Final Evaluation: “Deinstitutionalize and End Violence against Women with Disabilities in Custodial Institutions” (Serbia)

Grantee: Mental Disability Rights Initiative of Serbia (MDRI-S)

Country: Serbia

Period: January 2016 to January 2018

Grant amount: $105,630

Description: The project addressed violence against women with mental disabilities perpetrated or condoned by the State, including custodial violence, forced sterilization and issues relating to pregnancy and abortion. The aim was to ensure that women and girls with disabilities in custodial institutions have greater support for their right to live free of violence and have access to services.

Main findings of the evaluation:

• the project prompted institutional and policy changes by bringing the perspectives and experiences of women with disabilities in institutions to the attention of decision-makers in an ethical, safe and respectful manner;
• the 110 women directly involved in the project gained awareness of protection mechanisms; and
• a previously invisible issue was put on the public agenda, which motivated 10 service providers to support women with disabilities in custodial institutions and 8 to improve their services.

View/Download