Stop Violence Against Women & Girls.

Violence Against Woman and Girls, also known as VAWG, is a term that represents a range of harmful behaviours directed at women and girls due to their gender. It refers to any act of gender-based violence that results in physical, sexual, psychological, or economic harm or suffering to women and girls.

• Gender Inequality: VAWG often happens because of deeply rooted ideas that treat women and girls as less important or powerful than men. Some people may use violence to control, dominate, or intimidate women and girls.
• Cultural and Societal Norms: In some places, there are beliefs or traditions that tolerate or even encourage harmful behaviours towards women and girls.

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  Domestic Violence: Physical, emotional, or psychological abuse by a partner or family member.
• Sexual Violence: Includes rape, sexual assault, and harassment.
• Female Genital Mutilation (FGM): The non-medical cutting or altering of female genitalia, often linked to cultural or social pressures.
• Forced Marriage: Being married without one’s consent or against one’s will.
• Human Trafficking and Exploitation: The illegal trade of women and girls for exploitation, often for sex or labour.

How to Spot and Stop violence against women and girls

• Recognize the Signs: If someone is controlling, threatening, or harming a girl or woman, this could be a sign of VAWG. It’s important to pay attention to behaviours that make others feel unsafe or scared.
• Speak Up: If you or someone you know is experiencing violence, tell a trusted adult, or teacher. Reporting it can help stop the violence and protect those affected.
• Respect and Equality: It’s important for everyone, regardless of gender, to treat others with respect. Standing up against VAWG means supporting equality and speaking out when you see someone being treated unfairly.

It’s important to have discussions about healthy relationships and what they look like, and navigating conversations can be hard. It’s crucial to promote healthier models of masculinity, to help us critically engage with online content.
(Resources from Safer Schools NI)

Article link and further advice here – Violence Against Women and Girls – Not In Our Community