Movaneba is the ability to preserve a moment of peace inside, the ability to retain a feeling of well-being in a lasting way. In this sense, Georgia has surprised and dazzled us with its singularities in the words, traditions and landscapes of it. But above all, Georgia has given us the opportunity to train in the field of work in peacebuilding projects, both community and personal.

The week of July 2-10 we had the opportunity to swim in the Kobuleti Black Sea, experience tropical rains, discover futuristic cities like Batumi, try Cha-Cha, and gorging ourselves on cheese with the Khachapuri. But above all, it gave us the opportunity to discuss among young professionals from Spain, Poland, Germany, the Czech Republic, Azerbaijan and Georgia about the conflicts present in our territories.

Discrimination situations that were happening in parallel to the training where we were: peoples proclaimed LGTBI free in Poland, economic discrimination in Germany, forced marriages in Azerbaijan, racial differentiation in the Czech Republic, action by the Orthodox church against the LGTBI demonstration in Georgia and Samuel’s death in Spain… Certainly we also share territorial conflicts in each and every one of the countries represented, but what is the common denominator of all this malaise?

Lack of respect for human rights. A perspective that is blind if we do not integrate a feminist vision in situations of discrimination. A great challenge to achieve in territories where feminism is demonized or is blamed for “the loss of traditional values.” It is time to ask ourselves what is the logic behind the preset values, as well as the power dynamics that they perpetuate. As professionals in programs and studies of social welfare and its impact on peace processes, it is essential that we put on pink glasses and claim them from our colleagues.

A great challenge that we begin next October with the second phase of training where we are going to design intervention projects at the local level in our communities. Eager to face the challenge!

Laia, Anna and Júlia