The solidarity march in support of survivors of sexual violence brought together around 100 people in Nisporeni, Moldova

On Denim Day (“Jeans Day”), the community of Nisporeni came together for a solidarity march in support of victims and survivors of sexual violence. The message “My power is to believe survivors of sexual harassment” united the community and is part of the national campaign “The Power of Example,” carried out under the auspices of the Government of the Republic of Moldova.

Approximately 100 women, men, young people, and professionals from various fields took part in the march, wearing jeans and carrying banners with messages aimed at combating sexual violence and demonstrating the importance of leading by example in supporting survivors. The march began at the Monument of Stephen the Great and Holy in the locality and continued to the city’s central park, where participants marked the sidewalks with the Women and Girls Helpline number — 0 8008 8008 — helping to raise public awareness of available support services for survivors of sexual violence.

Along the route, participants also distributed information about the Regional Integrated Service for Survivors of Sexual Violence in Ungheni. The service provides free medical, forensic, psychological, legal, and social assistance under one roof and covers six districts: Ungheni, Călărași, Telenești, Fălești, Sîngerei, and Nisporeni.

The manager of the Regional Integrated Service for Survivors of Sexual Violence in Ungheni municipality, Cristina Ghizdari, stated during the event that this mobilization demonstrates that people in Nisporeni district choose not to remain silent in the face of the painful reality of sexual violence. “This initiative helps break the silence, encourages reporting of cases, and shows that support and empathy for survivors exist.”

The event was financially supported by the European Union through the #EVOLVE4GE project and organized by the International Center “La Strada,” with the support of UN Women Moldova.

Background: Denim Day, observed annually on the last Wednesday of April, has a history of over 30 years and symbolizes solidarity with survivors of sexual violence, as well as protest against stereotypes and prejudices that can hinder access to justice. The initiative began in 1992, following a controversial ruling by the Supreme Court of Italy that overturned a rape conviction, sparking public protests and a global solidarity movement. Since April 2018, Denim Day has also been marked in the Republic of Moldova, at the initiative of the International Center “La Strada.”

In March 2023, UN Women Moldova, in partnership with local public authorities and civil society, established the first Regional Integrated Service for Survivors of Sexual Violence, with financial support from the European Union. The service, piloted by the International Center “La Strada,” provides survivors with access to medical care, forensic expertise, psychosocial and legal assistance, as well as psychological evaluation services, all in a single location. Since its launch, 115 survivors of sexual violence have received support.

Service contact numbers: 0785 17 327 | 0784 95 866.