The International Youth Day, marked this year in the Republic of Moldova with the motto “Young people are the ambassadors of change”, was also celebrated in the central park of the town Straseni. 30 young instrumentalists, members of the Moldovan National Youth Orchestra, presented a musical performance to promote gender equality and reconfirm the role of young people in changing stereotypes about the role of women and men at home and in society.

The young people performed the song "Stand By Me" by Ben E. King being assigned to musical instruments contrary to existing gender stereotypes. Thus, the tone was set by the trumpets, behind which the girls stood, to combat the stereotype that this instrument would be more for boys. Later, the boys entered the stage playing the clarinet, and on the chorus, the voices of the boys 'and girls' choir from Straseni and Falesti created a unique musical moment. In the end, the young people formed the equal sign, thus supporting equality between women and men.

"The strength and inspiration of young people is essential in combating gender stereotypes and ensuring gender equality. Young people are more open to change when it comes to social norms and traditional gender roles. Music is a suitable tool to capitalize on these attitudes and skills of young people so that they truly become the generation of equality, ”said Violeta Terguță, UNFPA coordinator of the regional program“ Together against gender stereotypes and gender-based violence ”.

"Although there is progress on gender equality, studies show that limiting perceptions of the roles of women and men still persist. Through such artistic initiatives, together with young people from communities, we want to contribute to the promotion of the principles of gender equality necessary to build a safe and healthy society, in which each person can realize their potential, "said Viorica Culeac, UN Women coordinator of the regional program "Together against gender stereotypes and gender-based violence”.

The musical show was organized within the campaign “It can be done differently. Without stereotypes ”carried out in the context of the regional program“ Together against gender stereotypes and gender-based violence ”funded by the European Union and implemented by UN Women and UNFPA.

The "Together Against Gender Stereotypes and Gender-Based Violence" program supports equal opportunities for women and men, addressing perceptions regarding the roles of men and women in the family and in society, and helping to eliminate gender-based violence.

With the support of the European Union, the two UN family member agencies work with government institutions and civil society partners in six countries to help combat gender stereotypes, increase men's involvement in domestic and childcare activities, and carry out activities to prevent the perpetuation of gender-based violence, with the involvement of potential aggressors.

Media contact:

Ludmila Bogheanu, communication officer, Regional Program "Together against gender stereotypes and gender-based violence", tel. +37369403016, email: bogheanu@unfpa.org

Photo credits: @UNFPA Moldova, @UN Women Moldova/ Dinu Bubulici/ 2021