In a bid to foster a violence-free society where women feel secure and comfortable, Phillis Naa Koryoo Okunor, a prominent figure and advocate for women's rights, has emphasized the necessity for both men and women to collectively combat gender-based violence.
According to Naa Koryoo, the responsibility of eradicating violence against women should not be solely borne by women; instead, it requires a collaborative effort from all members of society, irrespective of gender or age.
“We must acknowledge that ending violence against women is not the responsibility of women alone. It is a collective effort that requires the involvement and commitment of all members of society – men, women, and young people alike,” Naa Koryoo stated.
Expressing concern over the challenges faced by women, particularly in their homes, Naa Koryoo highlighted the importance of dismantling societal structures that enable such violence to persist. She called for a joint effort to challenge norms and attitudes that perpetuate gender-based violence.
“In our homes, which should be sanctuaries of love, trust, and support, many women live in constant fear. They endure unimaginable pains behind closed doors, suffering silently, often with no one to turn to for help,” she lamented.
Acknowledging the prevalence of gender-based violence despite ongoing advocacy, Naa Koryoo stressed the need for intensified public education. She emphasized the significance of cultivating a mindset change from childhood, promoting gender equality, respect, and consent.
“We must educate our children, both boys and girls, about gender equality, respect, and consent from an early age. By fostering a culture of empathy, understanding and equality, we can break the cycle of violence and create a society where women can live free from fear,” she asserted.
As the keynote speaker at the End It Now Conference 2023 organized by the Seventh-day Adventist Church over the weekend, Naa Koryoo called for the amplification of survivors' voices. She emphasized the importance of providing safe spaces for survivors to share their experiences without fear of judgment or retaliation.
The UN Women report from 2022 reveals alarming statistics, indicating that one in four women in Ghana has experienced physical or sexual abuse from a romantic partner. Additionally, 16,000 domestic abuse crimes were reported to the Ghana Police Service in 2020, excluding cases that went unreported due to various factors.