The project responds to the problem of gender-based violence and the lack of sufficient support for women experiencing violence. Approximately 1 million women in Poland have experienced violence, and more than 70,000 Blue Cards are established every year. The problem is part of a broader socio-political context – the state authorities are not taking any meaningful action against violence, and the government’s denunciation of the so-called anti-violence convention has become real. Although there are several non-governmental organisations in Wrocław assisting women experiencing violence and providing free legal aid, the offer of assistance is still insufficient considering the scale of the phenomenon. There is also a lack of educational activities to raise public awareness in this area.

As part of the project, The Project Promoter in partnership with a law firm, provided free legal support to women experiencing violence. A total of 142 women benefited from this support. Support consisted of consultation, drafting of pleadings, representation of women in trials. The problems most frequently reported by female clients were economic violence, non-alimony, domestic violence. At the same time, a public awareness campaign was conducted, which included 35 articles on women’s rights, 6 interviews with experts, and 3 webinars and spots were prepared. Topics covered in the materials included violence against women during pandemonium, so-called ‘rape culture’, misogyny towards women’s sport, the problem of incelism, gender stereotypes, the Blue Card procedure, psychological and legal aspects of leaving a situation of violence, violence against women with disabilities, the crime of rape.

Free legal aid was provided to 142 women, who received concrete support in leaving the situation of violence and gained knowledge about their rights and institutions that offer assistance. The Project Promoter’s offer supplemented the offer of the local system against gender violence and thus had a positive impact on the availability of support. Numerous expert materials are a valuable source of knowledge not only for women who need support, but also for professionals and local decision-makers, as well as for society in general.