Catalyst of Change
Supporting a vibrant civil society in Europe
Akto – Direitos Humanos e Democracia
akto.orgAkto - Direitos Humanos e Democracia is a Coimbra-based non-governmental organisation founded in 2015. It works to support the inclusion of vulnerable and at-risk populations in Portugal and internationally. Guided by the values of humanity, collaboration, and creativity, its multidisciplinary team works to build fairer and more equitable communities. Akto is recognised for its independent and transparent work in advancing Human Rights, Democracy, and Peace. Its mission is to strengthen education, awareness, and meaningful participation in these areas, with the goal of inspiring civic participation and promoting human dignity to help create a more just and democratic world.
About the Project
Pact for the Safety and Rights of Women: CEDAW and Istanbul
In Portugal, the CEDAW and Istanbul Conventions protect women’s rights and aim to end gender-based violence and achieve gender equality, but they remain little known among institutions, CSOs and the public. A lack of understanding of these instruments limits their implementation and prevent new initiatives. This project aimed to spread awareness of these instruments to civil society, as well as equip organization with tools to use them. Akto began by collecting data regarding the implementation of the CEDAW and Istanbul Convention recommendations in the municipal agendas of Coimbra region. They also produced a five-episode podcast, ran an advocacy campaign, and even joined the Portuguese delegation at the UN Commission on the Status of Women. The project was concluded with a focus group with seven municipalities, and with the release and dissemination of a booklet with recommendations to improve equality policies to all 19 municipalities of Coimbra region.
Communication Outputs
Call 3
About the Project
Can I speak to Inês?
Akto’s second Catalyst project is motivated by the rising violence against women in Portugal, including increasing domestic abuse and attacks on sexual freedom. Women often face risks in public spaces without clear ways to seek help. Inspired by the UK “Ask for Angela” initiative, the project “Can I Talk to Inês?” provides a discreet support mechanism that anyone feeling threatened can use. The Coimbra-based project begins with a focus group to understand the needs of the target population and cultural venues. From this, communication materials such as posters, QR codes, and social media content are developed. Training sessions then prepare local businesses, student groups, and security teams to respond if the code is used. The initiative concludes with a public awareness campaign, visible support points, and monitoring, followed by a final evaluation, all designed to strengthen safety, confidence, and community engagement.
Communication Outputs
Funded by the European Union
name
Catalyst of Change: Protecting the Union values by supporting a resilient, engaged and vocal civil society for the promotion of women’s rights, environmental justice and anti-corruption
partner
European Center for Not-for-Profit Law Stichting (ECNL)
duration
1 January 2023- 31 December 2026
budget
3,411.982 EUR
