Written by Maureen on Friday, December 6, 2024

Every day, countless women and girls around the world face the harsh reality of gender-based violence. As a girl advocate, I have witnessed the devastating effects of this violence firsthand. My journey to advocacy began with a personal experience that changed my life forever.
Growing up in my community, I saw many girls drop out of school due to early marriages and domestic violence. One of my closest friends, Sarah, was forced into marriage at the age of 16. Her dreams of becoming a doctor were shattered. I remember the day she confided in me about the abuse she endured. Her eyes, once full of hope, were now clouded with fear and despair.

Sarah’s story was not an isolated incident. I, too, faced my own battles. At the age of 16, I was harassed by a neighbor. The fear and shame I felt were overwhelming. I didn’t know who to turn to or how to speak out. The silence was suffocating, and I felt trapped in a world that didn’t seem to care about the plight of girls.

Gender-based violence is deeply rooted in societal norms that perpetuate inequality. In many cultures, women are seen as inferior, leading to their mistreatment and abuse. The impact of GBV is far-reaching, affecting not only the victims but also their families and communities. Survivors often face significant barriers in seeking help and justice, including stigma, lack of support services, and inadequate legal protections.

To combat GBV, we must challenge these harmful norms and advocate for gender equality. Education plays a crucial role in this fight. By teaching young people about respect and consent, we can create a safer environment for everyone. Legal reforms are also necessary to ensure that perpetrators are held accountable and survivors receive the support they need.
Ending gender-based violence requires collective action. We must all stand together to support survivors and work towards a world where everyone can live free from fear and violence. My journey to advocacy began with a personal experience, but it has grown into a lifelong commitment to fight for the rights of girls and women everywhere. Together, we can break the silence and create a brighter future for all.
Thanks