Human Rights and Development Services (HURDS) has reaffirmed its commitment to disability-inclusive advocacy during a sensitization exercise organized by the Domestic Violence Secretariat (DVS) under the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection (MoGCSP) in the Western Region.
The engagement was held as part of activities marking the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence and World Disability Day, observed under the global theme “Fostering Disability-Inclusive Societies for Advancing Social Progress.” The theme emphasizes that development is only meaningful when all people, including Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), are able to participate fully and equally in society.
The sensitization exercise targeted Persons with Disabilities and community leaders, and brought together persons with disabilities, opinion leaders, market women, and other community members. Participants were engaged to deepen their understanding of Domestic, Sexual, and Gender-Based Violence (D/SGBV) and to strengthen community-level mechanisms for prevention, reporting, and response.
The sensitization focused on:
- Raising awareness among 150 participants on D/SGBV and the importance of community vigilance
- Enhancing assertiveness and empowering participants to claim their rights and seek help when necessary
- Facilitating effective referral of cases to relevant authorities for prompt intervention
- Expediting access to justice to ensure timely protection and support for survivors
A team from Human Rights & Development Services (HURDS) participated in the engagement following an invitation from the Western Regional Director of Gender. In a solidarity message delivered during the program, HURDS reaffirmed its strong commitment to disability inclusion and rights-based development.
HURDS emphasized that inclusion is not merely aspirational but a deliberate and ongoing practice within the organization. This commitment is reflected in the employment of persons with disabilities, recognition of the value and expertise they bring, and the active involvement of persons with disabilities in program design and implementation, ensuring their voices shape decisions that affect them.
Through the GIZ-supported Break the Silence Project, HURDS continues to advocate for the rights of Persons with Disabilities, particularly in addressing Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV). The project seeks to eliminate discrimination, promote equal opportunities, and empower persons with disabilities to speak up, seek support, and access justice. HURDS reiterated that inclusion is not an option but a necessity for sustainable social progress, and pledged to continue working collaboratively with Persons with Disabilities, state institutions, and community stakeholders to build safer, more inclusive communities where everyone can thrive with dignity and safety