Latvian NGO, Centre Marta, Honored with Simone Veil Prize for Championing Women’s Rights in Latvia and Ukraine
Centre Marta, a leading Latvian non-governmental organization dedicated to women’s rights, has been awarded the prestigious Simone Veil Prize by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs. The recognition highlights the organization’s tireless work supporting women facing violence, both within Latvia and in war-torn Ukraine.
A Lifeline for Survivors of Violence
The Simone Veil Prize, established in 2019, acknowledges individuals and collectives committed to combating violence and discrimination against women and promoting gender equality. French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Jean-Noël Barrot, emphasized that Centre Marta “accompanies victims of violence by providing legal, psychological, and social support” during the award ceremony, held just days before International Women’s Day.
In Latvia, Centre Marta supported over 700 women and girls who were victims of violence or sexual exploitation in 2025. Since the Russian aggression against Ukraine began, the organization has extended its support to Ukrainian women affected by the war and related violence, offering shelter, legal assistance, and psychological care.
Expanding Support to Ukraine: Rehabilitation and Empowerment
Centre Marta has established three support centers in Ukraine – the first in Ivano-Frankivsk in 2022, and two additional centers in the Chernihiv region in 2023. These centers provide comprehensive services, including shelter, long-term rehabilitation, and social, psychological, legal, and humanitarian assistance. The organization similarly focuses on empowering women through professional training, educational workshops, and financial literacy programs.
The centers offer specialized support to women and girls who have suffered war crimes, including sexual violence. Centre Marta also provides training and resources to specialists in both Ukraine and Latvia, focusing on gender-based violence (GBV), aid delivery, and psychological first aid.
Navigating Political Challenges: The Convention of Istanbul
The award also recognizes Centre Marta’s dedication to upholding international standards for women’s rights, particularly the Council of Europe’s Convention on Istanbul. This treaty, designed to combat violence against women, has faced political opposition in some countries, including Latvia.
In late October 2025, a majority of Latvian lawmakers voted to withdraw the country from the Convention of Istanbul, citing concerns over the concept of “gender” and perceived foreign ideology. However, following a veto by President Edgars Rinkēvičs, the decision was postponed until after the autumn 2026 legislative elections.
The jury for the Simone Veil Prize specifically commended Centre Marta for its “determined action for the sustainability of the Istanbul Convention,” and for highlighting the importance of protecting this vital legal instrument.
The Impact of Recognition
Iluta Lace, the founder of Centre Marta, expressed gratitude for the award, stating it provides “strength and practical means to continue” their crucial work.
Future Trends in Supporting Women Affected by Conflict
The recognition of Centre Marta’s work underscores a growing global awareness of the disproportionate impact of conflict on women and girls. Several trends are likely to shape the future of support for women in conflict zones:
- Increased Focus on Sexual and Gender-Based Violence as a War Crime: There is a growing international effort to recognize and prosecute sexual violence as a war crime, leading to increased demand for specialized support services for survivors.
- Localized and Community-Based Approaches: Effective support requires deep understanding of local contexts and collaboration with local organizations. Centre Marta’s partnership with Ukrainian organizations like ELEOS and the Chernihiv Network exemplifies this approach.
- Economic Empowerment as a Key to Recovery: Providing women with economic opportunities is crucial for their long-term recovery and independence. Programs focusing on skills training, financial literacy, and entrepreneurship will grow increasingly important.
- Integration of Mental Health and Psychosocial Support: Trauma-informed care and mental health services are essential for addressing the psychological impact of conflict and violence.
- Advocacy for International Legal Frameworks: Continued advocacy for the implementation and protection of international conventions like the Istanbul Convention will be vital to ensure women’s rights are upheld.
FAQ
What is the Simone Veil Prize?
The Simone Veil Prize is a French award recognizing individuals or organizations working to combat violence and discrimination against women and promote gender equality.
What does Centre Marta do in Ukraine?
Centre Marta provides shelter, rehabilitation services, legal assistance, and psychological support to women and girls affected by the war in Ukraine, including those who have experienced sexual violence.
What is the Istanbul Convention?
The Istanbul Convention is a Council of Europe treaty aimed at preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence.
Did you know? Centre Marta also provides methodological support for specialists through training, supervision, and the development of informational materials regarding gender-based violence.
Pro Tip: Supporting organizations like Centre Marta is a direct way to contribute to the well-being and empowerment of women affected by conflict.
Learn more about the critical work being done to support women in conflict zones. Share this article to raise awareness and encourage others to acquire involved.
