In November 2024, KMWP led a week of action in La Réunion, in collaboration with several local associations. Following two previous initiatives in 2019 and 2022, this latest edition marked a significant milestone in our regional commitment.

An initiative led by our local branch

The event was organized by our local branch in La Réunion, led by Isabelle and Pascal, with the active support of the island’s FEKM clubs. As with each of our local initiatives, it all began with dedicated training for instructors : an essentiel step to raise awareness of the issues surrounding violence against women and to equip them with the appropriate teaching pratices.

Workshops for all audiences

Throughout the week, we offered free self-defense workshops to a variety of audiences: college students, high school students, the general public, and women accompanied by neighborhood associations. Nearly 300 people were introduced to the basics of self-defense and educated about gender-based and sexual violence.

A university conference to open dialogue

This busy week concluded with a conference at the University of La Réunion, opened by the Vice President for Gender Equality and Disability. We spoke alongside a number of highly respected professionals:

• A deputy attorney general, on judicial responses and prevention tools,
• A psychologist, on the psychological impacts of violence,
• An anthropologist, on the historical dimensions of violence and parenting,
• A doctor and director of the Institute for Illiteracy, on inequalities in access to education.

This week in La Réunion perfectly illustrates KMWP’s mission: to train, share knowledge, listen, and work with local stakeholders to develop a strong and compassionate response to violence against women.