By Vaye Abel Lepolu
Monrovia, Liberia — The Ministry of Justice (MOJ) has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting survivors of gender-based violence (GBV) and strengthening accountability mechanisms across Liberia as it officially concluded the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign simultaneously in Montserrado and Grand Bassa Counties.
Speaking on behalf of the Gender Social and Inclusion Unit ( GSIU) during the closing program on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, in Sinkor, Remember B. Wallace, the Unit Secretary, noted that gender-based violence continues to threaten human dignity, destabilize families, and silence many survivors, particularly women and children.
Miss Wallace stressed that combating GBV requires collective national action and a shift from words and sympathy to decisive measures that ensure justice and long-term protection for survivors.
The annual global campaign, observed from November 25 to December 10, coincides with International Human Rights Day and serves as a call to end violence against women and girls worldwide. In Liberia, activities were carried out in several counties, engaging government agencies, civil society organizations, development partners, traditional leaders, youth groups, and members of the media.
The Ministry highlighted the work of its Gender Social and Inclusion Unit ( GSIU), which collaborates with health institutions, social workers, and law enforcement agencies to ensure survivors receive prompt medical attention, psychosocial support, and legal assistance.
During an interactive session with participants, Madam Sylvia S.C. Molubah, Supervisor at the SGBV Unit at the Redemption Hospital in the Borough of New Kru Town and Oretha Billy, Nurse examiner and Supervisor at the Star of the Sea Hospital, One Stop Center in the Township of West Point, emphasized the importance of reporting cases within the critical 72-hour window, allowing survivors access to emergency medical care, HIV prevention services, and forensic support.
The two health practitioners also acknowledged that fear, stigma, and cultural norms continue to discourage many survivors from reporting abuse, especially in cases involving minors.
The Ministry of Justice reiterates that sexual and gender-based violence is a criminal offense, not a private or family issue, and must be addressed in line with national legislation and international human rights obligations.
The Ministry further assured the public that all services provided to survivors, including medical treatment, counseling, and legal support, are offered free of charge and with strict confidentiality.
As the campaign concludes, the Ministry of Justice through its Gender Social, and Inclusion Unit ( GSIU) called on communities, parents, traditional leaders, and partners to sustain awareness efforts and remain vigilant.
Officials emphasized that ending gender-based violence requires continued commitment beyond the 16-day campaign period.
The MOJ also expressed appreciation to all stakeholders and partners for their collaboration and support, reaffirming its determination to build a safer, more just, and dignified society for all Liberians.
The extended 16 Days of Activism campaign targeted Western Liberia which included citizens from Bomi, Gbarpolu, and Grand Cape Mount Counties.
