On 29 October, the Līdzgaitnieces Forum was officially launched. This new initiative by the British Council in Latvia was developed in cooperation with the association Cogito, the British Embassy in Latvia, Swedbank and the Nordic Council of Ministers’ Office in Latvia.
At the heart of this initiative is cooperation among women, creating new connections and sharing experiences. The British Council explains the creation of this community by the need for practical cooperation, pointing out that while Latvia is home to many women who already lead initiatives, bring people together and strengthen their communities, they too may sometimes need support, trusted allies or simply someone to call and ask: How would you handle this situation? This is why Līdzgaitnieces was established – a network for women’s collaboration and influence.
The Director of the Nordic Council of Ministers’ Office in Latvia addressed the participants alongside the British ambassador Kathy Leach, highlighting why it remains important to talk about women’s leadership well into the 21st century.
“We live in a time, where the strongest must stand up for the weakest and therefore women leadership matters more than ever. Women’s participation is not a luxury that we can afford to prioritise only in times of peace. Quite the opposite. It is precisely when democracy is under pressure, when security concerns dominate political agendas and when societies risk becoming more divided that women’s voices and leadership become even more essential.”
– Nina Hvid Enevoldsen,
Director of the Nordic Council of Ministers’ Office in Latvia
As part of the opening event, dialogue circles “What strengthens us and holds us together?” were organised in cooperation with facilitators from the Latvian Dialogue Movement. These conversations gave every participant the opportunity to share their thoughts and be heard.
Looking ahead, the women of Līdzgaitnieces will continue to meet regularly, strengthen their connections and support one another.
