South Sudan: Addressing Sexual and Gender-Based Violence through Sports and Arts

The ICRC and SSRC in South Sudan are tackling sexual and gender-based violence through innovative means such as football tournaments and drama. Awareness campaigns have educated thousands, while direct support has been extended to survivors. Community discussions aim to confront stigma and encourage support for victims, promoting a cultural shift towards understanding and healing.

In South Sudan, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the South Sudanese Red Cross (SSRC) are employing innovative approaches to raise awareness about sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) through sports and arts activities, including football and drama. The first-ever sexual and gender-based violence football tournament recently took place in Lainya, a small town affected by conflict, where community members gathered to discuss critical issues related to SGBV.

Educators highlight the importance of these initiatives. Simon Meskin, a teacher, emphasized that sensitizing young people to issues surrounding sexual violence is vital, as many women face threats while performing daily tasks. Local students like Winnie Victoria expressed concern for their safety, acknowledging that the fear of rape significantly impacts their lives.

In 2024, the ICRC and SSRC reached over 5,000 individuals through awareness-raising sessions on SGBV across nine locations, including Lainya. Additionally, support was provided to approximately 36 survivors of sexual violence, encompassing mental health assistance and training for medical professionals on proper rape management.

During a recent football match, discussions took place about the necessity for immediate medical care for sexual violence victims, particularly within the critical first 72 hours. James Juma, a local journalist, stressed the pressing need to increase awareness regarding this issue via mass media channels.

SSRC volunteers facilitated meaningful discussions about sexual violence stigma, challenging harmful social norms and victim-blaming attitudes. Charles Bahari, an SSRC volunteer, underscored the importance of community support for survivors, aiming to create safe spaces for open dialogue about sexual violence-related issues.

While sexual violence remains a pressing humanitarian concern in South Sudan, initiatives led by the ICRC and SSRC are beginning to encourage changes in community behavior regarding survivors. By leveraging sports and arts as tools for educational outreach, they strive to reshape societal attitudes towards victims of sexual violence, working towards a cultural transformation that fosters understanding and support.

The initiatives undertaken by the ICRC and SSRC in South Sudan represent a significant step towards addressing the pervasive issue of sexual and gender-based violence. By utilizing sports and arts as platforms for dialogue and education, these organizations are actively working to combat stigma and foster community support for survivors. Continued efforts are essential to effectuate lasting change in social attitudes and behaviors surrounding this critical issue.

Original Source: www.icrc.org