Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV), including domestic violence, is one of the most pervasive violations of human rights in the world today. Affecting individuals across all ages, ethnicities, and socioeconomic backgrounds, it undermines the dignity, security, and autonomy of survivors.
The United Nations defines SGBV as harmful acts directed at individuals based on their gender. It encompasses a wide range of abuses, including sexual harassment, rape, female genital mutilation, child marriage, trafficking, and domestic violence. The impacts of SGBV are devastating and far-reaching, affecting survivors’ physical and mental health, their ability to participate in society, and even the social and economic development of entire communities.
Join us on Day 3 of #16DaysOfActivism as we amplify the voices of survivors, challenge harmful norms, and promote a collective stand against all forms of abuse.
The Global Picture
Globally, one in three women experiences physical or sexual violence in her lifetime, most often perpetrated by an intimate partner. Despite these alarming statistics, SGBV remains grossly underreported. Survivors often face stigma, blame, and a lack of support systems, which deters them from seeking justice.
The COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated this issue, leading to what the UN called a “shadow pandemic” of increased domestic violence cases. Lockdowns trapped many survivors with their abusers, cutting off access to vital support services.
Domestic Violence: A Persistent Threat
Domestic violence, a form of SGBV, is one of the most widespread and insidious forms of abuse. It includes physical violence, emotional manipulation, economic deprivation, and even coercive control. While women are disproportionately affected, domestic violence can also impact men, and children.
The consequences of domestic violence extend beyond the survivor. Children who witness violence at home often suffer long-term emotional and psychological effects. Communities bear the social and economic costs of unaddressed violence, from healthcare expenses to lost productivity.
Why SGBV Is a Human Rights Issue
At its core, SGBV violates the fundamental rights enshrined in international human rights laws. These rights include the right to life, freedom from torture, and the right to equality and dignity. When societies tolerate or fail to address SGBV, they perpetuate cycles of inequality and injustice.
Ending SGBV is not just about protecting individual survivors; it is about fostering societies where everyone can live free from fear and oppression. It is about ensuring equal opportunities for all, regardless of gender, and upholding the values of justice and humanity.
Breaking the Silence: Reporting SGBV
Many survivors of SGBV remain silent due to fear, shame, or a lack of trust in legal and social systems. Breaking this silence is the first step toward justice and healing.
If you or someone you know is experiencing SGBV, report cases here: https://ceaf.org.ng/report-abuse/.
By reporting, you can access support services, hold perpetrators accountable, and contribute to breaking the cycle of violence.
What Can Be Done?
Ending SGBV requires a multi-faceted approach that involves individuals, communities, and institutions.
• Empower Survivors: Provide access to shelters, counseling, legal aid, and financial resources to help survivors rebuild their lives.
• Strengthen Legal Frameworks: Advocate for laws that criminalize all forms of SGBV and ensure justice for survivors.
• Challenge Harmful Norms: Educate communities about gender equality and the importance of respectful relationships.
• Engage Men and Boys: Address the root causes of violence by involving men and boys in discussions about masculinity, consent, and respect.
• Support NGOs and Advocacy Groups: Organizations like CEAF play a critical role in supporting survivors and raising awareness. Donate, volunteer, or amplify their work on social media.
The Role of CEAF
At the Comfort Empowerment and Advocacy Foundation (CEAF), we are committed to combating SGBV in all its forms. Through advocacy, education, and direct support, we strive to create safe spaces for survivors and challenge the systems that enable abuse.
Our initiatives include:
• Awareness Campaigns: Educating communities about the prevalence and impact of SGBV.
• Safe Housing: Providing shelter for survivors as they transition to independence.
• Skill Development: Empowering survivors with skills to achieve financial independence.
• Advocacy: Working with policymakers to strengthen protections against SGBV.
Call to Action
This #16DaysOfActivism, let’s unite to eliminate violence against women and all forms of SGBV. Together, we can create a world where every individual is free to live with dignity and without fear.
Here’s how you can help:
• Share this message to spread awareness.
• Donate to organizations supporting survivors.
• Challenge sexist jokes, stereotypes, and behaviors in your daily life.
• Report cases of abuse or encourage others to do so at https://ceaf.org.ng/report-abuse/.
Conclusion
The fight against SGBV is not just a women’s issue—it’s a human rights issue that affects us all. By taking action today, we can pave the way for a safer, more equitable future.
Let’s break the silence and take action. Together, we can end SGBV.