Change begins with us: Ludmila Iachim’s fight for equality in Moldova

“My own fulfilling life motivates me to inspire other women and girls with disabilities to strive for more, to invest in themselves, and to help transform our society into a safer, more accessible, and more inclusive place for everyone,” says Ludmila Iachim, Executive Director of the MOTIVAȚIE Association in Moldova. “Change begins with us.”

Advocacy for women and girls with disabilities is deeply personal for Iachim. Living with a disability since the age of 13, she has transformed her lived experience into a mission: to fight for the rights, dignity and opportunities of people with disabilities.

“My personal experience has been the driving force,” she said. “It taught me to stand up for my rights and those of others, and became a source of inspiration for many people with disabilities who need support and guidance. Disability itself is not the challenge, but rather society’s lack of awareness about our rights and needs.”

Founded in 2002 by persons with disabilities and volunteers, the MOTIVAȚIE Association set out to transform lives in Moldova. What began as a grassroots initiative has grown into a recognised movement that creates innovative services, strengthens leadership capacities, and trains community advocates.

Ludmila Iachim. Photo: Stela Donțu / UN Women Moldova

‘My personal experience has been the driving force’. Photo: Stela Donțu / UN Women Moldova

‘Women and girls with disabilities face an even higher risk of abuse and violence’. Photo: Stela Donțu / UN Women Moldova

‘Women with disabilities who raise their voices and lead in their communities are powerful agents of change’. Photo: Stela Donțu / UN Women Moldova

Through the ‘EU 4 Gender Equality’ programme in partnership with UN Women, MOTIVAȚIE has reached women and girls with disabilities across six regions of Moldova, who have taken part in training sessions aimed at raising awareness about their rights, and preventing gender-based violence.

“Women and girls with disabilities face an even higher risk of abuse and violence,” Ludmila noted. “That is why our training covers healthy relationships, consent, and where to turn for help. They gained the knowledge and tools to challenge stigma, discrimination, gender stereotypes, and violence,” Iachim explained.

As a disability rights leader, Ludmila Iachim has seen at first hand the stigma faced by women and girls with disabilities.

“Too often, we are viewed through a lens of pity – seen as dependent, incapable, and in constant need of assistance,” she said. “Women with disabilities who raise their voices and lead in their communities are powerful agents of change. Gender equality and social inclusion go hand-in-hand, they strengthen diversity, promote acceptance, and transform societies.”

Ludmila Iachim’s vision for the next decade is of a Moldova where women and girls with disabilities live in dignity, with access to quality services, healthcare, and equal opportunities in every sphere of life. This vision also includes a society free from violence, where women and girls with disabilities are protected, empowered and supported.

“The fight for the rights of persons with disabilities is ongoing,” she said. “Authorities must recognise that inclusion is not a luxury or a favour – it is a fundamental right. While progress has been slow, we can see real results and a gradual shift in society’s mindset.”