Monrovia, Liberia – The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence came to a conclusion with a stirring event organized by the Women in Media Development (WIMDev) group, which emphasized the vital role that the media plays in addressing and preventing violence against women and girls.
On December 10, 2024, Human Rights groups, journalists, activists, and stakeholders came together for an event under the theme “The Media as a Catalyst for Change in the Fight Against Gender-Based Violence.”
Speaking at the event, Onita Roberts, the Ministry of Justice’s Director for SGBV Rural Liberia, disclosed that more than ten SGBV cases are reported to her office every day, with Grand Bassa County receiving particular attention as the county with the most SGBV instances.
Director Roberts added that the Ministry of Justice is presently holding a national discussion on creating a Sex Registry that will identify and punish Liberian sex offenders.
Also speaking Esther Eyeah David Yango, the head of the Women NGO Secretariat of Liberia (WONGOSL) called on the government of Liberia and partners to invest in women led human rights organizations.
According to WIMDev, the media has a special ability to mold stories, sway public opinion, and hold those in positions of authority accountable. In order to demonstrate the effectiveness of responsible journalism in elevating survivors’ voices and promoting systemic change, the group showcased a number of powerful tales and initiatives that were covered over the 16 Days.
In their discussion on the relationship between activism and the media, experts emphasized how reporters may cover gender-based violence in a responsible manner without sensationalizing it or endangering survivors.
“Media as an Ally: Journalists must challenge harmful stereotypes, raise awareness, and highlight solutions to address the root causes of gender-based violence,” was one of the key aspects that WIMDev emphasized throughout the event.
Ethical Reporting: Reports should refrain from sensationalizing or traumatizing survivors while upholding their anonymity and dignity.
Advocacy for Policy Change: It is the duty of media outlets to hold decision-makers responsible by promoting stricter legislation and improved application of current frameworks.
WIMDev announced a number of projects as part of their campaign contribution that are intended to maintain the enthusiasm after the 16 Days, collaborations with community organizations to raise awareness of underreported issues. A series of documentaries and social media initiatives to keep the conversation alive throughout the year among others.
The Executive Director of WIMDev reaffirmed the organization’s dedication to combating gender-based violence via media advocacy in her final comments. She emphasized that the battle against gender-based violence necessitates perseverance and group effort, and she asked journalists to continue being watchdogs and change agents.
As a somber reminder of the work that still needs to be done, the event concluded with a symbolic candle-lighting ceremony to memorialize survivors and those who have been lost to gender-based violence.
In doing so, WIMDev ensured that the momentum of the 16 Days of Activism continues into a long-term movement for change by reaffirming its purpose to empower women and elevate voices demanding justice and equality.
In order to achieve gender equality and the elimination of all types of discrimination against women, girls, and other vulnerable people, WIMDE, a non-profit, non-governmental feminist media organization, works to empower media women and girls. With the goal to create a historic shift based on feminist ideas within a human rights framework through research, coalition building, and media campaigning for a society free from violence that is equitable, inclusive, and nondiscriminatory.
