Local Initiative In Beirut

Combating Gender Based Violence

In 2021, LOUDER, in collaboration with IFC, launched a local initiative in Beirut to combat gender-based violence (GBV) and promote women’s rights across Lebanon. The project aimed to empower women and girls in rural areas by increasing their access to information about their rights, fostering solidarity, and strengthening their capacity of women and girls on gender and GBV.

Over the course of two months, the initiative reached 80 participants – women, girls, boys, and men – representing diverse ages, ethnicitites, religions, political affiliations, and educational backgrounds from eight different sub-districts of Lebanon.

Through interactive workshops and lively group discussion, participants explored key issues around gender and GBV, shared personal stories, and built networks with fellow defenders and activist.

Purpose

The training was based on a rights-based approach. It equipped the participants with constitutional, international, and legal references and frameworks that support their rights. They were introduced to Lebanon’s commitments under the international conventions and human right treaties, as well as the gaps identified in national and shadow reports submitted to international bodies.

The participants learned about the core principles of human rights, the definitions of “gender” and “gender-based violence,” and the global standards that protect women’s rights. As well as, comparing the international standards with Lebanese laws, to enhance their gender sensitivity, and strengthen their ability to monitor gender-sensitive policies and advocate towards women’s rights.

By the end of the workshop series, participants deepened their understanding of women’s rights and built confidence in promoting these rights within their own communities.

Aim

The aim for this workshop was for the participants to know the basic principles of human rights. The terms “gender” and “Gender based violence”. Increase their awareness concerns women’s rights are human rights. To be able to compare the international standards with the respects to the Lebanese national laws. To be empowered and build their capacities in gender sensitivity. Determine and monitor the gender-sensitive policies and programmes. And lastly to advocate towards women rights.