cfhinitiative

MONDAY HEALTH BURST ON CAUSES, TRANSMISSION AND SYMPTOMS OF HEPATITIS

Hepatitis A is a contagious liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV). Unlike other forms of hepatitis, hepatitis A does not cause chronic liver disease, but it can cause acute liver inflammation and is a significant public health concern globally.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in rare cases, hepatitis A can lead to liver failure and even death. This is more common among older adults and individuals with other serious health conditions, such as chronic liver disease.

Causes and Transmission

The hepatitis A virus is typically spread through the fecal-oral route. This means the virus is present in the stool of an infected person and can contaminate food, water, and surfaces. Common sources of infection include:

Contaminated Food and Water: Eating raw or undercooked food, especially shellfish from contaminated water, is a common way to contract hepatitis A.
Close Personal Contact: Living in the same household or having sexual contact with an infected person increases the risk of transmission.
Poor Sanitation and Hygiene: Areas with poor sanitation or overcrowded living conditions are more susceptible to outbreaks.

Symptoms

Symptoms of hepatitis A can range from mild to severe and typically appear 2 to 7 weeks after exposure to the virus. They may include:

Fatigue
Sudden nausea and vomiting
Abdominal pain or discomfort, especially in the upper right side beneath the lower ribs (by your liver)
Clay-colored bowel movements
Loss of appetite
Low-grade fever
Dark urine
Joint pain
Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
Intense itching

These symptoms usually last less than two months, although some people can be ill for as long as six months. In children under age 6, hepatitis A often causes no symptoms.

Hepatitis A, while typically less severe than other forms of hepatitis, can still cause significant discomfort and disrupt daily life. Understanding the transmission routes, recognizing symptoms early, and practicing preventive measures are crucial in managing and reducing the spread of hepatitis A. Vaccination remains the most effective tool in preventing infection and ensuring public health safety. By staying informed and taking proactive steps, we can protect ourselves and our communities from this contagious disease.

Reference:

https://www.cdc.gov/hepatitis-a/about/index.html

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SPEAK WEDNESDAY ON GIRLS AT RISK: HOW GENDER BIAS FUELS CHILD LABOUR IN NIGERIA

Child Labour, Speak Wednesday / cfhinitiative

In Nigeria, gender bias is a silent but powerful force driving many young girls into child labour.

According to UNICEF, over 43% of children between the age of 5 to 17 are engaged in child labour, and girls are disproportionately affected. The reasons are deeply rooted in cultural norms and economic hardships, often pushing girls out of school and into work.

Girls in Nigeria are frequently pulled out of school to support their families through labour, with many working in hazardous conditions.

The United Nations reports that societal expectations place girls in the roles of caregivers and domestic helpers from a very young age. This unpaid labour within their own homes often extends into exploitative work outside. Tasks like hawking goods, domestic servitude, and even hazardous jobs in agriculture become their daily reality. This not only robs them of their childhood but also of opportunities for education and future economic independence. Furthermore, most of them are exposed to physical abuse, sexual exploitation, and long-term psychological harm.

What can be done? Initiatives and policies that enforces compulsory education to keep girls in school and out of labour, providing them with the tools they need to build a better future can be instrumental in fighting child labour. By challenging gender stereotypes and investing in girls’ education, we can break the chains of child labour and empower the next generation of Nigerian women.

Let’s stand together to protect our girls and ensure they have the bright futures they deserve.

Speak Wednesday is an initiative of CFHI to address issues around gender-based violence and gender bias.

References:

– UNICEF, “Child Labour,” available at [UNICEF] https://www.unicef.org/nigeria/child-protection/child-labour

– United Nations, “Child Labour in Agriculture,” available at [UN] https://www.un.org/en/global-issues/child-labour

– World Health Organization, “Child Labour and Health,” available at [WHO] https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/child-labour

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MONDAY HEALTH BURST ON HEALTH BENEFITS OF FAMILY PLANNING

Monday Health Burst / cfhinitiative

Family planning is an essential component of public health, empowering individuals and couples to determine the number and spacing of their children. Its impact extends beyond individual well-being, fostering healthier families, communities, and societies at large. Access to comprehensive family planning services is therefore crucial for achieving global health and development goals.

Maternal Health Improvements

Family planning significantly enhances maternal health by allowing women to space pregnancies appropriately. Adequate spacing between births reduces the risk of complications such as preterm births, low birth weight, and maternal mortality.¹ Pregnancies that are too close together can strain a woman’s body, leading to health issues such as anemia and uterine rupture. By using family planning methods, women can recover fully before conceiving again, ensuring a healthier pregnancy and delivery.

Reduction in Infant and Child Mortality

The timing and spacing of births also play a critical role in reducing infant and child mortality rates. Closely spaced pregnancies are associated with higher risks of premature births and low birth weights, both of which are significant factors in infant mortality. Furthermore, adequate birth spacing allows parents to provide better care and attention to each child, leading to improved health and developmental outcomes.

Prevention of Unintended Pregnancies

Unintended pregnancies can lead to various health risks, including unsafe abortions, which are a significant cause of maternal mortality worldwide. Family planning reduces the incidence of unintended pregnancies, thereby lowering the risk of unsafe abortions. Additionally, it helps women and couples make informed decisions about their reproductive health, contributing to overall well-being.

Control of Population Growth

Effective family planning contributes to the control of population growth, which has broader health implications. Rapid population growth can strain healthcare systems, reduce access to medical services, and exacerbate poverty and malnutrition. By managing population growth, family planning helps maintain a balance between population size and available resources, ensuring better health services and living conditions.

Empowerment of Women and Gender Equality

Family planning empowers women by giving them control over their reproductive health. This empowerment leads to better educational and economic opportunities, as women who can plan their families are more likely to pursue higher education and participate in the workforce. Enhanced gender equality has been linked to improved health outcomes for women and their families.

At CFHI, we collaborate with donors, healthcare facilities, and relevant organizations to provide reproductive health services in diverse communities. One of these initiatives is the collaboration with Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI) to increase awareness of Family Planning and Post-Partum Family Planning services and create linkages between the community and health facilities in 10 Local Government Areas in Kaduna State. Our efforts resulted in reaching significant milestones. CFHI reached 921 traditional birth attendants, 513 leaders, 285 Islamiyah school teachers, 598 community women organizations and Zumuntar Mata members. Additionally, 217 TBA-led community sensitization sessions were conducted, and 150 Islamiyah school cascading sessions were held in 109 wards of the target LGAs.

During Maternal, Newborn, and Child Health (MNCH) week, CFHI annually provides free HIV screening, deworming drugs, immunizations, Vitamin A supplementation, malnutrition screening and referrals, distribution of routine pregnancy drugs, and other essential services to mothers and children.

The health benefits of family planning are extensive and multifaceted. By promoting maternal and child health, preventing unintended pregnancies and STIs, empowering women, and supporting environmental sustainability, family planning is a crucial public health tool.

Reference

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6667399/

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WORLD DAY AGAINST CHILD LABOUR

Child Labour, Child Trafficking, Speak Wednesday / cfhinitiative

Every year, on June 12th, the world comes together to recognize World Day Against Child Labour, a day dedicated to raising awareness about the plight of child labourers globally and encouraging actions to eliminate this scourge. This year, the theme, “Let’s Act on Our Commitments: End Child Labour!” calls upon governments, organizations, and individuals to reaffirm their pledges and take concrete steps toward eradicating child labour.

Child labour is defined by the International Labour Organization (ILO) as work that is mentally, physically, socially, or morally dangerous and harmful to children. It deprives them of the opportunity to attend school and impedes their overall development. As per Business Insider (2018), child labour not only denies children their right to education but also exposes them to severe human rights violations, including sexual assault, human trafficking, and exploitation by drug dealers and armed groups.

An estimated 218 million children worldwide, aged between 5 and 17, are engaged in labour, with 152 million of them working under hazardous conditions. These children toil away in fields, factories, and homes, sacrificing their childhood and their future for survival.

In today’s reality, poverty remains a significant driver of child labour, especially in countries like Nigeria. Children are often forced to toil in harsh conditions to support their families, becoming the primary breadwinners. This harsh reality not only perpetuates the cycle of poverty but also compounds social inequality and discrimination.

While constructive activities like helping with light housework or taking on part-time jobs during school breaks can benefit children, child labour starkly contrasts by severely restricting access to education and impeding a child’s physical, mental, and social growth. For girls, the situation is even more dire, as they bear the “triple burden” of school, work, and household chores, heightening their risk of falling behind and increasing their vulnerability to poverty and exclusion.

On this day, CFHI joins the global community in reminding us that there is no justification for child labour. CFHI actively engages in awareness campaigns, educational programs, and advocacy efforts to highlight the dangers of child labour and champion systemic changes that safeguard vulnerable children from exploitation.

As UNICEF aptly puts it, “There is no reason, there is no excuse. Child labour is child abuse.” By acting on our commitments and working together, we can ensure that every child enjoys a childhood free from labour, filled with education, play, and the promise of a brighter future.

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MONDAY HEALTH BURST ON UNDERSTANDING POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION: EARLY SIGNS AND INTERVENTION

Monday Health Burst, Postpartum Depression / cfhinitiative

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a complex, multifaceted condition that affects many new mothers worldwide.¹ It goes beyond the “baby blues,” a common experience characterized by mood swings, crying spells, and anxiety shortly after childbirth, typically resolving within two weeks. PPD, however, is more severe and enduring, requiring timely recognition and intervention to ensure the well-being of both the mother and the child. Understanding the symptoms and early signs of postpartum depression is crucial for effective intervention and support.

Early Signs of Postpartum Depression

Recognizing the early signs of PPD is the first step toward seeking help. These symptoms can appear anytime within the first year after childbirth, often peaking within the first three months. Key indicators include:

Persistent Sadness or Low Mood: Unlike the transient sadness of baby blues, PPD is marked by a prolonged feeling of sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness.
Loss of Interest or Pleasure: New mothers with PPD often lose interest in activities they once enjoyed, including bonding with their baby.
Changes in Appetite and Weight: Significant weight loss or gain and changes in appetite can be symptoms of PPD.
Sleep Disturbances: Insomnia or excessive sleeping, especially when not related to the baby’s needs, can indicate PPD.
Fatigue and Loss of Energy: A pervasive lack of energy and chronic fatigue, beyond the typical exhaustion of new motherhood, are common signs.
Feelings of Worthlessness or Guilt: Intense feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or inadequacy about being a good mother are prevalent in PPD.
Difficulty Concentrating: Trouble focusing, making decisions, or remembering things can signal depression.
Anxiety and Panic Attacks: Excessive worry about the baby’s health or one’s ability to care for the baby, sometimes escalating into panic attacks, is another symptom.
Thoughts of Self-Harm or Harm to the Baby: In severe cases, mothers may have thoughts of harming themselves or their baby, indicating the need for urgent intervention.

Intervention and Support

Early intervention is crucial for improving outcomes for mothers experiencing postpartum depression (PPD). Seeking professional help, including therapy to address negative thought patterns and improve interpersonal relationships, is advisable. In moderate to severe cases, antidepressants may be prescribed, and it is essential to discuss the benefits and risks with a healthcare provider, particularly regarding breastfeeding. Additionally, it is important for mothers to get adequate rest, eat nutritious meals, engage in physical activity, and take time for relaxation. Involving family members in the care process can provide valuable emotional and practical support. Joining a support group can also help reduce feelings of isolation.

Postpartum depression is a serious condition that requires attention and care. By understanding the early signs and knowing when and how to seek intervention, mothers and their families can ensure better mental health outcomes. Early recognition and intervention are key to overcoming postpartum depression, fostering a healthier, happier postpartum experience.

Reference:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10400812/

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MONDAY HEALTH BURST ON HEALTH IMPLICATIONS OF TOBACCO

Drug Abuse, Monday Health Burst, WHO / cfhinitiative

Tobacco use remains one of the leading causes of preventable disease and death worldwide. Despite extensive public health campaigns and increasing awareness, millions of people continue to use tobacco in various forms, exposing themselves to numerous health risks.¹ Some of the health implications include;

Cardiovascular Disease

Tobacco use is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVD), including heart attacks, strokes, and peripheral artery disease. Nicotine, the addictive component of tobacco, raises blood pressure and heart rate, putting extra strain on the heart. Additionally, carbon monoxide from cigarette smoke reduces the blood’s oxygen-carrying capacity, further exacerbating the risk of heart disease. Smokers are 2 to 4 times more likely to develop heart disease than non-smokers.²

Respiratory Disorders

The respiratory system is directly exposed to the harmful effects of tobacco smoke, leading to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), emphysema, and chronic bronchitis. The tar and chemicals in tobacco smoke damage the airways and alveoli, causing inflammation, reduced lung function, and chronic respiratory symptoms. Long-term smokers often experience breathlessness, persistent coughing, and increased susceptibility to respiratory infections.

Cancer

Tobacco use is the leading cause of cancer and cancer-related deaths. It is responsible for approximately 85% of lung cancer cases, the deadliest form of cancer.³ Beyond lung cancer, tobacco use is also linked to cancers of the mouth, throat, esophagus, pancreas, bladder, kidney, cervix, and stomach. The carcinogens in tobacco smoke cause mutations in DNA, leading to uncontrolled cell growth and tumor development.

Impact on Oral Health

Tobacco use significantly affects oral health, causing gum disease, tooth loss, and oral cancers. Smokers are more prone to periodontal disease, which can lead to tooth loss if untreated. The chemicals in tobacco also reduce the blood flow to the gums, impairing healing and making the mouth more susceptible to infections.

Reproductive Health Issues

Tobacco use can adversely affect reproductive health in both men and women. In women, it increases the risk of infertility, complications during pregnancy, and adverse outcomes such as preterm birth, low birth weight, and stillbirth. Men who smoke may experience reduced sperm quality, erectile dysfunction, and decreased fertility.

Secondhand Smoke

The dangers of tobacco are not limited to users themselves. Secondhand smoke, which is the smoke exhaled by smokers and the smoke from the burning end of a cigarette, is a serious health hazard. Non-smokers exposed to secondhand smoke are at increased risk of heart disease, respiratory infections, and cancer. Children exposed to secondhand smoke are particularly vulnerable, experiencing higher rates of asthma, sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), and ear infections. According to the World Health Organization, tobacco kills more than 8 million people per year, including an estimated 1.3 million nonsmokers who are exposed to second-hand smoke.⁴

In 2023, the Centre for Family Health Initiative, through the Community Action against Drug misuse (CAADA) project, conducted a road walk in the Dawaki, Dutse Alhaji, and Dutse Sokale areas, educating over 200 youths about the hazards of drug misuse.

The health implications of tobacco use are extensive and severe, affecting virtually every organ in the body and leading to numerous preventable diseases and deaths. Despite these known risks, tobacco addiction continues to pose a significant public health challenge. Combating this issue requires ongoing education, stronger regulatory measures, and support for individuals trying to quit. By reducing tobacco use, we can improve health outcomes and save millions of lives each year.

REFERENCES:

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SPEAK WEDNESDAY ARTICLE ON STRATEGIES FOR REPORTING GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE IN NIGERIA

Gender Based Violence, Speak Wednesday / cfhinitiative

Gender-based violence is a grave violation of human rights that affects predominantly women and girls. Reporting GBV is crucial in obtaining justice, support, and protection. However, many victims are often unsure about how to report their experiences or which authorities to approach. This lack of knowledge can hinder access to necessary resources and justice. Understanding the various strategies and resources available for reporting GBV in Nigeria is essential for empowering survivors and ensuring they receive the support they need.

Key Reporting Channels and Resources

Legal Assistance

Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act (VAPP): This law provides a legal framework for addressing various forms of GBV. Survivors should seek legal assistance to understand their rights under the VAPP Act.
NAPTIP (National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons): NAPTIP provides legal and rehabilitative support for survivors of human trafficking and GBV. They have a dedicated helpline (0703 0000 203) for reporting incidents.

Authorities in Charge

Nigerian Police Force: Survivors can report GBV incidents to the nearest police station. The police are obligated to investigate and provide protection to survivors. Specialized units, such as the Gender Desk in police stations, are trained to handle GBV cases sensitively.
Ministry of Women Affairs: This ministry is crucial in coordinating responses to GBV and supporting survivors. It collaborates with various national and international partners to improve reporting mechanisms and survivor support services.

Helplines and Emergency Services

National GBV Helpline: The Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, supported by the EU-UN Spotlight Initiative, has established the ReportGBV.ng platform. This includes a 24/7 helpline (0800 3333 3333) where survivors can report incidents and receive immediate support (ReportGBV) (Spotlight Initiative).
Emergency Services: In urgent situations, survivors should contact local police or emergency medical services. It’s crucial to have emergency contacts readily available.

Supportive Organizations

Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs): Numerous NGOs offer legal aid and advocacy for women and girls facing violence. They also conduct awareness programs to educate the public about GBV and its impact. (ReportGBV) Survivors can approach these organizations for help navigating the legal system, understanding their rights, counselling, and legal assistance.

Reporting GBV is essential for accessing justice and support. Survivors in Nigeria have various channels and resources available, from helplines and legal assistance to supportive organizations and online platforms. By leveraging these resources and addressing the barriers to reporting, we can create a safer environment for all and work towards eradicating GBV.

Speak Wednesday is an initiative of CFHI to address issues around gender-based violence and gender bias.

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MONDAY HEALTH ON IMPACT OF LACK OF MENSTRUAL PRODUCT ON MENTAL HEALTH

Monday Health Burst, WHO / cfhinitiative

Menstrual hygiene is a crucial aspect of health for individuals who menstruate, yet millions around the world face significant challenges in accessing necessary products and facilities. On any given day, more than 300 million women worldwide are menstruating. In total, an estimated 500 million lack access to menstrual products and adequate facilities for menstrual hygiene management (MHM).¹ The absence of adequate menstrual hygiene products not only affects physical health but also has profound implications for mental health.

Menstruation is often shrouded in stigma and taboo, leading to feelings of shame and embarrassment. Inadequate access to menstrual hygiene products exacerbates this stigma, forcing many individuals to use ineffective alternatives like old clothes, rags, or even paper, which can be uncomfortable and unreliable. This situation often results in leaks and odors, further stigmatizing the individual. The fear of being judged or ridiculed can lead to social isolation, where individuals avoid school, work, or social interactions, perpetuating a cycle of exclusion and loneliness.

The lack of menstrual hygiene products is a significant barrier to education for young girls. Many miss several days of school each month or drop out entirely due to the unavailability of adequate facilities and products. This educational disruption has long-term consequences, including diminished career opportunities and economic instability, which can contribute to chronic stress and anxiety. The constant worry about managing menstruation in public spaces further compounds the mental health burden.

Furthermore, using unsuitable alternatives to sanitary products can cause physical discomfort and health issues, including infections. The constant battle with discomfort and the potential for health complications can create a persistent state of anxiety and stress. The fear of potential health problems and the inability to maintain basic hygiene can severely impact self-esteem and overall mental health.

The recurring monthly challenge of managing menstruation without proper products creates a relentless emotional strain. The inability to afford or access menstrual products can evoke feelings of helplessness, frustration, and inadequacy. For those already struggling with poverty, the added financial burden of purchasing menstrual products can lead to heightened stress and anxiety. The emotional toll of constantly worrying about menstrual hygiene can diminish overall quality of life and lead to more severe mental health issues, such as depression.

Effective menstrual hygiene management (MHM) is crucial for empowering women and girls to reach their full potential. Poor menstrual health and hygiene have far-reaching negative impacts across various sectors. Consequently, the Centre for Family Health Initiative (CFHI) employs a comprehensive approach to improving menstrual hygiene in its operations within vulnerable communities in Nigeria.

Over the years, CFHI has provided SafePad^TMfor more than 2000 vulnerable women and girls in underserved communities. We have partnered with many organizations to commemorate Menstrual Hygiene day by campaigning and raising awareness against period poverty, providing education on menstrual hygiene, and distributing free SafePad^TM

The impact of lacking menstrual hygiene products extends far beyond physical discomfort, deeply affecting mental health and overall well-being. Addressing this issue is not only a matter of public health but also of human rights and gender equality. By ensuring that everyone has access to the necessary menstrual hygiene products and education, we can alleviate significant mental health burdens and promote a healthier, more inclusive society.

Reference:

https://www.worldbank.org/en/topic/water/brief/menstrual-health-and-hygiene¹

https://mailchi.mp/b838e480faa1/cfhi-prioritizing-menstrual-hygeine-in-nigeria

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MONDAY HEALTH BURST ON INFLUENZA – PREVENTIVE MEASURES

Monday Health Burst / cfhinitiative

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there are approximately one billion cases of seasonal influenza each year, leading to 3–5 million instances of severe disease. Tragically, this results in 290,000–650,000 respiratory deaths annually. ¹

Influenza, or the flu, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses, capable of causing mild to severe illness and, in some cases, even death. Seasonal influenza outbreaks are common worldwide, particularly during colder months. However, there are effective preventive measures available to greatly minimize the risk of contracting and spreading the flu.

Vaccination:

Getting an annual influenza vaccine is the most effective way to prevent the flu and its complications. The vaccine stimulates your immune system to produce antibodies against the virus strains included in the vaccine, providing protection throughout the flu season. It’s important to get vaccinated each year as the circulating flu strains can change.

Hand Hygiene:

Frequent handwashing with soap and water or using alcohol-based hand sanitizers is crucial in preventing the spread of influenza viruses. Viruses can live on surfaces for hours, and touching these surfaces and then touching your face can lead to infection. Make it a habit to wash your hands thoroughly, especially before eating or touching your face.

Respiratory Hygiene:

Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow when coughing or sneezing to prevent the spread of respiratory droplets containing the virus. Dispose of tissues immediately and wash your hands afterward. Avoid close contact with people who are sick, and if you are sick, stay home to prevent spreading the virus to others.

Boosting Immunity:

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can strengthen your immune system and help fight off infections. This includes eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, staying hydrated, getting regular exercise, managing stress levels, and getting enough sleep. A healthy immune system is better equipped to defend against influenza viruses.

Avoid Touching Your Face:

Influenza viruses can enter your body through your eyes, nose, or mouth. Avoid touching your face, particularly with unwashed hands, to reduce the risk of infection. If you do need to touch your face, ensure your hands are clean.

High-Risk Individuals:

Certain groups are at higher risk of developing complications from the flu, including young children, pregnant women, older adults, and those with underlying health conditions. It’s particularly important for these individuals to get vaccinated and take extra precautions to avoid exposure to the virus. ²

Preventing influenza requires a combination of personal hygiene practices, vaccination, and healthy lifestyle choices. By adopting these preventive measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of getting infected with the flu and protect both yourself and those around you from this contagious illness.

References

https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/influenza-(seasonal)

https://www.cdc.gov/flu/prevent/whoshouldvax.htm

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SPEAK WEDNESDAY ON HOW TRADITIONAL GENDER ROLES CONTRIBUTE TO A CULTURE OF VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN AND GIRLS

Gender Based Violence, Speak Wednesday / cfhinitiative

Gender-based violence is a pervasive global issue rooted in entrenched social norms and power structures. gender roles play an important role in perpetuating a culture where violence against women and girls is normalized, tolerated, and even condoned.

At the heart of traditional gender roles lies the concept of patriarchy, where men hold primary power and authority while women are relegated to subordinate positions. Patriarchal societies uphold rigid gender norms that dictate women’s subservience, passivity, and dependence on men. This power dynamic not only reinforces the belief that men are entitled to control women but also justifies violence as a means of asserting dominance and maintaining control.

According to UN Women, patriarchal norms perpetuate violence against women by fostering a culture of impunity for perpetrators and silencing survivors. The prioritization of male honour over the rights and well-being of women and girls further exacerbates the prevalence of violence in such societies.

From a young age, girls are socialized into prescribed gender roles that dictate acceptable behaviours, interests, and aspirations based on their gender. UNICEF emphasizes that gender stereotypes perpetuate harmful attitudes and beliefs that contribute to the normalization of violence against women and girls. Boys are conditioned to equate masculinity with dominance, aggression, and control, while girls are taught to prioritize compliance, submission, and caretaking roles.

These gendered expectations create a fertile ground for the justification and perpetration of violence. Boys who don’t fit the mould of the stereotypical masculine may become the target of bullying and social exclusion, which makes them turn to violence as a way to maintain their masculinity and social standing. Similarly, girls who challenge gender norms may face backlash and punishment, further reinforcing the cycle of violence and oppression.

In conclusion, traditional gender roles play a significant role in perpetuating a culture of violence against women and girls by reinforcing patriarchal power dynamics, perpetuating harmful stereotypes, exacerbating economic disparities, and intersecting with other forms of discrimination. It is crucial to question and alter these deeply ingrained gender norms, empower women and girls, and advance gender equality at all societal levels to effectively confront and prevent violence.

Speak Wednesday is an initiative of CFHI to address issues around gender-based violence and gender bias.

#SpeakWednesday #GenderRoles #StopGBV #StopGenderStereotype #Girlsrights #WomenRights #genderequality #genderbias