Sitara Ibragimbeyli and her film Terpsichore: How the EU supports gender equality in Azerbaijan

Efforts in the field of gender equality are one of the integral elements of the European Union’s work in Azerbaijan. Many projects are being implemented in this direction throughout the country.

The Terpsichore documentary has become one of a number of successful projects supported by the European Open Media Hub initiative. At the end of November, the film’s producer, Sitara Ibragimbeyli, took part in the ASAN Radio broadcast devoted to the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women.

Terpsichore is the muse of dancing in Greek mythology. The film, which reveals the gender issues existing in the Azerbaijani society, was based on a real story of a woman who went through social pressure and numerous obstacles, having managed to become a strong and independent person.

According to Sitara Ibragimbeyli, finding a main character was not an easy task: “There are many women in Azerbaijan who face gender-related problems, but there are very few who would be willing to openly tell their story in front of the camera.”

An active advocate for gender equality, Sitara Ibragimbeyli believes that every Azerbaijani woman faces gender stereotypes to a certain degree, regardless of the region in which she was born and raised. She considers the most widespread stereotype to be various kinds of restrictions and prohibitions against women, which are explained by the muffled utterances: “What will people say?”

According to the representative of the EU Delegation in Azerbaijan Simona Gatti, the problem of gender inequality is relevant in countries around the world, including EU countries.

The coordinator of gender projects at the EU Delegation to Azerbaijan, Maryam Khadzhi-Ismayilova said on air at ASAN Radio: “EU projects on combating gender inequality in Azerbaijan are implemented in two directions, supporting women through the provision of professional legal support, as well as enhancing the socio-economic role of women.” According to her, thanks to EU support over the past ten years, about 10,000 women in Azerbaijan have received help.

You can listen to the full interview in the podcast: