UN Women calls for united action to end violence on women, girls
The United Nations Programme for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women, known as UN Women, is calling for a stronger, more unified effort to tackle violence against women and girls in Ghana.
In an exclusive interview with ZED FM, Senior Gender Specialist at UN Women, Dr Afua Ansre, stressed that the responsibility of ending gender-based violence should not rest solely on the government.
“Issues regarding violence against women have been ongoing since time immemorial, and we are still struggling with it. As a result, we are now developing strategies to tackle it. Intimate partner violence and other forms occur within communities. We need civil society organisations, community members, religious groups and traditional leaders all working together,” Dr Ansre said.
She emphasised that the involvement of these groups is essential not only to raise awareness but also to create an environment where survivors feel safe enough to report abuse and seek justice.
“When victims feel supported by their communities, they are more likely to speak out, and that is how change begins. UN Women is here to support women and help them carry the message to the communities,” Dr Ansre indicated.
She also spoke against the stigmatisation of survivors of gender-based violence and bemoaned the lack of support, resources, services and information, as well as limited access to justice in addressing these issues effectively.
“When survivors do not have access to adequate support services or information about their rights and available resources, they may face isolation, shame and blame from their communities and even their own families,” Dr Ansre added.
UN Women continues to advocate inclusive, community-driven approaches to ending violence against women and girls, and urges all sectors of society to play an active role in protecting vulnerable individuals and promoting gender equality.
