Since writing this article, the American administration have terminated funding for these projects. Find out more…
We are thrilled to share some fantastic new projects that will be launched next year. Part of the funding for these projects comes from different international Governments. This is hugely encouraging because it shows how much they believe in our peacebuilding work and want to invest in it.
SAGIP
Strengthening Advocacy for Good Governance and Inclusive Protection of Human Rights
The challenge
Things are becoming more dangerous for grassroots organisations in the Philippines. People are being threatened and treated unfairly. This damages democracy, peace, and human rights. Indigenous People and those who protect the environment are especially in danger, facing discrimination and violence. Leaders of grassroots organisations and local government officials don’t have the skills or knowledge they need to work well together. Misunderstandings and a lack of trust make it hard to protect human rights.
Cord’s response
SAGIP means ‘rescue’ in Filipino. The project will work with young government officials and grassroots organisations and support them to work together with local government authorities, as they stand up for people’s basic freedoms. Through community meetings, door-to-door consultations and lively local events, residents will be able to share their hopes and concerns. This approach will make leaders more visible and accountable. It will give communities the power to connect with those in charge, making sure their voices are heard and their needs are addressed. SAGIP will create a plan that can be used all over the country to make lasting, positive change.
ALLOWED
Access to Land – Lao Women’s Economic Development
The challenge
Women are the poorest people in the villages of rural Laos. It is really hard for them to take part in community life, become leaders or have jobs. This is the result of unfair treatment and traditional beliefs about men and women. One of the key issues is that women don’t have strong rights over their land, which makes it tough for them to improve their economic situation. Women need to know more about their rights and have a stronger voice in their communities. It’s also important for men and boys to support women so they can have a better and more secure future.
Cord’s response
ALLOWED will help women take control of their lives and have a voice in their communities by giving them the skills and knowledge they need to raise awareness about their land rights. They will be supported to join in with decision-making and speak directly to leaders. ALLOWED will work with men to challenge unfair ideas about gender.
ALLOWED will also strengthen women financially by setting up Self Help Groups and supporting them to start small businesses. For example, women will be trained to grow and harvest grass that they can use to make brooms. As well as valuable skills, this will give women a secure income to support their families and strengthen them as leaders.
PLURAL
Promoting Rule of Law and Understanding of Religious Affairs in Laos
The challenge
Life is incredibly difficult for minority religious and ethnic groups in Laos. They are not always free to practice their faith or express their beliefs. Unfair treatment and discrimination lead to tensions and conflict. People in local organisations are not able to do much about religious freedom because it is such a sensitive political issue, and local leaders do not always follow the laws properly.
Cord’s response
PLURAL will help local groups to speak up for people’s freedom to follow their faith and beliefs. At the same time the project will encourage more kindness and understanding of different cultures and religions.
Human Rights Organisations will be trained to keep track of any unfair treatment of people’s religious freedom. They will learn how to collect information and how to use it to create strong messages that can help change rules and policies, both locally and across the country.
