By: Goshu Melisew
The Ethiopian Women's Development Organization (EWDO) has called on stakeholders to fulfill their responsibilities in ending gender-based violence (GBV) in Ethiopia.
The Ethiopian Women's Development Organization (EWDO), in partnership with the Network of Ethiopian Women's Associations (NEWA), has launched this year’s anti-sexual violence campaign under the theme: "Towards Beijing +30: UNiTE to End Violence Against Women and Girls." This marks the campaign's 33rd global observance and its 19th edition in Ethiopia.
Raising awareness is vital in the fight against gender based violence, remarked Huluageresh Tazez Executive Directress of Women's Development Organization (EWDO).
“Raising awareness is crucial in the fight against gender-based violence. We must educate communities about domestic abuse, sexual harassment, and harmful practices like child marriage and female genital mutilation. By challenging norms and breaking stigmas, we can build a safer, more supportive world for all.
Gender-based violence isn't just a women's issue; it’s a societal challenge affecting us all. Together, we can create a future where everyone, regardless of gender, lives free from violence and fear.”
16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence was also launched on the occasion. In her opening remarks at the consultative forum, Zeyneb Shikur, Women and Social Affairs Standing Committee of the Addis Ababa City Administration highlighted the emergence of social media; gender-based violence (GBV) also requires closer examination.
The legal issue against gender based violence needs to be assessed and all pertinent bodies must take responsibility for preventing violence against women, she emphasized.
Despite the need for a comprehensive national study, the prevalence of traumatic gender-based violence continues to surge over time, said Meron Aragaw Gender, Youth and Social Issues Advisor.
“The normalization of society’s response to sexual violence is a deeply concerning issue. In many communities, child-Nurturing practices, societal perceptions of gender equality, and power imbalances contribute to perpetuating this violence. Gender-based violence is not just an individual problem but a societal crisis that requires a transformative shift in mindset. To address this, a paradigm shift with the community is essential. Policymakers and legislators must not only enact laws to prevent gender-based violence but also ensure that these laws are strictly enforced, protecting victims and creating a society where such violence is no longer tolerated.”
As technology advances, digital sexual violence is on the rise in Ethiopia and requires immediate attention, she noted. Continued efforts to strengthen the capacity of police and legal organizations are crucial in the fight against gender-based violence, ensuring justice for victims and holding perpetrators accountable, Meron underlined.