By By: Staff Writer
In a significant step towards addressing gender-based violence (GBV) the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, in collaboration with the Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights (SRHR), successfully concluded a National GBV Youth Dialogue. Under the theme, “Promoting Youth Ownership for Inclusive GBV Advocacy,” the one-day event brought together youth from Montserrado County and surrounding areas to confront the critical issue of GBV and explore effective advocacy strategies.
In her opening remarks, Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection, Mrs. Gbeme Horace-Kollie, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to eradicating GBV in Liberia. “Our partnership with civil society is crucial in this fight. Together, we can create a safer environment for all, particularly for our youth, who are the future leaders of this nation,” she stated.
The event provided a platform for key stakeholders in justice, security, and social protection, including representatives from the Ministry of Justice and the Liberia National Police.
Minister Kollie express their collective commitment to not only strengthening prevention efforts but also enhancing accountability mechanisms. The importance of establishing a survivor-centered response system that prioritizes protection, dignity, and access to justice for all victims of GBV was a critical focus of the discussions.
“Minister Kollie also stressed the urgent need for coordinated, adequately resourced, and sustained action to effectively combat GBV. The dialogue highlighted the necessity of empowering youth to take ownership of advocacy efforts, ensuring their voices are integral in shaping policies and interventions aimed at preventing and responding to GBV.
“Representative Moima Brigs Mensah, echoed these sentiments during the dialogue, calling for a unified approach to combat GBV. “This is not just a government issue; this is a societal issue that requires everyone’s involvement. We must work together to ensure that survivors are heard and supported”, she asserted.
“As the dialogue concluded, participants left with a renewed sense of purpose and determination to advocate for inclusive policies and practices that address the root causes of GBV. The event fostered a collaborative spirit among youth and stakeholders and laid the groundwork for ongoing engagement and action in the fight against gender-based violence in Liberia.
“The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection and its partners are now tasked with translating the discussions and commitments made during this dialogue into actionable initiatives, ensuring that the voices of Liberia’s youth contribute to lasting change in the landscape of GBV advocacy.
