Speak Wednesday

SPEAK WEDNESDAY ON CAN WE TALK ABOUT SEXUAL VIOLENCE WITHOUT SHAMING THE SURVIVORS

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Let’s take a moment to reflect on a harsh reality: sexual violence is all around us. Whether we are scrolling through social media, watching the news, or even just walking through the streets, it is something that affects many lives. Yet, when we discuss it, the conversation often focuses on the wrong things—like blaming the victim. This issue is not just a global one; it deeply affects us here in Nigeria, where silence, shaming, and victim-blaming are common. But the time has come to change the narrative. Let’s talk about it, and let’s talk about it right.

Sexual Violence: A More Widespread Problem Than We Think
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), nearly 1 in 3 women and girls will experience physical or sexual violence at some point in their lives (WHO, 2021). This statistic doesn’t even account for the boys and men who face similar experiences. In Nigeria, the culture of silence and stigma makes these statistics even more striking, as many survivors feel too ashamed or afraid to speak out (National Population Commission, 2018).

Unfortunately, when we do talk about sexual violence, we often place the blame on the wrong people. Too often, the question becomes: What was she wearing? or Why did they go there alone? Instead of focusing on the person who committed the violence, society tends to scrutinize the survivor. This blame game must stop.

Blaming the Victim Achieves Nothing
We’ve all heard the harmful phrases: “She asked for it, “He must have done something to provoke it,” or “Why didn’t they report it sooner?”These comments are not just unhelpful, they perpetuate harmful myths and undermine the very people who need support. In doing so, society discourages survivors from coming forward, isolates them, and places an unjust burden of guilt on them.

Victims of sexual violence already face the heavy weight of trauma; the last thing they need is further harm in the form of blame or judgment. This cycle of victim-blaming serves no one and, in fact, only makes it harder for other survivors to speak out and seek help.

Breaking the Silence
The first step is simple: we must talk. Nigerian society often prefers to sweep uncomfortable topics like sexual violence under the rug, but silence only benefits the perpetrators.

Imagine a Nigeria where survivors could go to the police, to healthcare facilities, or even speak with a friend without fear of being questioned or blamed. Imagine a world where people feel safe to speak out and demand justice. That’s the world we must strive for and we have the power to make it a reality.

Let’s start now: Let’s end the culture of shame. Let’s end the silence. Let’s begin by truly listening to survivors and offering them the care and support they deserve. Together, we can shift the narrative and build a culture rooted in respect, empathy, and justice.

The fight against sexual violence is not just about legal reforms. It’s about changing the way we think, act, and support those affected. We all have a role to play. Let’s make sure survivors know: it was never your fault.

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SPEAK WEDNESDAY ON EMPATHY IN ACTION: MENS’S ROLE IN ENDING VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN

Gender Based Violence, Gender Equality, Speak Wednesday /

On the occasion of International Men’s Day yesterday, we are reminded of the transformative power men hold in eliminating violence against women. This issue impacts one in three women globally, according to UN Women, and addressing it requires an inclusive, empathetic approach.

Violence is Not Inherent—It’s Learned

Research by World Health Organization (WHO) shows that violence is often learned during childhood, and men who grow up in violent environments are statistically more likely to perpetuate such behavior later in life.WHO emphasises that children exposed to abuse are at a greater risk of becoming perpetrators of violence in adulthood.

Anthony Keedi, from the ABAAD Resource Centre for Gender Equality, emphasizes that violence is not a natural trait in men but a learned behavior shaped by societal expectations. Transforming this requires teaching men that masculinity includes caregiving and emotional expression, fostering respect instead of dominance.

Pathway to Change

According to the MenEngage Alliance, embracing positive masculinity is a crucial step. Men must reject harmful stereotypes that equate strength with control and instead model behaviors rooted in empathy and equality. When men publicly advocate for these changes, they inspire others in their communities to shift perspectives.​

Also, silence is complicity. Men have the privilege to challenge misogynistic behaviors and advocate for change in their communities. From workplaces to social circles, speaking up fosters new norms where violence is intolerable.

Ending violence against women isn’t just about protecting women; it’s about building a society where everyone thrives. When men actively participate in this cause, they not only support gender equality but also unlock greater emotional freedom for themselves. A world free of violence benefits all genders, fostering healthier families and communities.

Men have the power to redefine their roles in relationships and society at large. By leading with empathy, they can bridge the gap between acknowledging the issue and being part of the solution.

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

#SpeakWednesday #EmpathyInAction #EndViolence #InternationalMensDay #GenderEquality

References:

  1. MenEngage Alliance
  2. OHCHR
  3. UN Women
  4. World Health Organization (WHO)

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SPEAK WEDNESDAY ON IMPACT OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE ON CHILDREN’S MENTAL HEALTH AND DEVELOPMENT

Speak Wednesday, WHO /

Domestic violence is a shadow that reaches far beyond the immediate victims. When violence seeps into a home, it affects everyone, especially children, who often become silent witnesses to trauma and suffering. The impact of domestic violence on children’s mental health and development is a pressing concern that many may overlook. The psychological toll of exposure to violence in childhood can have lasting effects on a child’s mental well-being, social skills, and overall development.

The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that children exposed to violence are at greater risk of developing mental health disorders like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety, sometimes beginning as early as in childhood and potentially lasting a lifetime​. This exposure can lead to significant emotional turmoil, with many children experiencing constant fear, self-doubt, and an inability to trust, making it difficult for them to form stable, healthy relationships later in life

The stress and trauma associated with domestic violence can impair a child’s cognitive development, impacting their ability to concentrate, learn, and socialize. Studies from the National Institute of Mental Health show that children growing up in violent households are more likely to struggle academically and have difficulty processing emotions and handling conflict in constructive ways​. This may manifest in behavioural issues, aggressive responses, or social withdrawal.

Additionally, these children are at higher risk of substance abuse and other forms of self-destructive behaviour as they attempt to cope with unresolved trauma​. ~ American Psychological Association.

Breaking the cycle of domestic violence requires comprehensive approaches that involve not only supporting survivors but also recognizing and addressing the needs of children affected by this trauma. Educational programs that promote awareness, early intervention efforts, and accessible counselling services for children are essential to helping young people recover and build healthy lives. By investing in resources that support children’s mental health, communities can help mitigate the impacts of domestic violence on future generations. Through collective efforts, we can create safe environments that foster resilience and healing, ensuring a brighter, healthier future for all children.

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

#SpeakWednesday #EndDomesticViolence #ProtectOurChildren #BreakTheCycle #SupportMentalHealth #FutureWithoutViolence

References

  • World Health Organization. (2021). Violence against children. Retrieved from WHO.
  • National Institute of Mental Health. (2020). Children’s exposure to violence and mental health. Retrieved from NIMH.
  • American Psychological Association. (2020). Impact of childhood trauma on mental health. Retrieved from APA.
  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Childhood trauma and public health. Retrieved from CDC.
  • (2022). Supporting children affected by domestic violence. Retrieved from UNICEF.

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SPEAK WEDNESDASY ON PROTECTING OUR FUTURE: COMBATING GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE IN CHILDHOOD AND ADOLESCENCE

Gender Based Violence, Speak Wednesday, WHO /

Gender-based violence (GBV) leaves lifelong scars, particularly when it affects young people. Children and adolescents worldwide experience violence in environments meant to be safe—homes, schools, and communities. Addressing this problem early in life is essential, as GBV in childhood not only affects immediate well-being but also shapes a young person’s future.

Adolescent girls are especially vulnerable to forms of GBV like early marriage and sexual violence. The World Health Organization (WHO) highlights that one in four girls will experience sexual violence before reaching adulthood, often in environments where cultural norms uphold gender inequalities and prioritize male dominance. UNICEF adds that boys also experience GBV in unique ways, facing pressures to adopt aggressive behaviour in alignment with rigid views of masculinity. These pressures often lead boys to both experience and perpetuate violence later in life, continuing a cycle that affects future generations.

Protecting children from GBV is an ongoing effort that requires commitment from everyone—parents, educators, community leaders, and policymakers. Addressing gender-based violence (GBV) in children and adolescents requires a combination of education, community support, and legal protections. Education in schools and communities about respect, equality, and personal rights is crucial. By raising awareness on GBV prevention and empowering young people to understand their rights, communities can help prevent violence before it begins. Together, we can build a future where young people are free to grow up in safety and pursue their potential. Ending GBV among youth is not just about safety; it’s about creating a foundation of respect and equality that will shape the generations to come.

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

#SpeakWednesday #EndChildViolence #ProtectOurFuture #StopGBV #YouthSafety #BreakTheCycle #GenderEquality ##GenderJustice

 

References

  1. World Health Organization (WHO). Preventing Violence Against Children and Adolescents, WHO, 2023
  2. UNICEF. Safe to Learn: Protecting Children in Schools, UNICEF, 2023
  3. UNICEF Nigeria. Child Protection Programs and Gender-Based Violence, UNICEF Nigeria, 2023

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SPEAK WEDNESDAY ON BREAKING THE CYCLE: HOW POVERTY FUELS GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE

Gender Based Violence, Speak Wednesday, WHO /

In communities all over the world, the cycle of poverty and violence against women and girls has persisted for generations. Imagine a young girl growing up in a neighbourhood where money is tight, education is scarce, and opportunities are limited. She learns early that life is about survival, not dreams, and violence is part of her reality. Gender-based violence is an ugly reality that millions face daily, but poverty often goes unseen as the engine driving much of it.

Poverty fuels gender-based violence in numerous ways. For instance, economic dependence on a partner often leads women to stay in abusive relationships they might otherwise leave if they had the financial means to support themselves and their children. According to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), financial instability is a key driver that keeps women in cycles of dependency, as their limited options make it difficult to leave even dangerous situations. When only one partner controls finances, it’s easier for abusive patterns to take hold, creating an environment where the abused partner feels trapped.

The lack of support systems means that leaving a dangerous relationship could mean facing hunger and homelessness. Without an education or job skills, the idea of living independently seems impossible. This economic dependence creates a prison for many women, making them feel that they have no choice but to stay, even when they are in physical or emotional danger.

Beyond dependence, financial stress and scarcity can lead to heightened domestic tensions. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), poverty creates chronic stress, which often escalates into conflict and even violence within homes. Recent findings from the WHO highlights that in recent years, economic instability exacerbated by inflation, post-pandemic recovery issues, and widespread financial crises, has intensified this issue, particularly in impoverished regions. As economic conditions worsen, the vulnerabilities of women in abusive situations grow, as many find it even harder to escape due to financial dependencies.

Ultimately, addressing gender-based violence in the context of poverty is not only a matter of justice for women and girls but a necessity for society. When communities tolerate violence, they also waste the potential of women, who could otherwise contribute to economic and social development.

By addressing root causes through education, economic empowerment, legal protections, and community programs, we take steps to end the cycle of violence that keeps women trapped in poverty.

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

#SpeakWednesday # #EndGBV #GenderEquality #BreakTheCycle #PovertyAndViolence #WomenEmpowerment #EconomicEmpowerment

 

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SPEAK WEDNESDAY ON BREAKING BARRIERS: GILRS’ DREAMS OF EQUALITY IN EVERY FIELD

Gender Equality, Speak Wednesday, Women's Rights /

Imagine a world where every girl, regardless of her background, has the freedom to dream of being anything she wants to be—whether a doctor, an engineer, or a leader. Sadly, for many girls around the globe, these dreams remain out of reach due to entrenched gender-based violence and bias. Yet, despite the challenges, girls are rising to claim their rightful place in every field, fighting for equality in spaces where they were once invisible.

Gender bias often begins at an early age, limiting girls’ access to education and career opportunities. According to data from UNICEF, girls are still more likely to be excluded from primary and secondary education than boys. Even when they do receive an education, societal expectations often funnel them into traditional roles, discouraging their participation in STEM fields, leadership positions, and other high-impact careers. These biases follow them into adulthood, where they face wage gaps, workplace discrimination, and even physical violence.

Through policy reforms, educational programs, and advocacy, global efforts are beginning to turn the tide. Empowerment means more than survival; it means creating environments where girls are encouraged and supported to dream big.

As we provide safe spaces for girls, enforce protective laws, and promote gender-sensitive policies, we are actively enabling them to take charge of their future. The dream of equality is not just a dream for girls—it is a collective dream that holds the promise of a better world for everyone. For every girl who is allowed to thrive, the world gains an advocate for change, a leader, and a force for good.

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

#SpeakWednesday #GirlsInSTEM #GenderEquality #WomenEmpowerment #LiteracyForAll #BreakTheSilence #EducationMatters #GenderJustice #EmpowerWomen

References:

  • UNICEF. “Education for Every Child.” UNICEF
  • United Nations. “HeForShe Campaign.” UN

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ENDING GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE TO BREAK THE POVERTY TRAP

Gender Based Violence, Speak Wednesday /

Gender-based violence (GBV) isn’t just a violation of human rights—it’s a barrier that keeps women trapped in poverty. Women and girls, disproportionately affected by violence, often face disrupted education, loss of employment, and health complications, locking them into cycles of financial dependence and limiting their potential. Poverty, in turn, makes it harder for them to escape abusive situations.

Violence against women costs the world over $5.8 trillion annually in lost productivity and healthcare expenses, according to the World Bank. This shows that GBV isn’t just a personal or family problem—it’s an economic issue that holds entire communities back.

Education and economic empowerment are crucial to breaking this cycle. Women with access to education are more likely to gain employment and become financially independent, enabling them to leave abusive situations. When girls stay in school and women gain financial independence, their chances of being stuck in violent relationships drop significantly.

However, it’s not just about helping survivors. Governments must strengthen laws to protect women, and society needs to shift cultural norms that normalize violence. This includes engaging men and boys in discussions about healthy masculinity, gender equality, and non-violence.

Ending GBV is essential to ending poverty. By tackling violence and empowering women, we can break the chains of both abuse and poverty, creating more equitable societies where everyone can thrive.

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

#SpeakWednesday #EndGBV #WomenEmpowerment #EqualityForAll #GenderEquality #GenderBias

 

**References:**

– World Bank. “Violence Against Women and Girls.”

– United Nations. “Ending Gender-Based Violence.”

– Heise, Lori. “A Global Review of Gender-Based Violence.”

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SPEAK WEDNESDAY ON THE MENTAL HEALTH IMPACT OF GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE

Gender Based Violence, Speak Wednesday /

Gender-based violence (GBV) has severe mental health consequences, leaving lasting emotional scars that go beyond physical harm. Survivors of GBV, including intimate partner violence and sexual assault, are at a higher risk of developing mental health disorders like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety. According to the World Health Organization, women who experience violence are twice as likely to suffer from depression. Feelings of shame, fear, and isolation often compound their trauma, leading to further mental health deterioration.

Moreover, women often face gender bias when seeking mental health care, leading to their trauma being overlooked or misinterpreted. This can delay treatment or cause women to avoid seeking help altogether. A study by García-Moreno et al. (2015) found that healthcare systems frequently fail to provide adequate support for women experiencing GBV, particularly in addressing their mental health needs. This bias exacerbates the stigma surrounding both mental health and gender-based violence, leaving many women without the resources to heal.

Ending GBV is not only crucial for women’s physical safety but also for their mental well-being. By eradicating violence against women, we eliminate a major source of trauma that fuels mental health disorders like depression and PTSD. Ensuring women live free from violence is the first step toward ending the mental health crises caused by GBV. When societies address the root causes of GBV and promote trauma-informed care, women can begin to heal, both physically and mentally. Ending GBV is, therefore, a vital step toward improving women’s overall mental health and creating a world where they can thrive.

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

#SpeakWednesday #EndGBV #MentalHealthMatters #SupportSurvivors #BreakTheSilence #GenderEquality #GenderBias

REFERENCES:

1. García-Moreno, C., Hegarty, K., d’Oliveira, A. F., Koziol-McLain, J., Colombini, M., & Feder, G. (2015). The health-systems response to violence against women. The Lancet, 385(9977), 1567-1579.

 

2. World Health Organization. (2017). Violence against women. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/violence-against-women

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EQUAL PAY FOR EQUAL WORK: THE ECONOMIC IMPACT OF GENDER BIAS AND DISCRIMINATION

Gender Equality, Speak Wednesday, Women's Rights /

Gender bias and discrimination are deep-rooted issues in many workplaces around the world. One of the most visible ways these problems show up is through the gender pay gap. This means that women often earn less than men for doing the same work. Despite growing awareness and advocacy, women in Nigeria, like in many other parts of the world, still face significant pay disparities. These differences in pay have wide-reaching effects, not just on individuals but on businesses and the broader economy.

Women frequently occupy lower-paying roles in fields like services and education, while men dominate higher-paying positions in areas such as engineering and finance. The impact of this pay gap goes beyond individual earnings. When women feel they are being treated unfairly, their job satisfaction and productivity can suffer. If they are not getting paid equally for their work, they might feel less motivated and engaged. Research has shown that when companies address these pay gaps and ensure fairness, employees are more satisfied and work harder, which can boost overall business performance.

Moreover, the economic impact extends to families and the nation. Many women in Nigeria are heads of households, and lower wages mean they face greater financial challenges, affecting their access to essential services like healthcare and education. According to the International Labour Organization (ILO), the gender pay gap worsens poverty levels and limits access to crucial resources such as education and healthcare for women and their families. Research from McKinsey & Company also indicates that closing the gender pay gap could significantly reduce poverty and improve living standards.

On a larger scale, addressing the pay gap could benefit the economy. Equal pay would enable women to contribute more effectively, boosting consumer spending and economic productivity. Companies with equitable pay practices also perform better financially, showcasing the broader benefits of addressing gender bias.

Nigeria has laws aimed at promoting equal pay, but enforcement remains a challenge due to cultural biases and systemic barriers. To make real progress, organisations need to regularly review pay practices, promote transparency, and support women’s career advancement. Offering flexible work options and encouraging fair salary negotiations can also help mitigate biases related to caregiving responsibilities.

In conclusion, tackling the gender pay gap is crucial for a nation’s economic and social progress. Ensuring equal pay for equal work benefits everyone—individuals, businesses, and the economy. Addressing these disparities is a crucial step toward creating a more just and inclusive society.

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

#SpeakWednesday #InternationalEqualPayDay #EqualPay #WomenEmpowerment #EqualityForAll #GenderEquality #GenderBias

 

References:

– McKinsey & Company. (2020). Diversity Wins: How Inclusion Matters. Retrieved from [McKinsey Report] (https://www.mckinsey.com)

– International Labour Organization. (2018). Global Wage Report 2018/19: What Lies Behind Gender Pay Gaps? Retrieved from [ILO Report] (https://www.ilo.org).

– World Economic Forum. (2023). Global Gender Gap Report 2023. Retrieved from [World Economic Forum] (https://www.weforum.org).

– Catalyst. (2022). The Bottom Line: Connecting Corporate Performance and Gender Diversity. Retrieved from [Catalyst] (https://www.catalyst.org).

– McKinsey Global Institute. (2015). The Power of Parity: How Advancing Women’s Equality Can Add $12 Trillion to Global Growth. Retrieved from [McKinsey Global Institute] (https://www.mckinsey.com).

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SPEAK WEDNESDAY ON THE ROLE OF LITERACY IN COMBATING GENDER BASED VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN

Gender Based Violence, Girl Education, Speak Wednesday, Women Education /

Gender-based violence (GBV) is a serious issue affecting millions of women worldwide. It includes physical, sexual, emotional, and psychological harm, often linked to deep-rooted gender inequalities. While legal reforms and social programs are crucial in tackling GBV, one of the most powerful tools in this fight is literacy. Improving literacy, especially among women, can play a critical role in reducing GBV and addressing the broader issue of gender bias.
How Literacy Can Help Reduce Gender-Based Violence

1. Awareness and Empowerment
Literacy gives women the ability to access information about their rights and the resources available to help them. Many women who experience violence are unaware of their legal protections or how to seek help. By being able to read and write, women can better understand their options and take steps to escape abusive situations. Literacy also provides a sense of confidence and self-worth, helping women stand up against violence and assert their rights.

2. Shifting Cultural Norms
Cultural attitudes that reinforce gender inequality are a major driver of GBV. Literacy plays a role in challenging these harmful norms. Educated women are more likely to question practices such as child marriage, domestic abuse, and gender discrimination. Men who are educated also tend to have more respect for women and are less likely to engage in violent behaviour. In societies where literacy programs are introduced, there is often a noticeable shift toward gender equality and lower rates of GBV.

3. Economic Independence
One of the reasons many women remain in abusive relationships is their financial dependence on their abusers. Literacy can change this by improving women’s access to better job opportunities and giving them the skills to manage their own finances. When women can earn an income and support themselves, they are less vulnerable to violence and more capable of leaving abusive situations.

4. Creating Safe Spaces for Women
Literacy programs often serve as community hubs where women can come together to learn and share experiences. These programs can also be platforms to discuss sensitive issues like GBV in a safe, supportive environment. By raising awareness of GBV and providing practical solutions, such as legal advice and access to shelters, these programs help women seek the support they need.
Literacy is more than just the ability to read and write—it is a tool for empowerment, economic independence, and social change. When women are literate, they are better equipped to challenge violence, defend their rights, and break free from abusive relationships. As a key part of the fight against gender-based violence, literacy programs offer a path to safety and equality for women everywhere.
Speak Wednesday is an initiative of CFHI to address issues around gender-based violence and gender bias.

References:
1. World Health Organization (2021). Violence against women prevalence estimates. Available at: https://www.who.int
2. UNESCO (2020). Education transforms lives. Available at: https://en.unesco.org/themes/education

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