The challenge
The H2 area of Hebron is one of the most restricted and underserved parts of the West Bank, with daily life dictated by occupation and families experiencing increasing rates of poverty, which continues to be exacerbated by political and socio economical challenges. Women in Hebron, including those with disabilities, are disproportionately affected by these challenges and have highlighted disempowerment due to limited confidence, mobility, and voice, hindering their assertion of human rights.
Women in Hebron Old City face severe challenges, including gender-based violence, high unemployment rates, and restrictive legal and social practices. A lack of awareness about their rights makes them even more vulnerable and limits their ability to advocate for themselves. The ongoing situation in the West Bank significantly impacts the daily lives of Palestinians, with various restrictions on movement, limited access to essential resources, and challenges to their overall quality of life.
This project aims to empower women and their organisations in Hebron Old City. This initiative focuses on strengthening women’s collectives, enhancing their capacity to improve their communities and advocating for women’s rights. Additionally, the project promotes economic empowerment by providing financial resources, training, and opportunities that enables women to make informed decisions and pursue financial stability.
The solution
This project recognises that empowering women in Hebron’s H2 area strengthens the stability and resilience of their entire
community. This is done by:
- Enhancing women’s voice and status in households and communities through education on women’s rights and gender-based violence, activism training, and reflective-action sessions.
- Supporting women to take collective action on key community concerns through women’s groups and a dedicated women’s committee, developing joint initiatives and driving community-led change.
- Increasing women’s earning capacity and financial autonomy through vocational training, tailored business support and seed funding, fostering economic resilience and empowerment.
Who will benefit from the project
More than 120 women across three areas of H2 Hebron – Wad Al-Hussain, Haret Al-Salaymeh, and the southern area.
Impact so far
The project has supported 130 women from three areas of H2, Hebron. In the last year the program has:
- Conducted 25 reflective-action sessions to identify challenges faced by women and women with disabilities and develop community-led actions for change.
- Partnered with local organisations to strengthen outreach and support, including Women’s Centre for Legal Aid and Counselling, the Palestinian Family Planning and Protection Association, Baytuna Centre, Hebron Municipality Centre, and the Palestinian Medical Relief Society.
- Formed two new women’s groups and one cross-cutting group of women with disabilities to mobilise for their rights and provided training on women’s rights and GBV protection.
- Delivered training on vocational skills, small business management, and digital marketing, and provided seed funding and coaching to launch women’s business ideas.
Over the years, the Valiance Basala program has resulted in the strengthening of women’s collectives, the establishment of community health clinics, waste management systems, and public transportation services. The program has expanded women’s professional networks, including collaboration with the Hebron Chamber of Commerce and new market opportunities at the annual Grape Festival. Through these activities, women in Hebron Old City are building their skills and making a positive impact on their communities.
