16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, November 25 – 10 December 10, 2021   ‘Reducing violence against women and girls requires a community-based approach’ |25 November 2021

Minister Zialor

“It is with solidarity and a sense of national reflection that we join the world in commemorating this year’s 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence under the banner ‘Orange the World: End Violence Against Women Now!’ It is an opportunity to strengthen efforts towards peace, unity, tolerance and above all, respect for the self and for others.

“On November 25, as we commemorate the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, we show our solidarity with the rest of the world in our efforts to continue to advocate an end to violence against women and girls.

“Today I want to take time again to take stock and reflect on the importance of men and women making more space for each other so that we can have a stronger and better relationship between men and women. For too long we have allowed biological differences to separate us rather than bring us close.

“We share a noble commitment to a world free from violence for all women and girls. The government has embraced zero tolerance and says NO to gender-based violence, NO to sexual harassment, and NO to sexual exploitation and abuse in any way and form. We are fully supportive of all initiatives that elevate human dignity and well-being for all.

“The ministry will continue to work with all our stakeholders to raise awareness on gender-based violence as well as promote mechanisms to enable people to confidentially report GBV cases. This will allow all victims a greater degree of safety from harm.

“Reducing violence against women and girls requires a community-based approach and sustained engagement with multiple stakeholders. There is a stronger need to focus on education, awareness, capacity building, agency, and community engagement to be able to bring about the change we want and reach the ultimate goal which is to reduce violence against women and girls. All these need also to happen as early as possible and at the school level.

“As we embark on these 16 Days of Activism, let us remind ourselves that the well-being and future of our families depend very much on how strong the bonds are between the men and women in our communities, therefore I urge every one of us to think on how we can prevent, help and build violence-free homes and communities, and make Seychelles a better place. Let us not forget, it is the right of every one of us to live in peace.”

Marie-Celine Zialor

Minister for Youth, Sports and Family