A Call to Action: 30 Years of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action
This year’s theme aligns with the United Nations (UNiTE) initiative: “Towards 30 Years of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action: UNiTE to End Violence Against Women and Girls.” The campaign highlighted the global call for a safer, more equitable society through cross-sector collaboration to eradicate gender-based violence (GBV).
Mr. Leonard Zulu, UN Resident Coordinator in Uganda, emphasized the gravity of the issue, quoting the UN Secretary-General’s message: “The epidemic of violence against women and girls shames humanity.” In Uganda, 58% of partnered women face intimate partner violence, underscoring the need for immediate and sustained action to dismantle the systemic barriers that perpetuate GBV.
Key Stakeholders and a United Effort Against GBV
The launch event was attended by government officials, civil society organizations, development partners, activists, and community leaders. Participants wore orange scarves and outfits to symbolize hope and unity for a future free from GBV. A symbolic signing ceremony took place to mark Uganda’s progress in implementing the Beijing Declaration, specifically focusing on the Beijing +30 report, which tracks the country’s journey toward gender equality over the past 30 years.
During the event, Diana Oroma, a staff member from the Women’s International Peace Centre, received an accolade for her organization’s pivotal role in advancing women’s peace and security (WPS) in Uganda. This recognition highlighted the significant contributions of civil society in addressing GBV.
Government Commitment to Policy Enforcement
In her keynote address, Hon. Peace Mutuuzo, the State Minister for Gender and Culture, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to enforcing GBV-related policies and laws. She called for accelerated efforts to raise awareness, strengthen protection mechanisms, and provide justice for survivors of violence.
“The fight against gender-based violence requires deliberate action, accountability, and investment. As a government, we are committed to ensuring that no woman or girl suffers violence in silence or without recourse,” said Mutuuzo, urging the entire nation to unite in ending GBV.
A Global Commitment to End GBV
Dr. Paulina Chiwangu, the UN Women Uganda Country Representative, delivered a powerful call to action, stressing the importance of bold and intensified efforts to eradicate violence against women and girls once and for all. She called on decision-makers and custodians of culture to increase accountability and commitment as the world approaches the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration.
“This year’s campaign is designed to guide stakeholders in addressing critical priorities that will shape future efforts to end violence against women and girls. It is timely that Uganda is unveiling its National Progress Report on the implementation of the Beijing Declaration,” Chiwangu said.
Acknowledging the Impact of GBV and the Need for Urgent Action
Swedish Ambassador to Uganda, Maria Håkansson, highlighted alarming statistics on GBV in Uganda, including that 36% of women experience intimate partner sexual violence, 45% face physical violence, and 55% suffer economic or emotional abuse. She called for urgent, collective action to address these statistics.
“There is no excuse for violence in homes, offices, or public places. We must prioritize the resourcing and implementation of existing laws and policies to hold perpetrators accountable,” Håkansson emphasized, reaffirming the commitment of Sweden and other partners to support Uganda’s efforts in eliminating GBV.
The Role of Men and Boys in Ending GBV
European Union Ambassador to Uganda, Jan Sadek, emphasized the critical role that men and boys must play in ending gender-based violence. He called for the promotion of positive masculinity and challenged societal norms that perpetuate violence.
“We must foster a culture of respect and equality,” Sadek stated, urging both men and boys to take a stronger stand against GBV.
Conclusion
The national launch of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence in Uganda set the tone for a sustained campaign to address the root causes of GBV and promote sustainable solutions. As the country moves forward in its fight against gender-based violence, it is clear that collective action, from government, civil society, and international partners, will be crucial in achieving lasting change.
(Include image: Participants wearing orange in solidarity during the launch event.)
