Sexual Violence Against Women”- An Awareness Session- Community Development Center- Sweida
NFRD Community Development Center in Sweida held an awareness-raising session entitled Sexual Abuse of Women, under the supervision of case manager Heba Al-Atwani.
During the session, the concept of sexual violence was thoroughly discussed. In addition, the facilitators demonstrated how the mindset on sexual abuse had changed from total discreetness in the past to the necessity of openness in the present. They explained how talking about this issue had become a must in order to limit the spread of such a disgraceful behavior.
The case manager urged women to break their silence against sexual abuse and not to accept violence by saying, “Girls who experience sexual violence often find it difficult to seek help from others, and they often feel disgraced or guilty. Disclosure of violence is the first step to find resolve. Moreover, it is critical to raise awareness of the importance of women knowing their rights and how to break out of their silence to defend themselves without violating the law and counter violence.”
Al-Atwani indicated the importance of the role of civil and social institutions, and the necessity of activating their participation in spreading awareness in schools, universities and in the workplace, as well as the importance of educating men about how to stand up for women and give them their rights.
It is noteworthy that NFRD Community Development Centers in various governorates work to empower women and develop their capabilities, and provide them with professional skills that contribute to improving their lives and the lives of their families through educational and professional courses and awareness sessions in different fields.
