In an effort to fight sexual and gender based violence (SGBV), over 100 security agents and women’s rights experts are converging in Lilongwe to discuss the role of security agencies and communities in fighting child online and offline sexual exploitation gender based violence.
Delegates to the seventh Kigali International Conference Declaration (KICD) have observed that online and offline internet facilities have posed a new challenge to efforts to fight sexual and gender based violence across the globe.
The delegates are therefore expected to identify challenges in fighting sexual and gender based violence and pose solution to deal with the challenges.
As one way of fighting violence against women and girls (VAWG), KICD is focusing on involving security organs since they are the first respondents when it comes to issues to do with violence.
According to the United Nations Residence Coordinator Maria Jose Torres said that advancement in technology and fast penetration in internet facilities is leading to high cases of SGVB across the world.
“All over the world this problem has gone too far because of the power of the internet and communications,” said Torres.
She further said that for this reason UN is working with security agencies across the globe to find a permanent solution to cyber-crimes and protect children from uncensored materials.
“Security organs are absolutely crucial in responding to issues related to VAWG, in ensuring safety of the victims/survivors,” she said.
Commenting on the matter, Inspector General of Malawi Police Service, Rodney Jose confirmed that child online and offline sexual exploitation has become a serious issue to look at among security agencies across the globe.
“It is clear that sexual exploitation and GBV remain common forms of violence against women and girls across Africa. There is no doubt that the problem has increased due to the increase of online platform,” Jose said.
Minister of Homeland Security Nicholas Dausi said one out of three women face physical and sexual violence from their partners or non-partners. He further said that the government is putting much effort in ending such acts.
