Gender-Based Violence: A Crisis of our Humanity – Fida International on the VOL 36
Fida International’s article in the VOICE Out Loud 36 confronts the impacts of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in humanitarian emergencies, particularly in conflict-ridden areas like the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The article paints a vivid picture of the multifaceted impact of GBV, which extends beyond physical harm to include psychological trauma and social stigmatisation. Central to the discussion is the "Call to Action" initiative, which advocates for comprehensive GBV services, preventative measures, and a firm commitment to gender equality and empowerment from the early stages of crisis response.
The piece further underscores the need for holistic development to address the deepening gender and social inequalities, especially highlighting the heightened vulnerability of women with disabilities to GBV. It advocates for building more equitable societies and strengthening democratic and judicial processes as key to mitigating GBV. The complexity of effectively responding to GBV, especially in environments marked by impunity and ongoing crises, is brought to light, emphasising the need for multifaceted support systems that encompass health, legal, and socio-economic dimensions to aid survivors.