From Fred Ezeh, Abuja
The European Union-funded Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) Programme, implemented by International IDEA in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Justice Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Response Unit, is set to host the 10th Network Conference of Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs).
The conference, scheduled to hold from Monday, November 18th to Wednesday, November 20th, 2024, in Abuja, aims to review the challenges that continue to limit access to justice for survivors of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV).
Oluwatoyosi Giwa, Project Manager, Access to Justice, RoLAC Programme, said the conference is more than a gathering. “It’s a collaborative review of measures adopted in some states that have proven successful in enabling positive justice outcomes for survivors.
“By bringing Judges, prosecutors and other front line responders to the conversation, we can enable learning and coordination that will enable all actors to improve the quality of medical, psychosocial and justice response for survivors.”
She added that the event will provide a platform for critical stakeholders from government, the private sector, civil society organisations, and others to deliberate on key issues relating to justice for SGBV survivors, while discussions will cover budgetary commitments to prevent and respond to SGBV, initiatives by key agencies to improve response mechanisms, and the coordination of efforts across state commands and police gender desks.
Giwa further commented, “Our agenda includes strengthening the implementation of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act and addressing challenges faced by sexual assault referral centres. These dialogues are crucial for creating a more accountable, coordinated response that puts the needs of survivors first.”