Until early 2020, Lithuania did not recognize women’s rights. According to the European Institute Gender Equality Index in 2023, Lithuania ranks 17th, scoring 6.1 points below the average European Union (EU) country. However, since 2010, Lithuania’s score has improved by 9.2 points and by 3.5 points since 2020. This improvement in equality and the narrowing of the gender gap results from the efforts of various resilient actors and significant causes. Here are four nonprofits in Lithuania dedicated to supporting women:

The Lithuanian Women’s Lobby

The Lithuanian Women‘s Lobby Organisation (LWLO), an integral member of the European Women’s Lobby Organisation (EWLO)—the largest umbrella group for women’s rights in Lithuania and the EU—was established in 2004.

This organization advocates for gender equality and women’s rights across various societal sectors. In addition, the organization actively influences policy-making processes, raises awareness about gender issues and promotes women’s participation in decision-making at all levels. It focuses on addressing issues such as:

• Combating gender-based violence
• Promoting equal opportunities in education, employment and leadership positions
• Advocating for reproductive rights and health
• Addressing gender stereotypes and discrimination
• Supporting initiatives to achieve work-life balance for women
• Promoting women’s participation in politics and decision-making processes

Additionally, the organization’s annual “Blossom of Hope” campaign has raised more than 300,000 euros for buying medical supplies for Lithuanian women diagnosed with breast cancer.

The Vilnius Women’s House

The Vilnius Women’s House is a nongovernmental, nonprofit in Lithuania that collaborates with women who have encountered violence and provides diverse avenues of assistance. In 1996 the organization opened the first crisis center for survivors of gender based violence in the history of the three Baltic states of Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia.

In addition, it primarily focuses on providing support and assistance to women who have experienced violence. The organization offers various services and resources to help these women rebuild their lives and overcome the challenges women face due to violence such as:

• Crisis intervention and prevention
• Self-help groups
• Legal support
• Training events
• Lobbying

An article from the European Scientific Journal in 2015 reported that women involved with Vilnius Women’s House displayed higher trust in governmental competence.

IWAV

The International Women’s Association of Vilnius (IWAV) is a nonprofit organization located in Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, dedicated to fostering friendship, cultural exchange and personal development among women of diverse backgrounds. IWAV provides a platform for members to connect, share experiences and build meaningful relationships. Additionally, the association promotes cultural exchange and integration through language exchange sessions, cooking classes and workshops, allowing members to learn about different cultures while sharing their traditions.

IWAV also engages in charitable initiatives to support local communities and organizations in need. This includes fundraising events, donations and volunteering efforts aimed at benefiting causes such as education, health care and social welfare. Furthermore, the association offers opportunities for personal and professional development through workshops, seminars and skill-building activities focused on topics like career advancement, entrepreneurship, health and wellness and intercultural communication.

Moterys Kalba (Women Speak)

Moterys Kalba, translating to “women speak”, is one of the nonprofits in Lithuania dedicated to empowering women and promoting gender equality in the country. Through social projects, the organization seeks to draw attention to gender-related issues and uplift and empower women.

Furthermore, it organizes workshops, events and creative online campaigns to raise awareness about issues such as sexual and domestic abuse, as well as advocate for women’s rights and enduring social and political change. One particular video project entitled #Mudusuang (#ManyofUs) won the People’s Choice Award for Gender Equality in 2016 for respecting diversity, encouraging social dialogues and preventing discrimination and violence against women.

Looking Forward

Investing in empowering women is vital to the success of a developed, progressive nation. According to the U.S. Agency for International Development, when women occupy more than 30% of political seats in a country, it is deemed “more inclusive, egalitarian and democratic.”

These nonprofits in Lithuania ensure empowered women are better able to participate in decision-making processes. They can advocate for their rights and challenge discriminatory norms and practices, fostering positive change for years to come.

– Bella Simokaitis
Photo: Flickr