The ECOWAS Gender Development Centre (EGDC) organized a Regional Training Workshop on Preventing and Responding to Gender-Based Violence (GBV) for legal and judicial actors from ECOWAS Member States, in Lome, Togo, from June 24 to 28, 2024. The workshop was held in collaboration with the Ford Foundation and USAID.
The event was officially opened by Mr. Stanislas BILEBA, Secretary General of the Ministry of Social Action, Women Affairs and Literacy of the Togolese Republic. The Director of the ECOWAS National Office (ENO) of Togo, represented by Mrs. Sotongbé Adjoavi Eleonore, Legal Officer of the ENO, delivered the welcome address. Introductory remarks were given by Mr. Awudu Ahmed Gumah, Principal Officer, Planning, Research, Monitoring and Evaluation of the EGDC, on behalf of the Director of EGDC, Mrs Sandra OULATÉ FATTOH.
In his opening remarks, Mr. BILEBA welcomed participants to Togo and wished them a pleasant stay in Lome. He noted that “a lot of efforts have been made by the Government of Togo in the fight against GBV, with the support of partners. But we recognize that many challenges still remain to end the phenomenon. To achieve this, it is necessary, among other things, to increase awareness among the population to break the silence around gender-based violence, especially that committed within the family circle and in the neighbourhood; to produce data to create evidence; and to educate youth, women and men through behaviour change initiatives and community programs. I urge everyone to ensure active participation and fruitful exchanges.”
Mr. GUMAH highlighted that “Domestic violence, early marriage, female genital mutilation and sexual harassment are all atrocities that destroy lives and entire communities. Behind the upward curve of GBV recorded every year around the world are unspeakable human tragedies. This workshop will not be just another training; it is a unique opportunity to strengthen your skills, exchange knowledge and experiences, and forge links with your peers from all over the ECOWAS region.”
This five-day workshop brings together investigating judges, magistrates, prosecutors, and chief registrars from ECOWAS member states. Its objectives include enabling various actors to understand gender-based violence and sexual harassment comprehensively—examining causes, forms, aggravating factors as well as effects—and understanding legal frameworks along with procedures for prevention and response.
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