Advocacy “E-WINGS”: Interactive Toolkit for the Elimination of Violence Against Women

Violence against women remains a serious issue in Portugal. According to the Portuguese Observatory of Murdered Women, 28 women were killed in domestic violence contexts in 2023 alone[i]. Recognising this urgent need for systemic change, the Portuguese Soroptimists developed E-WINGS to educate, guide, and mobilise communities toward a violence-free future.

E-WINGS serves as a comprehensive and multilingual platform accessible to all, providing:

• Educational materials and videos (including a dedicated video on the Istanbul Convention),
• 13 expert-led webinars,
• A checklist for victims and educators,
• Access to helplines and local organisations,
• Advocacy tools and resources for raising awareness.

The project promotes open dialogue, challenges harmful gender norms, and empowers individuals to recognise and act against all forms of abuse. It fosters partnerships with NGOs, government institutions, and youth organisations. The launch included strategic actions, such as direct outreach to key Portuguese political leaders and the dissemination of QR code access cards to ministers, the Ombudsman, and the National Police Chief.

Since its launch, E-WINGS has reached over 150,000 people, with ongoing dissemination through national media (e.g., Rádio Renascença) and presentations at Soroptimist events, including the dinner for the February 2025 SIE Officers Training. The English version of E-WINGS ensures it can be adapted globally, enabling Soroptimists around the world to replicate the model.

At its core, E-WINGS stands for freedom, resilience, and hope—inspired by the symbolism of the “Bonfim ribbons”—calling for a collective transformation toward a safe and respectful society. Through this innovative initiative, the Soroptimists of Lisboa Caravela reaffirm their commitment to SDG 5 and SDG 4, proving that meaningful change begins with knowledge, solidarity, and unwavering advocacy.