CHRAJ, UNFPA Intensify Fight Against GBV

The Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) are ramping up efforts to combat sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV). The collaboration took place in Asokore Mampong Municipality, aiming to strengthen community and institutional action against GBV and improve support services for victims and survivors.

The initiative, part of a nationwide program, brought together various stakeholders, including government officials, civil society organizations, community members, and the media. Participants engaged in discussions about gender equality, transformative approaches, and the impact of technology-facilitated violence on GBV prevention and response.

Deputy Commissioner of CHRAJ, Ms. Mercy Larbi, revealed that CHRAJ had received recommendations from other countries, many of which related to gender-based violence and equality. She stressed the need for coordinated efforts among stakeholders to address these challenges. The event educated participants on various forms of GBV, such as physical, sexual, emotional, and economic violence, emphasizing the lasting consequences of such abuse, including emotional trauma and relationship difficulties.

Participants were encouraged to speak out against abuse, support survivors, and work together to create safer communities. The MCE for Asokore Mampong, Ben Abdallah, urged traditional leaders to combat practices like child marriage and support efforts to protect the rights and welfare of girls. The engagement highlighted the importance of gender equality in preventing GBV and called for sustained community education and regular stakeholder engagements to empower residents to address gender-based violence.