By Domingo Dargbeh
Plan International has concluded this year’s 16 Days of Activism Campaign with a call to end digital violence against women and children.
At the occasion marking the climax of the event, Plan International rallied communities to unite against digital violence, with a strong emphasis on protecting women and children in both physical and digital spaces.
Under the theme: “United to End Digital Violence,” the initiative aimed to educate women about gender-based violence, and the societal norms that perpetuates it.
The campaign, which has been marked by discussions and workshops, highlighted the urgent need to confront gender-based violence that often remains hidden behind closed doors.
Madam Leona Carlor Swaray, Plan International Gender Equality and Social inclusion Advisor, addressed the pervasive issue of violence against women and girls.
Madam Swaray acknowledged that men and boys can be victims too.
This multifaceted approach aims to break the silence surrounding the critical issues, which are often considered taboo in many communities.
“The reality of gender-based violence is not just statistics; it is a lived experience for too many individuals every single day. ” Madam Swaray added. “We must recognize that violence manifests not only physically, but also through emotional manipulation, sexual violence, and controlling behaviors that strip individuals of their dignity and peace.”
The event underscored the cultural barriers that prevent open discussions about gender-based violence.
Many individuals, including community leaders and religious figures, often shy away from addressing these issues due to fear of societal judgment.
“We must learn to speak out against these injustices and rise as changemakers in our communities,”
Madam Swaray
echoed the sentiment that enough is enough; explained the needs for systemic change to protect vulnerable populations.
“We are rallying government support to allocate budgets that support the enforcement of laws designed to combat violence and promote human rights. We want our youth to understand their rights and the laws that protect them. It is essential that we educate ourselves to advocate effectively for change.”
The General Secretary for Cultivation of Users, Benjamie Ballah, also spoke of focusing on the stigma surrounding mental health issues.
Ballah underscored the importance of investing in mental health education and services.
He added: “Mental health challenges must not be hidden. We need to stop the stigma and work toward a society where individuals with mental health issues can thrive and contribute positively.”
The 16 Days of Activism campaign, has not only raised awareness about gender-based violence, but also encouraged community members to embrace advocacy and activism as a means of fostering a safer environment for all.
As the campaign concludes, the message remains clear: the fight against violence in all its forms must continue, and it starts with each individual taking a stand.
Each of the event leaders called for unity and resilience among community members.
They urged them to reject silence and take proactive steps to ensure that every person, regardless of gender, has the right to live free from violence and discrimination.