Support and reporting groups against GBV

Mozambique

Gender Equality

Human Rights & Civ. Soc.

PROBLEM & SOLUTION

The targeted communities are characterised by alarming rates of Gender-Based Violence (GBV). The absence of adequate reporting channels further exacerbated the situation, leaving the communities without an effective platform for sharing and referring cases.
This gap in the support structure emphasised the urgency of establishing a robust system that would provide people who have been affected by violence with a safe means of reporting and seeking help.

The solution was to create support and reporting groups, a favourable environment for the support for those affected and for the identification, reporting and efficient referral of cases of Gender-Based Violence (GBV). Cases can then be directed to the various service providers and government bodies.

The experience

Gender-mixed groups were formed, which received training covering reporting, gender sensitisation and prevention. During implementation in the Communities, women, men and young people led the expansion to 20 communities, encouraging the inclusion of diverse perspectives.

Ongoing evaluation and adaptation included feedback from women, men and young people, ensuring a consultative approach.

Finally, women and men focussed on local leadership to ensure the continuity and lasting impact of the practice.

Challenges

Certain habits and customs represent resistance to the full acceptance of the proposed practices
The mobilisation of sufficient financial resources to sustain the initiative in the long term is a challenge

Impact

Reducing cases of gender-based violence (GBV) and promoting gender equality and equity
Positive changes in community behaviour and the abandonment of harmful practices that infringe on the rights of women and girls

Lessons Learned

Adopting a holistic approach, recognising the intersectionality of gender and environmental issues from the outset
Carrying out a detailed gender-sensitive analysis to identify roles, inequalities of access to resources, and differential impacts