On 20 November, the University General Hospital for Active Treatment in Stara Zagora opened the country’s first Orange Room to support and counsel victims of violence. This safe space was created by the Zonta Club of Stara Zagora, Bulgaria, along with the Stara Zagora Z club. The club also had the support of the Public Donor Fund, donors and like-minded advocates. 

The Orange Room offers a gentle environment where survivors can receive timely legal protection and psychological help. Named for the color of the Zonta Says NO to Violence Against Women campaign and the UN’s Orange the World initiative, the room symbolizes warmth, safety and peace of mind. 

The club hopes the Orange Room will inspire national and international initiatives, providing safe spaces for survivors to feel protected and empowered to make positive changes in their lives.