AFECT

The new economic pressures in Thailand have marginalized women who tend to be left behind in the villages as men and young people flock to the cities in search of jobs and schooling. Women's decision-making power decreases while their work load increases.

Akha women are particularly limited in their rights, by virtue of tradition and culture - one often sees them doing most of the work. The WOMEN'S PROJECT is a network for women to build leadership, learn new skills, open new opportunities and promote handicraft industries. The project also runs a counseling and educational support programme teaching women the dangers of prostitution and HIV.

Our objectives are

• To build woman leadership
• To provide help for woman in developing the family and community
• To increase knowledge skills

Our activities are

• Promoting handicrafts as a way to increase their income and therefore their freedom.
• Teaching food conservation as a way to help them lighten the work pressure and benefit health.
• Education of woman and children, increasing their chances on the job market, ensuring higher wages and giving them a better sense of rights and duties under Thai law.

  The main target area is the area of Chiang Rai.

We have started a women's consortium making and selling traditional handicrafts in local shops and a future online internet shop. The money generated is put back into scheme to teach women about health issues, increase self esteem and increase self sufficient business opportunities.