Participants of the 2nd Academy of Women’s Political Leadership, all former Belarusian political prisoners, met with Věra Jourová (photo, right), former Vice-President of the European Commission and current Vice-Rector of Charles University.
The discussion focused on women’s leadership, obstacles faced by women in national and European politics, the future direction of Europe, and ways to support democracy in authoritarian regimes — including assistance to persecuted Belarusian students.
One of the most powerful moments of the meeting centered on personal testimonies about imprisonment, trauma, and the need for justice, underscoring the human cost of political repression. The participants expressed gratitude to Věra Jourová for her time and engagement.
