Gender Ministry Educates Young Men On Gender Based Violence

Involving young men in the fight against gender based violence is key to the success of the campaign for elimination of all forms of violence against women and girls. Nana Oye Lithur, Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, stated at Ashaiman, to mark the �16-days Activism against Gender Based Violence�. This year�s celebration is on the theme: �From Peace in the Home to Peace in the World; Let�s challenge Militarism and end Violence against Women.� She said when young men in their formative years understood the damaging effects of gender based violence they grew to understand better the need to respect the dignity of women. She said research had shown that violence against women was largely carried out by men��Men are the gate-keepers of our society. If we are to effectively reduce gender based violence, we must partner with them, to ensure success�. Nana Oye Lithur said her Ministry was rolling out a programme to collaborate with youth groups in mosques, churches, communities and other sectors of the society to help prevent gender based violence. �We will educate them on anger management and conflict resolution techniques,� the Minister said. Mr. Ibrahim Baidoo, Municipal Chief Executive of Ashaiman, said considering the extent of physical as well as psychological damage that abused girls and women suffered there was a strong need �to eliminate the canker.� He said there should be education programmes in schools, churches, mosques and other social establishments on the need to end gender based violence, Mr. Baidoo also advised community leaders, family heads, teachers and the public at large to put in strong efforts to ensure a safe and peaceful environment �for our young girls and women�. The �16-Days Activism against Gender Based Violence,� is an international campaign which began on November 25 and ends on December 10.