What is the Project and its Goal?Â

The Aman Project is an initiative by Holy Land Trust (HLT) designed to empower marginalized women in Palestine, particularly in the Bethlehem Governorate (Jubet Ad-Dib and Walajeh), by providing them with the skills and tools to achieve economic independence and become leaders within their communities. The goal is to address the root causes of gender-based violence (GBV) by enhancing women’s capacities through training in nonviolence, nonlinear leadership, business start-up, and development. The project aspires to foster societal change, reduce violence against women, and increase women’s participation in the labor market and economic activities.

Where Did the Idea Come From?

The project was born out of a deep concern for the alarming statistics on violence against women in Palestine, as reported by the Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics in 2022. These figures highlight that 52.2% of women face psychological violence, 36.2% economic, 27.6% social, 17.4% physical, and 6.9% sexual, with 37% of victims being women with disabilities. Recognizing the connection between economic empowerment and reducing GBV, Holy Land Trust saw the need to create a program that not only addresses these challenges but also empowers women to lead change in their communities.

What is the Current Status of the Project?

The Aman Project is in its preparatory phase, focusing on recruiting participants (30 women and 20 men) and trainers, and introducing the project to local communities. Community awareness sessions targeting men are underway to gain trust and ensure their support for the project. Training modules are being developed to provide women with essential skills in leadership, nonviolence, and entrepreneurship. The groundwork is being laid to ensure the successful implementation of the project’s activities and its long-term sustainability.Â

Future Hopes

The Aman Project envisions a future where Palestinian women, especially those from rural and marginalized areas, can lead economically independent lives, free from the constraints of violence and societal barriers. By empowering women with the tools to create and sustain innovative projects, the initiative hopes to:

• Build resilient women leaders who can advocate for their rights and influence positive change.

• Shift societal perceptions, particularly among men, about women’s independence and contributions to the economy.

• Establish a scalable model that can be expanded to other regions of Palestine.

• Contribute to a larger movement for gender equality and nonviolent leadership in Palestine, supporting efforts for a just and peaceful society.

Through this project, Holy Land Trust aspires to transform the lives of women and their communities, creating a ripple effect of empowerment, hope, and resilience in the face of ongoing challenges