Summary

Each year Armenia is losing around 1400 girls, in result of prenatal sex selection and gender-based abortions, which is already a demographic threat for the nation. Prenatal sex selection is deeply rooted in patriarchal structures of society that tend to favor boys. The objective of the project is to contribute to a reduction of gender-biased sex selection in Armenia. The project will result in at least 15% positive change and at least a 10% reduction in the number of sex-selective abortion.

What is the issue, problem, or challenge?

Evidence proves that the skewed sex ratio at birth is essentially traceable to prenatal sex selection. In spite of active prenatal sex discrimination, knowledge and awareness of sex selective abortion, female infanticide and its negative consequences are lacking. Policy is limited by lack of knowledge of problem, means to address it, lack of capacities of actors at all levels to engage communities in dialogue on gender equality, discrimination, reproductive rights, gender-biased sex selection.

How will this project solve this problem?

Project will bring together at least 200 local practitioners to engage local communities, strengthening their critical capacities. Organizations, human rights defenders, universities, media, faith-based orgs, social workers, community leaders will get training and knowledge on gender biased sex selection, non-discrimination, reproductive rights, gender based violence. There will be individual consultations for women, families; community actions to spread info and prevent gender-based abortions.

Potential Long Term Impact

Project will have great impact on changing the demographic situation in country and will change ratio of 140 boys to 100 girls in nearest future. This objectives will be achieved through set of interlinked activities ensuring that the local organizations, community leaders, authorities are equipped with knowledge, skills, have understanding of negative consequences of gender-biased sex selection. Positive change in public perception, attitude towards gender-biased sex selection will be achieved.