16 DAYS OF ACTIVISM AGAINST VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN AND GIRLS
Launch in the Littoral region
The launch event took place in the conference room of the MINPROFF Regional Delegation in Douala, under the theme << Recovering and rebuilding after violence >>. It was organized within the framework of the platform for the fight against GBV in the Littoral Region, underpinned by a partnership between MINPROFF,UNFPA, UNHCR and civil society. It brought together some fifty participants, including 4 men who came to support the women.
Presentations and discussions took place on a number of themes.
According to the MINPROFF representative’s report on the situation of GBV in the Littoral region, statistics show that in 2023, 188 cases of GBV were reported; 214 cases of GBV in 2024; with 05 cases of femicide known for each of these years in the city of Douala. These rising figures are a cause for serious concern, and a challenge to us all.
With regard to the 2nd theme, the progress made and persistent challenges in terms of gender equality and the fight against GBV since the Beijing conference in 1995, which was a trigger for the promotion of women, thus highlighting equality, development and peace for all genders, with social cohesion as the main objective. Challenges include the lack of statistical data, the absence of specific funds for training, women’s low level of education, the search for balance, and so on. As a solution, we need to act at all levels, particularly at individual and family level, by raising awareness, informing and even educating people of all genders to prevent and report GBV.
The issue of GBV among refugee women was addressed in the 3rd theme. Speaking of GBV, the risk is much higher among refugee women because of the difficult integration equation, and the very complicated access to education.
For the 5th theme, Riposter et se reconstruire après les violences. Here, there is a particular need to protect women because of their vulnerability, through awareness-raising and educational talks, and to refer cases to the legal service when necessary.
To rebuild one’s life after suffering violence, it is essential to receive psychological care and support. There is also a need to set up a one-stop shop to meet the needs of victims, in a discreet location to protect them from stigmatization. Dissolve, for example, the actors involved in the fight against GBV in a health center.
In conclusion, it should be noted that GBV is a societal issue that poses a serious threat to society, and the main solution remains the victim’s denunciation.
The activity ended with messages of comfort and encouragement for the victims written by the participants on a wall panel. Proof of their commitment to continuing the fight against violence against women in our society.
