From March to September 2025, the Council of Europe supported three civil society initiatives promoting the gender-sensitive economic and social inclusion of refugee and local women and girls in Armenia. Implemented through small grants, these projects complemented the Council of Europe’s broader efforts to advance gender equality to prevent violence against women in Armenia.

The projects implemented by For Equality Human Rights, Hub Artsakh, and Armenian Progressive Youth NGOs, strengthened women’s economic independence and resilience through entrepreneurship training, skill-building workshops, and awareness-raising initiatives. They also created safe spaces for social and psychological support, while fostering community cooperation across Tavush Province and Yerevan. Regional authorities, local self-governing bodies, civil society organisations and professionals in various fields took part in the activities, contributing to sustainable local partnerships. Through tailored mentoring provided by experts and trainers, participants enhanced their employability, developed entrepreneurial skills, and deepened their understanding of labour rights and protection mechanisms.

In total, 158 women and girls in vulnerable situations, including 66 refugee women, benefited from the projects. One in four participants secured employment, while around half engaged in self-employment or home-based work. Many participants reported improved confidence, emotional resilience, and active participation in community life.

These grassroots initiatives demonstrate how cooperation with civil society can foster women’s empowerment and social integration, contributing to long-term gender equality in Armenia.
These grant projects were implemented with the funding of the Council of Europe’s project “Ending Violence Against Women and Promoting Gender Equality in Armenia.”