16 Days Of Activism: Group Calls For End To Violence Against Female Gender

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In observance of the global campaign for the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), Advocates, Partners, Community leaders, Representatives of State Ministries, Agencies and the Media, convened in Abia State, to address the urgent need to end violence against women and girls.

 

 

At the one day symposium, sponsored by the French Embassy in Nigeria and held at the Villa Roy Hotel, Umuahia, the group pushed for an end to all forms of Gender Based Violence(GBV).

 

 

The event which aimed to foster dialogue and actionable commitments in advancing gender equity and protect the rights and dignity of women and girls, centered it’s theme on,“Recommitment, Accountability, Resourcing – Towards Beijing +30: Unite to End Violence Against Women and Girls”.

In his opening remarks, the Program Officer, Greater Women Initiative for Health and Rights( GWIHR), Israel Ezeaku,said in many parts of the world, gender-based violence remained a pervasive challenge, threatening the health rights and dignity of women and girls.

 

According to Mr Ezeaku, he disclosed that the issue of violence and abuse, have since evolved beyond being just a challenge for the women, to a broader human rights concern, that demands the unwavering support and commitment of individuals, institutions, and communities alike.

 


He stated that the program was committed to champion actions that dismantle the structural inequities perpetuating violence,calling for a collective responsibility to speak out,hold perpetrators accountable,as well as, create safe spaces, where women and girls could thrive.

However, Ezeaku, revealed that the 16 Days of Activism, incorporates the efforts of every individual, calling for the unity of purpose and passion to create a future free of violence, where every woman and girl can live with dignity,safety and freedom.

 

“Let us move forward with courage and resolve. Together we can make the difference our society desperately needs”, he said.

At the end of the one day symposium, a communique was raised, with the participants pledging to prioritize the fight against gender-based violence through advocacy, collaboration, and policy reforms.

According to the communique, the group expressed commitment to develop a comprehensive plan with concrete actions to prevent and eliminate gender-based violence, including,strengthening multisectoral partnerships for prevention and response, enhancing public awareness campaigns to address harmful norms and stereotypes and advocating for increased funding and resources to support survivors,as well, promoting access to justice through legal reforms and enforcement of existing laws.

They pointed that to achieve a world free of violence against women and girls, government agencies should implement and fund gender-focused programs, while Civil Society Organizations, should continue advocacy and community-based interventions.

 

The group added that media organizations should amplify awareness campaigns and promote positive narratives, calling on Individuals to speak out, support survivors and champion gender equality.

 

“Together, we can dismantle harmful norms, challenge systemic barriers, and build a future where women and girls live free from fear and violence”,it read.

 


Meanwhile, the Greater Women Initiative for Health and Rights, extended gratitude to the French Embassy in Nigeria for their invaluable support and sponsorship of the event, recognizing the dedication of all participants who contributed their expertise and voices to the important cause.

 

Contributing, the vice chairperson of FIDA, Ezinne Nwabueze-Ibe, stated that empowerment of the female gender,whether financially or educationally can help greatly reduce the level of violence meted on them.

Highpoint of the event was a panel discussion, involving state ministries, agencies, and the media,who explored ongoing challenges and opportunities in combating violence against women and girls.

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