Education and Safe Space: Paths to Safety and Health
The red-light district of Bowbazaar mainly attracts people with low incomes. Safe hygiene practices and healthcare options are virtually non-existent, which increases the risk of disease. Women are often oppressed and financially exploited by men. Sexual assaults are common.
An essential part of the joint project with the Indian partner organisation SKHM is providing education in the district. People are provided with information on safe hygiene practices, as well as details of government and non-governmental health, wellbeing and protection services. Another key element is the "Safe Space", a refuge for women. Five health check-up camps have already been held there in 2024. Counselling sessions are also offered in the "Safe Space".
In 2024, 54 women participated in training courses designed to equip them with the skills needed to start their own small businesses in the future. These businesses ranged from tailoring and jewellery making to cooking and food processing. The project provides women in the red-light district with safe ways to earn money. They can sell products such as clothing, scarves and homemade jam in our Charukala workshop store, which is located directly below the office. This is a first step towards an independent future.
Teesta Banerjee, Project Manager at SKHM
Men's and women's collectives as role models in the neighbourhood
As part of the current project phase, two collectives consisting of 16 women and 14 men each were formed in the neighbourhood. The groups meet regularly to openly discuss tensions and conflicts on an equal footing. Together, they develop plans for micro-enterprises and discuss strategies for preventing sexual violence. The collectives also serve as contact points for other neighbourhood residents. This direct, non-violent communication creates positive role models that strengthen mutual tolerance and aim to reduce violence against women in the long term.
We give women the opportunity to learn new skills and thus be independent. Here: jewelry making
In 2024, five health check camps were held, where 135 women and 25 men received a free general health check.
In addition, we inform both men and women in the region about important social issues such as women's rights, gender discrimination, and government social benefits.
Projectinfo
| Place/Region | Kolkata, India |
|---|---|
| Partner | SKHM (South Kolkata Hamari Muskan) |
| Activities |
|
| Duration | January 1, 2023 to December 31, 2025 |
| Budget | 150,000€ |
| Sponsor | German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) |
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