting included risk assessment sessions at both individual and organizational levels, enabling participants to map vulnerabilities and exchange experiences and ideas for prevention and protection strategies. These sessions provided space for dialogue and peer learning through the sharing of good practices and challenges.
During the second and third days, participants focused on strengthening advocacy practices. Through a combination of theory and practical exercises, activists explored how to develop well-prepared, evidence-based, and influential policy documents that communicate clear advocacy messages. Emphasis was placed on the power of storytelling and factual evidence in shaping public opinion and influencing decision-makers.
Strategic communication, particularly public speaking and media engagement, was another key component of the program. Activists exchanged tips and received practical guidance on how to effectively use media appearances to amplify key messages and advance their goals. The sessions encouraged participants to be clear, confident, and goal-oriented: to know their message, understand their audience, and seize every opportunity to advocate for all women, embracing their diversity.
The Struga meeting confirmed what many women in the movement already know — activism thrives through networking and solidarity.
The meeting was organized by the action team in synergy with the project “Women Take the Lead in Local Communities”, funded by the European Union and co-funded by Sweden through the bilateral program “Advancing Democracy and Human Rights through Active Civil Society in North Macedonia” and the global program “Strengthening Peacebuilding Initiatives for Community Inclusion”, also funded by Sweden.
