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November 26,2021

Anna Murray 

Child marriage, domestic violence, and sexual abuse are all examples of gender-based violence. In 2020, the prevalence of gender-based violence skyrocketed. According to the UN refugee agency, one in every five women has experienced sexual violence or abuse, and the problem is spreading globally. 

According to a UNHCR statement, this situation did not improve during the pandemic and even spawned a new wave of sexual violence against displaced and stateless women and girls. The UN agency has launched a campaign to collaborate with local organizations to address this issue. It is effective to have preventive measures and to protect women and girls with the involvement of local organizations.

Methods of collaboration with local communities can truly assist victims. Here's Deborah's story. She was one of the victims who lived in Malaysia's capital, Kaula Lumpur. Sexual violence was viewed as a family issue in Malaysia. She was afraid of losing face if she told others her story. She accepted invitations to lead and plan a project to help victims after meeting with other victims who had suffered violence in silence. This is a significant advantage of collaborating with local organizations to educate and assist females in their fight against sexual violence.

Women and girls require more assistance at this critical juncture. Refugees are finding it difficult to find work due to the lockdown. During a pandemic, it is difficult for UN agencies to provide timely assistance. More local organizations are needed to help vulnerable women and girls and to alleviate the terrible situation of violence against women.