Connecting Spheres. Protecting gender-based violence survivors

Funded by the DG Justice of the European Commission under the DAPHNE Programme, the project Connecting Spheres: strengthening CSOs and networks to protect GBV survivors in all their diversity addresses the urgent need to combat gender-based violence targeting Lgbtqia+ individuals, who face systemic discrimination and violence, across various dimensions, as ultimate beneficiaries of the action throughout the sub-granting activities aiming at financing interventions of civil societies organisations to contrast gender-base violence against Lgbtqia+ people. 

Stemming from the consortium's recognition of the fundamental right of every individual to live free from violence, the project aims to support Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in preventing and responding to gender-based violence against Lgbtqia+ people, particularly by adopting an intersectional approach and thus focusing on marginalised groups such as migrants, refugees, trans individuals, youths, disabled individuals, and those facing poverty due to diverse socio-economic factors.

At the heart of the project lies a commitment to uphold human and fundamental rights, particularly within the framework of the Istanbul Convention, which calls for non-discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. Despite the Convention’s comprehensive provisions, challenges persist due to legislative and social discrimination, especially in countries like Italy. The project responds to these challenges by empowering grassroots CSOs through financial support, capacity-building initiatives, networking opportunities, and advocacy actions, both at national and European levels.

Through a multi-pronged approach, the project seeks to achieve its objectives by strengthening support services, challenging gender stereotypes, and enhancing legislative frameworks to protect Lgbtqia+ individuals from gender-based violence. By fostering collaboration among CSOs, institutions, and stakeholders, the project aims to create a more inclusive and equitable society where Lgbtqia+ individuals can live without fear of violence. 

Key activities include a sub-granting mechanism to fund projects addressing gender-based violence prevention and protection, a capacity-building program for CSOs, and dissemination efforts to promote policy recommendations and good practices.

By leveraging partnerships and alliances, the project aspires to drive systemic change and ensure the effective protection and empowerment of Lgbtqia+ individuals across Europe. 

FGB is responsible for the communication of the project, and participates, with the other partners, in the selection of the projects submitted by CSOs, and to the elaboration of the capacity building strategy that will support the funded CSOs.