Source: European Investment Bank
On 14 October 2024, the European Investment Bank (EIB) Group held an event for staff focused on tackling sexual violence in conflict zones.
Guests at the EIB’s Luxembourg headquarters included Her Royal Highness the Grand Duchess Maria Teresa of Luxembourg, who is president of the association Stand Speak Rise Up!, and Ms. Chékéba Hachemi, former first female Afghan diplomat, women’s rights activist and the co-founder of the association.
The event highlighted the association’s transformative work in advocating for and supporting survivors of sexual violence in fragile environments as well as children born of rape.
EIB President Nadia Calviño opened the discussion, saying that investing in women is key to building stronger communities worldwide. She stressed the EIB Group’s commitment to protecting women and empowering them economically, particularly in conflict areas.
The Grand Duchess and Ms. Hachemi presented projects led by Stand Speak Rise Up! aimed at increasing access to education, housing, health and justice and at driving economic independence for survivors and children born of rape. The presentations were followed by a lively exchange of views with EIB staff members.
The association provides a platform for victims to share their experiences and receive support. Since its creation in 2019, Stand Speak Rise Up! has offered direct help to over 6,000 women from 13 countries including Afghanistan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda and Ukraine.
This EIB event offered a reminder of the shared responsibility to support victims of sexual violence, amplify their voices, advocate to end the use of rape as a weapon of war and strive for the universal protection of human rights.