Women’s Issues Information Centre (WIIC), established in 1996, is one of Lithuania’s most experienced women’s civil society organisations working to promote gender equality, prevent gender-based violence, and advocate for women’s rights. As a key national actor, WIIC provides specialised support to survivors through its role as a Specialised Assistance Centre (SAC) for domestic violence in 7 municipalities, reaching up to 6,000 individuals annually. It offers free, confidential, and anonymous emotional support for women via telephone and online platforms 24/7 and co-manages Lithuania’s only dedicated Sexual Violence Centre.
The organisation develops methodologies and guidelines, and leads training and awareness-raising initiatives across the country, with a strong focus on youth, professionals, and intersectional inclusion. With strong research legacy, WIIC continues to inform policy and practice through research on women’s economic independence, caregiving, and adolescent dating violence.
With a multidisciplinary team, extensive partnerships with municipalities and NGOs, and active membership in European networks WIIC ensures that gender equality and non-discrimination remain central to policy, practice, and social change in Lithuania. WIIC is highly active in advocacy efforts, having contributed to national legislation on gender equality and the elimination of violence against women. Its representatives participate in various national strategic committees and working groups.