29th November 2023
Burao, Togdheer NAFIS Network, a prominent advocacy organization for gender equality and women’s rights, has issued a compelling statement calling for the immediate enforcement of drafted policies and laws against violence targeting women and girls in Somaliland. The statement was released during a gathering of Civil society organizations, Women’s rights organizations, and the SHG Federation in Burao, Togdheer.
Somaliland, like many nations, grapples with the challenge of addressing and eradicating violence against women and girls. While the government has taken commendable steps in drafting policies and laws to safeguard the rights of women and girls, the efficacy of these measures lies in their enforcement. The statement emphasizes the critical need for concerted efforts to ensure the successful implementation of these policies and laws.
The joint statement underscores the collaborative approach required, stating, “CSOs, WROs, and SHG-Federation in Burao, Togdheer are sending a joint statement to the Government and Legislators to urgently work on the approval of policies and drafted laws related to violence against women and girls. Among these long-term drafted policies, the anti-FGC policy and law hold great importance for the protection of young girls and should be promptly passed to establish a comprehensive framework for its control.”
Female Genital Cutting (FGC) remains a significant concern, deeply rooted in the community. CSOs and WROs condemn the practice, stressing that there is no justification for mutilating the bodies of young girls without medical or religious reasons. The collective call from Civil Society Organizations, Women’s Rights Organizations, and the SHG federation urges the Government of Somaliland to take immediate action in approving and implementing the anti-FGC policy and law.
Our Vision is to find an environment of free Violence, where women and girls have rights with their bodily integrity in Somaliland. Our call serves as a crucial resource for policymakers, government officials, civil society organizations, and individuals dedicated to advancing gender equality and protecting the rights of women and girls.
About NAFIS Network:
NAFIS Network is a leading advocacy organization in Somaliland, comprising 20 CSO members operating across all regions of Somaliland, it is a prominent advocacy organization dedicated to promoting gender equality and championing women’s rights in Somaliland. NAFIS is a prominent umbrella organization that coordinates efforts, conducts research, and advocates for policy frameworks to eliminate FGM. Dedicated to promoting gender equality and protecting women’s rights, the NAFIS Network is instrumental in shaping policies and ensuring their impactful implementation for the well-being of women and girls.
For inquiry
- Violence Against Women & Girls (VAWG) – Resources Portal (vawgresourcesportal.org)
- Email: nafis@nafisnetwork.org