The UN Population Fund and National Council of YMCAs in Sri Lanka teamed up for a fruitful workshop fighting Gender-Based Violence. Held at Hotel Courtyard in Colombo on November 15-16, it gathered 35 members from 10 local YMCAs, including Pamunugama YMCA.
Key Insights:
The workshop's sessions were designed to empower participants with a deep understanding of GBV:
- Understanding Sex and Gender: Delving into the distinctions between sex and gender proved pivotal in addressing the root causes of GBV.
- Deconstructing Gender-Based Violence: Participants gained a comprehensive view of the multifaceted nature and diverse forms of GBV, shedding much-needed light on this pervasive issue.
- Analytical Tool - Gender-Based Violence Tree: The innovative Gender-Based Violence Tree tool equipped attendees with effective analytical skills to dissect instances of GBV, identifying underlying causes and ramifications.
- Identifying Vulnerable Communities: Discussions focused on recognizing and addressing vulnerabilities within communities, a crucial step in preventing GBVs.
- Strategies for Prevention: The sessions were replete with strategies and methodologies aimed at preventing GBVs, empowering participants with practical tools to effect change.
Action Plan and Collaboration with UNFPA:
A pivotal outcome of the workshop was the formulation of a targeted action plan. participants actively contributed to crafting a plan designed for implementation at the local YMCA levels. This plan serves as a catalyst for change and aims to promote a safer environment within the community.
Excitingly, the UNFPA has committed to evaluating these action plans and incorporating them into their annual strategies. Furthermore, a collaborative effort between UNFPA and YMCA has been agreed upon for the upcoming year of 2024, signifying a unified front in combating GBV.
At Pamunugama YMCA, our steadfast belief in the power of education, awareness, and collective action to eradicate Gender-Based Violence remains unwavering. Together, let's pave the way for a world where everyone feels safe, respected, and empowered.
Were you able to draft/arrive at an action plan on GBV or decided to plan an action plan?
ReplyDeleteJerry Shelton.
Yes. We did. We have made certain proposals at the end as Pamunugama and Negombo for Gampaha District. Similarly other YMCAs also made from their respective districts. And also agreed that we will propose a action plan for the YMCA movement in Sri Lanka. This will be shared with the UNFPA and they agreed that they will give this proposal a space in their action plan for 2024.
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