FAME foundation was established to solicit, encourage and advance the social, emotional and economic wellbeing of women and girls as well as formulate programmes within the framework of national development plan with a view to enhancing the participation of women and advocate for gender parity in the society.
FAME foundation firmly believe that the entire nation, businesses, communities and groups can benefit from the implementation of programs and policies that adopt the notion of women empowerment.
2024 International Day of Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict
International Day of Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict is observed annually on June 19th. This day is a reminder of the ongoing plight faced by countless people, particularly women and girls, who endure the horrors of sexual violence during armed conflicts. Sexual violence in conflict is not just a humanitarian crisis, it is a gross violation of human rights that demands our urgent attention and action, In Nigeria, gender-based violence is a prevalent issue that continues to affect the lives of many women and girls.
What is Sexual Violence in Conflict?
Sexual violence in conflict encompasses a range of abuses, including rape, sexual slavery, forced prostitution, forced pregnancy, and other forms of sexual violence. These acts are often used by perpetrators to terrorize, dominate, and displace people and communities. The consequences are devastating, resulting in physical, psychological, and social trauma for survivors.
Causes of Sexual Violence in Conflict
1. Power and Control: Perpetrators use sexual violence as a tool to exert power and control over individuals and communities, often as a means to instil fear.
2. Weapon of War: Sexual violence is used to disrupt communities, displace populations, and weaken society, making it a tactic in warfare.
3. Pre-existing gender inequalities and cultural norms that tolerate or condone violence against women can cause the prevalence of sexual violence in conflict situations.
Statistics on Sexual Violence in Nigeria.
In Nigeria, sexual violence in conflict is a critical issue, particularly in regions affected by the Boko Haram insurgency and communal clashes. Examples of such places include; Borno, Adamawa and Yobe, Plateau, Niger state, among others. According to Human Rights Watch, Boko Haram has abducted and sexually enslaved thousands of women and girls in northeastern Nigeria since 2009. Additionally, reports from Amnesty International indicate high levels of sexual violence in IDP camps, where women and girls are vulnerable to exploitation and abuse by security personnel and other authorities. A 2019 survey by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) and UNICEF revealed that one in four Nigerian girls has experienced some form of sexual violence by age 18.
Taking Action
To address and eliminate sexual violence in conflict, it is important to:
1. Raise Awareness: Educate communities about the realities of sexual violence in conflict and the broader issue of GBV.
2. Support Survivors: Provide comprehensive support, including medical, psychological, and legal assistance, to survivors and follow up on their recovery.
3. Promote Gender Equality: Challenge societal norms that go against gender inequality and violence, and support initiatives that empower women and girls.
International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict is a powerful call to action. By understanding the causes, types, and impacts of sexual violence in conflict, and by recognizing its connection to broader gender-based violence, we can work together to create a safer, more equitable world.