In South Sudan, the ICRC and SSRC leverage sports and arts to combat sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV), raising awareness and reducing stigma within the community. Through events like football tournaments and discussion sessions, they engage thousands in critical conversations and support survivors with mental health care and training for medical staff. These efforts seek to change societal attitudes and perceptions surrounding SGBV and promote community support for survivors.
In South Sudan, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the South Sudanese Red Cross (SSRC) are employing innovative strategies to combat sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) by utilizing activities such as football and drama to raise awareness and reduce stigma.
During a football tournament held in Lainya, a small town in South Sudan, speakers remarked on the significant opportunity to sensitize youth about pressing SGBV concerns. Observers, including a teacher and students, expressed concern over the prevalent risks that women face, particularly when they travel long distances for essential resources, such as firewood and water.
In 2024, the ICRC and SSRC conducted awareness sessions for over 5,000 community members in various locations, including Lainya. Furthermore, they provided direct assistance to approximately 36 survivors of sexual violence, encompassing mental health support, cash aid, and training for medical professionals in specific regions on managing cases of sexual violence effectively.
Amidst the football match, discussions arose regarding the necessity of prompt medical care for sexual violence victims within the first 72 hours post-assault. Local radio journalist James Juma acknowledged the lack of awareness and emphasized the importance of disseminating this vital information through radio channels that reach the community.
Together with ICRC specialists, SSRC volunteers engage communities in conversations to dismantle taboos surrounding sexual violence. The ongoing stigma often deters survivors from seeking help, leading to a culture of silence and isolation. In light of this challenge, SSRC facilitator Charles Bahari advocates for community support of survivors instead of condemnation.
The normalization of sexual violence in South Sudan, exacerbated by years of conflict, underscores the need for concerted efforts aimed at behavioral change within communities. The ICRC and SSRC aim to alter mindsets using sports and arts as outreach platforms to foster supportive environments for survivors and actively combat stigma surrounding sexual violence.
Utilizing sports and arts as tools for advocacy, the ICRC and SSRC are making strides in raising awareness of sexual and gender-based violence in South Sudan. Their initiatives aim to reach and educate community members while providing vital support to survivors. By changing perceptions and promoting open dialogues, they are working towards reducing stigma and fostering a supportive community environment for those affected by sexual violence.
Original Source: www.icrc.org
