“The ongoing humanitarian crisis and conflict in Somalia have
displaced large populations and put women and girls at greater risk of
violence, including sexual violence. Gender-based violence and
conflict-related sexual violence severely impact on the right to life,
livelihoods and dignity of women and girls,” said the Officer-in-Charge
of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia, Anita Kiki Gbeho.
“Making humanitarian response more gender-inclusive and creating a
safe environment for women and girls are critical,” Ms. Gbeho added.
The theme of this year’s campaign – ‘UNiTE! Activism To End Violence
Against Women & Girls!’ – highlights the urgent need to come
together and prevent violence against women and girls.
Ending discrimination on all grounds, including gender, is stipulated
in Somalia’s Provisional Constitution of 2012. The United Nations in
Somalia urges Parliament to adopt the Sexual Offences Bill (2018), which
will offer greater protection of the victims of sexual violence across
the country.
The annual 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence
campaign, which runs from 25 November, the International Day for the
Elimination of Violence against Women, to 10 December, Human Rights Day,
is a reminder of the unfinished work to realize gender equality, peace,
and security for all, in every sphere of life, including in public and
political spheres.
During the 16 Days campaign, the UN will join hands with the Somali
government and civil society organisations in advocacy and
awareness-raising activities to address violence against women and
girls.
