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Sierra Leone has officially joined the global Spotlight Initiative a partnership between the United Nations and the European Union aimed at ending all forms of violence against women and girls.
The launch event brought together a wide group of participants, including government leaders, representatives from the European Union, United Nations agencies, civil society organizations, and survivors of gender-based violence.
This united approach marks the beginning of Sierra Leone’s efforts under the Spotlight Initiative, joining other countries already taking part in the programme.
The Spotlight Initiative focuses on addressing violence against women and girls by strengthening laws, promoting prevention, and improving services for survivors. It also aims to support movements led by women that raise awareness, promote safety, and push for lasting change in communities.
With the launch of this programme in Sierra Leone, more attention will be placed on legal protections, social norms, and support systems that impact the lives of women and girls. It will also help to build strong partnerships between local organizations, government bodies, and international agencies working to reduce gender-based violence.
UNFPA has confirmed its commitment to working closely with UNICEF Sierra Leone, UNDP in Sierra Leone, UN Women, and other national partners to ensure that the programme is implemented successfully. Oversight and coordination will be led by the United Nations Resident Coordinator’s Office in Sierra Leone.
The combined efforts of these partners are aimed at creating a country where women and girls can feel safe and supported. The programme will also work to improve access to justice, health services, and education around the issues of violence and discrimination.
By joining the Spotlight Initiative, Sierra Leone becomes part of a broader global movement. Other countries involved in the initiative are already making progress in creating safer environments for women and girls through similar strategies.
This launch marks an important step in bringing more attention to the issues faced by women and girls across the country and building systems that protect their rights and well-being.
Together, the involved partners say they are working toward a future where every woman and girl in Sierra Leone can live free from fear, violence, and discrimination.
