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Guessoum says 30% of Sierra Leonean girls get married before the age of 18. She made this statement at an event organised to celebrate Human Rights Day.
Guessoum said that despite the strides made by government, women and girls continue to face series of human right challenges. She added that 60% women in Sierra Leone experience physical and sexual violence, whilst 86% undergo genital mutilation.
She explained of her attending a workshop where women political leaders narrated the challenges they’ve encountered with men who ask for sex in order for them to participate in elections. She stated that it is not just about electoral laws, noting that there should be an urgent change in cultures and systems.
She assured partners of their continued support in ensuring they end gender-based violence, continue empowering women’s movement, continue HeForShe campaigns amongst others and solicit for gender equality.
Guessoum acknowledged the government’s effort in making sure women are represented in all domains by amending political rights for women, highlighting the 30% representation in cabinet, Parliament, all appointments as well as in local councils.
Women are now entitled to equal opportunities as men in relation to employment, salary, training and education; an extension of two weeks has been added to the then 12 weeks maternity leave. She explained that gender mainstreaming has been Integrated in all policies, budget and access to finance.
The Regional Advisor stated that despite the laws, experiences from the West Africa region have shown that legal frameworks are important and crucial for advancing women’s rights but stressed that they are not enough. She explained that several laws that have been adopted have failed due to the regulations not being precise, unclear or lack effective sanctions.
She called on all to double efforts to get the Gender Equality Act properly implemented, noting that it will require additional, legal reforms, new policies and procedures in place.
Head of European Union Delegation, Manuel Muller said Human Rights violations and abuses are multiplying around the world, stating that the world is facing ever-new challenges such as conflicts, exploding inequalities, climate emergency amongst others.
He explained that women and girls have been targeted by repression and restrictive policies in many countries.
Muller stated that the year’s Human Rights Day is important, noting that it will mark the beginning of the 75th Anniversary year of declaration.
The Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mamady Gobeh Kamara, outlined recent developments made by government, stressing that government intends to do more.
