PAYNESVILLE – In a unified effort to combat gender-based violence (GBV) and eliminate Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection (MGCSP), in conjunction with its collaborators, officially inaugurated the 16 Days of Activism Against GBV in Liberia.
The launch, held at the SKD Gymnasium, symbolized a commitment to eradicating harmful practices like FGM and advancing gender equality throughout Liberia. This initiative coincides with the global campaign spanning from November 25th, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, to December 10th, Human Rights Day.
Under the overarching theme “Unite! Invest to prevent violence against women and girls,” and the national theme “Empower women, secure our nation: invest locally to prevent violence against women and girls,” the event convened government officials, international and local partners, creating a platform for unified advocacy and change.
During her address, Gender Minister Williametta Saydee-Tar affirmed the ministry’s proactive stance in addressing gender-related issues, emphasizing collaborative efforts with local and international organizations to curtail FGM in Liberia. She highlighted these endeavors as a testament to the government’s dedication to safeguarding the rights of women and girls while promoting gender equality.
FGM, a deeply entrenched traditional practice involving the partial or total removal of female genitalia, persists despite being banned in four counties due to deeply rooted cultural beliefs and social pressures. Minister Saydee-Tar emphasized its severe physical and psychological repercussions on girls and women, underlining the need for collaborative action to halt this violation of human rights.
Recognizing the far-reaching impact of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence, Minister Saydee-Tar underscored the importance of strengthened collaboration with local and international partners to realize the campaign’s objectives. She concluded by outlining a series of forthcoming activities planned by the Ministry and its partners throughout the 16 Days of Activism campaign in Liberia.
Cllr. Isaac George, Director for the Ministry of Justice’s Sex Crimes Unit, emphasized the necessity for comprehensive support from all sectors in the fight against GBV and other harmful practices, expressing confidence in Liberia’s potential to serve as a model in eradicating GBV and fostering a violence-free society.
UN Women Country Representative, Comfort Lampty, commended the government’s progress in combating GBV and curtailing FGM in specific counties. She emphasized Liberia’s positive trajectory towards ending discrimination against women and children, pledging collaborative efforts with the government to ensure their protection and advocate for a violence-free society.
The launch marks a pivotal moment in Liberia’s ongoing battle against GBV and harmful practices, uniting stakeholders in a collective effort to secure the rights and safety of women and girls across the nation.