Olga Shparaga, filia board member, philosopher, and leading figure in the protest movement in Belarus, on the feminist movement in Eastern Europe:

“The challenges women face in Eastern Europe affect society as a whole: women struggle against gender stereotypes in their daily lives and against institutional hierarchies. Hierarchies that prevent women from improving their social standing and taking advantage of opportunities for political participation. At the same time, however, these diverse challenges spur women to act with greater determination and solidarity. For they understand that the lives of disadvantaged people and groups depend on them. As a result, women are becoming role models for the actions and politics of the future.”

Ise Bosch, Co-founder of filia & philanthropic activist, on the role of foundations in promoting gender equality:

“For 25 years, filia has been putting power and money into the hands of activists. In recent years, other foundations have also come to better understand how effective this approach to giving is. It’s about more than just distributing money: filia’s genuine ‘allyship’ with its grantees builds trust. Thanks to filia’s long-term commitment, activists can develop their own strategies. filia pioneered these funding methods early on and is now reaping the rewards. filia serves as a fine example for other foundations. Congratulations!”