While the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign is a crucial global initiative, it's essential for all of us to recognise that the fight against gender-based violence must be a year-round endeavour. This is according to my perspective as a researcher. Here are some compelling points of view I have as to why this activism should not only be confined to a specific timeframe:
Firstly, is perpetuating the myth of a "Safe Season”: Limiting this activism for one of the vulnerable in society to 16 days can inadvertently create the perception that the remaining 349 days of the year are safer for women and girls – even with disability or not. This is a dangerous misconception. The ongoing nature of this problem is that; gender-based violence is a persistent issue that requires continuous attention and action. It doesn't take a break during the other 349 days of the year.
Secondly, is the need for “Sustained Efforts”: These efforts are necessary to address the root causes of gender-based violence, such as harmful gender norms based on culture values of ancestry, inequality, and lack of access to civil and community justice. A year-round approach allows for the building of a stronger, more resilient movement to embrace our world of globalisation as compared to our grand and great grandfather’s era. This provides us all with opportunities for sustained advocacy, capacity building, and community engagement.
Furthermore, is the Amplifying of Survivor Voices: Continuous activism ensures that survivors' voices are heard year-round, promoting empathy, understanding, and solidarity. This will enforce the addressing of gender-based violence which requires systemic change, and necessitates ongoing advocacy and pressure on policymakers and institutions across all boards; be it in the workplaces, civic organisations or political arenas currently in.
Lastly, is the prevention of “Future Violence”: By maintaining a constant focus on prevention, education, and awareness-raising, we can work towards creating a future free from gender-based violence. While the 16 Days of Activism campaign is a valuable platform, it should serve as a catalyst for sustained action throughout the year. By committing to year-round activism, we can make a significant impact in the fight against gender-based violence. I write this as a man to make it clear that not all “men are the same” as perceived out there. There are millions of family men out there who are not part of, or condone this ongoing trend of gender-based violence.
Ernest Nartey Hogah
* The views expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of IOL or Independent Media.
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