Engaging Communities For Action against Gender Based Violence

Knowledge is the pillar of change while community engagement is the catalyst to the desired global change. On that fundamental basis, International Human Rights Movement in Cape Verde initiated profound training programs for the community leaders in Cape Verde on 16th of July 2022. The first edition which was attended by 30 participants was in all respects profound and impactful. Three sessions of lecture were delivered by three seasoned and experienced professionals on gender equality and equity, economic sustainability approach as related to GBV solution, and the female health awareness to women diseases related to GBV especially female genital mutilation. The three sessions provided all the participants including the organisers indepth awareness of the various causes of gender inequality which includes culture and economy. Balanced attitudes and positions as well as practical approaches were excellently recommended by the speakers, which have of course changed the orientations of the communty leaders who demonstrated the right motivations for the desired change. The training is the tool that is required for effective engagements on the social actions for transformation in the communities. International Human Rights Movement will be working together with the community leaders to effect change and impacts in the communitities.

From the political point of view, the directorate of justice policy of the Ministry of Justice Republic of Cape Verde has shown great support to the cause of combating gender based violence. The policy and the will are already good signs to winning the fight against gender based violence.

Gender based violence just as other forms of violence is evil, wicked and cruel and obviously needs solution. It violates fundamental human rights. It is a crime against humanity.