Speak Wednesday

SPEAK WEDNESDAY ON LEGAL RIGHTS AND REALITIES: PROTECTING BREASTFEEDING MOTHERS IN NIGERIA

Speak Wednesday, Women, World Breastfeeding Week / cfhinitiative

Breastfeeding is a fundamental right and a crucial aspect of infant health, but breastfeeding mothers often face challenges in public spaces and workplaces. Despite the significant benefits of breastfeeding for both mother and child, public stigma and discrimination against breastfeeding mothers remain prevalent. This social issue not only undermines the health and well-being of children but also infringes on the rights of mothers.

In Nigeria, legal protections exist to support nursing mothers, yet many mothers face discrimination and lack of support when attempting to breastfeed in public spaces or workplaces.

Many employers, particularly in the private sector, are either unaware of these laws or choose to ignore them. The informal sector, where a large percentage of Nigerian women work, is even less regulated, leaving many nursing mothers without legal protection.

Also, breastfeeding in public can provoke a range of reactions, from mild discomfort to outright hostility. Many mothers report feeling judged, embarrassed, or even harassed when they breastfeed outside the privacy of their homes.

Nigeria has made strides in establishing legal frameworks to protect breastfeeding mothers. They include:

Labour Act (S.54): This Act mandates that breastfeeding nursing workers are entitled to breastfeeding breaks of at least 30 minutes twice a day.
The Child Rights Act of 2003 provides that children have the right to be breastfed.
National Policy on Infant and Young Child Feeding: This policy promotes exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months and continued breastfeeding up to two years or beyond, ensuring mothers have the support needed.
Public Health Laws: Various health policies emphasize the importance of breastfeeding and the need to create conducive environments for nursing mothers.

Although Nigeria has taken steps to protect breastfeeding mothers through the above legal frameworks, involving stronger legal protections, better enforcement, and cultural change are required. Furthermore, educating both employers and the public about the importance of breastfeeding and the legal rights of nursing mothers can reduce stigma and improve compliance.

It’s time to celebrate and support the natural act of breastfeeding, ensuring that no mother feels ashamed or discriminated against for nurturing her child in public or at work.

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

#SpeakWednesday #BreastfeedingRights #HealthyBabiesHealthyNation #GenderEquality #GenderBias

REFERENCES:

Labour Act (Cap L1 LFN 2004):

– Nigerian Labour Act. (2004). Available at: [ILO Database of Labour Legislation] (https://www.ilo.org/dyn/natlex/docs/WEBTEXT/42156/67562/E90NGA01.htm).

National Policy on Infant and Young Child Feeding:

– Federal Ministry of Health, Nigeria. (2010). National Policy on Infant and Young Child Feeding in Nigeria. Available at: [Federal Ministry of Health Nigeria] (https://www.health.gov.ng/doc/IYCF_policy_2010.pdf).

Public Health Laws:

– Federal Ministry of Health, Nigeria. (2005). National Health Policy. Available at: [Federal Ministry of Health Nigeria] (https://www.health.gov.ng/index.php/documents/category/22-policies).

Impact of Public Stigma:

– World Health Organization. (2020). Breastfeeding. Available at: [WHO] (https://www.who.int/health-topics/breastfeeding#tab=tab_1).

– Nigerian Health Watch. (2018). Challenges of Breastfeeding in Nigeria. Available at: [Nigerian Health Watch] (https://nigeriahealthwatch.com/challenges-of-breastfeeding-in-nigeria/).

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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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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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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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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

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EFFECT OF EMOTIONAL ABUSE ON WOMEN AND GIRLS

Gender Based Violence, Speak Wednesday / cfhinitiative

Emotional abuse is a pervasive form of violence that often goes unrecognized but leaves deep scars on its victims, particularly women and girls. According to UNICEF, emotional abuse encompasses behaviours such as verbal threats, intimidation, isolation, and manipulation, all of which undermine an individual’s sense of self-worth and well-being.

Emotional abuse encompasses a range of behaviours designed to undermine an individual’s sense of self-worth, autonomy, and agency. It can manifest in various forms such as verbal threats, insults, humiliation, manipulation, isolation, and controlling behaviours. Unlike physical abuse, emotional abuse leaves no visible bruises but inflicts deep psychological wounds that can be equally devastating.

Emotional abuse targets a person’s psychological and emotional well-being, eroding their confidence, autonomy, and mental health. It can occur in various settings, including intimate relationships, families, workplaces, and communities.
The WHO emphasizes that emotional abuse can lead to a range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and suicidal ideation. The constant belittling, manipulation, and invalidation experienced by victims can result in severe emotional distress and trauma, affecting their ability to function in daily life.

Emotional abuse is intricately linked to broader patterns of gender-based violence, reflecting power imbalances and societal norms that devalue women and girls. It often intersects with other forms of abuse, such as physical violence, sexual coercion, and economic control, creating complex challenges for survivors seeking safety and support. ~ UN Women

Research cited by UNICEF underscores the long-term consequences of emotional abuse, including difficulties in forming trusting relationships, challenges in parenting, and increased vulnerability to re-victimization. These effects can persist into adulthood, shaping individuals’ life trajectories and well-being

Emotional abuse is a pervasive yet often hidden form of violence that profoundly impacts women and girls’ lives. It is therefore imperative to amplify voices, raise awareness, and advocate for policies and interventions that prevent and address emotional abuse, ensuring a safer and more equitable world for women and girls everywhere

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

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SPEAK WEDNESDAY ON THE HIDDEN HEALTHCARE COSTS OF GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE (GBV) TO VICTIMS

Gender, Gender Based Violence, Gender Equality, Health, Speak Wednesday / cfhinitiative

Gender-Based Violence (GBV) is a health issue that affects millions of people, predominantly women and girls, across different cultures, socioeconomic statuses, and geographic locations. Beyond the immediate physical and emotional toll, GBV also imposes significant hidden healthcare costs on its victims, presenting challenges that extend far beyond the initial incident.

One of the most direct healthcare costs of GBV is medical treatment for physical injuries. Domestic abuse victims, as well as victims of other gender-based violence, such as sexual assault, frequently need emergency care, surgery, and continuous medical support. These services come with substantial financial burdens, especially for those without adequate health insurance or access to affordable healthcare.

WHO reports that victims of intimate partner violence are more likely to seek healthcare services, resulting in increased medical costs compared to non-abused individuals. The expenses include emergency room visits, hospitalisations, and treatments for physical injuries, contributing to the hidden healthcare costs of GBV.

Beyond the immediate physical consequences, GBV takes a profound toll on victims’ mental health. The enduring psychological impact of GBV on survivors, with many experiencing anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), is underscored by UNICEF. The need for mental health services, including therapy and counselling, is crucial but often comes with financial barriers, adding to the overall healthcare burden.

Furthermore, children who witness violence at home are more likely to develop behavioural problems, academic challenges, and mental health disorders. This perpetuates a cycle of intergenerational trauma and escalates healthcare costs for society as a whole.

The healthcare system also bears indirect costs related to GBV, such as increased demand for emergency services, specialised care for trauma survivors, and public health interventions. These expenses strain healthcare resources and contribute to rising healthcare expenditures for individuals, insurers, and governments.

Ultimately, addressing the hidden healthcare costs of GBV requires a collective commitment from healthcare providers, policymakers, law enforcement agencies, advocacy groups, and society at large. By recognising the full extent of these costs and investing in comprehensive solutions, we can create a safer, healthier future for women.

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

#SpeakWednesday #GBV #Women’srights #RightToHealth #genderequality #genderbias

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SPEAK WEDNESDAY ON PERIOD POVERTY AND ITS IMPACT ON GIRLS MENSTRUAL HEALTH

Gender Based Violence, Speak Wednesday, Uncategorized / cfhinitiative

Period poverty, which encapsulates the challenges of accessing menstrual products, education, and sanitary facilities, significantly affects millions of women and girls worldwide. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that over 500 million individuals lack adequate resources for managing menstrual hygiene.

A critical examination of period poverty reveals dire health implications. The WHO points out that inadequate menstrual hygiene management is linked to several health issues, including bacterial and reproductive tract infections, as well as urinary tract infections.
Furthermore, the United Nations has highlighted the potential of severe conditions such as toxic shock syndrome and cervical cancer stemming from the use of unsanitary menstrual materials like old rags, leaves, or newspapers.

Beyond physical health, period poverty exerts a profound impact on mental well-being. UNICEF reports that the inability to afford menstrual products often leads to feelings of humiliation and shame among girls, precipitating anxiety and depression. This emotional toll can disrupt their education, forcing some to abandon school altogether, further isolating them socially and limiting their future educational and employment opportunities. Such outcomes perpetuate a cycle of social and economic disadvantage with far-reaching implications.

Access to affordable, reusable, and safe menstrual supplies and education on menstrual health and sanitation is crucial. Governments and organizations must prioritize addressing the underlying factors contributing to period poverty. By advocating for change and enhancing awareness, period poverty can be acknowledged and addressed as the significant human rights issue it is, paving the way for a future where all women and girls can manage their menstrual health with dignity.

Today, March 20, 2024, the Centre for Family Health Initiative (CFHI), in collaboration with Real Relief, is hosting an event titled “Menstrual Equity and Empowerment: A Pathway to Gender Equality” at the ongoing UN Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) 68th session in New York. This event marks a significant step in raising awareness and fostering change.

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


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SPEAK WEDNESDAY ON THE ROLE OF SOCIAL JUSTICE IN COMBATING GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE
		
			Gender Based Violence, Speak Wednesday / 			
				
				cfhinitiative			
			
		

		
		

					
				In the quest to eliminate gender-based violence (GBV), the concept of social justice serves as a cornerstone, championing not just the equitable distribution of resources but the foundational belief that every individual is entitled to equal economic, political, and social rights and opportunities.
The United Nations defined social justice as the fair and compassionate distribution of economic growth, the view that everyone deserves equal economic, political, and social rights and opportunities. This political and philosophical theory focuses on fairness in relations between individuals in society.1
At its core, GBV thrives in environments where inequality prevails, making pursuing social justice an essential pathway to its eradication. Understanding the relationship between social justice and gender-based violence is crucial to developing effective strategies to combat GBV. The absence of social justice—manifested through the unequal distribution of resources, opportunities, and privileges—exacerbates socio-economic disparities, which in turn can increase instances of violence against women and other vulnerable groups. These disparities often lead to or exacerbate situations where individuals are more susceptible to violence.
United Nations Office on Drugs and Crimes (UNODC) highlights economic power as one of the six pillars of GBV, pointing out that economic and financial violence—stemming from the denial of resources or actions causing economic harm—is intrinsically linked to other forms of violence against women.
As identified by UNODC, economic power underscores the fundamental causes of economic and financial violence, such as the denial of resources. These acts of economic harm are closely interwoven with various manifestations of GBV. The denial of economic opportunities, control over financial resources, and access to education not only marginalizes women but also places them at an increased risk of experiencing violence. Thus, empowering women economically and ensuring access to resources is critical in combating GBV.
The UN’s proposals to advance social justice are multifaceted, aiming at creating a society where GBV is less likely to occur. These include improving inclusive and effective governance of work, ensuring employment opportunities and lifelong learning, reforming institutions for fairer labour market outcomes, and extending social protections across peoples’ lifetimes.

The role of social justice in combating gender-based violence is undeniable. By addressing the systemic inequalities that perpetuate GBV, society can move closer to eliminating this pervasive issue. Economic empowerment, inclusive governance, fair labour practices, and comprehensive social protections are not just ideals of a just society but are practical tools in the fight against GBV.
Speak Wednesday is an initiative of CFHI to address issues around gender-based violence and gender bias.

References:

1.
https://www.un.org/esa/socdev/documents/ifsd/SocialJustice.pdf

			
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SPEAK WEDNESDAY ON WOMEN’S RIGHTS
		
			Gender Based Violence, Speak Wednesday, Women's Rights / 			
				
				cfhinitiative			
			
		

		
		

					
				On September 5, 1995, Hillary Rodham Clinton, the First Lady of the United States, coined the phrase “women’s rights are human rights,” demonstrating that the struggle for women’s rights is a global issue that has been ongoing for centuries.
The right of women to live free from violence and discrimination, to receive an education, to earn equal pay, to occupy political positions, to have access to sexual and reproductive health, and other rights are not just confined to women but are fundamental human rights.

Despite Nigeria’s government being a signatory to the Convention on the Elimination of all forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW), women still face struggles in the country’s patriarchal society, which is rife with discriminatory customs and practices that devalue women.
According to the United Nations, half of the world’s population and potential is represented by women and girls. Therefore, gender equality is not only a fundamental human right but also necessary to achieve peaceful societies, full human potential, and sustainable development. If we all respect women’s rights, we can achieve a society that is free of discrimination. It is critical to remember that women are humans too, and their rights are human rights. Gender inequality is everyone’s problem.
Speak Wednesday is an initiative of CFHI to address issues around gender-based violence and gender bias.
#SpeakWednesday #Women’sRights #HumanRights #GenderStereotype #GenderBias #GenderInequality
 

			
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