Free Her from Violence

Gender based violence (GBV) is a pervasive global issue that affects both women and girls of all ages, socioeconomic backgrounds and ethnicities. It encompasses of a wide range of harmful acts including physical, sexual and psychological violence, as well as exploitation and economic abuse. GBV causes many immense effects to the victims.

As the world unite to mark the 16 days of activism against gender based violence, it is a stark reminder that violence against women and girls is a pervasive global pandemic.

The devastating consequences of GBV extends beyond the individual, communities, impacting families and societies as a whole. Despite the overwhelming prevalence of GBV, it remains largely shrouded in silence and stigma. Victims are always often silenced by shame, fear and lack of access to support services. This culture of silence allows perpetrators to continue their actions with impunity, perpetuating the cycle of violence trapping women and girls into a web of suffering and fear.

The 16 Days of activism GBV provides a crucial platform to advocate on gender based violence, challenge harmful norms and amplify the voice of survivors. It is a time to recognize the resilience and strength of women and girls who have faced unimaginable trauma and to reaffirm our commitment in creating a world where they can thrive.

Breaking the cycle of GBV requires a multifaceted approach that addresses both the immediate needs for survivors and the underlying causes of violence such as:

. Challenging harmful gender norms through open dialogues, educational campaigns and community engagement. This will help people challenge the deeply rooted gender inequalities and harmful norms that contribute to GBV.

. Empowering women and girls in education, economic opportunities and self-esteem-building programs that can empower women and girls to break free from cycle of violence and assert their rights.

. Engaging men and boys in promoting positive masculinity and challenging harmful gender stereotypes among men and boys is crucial to prevent violence from occurring in the first place.

There are organization such as Nice Place Foundation that engage young men in campaign through football tournament during the 16 days of activism in believing the power of bringing people together and ending GBV.

. Investing in early childhood development programs that fosters gender equality and respectful relationships can lay the foundation of a more just and free violence-free future.

The 16 Days of Activism against GBV are not just a symbolic gesture; they are a call to action, a reminder of the urgent need for collective action to dismantle the structures and systems that perpetuate violence against women and girls. We must commit to create a world where every women and girls are free from fear, discrimination and violence, where their voice are heard and their rights are respected. Let us unite, amplify the voice of survivors, challenge harmful norms and work together in creating a world where all women and girls are free from violence.

Let's end Gender Based Violence.