NAWJN calls on govts, NGOs to develop, implement policy framework to assist victims of GBV

AHMED MARI,, Maiduguri

As the world marked International Women Judges day, the National Association of Women Judges of Nigeria (NAWJN), has called on governments at levels, local and International Non-Governmental Organization (NGOs) to provide policy frame work for assisting the victims of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and other issues concerning women and children in our society.

The President of NAWJN), Justice Jummai Sankey, JCA, in her message for the commemoration of International Women Judges Day and made available to journalists on Thursday, said: “Today’s celebration is another opportunity for us to draw attention to a few issues like increased prevalence of domestic violence; provision of shelters for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault especially of young girls by their closest relatives”.

The NAWJN, represented by Hon. Justice Roli Harriman, International Director, NAWJN, said the day was set aside by the United Nations General Assembly Resolution 75/274 in 2021 designating March 10 as the International Day of Women Judges.

She also said: “The Resolution invites Member States and all relevant stakeholders to observe the International Day of Women Judges annually, including through education and public awareness-raising activities, in order to promote the full and equal participation of women at all levels of the judiciary”.

“The NAWJN, therefore, called on all stakeholders including NGOs to assist in publicizing these issues and offering their own contribution towards their resolution.

“The Resolution reaffirms that the active participation of women on equal terms with men, at all levels of decision-making, is essential to the achievement of equality, sustainable development, peace and democracy”, Justice Sankey said.

The President further said the resolution seeks for the provision of shelters for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault especially of young girls by their closest relatives, establishment of half-way houses for youths in conflict with the law to give opportunity for effective and long lasting, rehabilitation, and continued practice of Genital mutilation; repugnant customary laws and challenges of widows, as well as adoption of laws and practice.

The Association reaffirmed the commitment of member states to develop and implement appropriate and effective national strategies and plans for the advancement of women in judicial justice systems and institutions at the leadership, managerial and other levels.

The NAWJN further explained that it has engaged in public policy advocacy to draw attention to so many issues concerning women and children in the society.

She also commended the work and the little progress made in Afghanistan by the Taliban that gave women some level of progress but confident that the day of victory is near.

For a better society