British high commission backs campaign against gender violence |24 November 2012

The BHC will get involved in various activities and help promote the campaign message “From Peace in the Home to Peace in the World: Let’s Challenge Militarism and End Violence against Women.”

The UK is leading the worldwide fight against gender-based violence through its Preventing Sexual Violence in Conflict Initiative.

UK has committed £1 million through the UN and will also use its Presidency of G8 in 2013 to further highlight the issues. Foreign Secretary William Hague says:

“Sexual violence is a problem found in every society in the world, and all countries have to do more to tackle it at home. We have to ensure equal rights for women at every level of society, and to protect the vulnerable, most of all our children.”

The BHC sees the 16 days of activism as a good chance to raise awareness and support for the proposed Seychelles Domestic Violence Act.

The British high commissioner to Seychelles, Lindsay Skoll, says:
 “This is a great opportunity to involve communities across Seychelles in demonstrating solidarity against a problem that threatens human dignity, equality and opportunity. I particularly urge men to show their support as advocates for ending gender-based violence as they will be the main drivers and role models for change.”

The colour orange has been chosen to commemorate Orange day which falls on the 25 of every month of the year. Supporters are encouraged to wear orange on November 25 and throughout the 16 days of activism.

Further details on UK’s Preventing Sexual Violence Initiative can be found at http://www.fco.gov.uk/en/global-issues/preventing-sexual-violence-initiative/