Expose perpetratorsof domestic violence

MANY Ghanaian families have put protecting their public image ahead of protecting victims for decades, particularly when abuse is committed by family members or close associates.

Too many cases are being buried at the community level, with abusers protected while victims are pressured into silence.

To break the culture of silence that permits sexual abuse to flourish, a nationwide movement has been launched in Accra in order to challenge this deeply ingrained norm by urging communities to speak up, assist survivors, and demand responsibility.

The initiative was launched by Innova DDB Ghana, in collaboration with Family Renaissance International (FRI) and 3Music TV.
The programme, called “Call Them Out,” is a component of events commemorating the International Day of the Child, a global observance devoted to the protection and rights of children. Its goal is to address the long-ignored problem of family sexual abuse.

The truth is that this culture of concealment has long existed and allowed abuse to continue unchecked, but it is time “to call them out” due to the deceptive methods abusers use, the pain survivors experience, and the terrible shame that prevents victims from getting treatment.

As a result, The Spectator applauds the idea since it will help identify perpetrators so that appropriate action can be taken.

In a related development, November 25 is designated as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women every year in an effort to raise public awareness of the detrimental effects that violence against women has on people’s health.

The annual observance, designated by the United Nations General Assembly, is a period of 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, observed from November 25 to December 10 since 1981.

This year’s campaign is on the theme: “Unite! End Digital Violence Against Women and Girls.”

It is unfortunate and sad that gender-based violence is one of the most pervasive human rights violations in Ghana.
What worsens the situation is that many victims of violence endure the persistence of sexual and physical abuse within families, a subject often shrouded in silence.

The Spectator calls on traditional authorities, religious leaders and community influencers to stop shielding perpetrators of gender-based violence and allow the law to work.

An enabling environment should be created to protect women and girls so they will feel safe in their own homes and be free from sexual violence.

The media should use their platforms to condemn abuse and intensify education, for no person should “die in silence’’ in a society that values dignity.

Additionally, we urge victims not to feel too intimidated to report, because support services are available to all, regardless of age or social status. Women, girls, men and boys should remain vigilant, support peers, and serve as advocates for early reporting and accountability.

We hope the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection (MGCSP) will hasten the construction of shelters promised for the 16 regions to strengthen protection systems for survivors of abuse.

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