Each third woman in Latvia (30.1%) has experienced psychological, physical, and/or sexual violence from an intimate partner.

Yes, in 2024, Latvia finally ratified the Istanbul Convention. But how does that work in real life? Honestly, I’d say only about 10% see any real change. When it comes to emotional abuse—0%. Why am I so confident about this? Because of my own personal experience.

I lived through nine years of psychological violence with episodes of physical abuse. I can say clearly: psychological abuse leaves the deepest scars.

People always say, “Leave, run, go…” And you think about it every day. You try to find a better-paying job—but fail, often because your self-esteem has been crushed. Picking yourself up, piece by piece, is not easy.

Failure follows. You fail in court because most women can’t afford legal assistance. Many can’t even afford to leave the abuser and start renting a place. Child support payments (alimony) are a joke—because many of these men either work illegally or are abroad. And everywhere, the post-Soviet mindset still rules.

These are the main reasons why so many victims stay silent. I personally know at least five women like this. This is not just data—it's real life. With the right tools and support, these women can rise, rebuild, and reclaim their lives.

There are no courses to help them gain better career options. And certainly no real psychological help—for them or their children. Yes, there are some crisis centers where you can hide for a while and get some support from social workers. But does that give you a sense of power? No. Does it help restore your shattered self-confidence? Absolutely not.

You just end up feeling even more ashamed—especially because many of the episodes happen when the kids aren’t around. These men are smart. They hide it. Or they brainwash the children.

I hope to write a good book about all of this someday.

I invite you to raise your voice, to support a new way of helping women. Real help.

Let’s give them the real tools they need. First, teach them how to recognize all the red flags—because believe me, they won’t fade. They only grow stronger and more dangerous.

Every situation is different, but often children are involved. That’s why we need to provide financial support—like rent coverage for three months. Immediately after she leaves, there must be zero contact with the abuser. No more listening to love bombing or manipulation—communication should only be about financial support for the children.

Then comes the next essential step: mandatory psychological support for the entire surviving family. Regular sessions to rebuild self-confidence. A focus on the future. A focus on the children’s needs. A focus on career development. And more, and more.

The minimum cost to support one victim is around €2000.

After achieving some success, my plan is to create a large-scale project—to cooperate with investors, apartment building owners, and EU funding programs. To build new housing with affordable rent for women starting over.

If we can break free of the USSR-era mindset, our next generation will grow up with a healthy sense of self-worth and a clear understanding of human rights.

Thank You for the support to a better future!

A future where women and children live free from fear.

A future shaped not by silence, but by action.

Join us in empowering survival into strength.