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UNFPA-supported social enterprises give wings to GBV survivors
“Previously, I worked only because I had to. I did not like my job. But now I am looking forward to the new day” – Angelika, GBV survivor.
“Now I am happy with everything. I work in the sphere I like. I am in a new relationship where I am respected. Now I feel secure”, says Angelika, an employee of one of the social enterprises opened with UNFPA support.
The first signs of abuse emerged early in Angelika’s relationship with her ex-husband. She was 15 at that time. “Sometimes he shouted at me and oppressed me psychologically. I had to put up with it. When he first hit me, I told myself “it happened just once”, a young woman recalls.
After the birth of the son, the situation got worse. Angelika’s husband refused to find a job and drank a lot. That is how the 17-year-old girl was forced to provide for the family. Without any education or experience, she tried to get any possible job.
“He beat me with his hands and legs. Even as I was holding our 8-month-old child in my arms. It was the end of our relationship”, Angelika says. Domestic violence had its toll on Angelika’s baby: “He is alerted by loud noises. Sometimes he gets overly nervous without a reason”.