German development agency GIZ has called for collective efforts to tackle sexual and gender-based violence (GBV) in South Sudan.
Speaking during the end of the 16 Days of Activism Against GBV in Juba, GIZ South Sudan Project Manager Lea Flaspöhler, stressed that while prevention breaks the cycle of violence, protection ensures survivors’ safety and well-being.
“The fight against GBV is a collective responsibility and needs broad participation and commitment. Today, we will highlight the challenges survivors face in accessing justice, support services and societal acceptance. We will discuss the role of systems, law enforcement and specialists in protecting survivors and preventing re-victimization,” Flaspöhler said.
She underscored the need for measures to help victims recover from the trauma associated with the agonizing acts of violence.
“Survivors often face the thematic barriers, stigma and violence, when seeking justice and protection. And with this event, we want to amplify the voices of survivors, which often remain unheard. We also hope to create a platform for dialogue among key stakeholders, among all of you, to explore strategies for improving the protection and empowerment of GBV survivors and all those who are working around the topic,” she said.
The Project Manager at the European Union Delegation to South Sudan, Alice Jino Oleya, stressed the need to respect women’s rights.
“Gender equality and human rights are core values, mainstreamed in all European Union internal and external policies. We are fully committed to the gender agenda and to place women and gender equality at the heart of peace and security,” said Oleya.
The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence is a global campaign designed to eliminate violence against women and girls.
Running annually from November 25 to December 10, the campaign highlights the severe impacts of GBV.
The 2024 theme is: “Towards Beijing +30: Unite to end violence against women and girls.”