As part of the EU-funded project "Rights Amplified: Inclusive Development and Social Inclusion for children, youth, and families most impacted by discrimination in Kosovo," a comprehensive Gender Mainstreaming training session was held for both formal and non-formal providers of social services. This initiative is integral to the project's broader aim of improving the well-being and safeguarding the rights of vulnerable groups, including girls, boys, women, victims and survivors of gender-based violence (GBV) and domestic violence, and children and youth with disabilities across seven targeted municipalities in Kosovo.

Topics Covered During the Training

The Gender Mainstreaming training encompassed a broad range of subjects that centered on the integration of gender perspectives in social services. This focus is essential to building a system that responds to the diverse needs of beneficiaries and ensures equal treatment and opportunities for all. Below are some of the key areas addressed during the training:

Discussion of Previously Covered Topics

The training built upon previously discussed concepts of gender equality and social work, emphasizing the relevance of integrating gender-sensitive approaches in service delivery.

Concepts and Legal Framework

Participants were introduced to the legal frameworks that support gender equality and gender mainstreaming. This section aimed to deepen the understanding of international and national laws that protect the rights of individuals based on gender and ensure equal access to services.

Social Work and Gender Issues

Working groups were established to explore how gender issues intersect with social work. Participants examined the basic values of social work and how these principles relate to gender, highlighting the importance of equity, empathy, and empowerment in providing social services.

Presentation of Group Findings

Each working group presented their findings on how social services could be tailored to better address the unique challenges faced by women, girls, and other marginalized groups.

Understanding Service Users

A key element of the training was identifying who the beneficiaries of social services are, focusing on their characteristics, needs, and vulnerabilities. Service providers were encouraged to adopt a holistic approach that recognizes the varied experiences and needs of beneficiaries based on gender.

Gender Mainstreaming in Social Services

Participants engaged in practical exercises through working groups to identify specific ways gender mainstreaming could be effectively integrated into the daily practices of formal and non-formal social service providers. The goal was to create a gender-responsive service model that ensures inclusivity and sensitivity to the different needs of all individuals.

The Path Forward

This Gender Mainstreaming training is a critical step towards ensuring that the most vulnerable members of society receive the care and protection they deserve. By equipping social service providers with the knowledge and tools to apply gender-sensitive approaches, the 'Rights Amplified' project is making significant strides towards creating a more equitable and inclusive society in Kosovo.

Through ongoing collaboration between formal and non-formal providers, backed by the support of the EU, this initiative is helping to amplify the voices and rights of those who have been historically marginalized. Gender mainstreaming in social services ensures that all individuals, regardless of gender or background, can access the support they need to thrive.