Here we go again, like every year, on the 25th of November, for two weeks of intense campaigns and activism against all forms of gender-based violence. This year’s global theme, “Fighting back and rebuilding after violence”, highlights the importance of resilience and solidarity. In Gabon, the slogan “Unity to end violence against women” resonates as a call for collective action.
The campaign will extend until December 10 for the international community, particularly in Gabon where the local office of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), public authorities and associated partners are creating synergies to jointly lead the fight to eradicate violence against women.
At the national level, this campaign is of particular importance and is carried out with advocacy actions in favor of the implementation of essential measures, such as the adoption of a specific law on gender-based violence. These crucial actions aim to strengthen social support and the legal arsenal for the efficient protection of women.
Gender-based violence manifests itself in different forms, namely: psychological violence, physical and verbal violence, as well as digital violence which is now a growing scourge, mainly affecting young people.
This year, awareness will be particularly focused on social networks, underlined August Kpogon, UNFPA Resident Representative in Gabon. The Internet is a powerful tool for reaching a wide audience and raising awareness on these issues, says the UN diplomat, who appeals to stakeholders, namely: girls, women, men, local and religious leaders, members of the government , civil society, private companies and educational institutions to raise awareness and prevalence.
Campaigns led by the United Nations Population Fund made it possible, last year, to carry out awareness-raising and advocacy actions. These initiatives have inspired concrete actions to combat gender-based violence in all its forms, including sexual harassment, forced marriage, female genital mutilation (excision), as well as intimate partner violence and rape.
Since 1991, these sixteen (16) days of activism, from November 25 to December 10, have been observed globally. These highly symbolic dates remind us that violence against women constitutes a violation of human rights.
Alph’–Willem Eslie and Tryphene Lembah
2024-11-25 22:10:00
#days #crusade #advocacy
How do community partnerships play a role in the successful implementation of legal reforms addressing gender-based violence in Gabon, as highlighted by Dr. Amani?
**Interview with Dr. Claire Amani, Gender Advocate and UNFPA Representative in Gabon**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Amani. As we kick off the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence starting on November 25, could you share the significance of this year’s theme, “Fighting back and rebuilding after violence”?
**Dr. Amani:** Thank you for having me. This year’s theme underscores resilience and solidarity—crucial elements as survivors of violence seek to rebuild their lives. It reminds us that activism is not only about raising awareness but also about providing the support and resources necessary for survivors to reclaim their power.
**Editor:** The campaign in Gabon emphasizes the slogan “Unity to end violence against women.” How does this resonate with local efforts?
**Dr. Amani:** The slogan is more than a catchphrase; it’s a call to collective action. In Gabon, we are fostering partnerships among government bodies, NGOs, and communities to confront gender-based violence (GBV) comprehensively. Our focus is on integrating various strategies, from legal reforms to community support, to ensure that every voice is heard and every woman’s right is protected.
**Editor:** Speaking of legal reform, what are the key advocacy actions being pushed during this campaign?
**Dr. Amani:** We are advocating for the adoption of specific laws addressing gender-based violence. This includes measures for better social support systems and legal protections for women. It’s crucial that our legal framework is robust enough to respond effectively to all forms of violence, including psychological, physical, and increasingly, digital violence, which poses a significant threat in today’s digital age.
**Editor:** Gender-based violence manifests in many forms. Can you elaborate on how the campaign is addressing these different types?
**Dr. Amani:** Certainly. Our approach is multi-faceted. We are raising awareness about psychological and verbal violence, as well as the importance of identifying and addressing digital violence, which is often overlooked. Educational initiatives and workshops are being implemented to empower individuals to recognize these forms of violence and understand their rights.
**Editor:** Lastly, what message would you like to convey to individuals and communities during these 16 Days of Activism?
**Dr. Amani:** I urge everyone to stand together against violence in all its forms. This is a collective struggle that requires everyone’s involvement—whether it’s advocating for legal changes, supporting survivors, or simply educating others about the signs of violence. Remember, every action counts, and together, we can create a world where women feel safe and valued.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Amani, for sharing your insights. It’s inspiring to see such commitment towards ending gender-based violence in Gabon and beyond.
**Dr. Amani:** Thank you for amplifying this vital message. Together, we can make a difference.
