Advocacy Campaigns That Make a Difference

Advocacy is a powerful tool in the fight against gender-based violence (GBV). It raises awareness, shifts societal attitudes, and influences policy changes that protect survivors and hold perpetrators accountable. Over the years, several impactful campaigns have emerged, both in Nigeria and globally, successfully pushing for change and amplifying the voices of those affected by GBV.

Notable GBV Advocacy Campaigns

1. The #MeToo Movement (Global)

What started as a simple hashtag became a global phenomenon. The #MeToo movement encouraged survivors to speak out about their experiences, shedding light on the prevalence of sexual harassment and assault. It led to widespread discussions, corporate accountability, and legal reforms in various countries.

2. The Mirabel Centre Campaign (Nigeria)

Nigeria’s first sexual assault referral center, Mirabel Centre, launched campaigns to break the silence around rape and sexual violence. Through survivor-centered advocacy, media engagement, and partnerships with law enforcement, the center has helped thousands of survivors access justice and support.

3. Stand to End Rape (STER) Initiative (Nigeria)

STER is a youth-led organization that actively campaigns for policy changes, provides support for survivors, and promotes consent education. Their #ConsentIs campaign has been particularly impactful in shifting conversations around informed and enthusiastic consent.

4. UN Women’s ‘HeForShe’ Campaign (Global)

This campaign calls on men and boys to become allies in the fight against gender inequality and GBV. By engaging influential figures and ordinary citizens alike, HeForShe has sparked crucial conversations on gender justice worldwide.

5. The Say No to Rape Campaign (Nigeria)

This grassroots initiative uses social media, protests, and legal advocacy to challenge rape culture in Nigeria. It has contributed to increased awareness and policy debates around stricter laws against sexual violence.

How These Campaigns Drive Change

1. Legislative Impact: Many advocacy efforts have contributed to the enactment and enforcement of laws, such as Nigeria’s Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act (VAPP) and the Sex Offender Register.
2. Cultural Shifts: Campaigns that challenge harmful stereotypes have helped reshape societal attitudes toward GBV, making it less tolerated and more openly discussed.
3. Support for Survivors: Increased advocacy leads to better funding and support for shelters, helplines, and counseling services.
4. Corporate and Institutional Accountability: Many campaigns have pressured institutions to adopt stricter anti-harassment policies and enforce zero-tolerance approaches.

Media platforms play a vital role in amplifying advocacy messages. Through storytelling, investigative journalism, and strategic social media engagement, the media can keep GBV issues in public discourse, drive engagement, and pressure decision-makers to act.

Advocacy campaigns continue to evolve, leveraging digital platforms and grassroots movements to demand justice and systemic change. As individuals and organizations, we must continue to support and amplify these efforts.