Gender-Based Violence; The Bias of Cultural Norms against women

Culture and tradition often plays a significant role in shaping societal norms and values however, when they perpetuate gender-based violence, they become dangerous for women and girls.

In many communities, cultural beliefs and practices favor men over women. This leads to unequal treatment and opportunities for women which can manifest in various forms of discriminations. They include; denying women access to education or healthcare, restricting their freedom of movement, or subjecting them to harmful traditional practices like female genital mutilation (FGM) or forced marriage.

In addition, cultural norms can also perpetuate gender-based violence (GBV), with women and girls being highly affected. For example, some cultures see violence against women as a private matter not subject to intervention by authorities. This can lead to a culture of immunity, where perpetrators of GBV are not held accountable for their actions.

We can stop 🛑 this gender-based violence.

Stopping cultural bias and promoting gender equality requires a general approach. Some steps that can be taken include:

Education and Awareness-Raising;

Education is an important tool for challenging cultural biases and promoting gender equality. Programs aimed at raising awareness and educating the public about the dangers of cultural biases can help to change attitudes and promote more equitable practices.

Laws and Policies Addressing Cultural Biases;

The Government can play a key role in addressing cultural biases by creating laws and policies that protect the rights of women and girls. This can include laws that check-mate gender-based violence and discrimination. Further more, policies aimed at promoting gender equality in education, workplaces, and healthcare should be created.

Media and Culture;

The media and popular cultures play major roles in shaping societal attitudes towards gender. Encouraging media outlets to promote gender equality and challenge cultural biases further helps in shifting wrong attitudes and norms.

Community Engagement;

Engaging with communities to address cultural biases is crucial. This involves working with traditional leaders, religious institutions, and local organizations to promote gender equality and challenge harmful cultural practices.

Supporting Survivors of Gender-Based Violence;

Providing support and resources for survivors of gender-based violence and discrimination is essential for promoting gender equality. This includes access to legal aid, medical care, and psychological support.

Lastly, it is important to remember that addressing cultural biases and promoting gender equality is a long-term process that should be sustained by all the sectors of our society. However, it is possible to create a world where women and girls are valued and respected. A world where cultural biases no longer pose a threat to their rights and well-being. By working together, we can achieve it.

© *Mkpuma Peter Friday is a social Development consultant; Program manager Kids &Teens Resource Centre (K&TRC) Nigeria*.