By Leocadia Bongben
The Society of Gynaecologists and Obstetricians of Cameroon, SOGOC, is urging policymakers, healthcare providers, and civil society organisations to take action in combating digital violence. The plea was made as SOGOC launched activities to mark the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence under the theme “End all forms of violence against women and girls”. The theme underscores the urgent need to address online harassment, abuse, and exploitation, which significantly contribute to the broad spectrum of GBV affecting communities.
To launch the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, SOGOC and its media partners, clad in orange and white T-shirts, walked around the Nkoleton neighbourhood to create awareness about gender-based violence, speaking to businesspersons and passersby. The message on the T-shirts read, “End Violence against Women and Girls” in English and French. Meanwhile, ahead of the launch, SOGOC started an online advocacy with messages shared on their Facebook and X pages.
The 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence is an annual global campaign that spans from 25 November (International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women) to 10 December (Human Rights Day). Gender-based violence (GBV) happens in every country and culture, causing harm to millions. Women and girls are most at risk, the World Health Organization states.
In Africa, statistics reveal that 1 in 3 women have experienced physical or sexual violence in their lifetime, as digital violence remains an alarming reality. In Cameroon, 36 per cent of women have encountered some form of gender-based violence, including online harassment or threats. Gender-based violence, according to SOGOC, is intricately linked with women’s reproductive health, leading to stress and health complications. “The impact of GBV on maternal health is devastating, with about 25 percent of maternal deaths linked to unsafe abortions, a tragic consequence of unwanted pregnancies resulting from violence. Many women are forced to resort to clandestine abortion, often resulting in severe complications and death due to the absence of safe abortion services,” the SOGOC statement reads.
SOGOC advocates for comprehensive reproductive health services, including access to safe abortion services for survivors of rape and sexual violence. In its statement, SOGOC indicates that “Every woman deserves to make informed choices regarding her body, and we must provide spaces for them to do so. This includes addressing barriers posed by digital violence that can deter women from seeking help.” Women’s autonomy over their bodies is made clearer in the Maputo Protocol on reproductive health decisions.
To empower women and girls and provide them with the tools they need to face obstacles fearlessly, SOGOC urges stakeholders to take action to ensure the safety of women in the digital environment, which should be safe and supportive. SOGOC calls for a culture of respect and support to create a future where women and girls in Cameroon thrive free from all forms of violence and have access to quality healthcare and a safe environment.