Minister Gbeme Horace Calls for Collective Action to End Gender-Based Violence in Liberia

Monrovia, Liberia – The Government of Liberia, through the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection, has expressed deep gratitude to the United Nations and all stakeholders for their relentless efforts to amplify the voices of women and girls, and for their unwavering commitment to eradicating gender-based violence (GBV) in Liberia and beyond.

In her speech at the closing of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, Minister of Gender, Children, and Social Protection, Gbeme Horace, emphasized the theme for this year’s campaign, “From Talk to Action! Let’s Join Hands to End Violence Against Women and Girls to Achieve Beijing +30.” 

Minister Horace stated that the theme strongly aligns with Liberia’s national goals and calls for tangible actions to address the deep-rooted issues of violence against women and girls.

“It is time to move beyond discussions and rhetoric. We must embrace accountability, resource mobilization, and transformative actions to ensure that women and girls can live free from fear and violence,” Minister Horace stated. “Ending gender-based violence requires actionable commitments, sustained partnerships, and deliberate interventions to create spaces where women and girls can thrive.”

Liberia Gender Minister Horace at the 16 Days of Activism 2024

The Gender Minister acknowledged the positive impact of the campaign activities, including dialogues, awareness campaigns, and grassroots mobilizations, which have been taking place across Liberia over the past two weeks. These initiatives have highlighted the dire realities faced by women and girls, while reinforcing the collective resolve of communities, partners, and the government to tackle these challenges.

However, Minister Horace also made it clear that the fight against GBV does not end with the campaign. "As we stand here today, we must remind ourselves that this campaign is just the beginning," she said. "We must ensure that our actions continue beyond these 16 days, with real, sustained efforts to eliminate violence against women and girls.”

Reflecting on the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration, the Minister acknowledged the progress made since the Fourth World Conference on Women but noted that significant gaps remain. "Too many women and girls in Liberia still endure violence in their homes, workplaces, schools, and communities. 

These statistics serve as a call to action," Minister Horace said. “They must not define us; instead, they must propel us into meaningful action.”

She called on all stakeholders, including international partners, civil society organizations, private sector actors, religious institutions, and political bodies, to prioritize the fight against gender-based violence. Minister Horace stressed that achieving progress requires a multi-faceted approach. She emphasized the need for strengthened accountability mechanisms to ensure perpetrators are held responsible for their actions, regardless of their position or status. Furthermore, she underscored the importance of mobilizing greater resources for gender-responsive programs, survivor support services, and community engagement efforts.

“We must work together to ensure resources are channeled efficiently to where they are most needed,” she added. "In addition, empowering local leaders – community chairpersons, traditional leaders, and religious figures – is essential to challenging harmful social norms and leading grassroots efforts to protect women and girls."

The Minister also highlighted the significance of the Orange Community Festival, which served as a reminder of the power of collective action. The festival, which celebrates the unity of individuals and institutions in fighting violence against women and girls, stands as a symbol of Liberia’s commitment to building a future where women and girls are safe, respected, and empowered.

Minister Horace concluded her remarks by reaffirming the Government of Liberia’s commitment to advancing gender equality and eliminating gender-based violence. “Failure to act is not an option,” she said. 

“It would mean compromising the rights, opportunities, and well-being of countless individuals. Let us remain resolute, focused, and united to ensure lasting progress. Together, we can create a future where women and girls live free from violence and are able to reach their full potential.”

The Minister’s call to action resonates with Liberia’s continued efforts to address gender-based violence and promote the rights of women and girls. With the support of local and international partners, the Government of Liberia remains dedicated to achieving meaningful, sustainable change.