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Laina Makuzha

LOVE by DESIGN

As a passionate advocate for love and healthy relationships, I am compelled to speak out against the heinous crime of Gender-Based Violence (GBV).

Love, in its purest form, uplifts and empowers; it never seeks to harm or dominate.

Yet, GBV continues to plague our communities, leaving scars that can last a lifetime.

As we join the rest of the world in observing the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), commemorated from November 25 to December 10, this week I could not ignore the urge to touch on this grave issue and acknowledge the critical role that faith communities and religious leaders play or can play in preventing GBV and promoting healthier relationships.

A moral compass and a source of spiritual guidance for many, the church has a unique opportunity to shape attitudes and behaviours that can help eradicate GBV.

GBV, in all its forms, is a stark contradiction to the values of love, compassion, and respect that are at the heart of most faith traditions.

Biblically, 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 reminds us: “Love is patient, love is kind.

It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonour others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, and it keeps no record of wrongs.

Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”

In contrast, GBV is a deliberate and hurtful act that violates the dignity and worth of individuals.

According to Dr Angela Brown Burke, a renowned expert on GBV, “Gender-based violence is a pervasive and entrenched problem that affects individuals, families, and communities worldwide.

“It is a fundamental violation of human rights and a major obstacle to achieving gender equality and social justice.”

Weighing in on the subject, an AI overview of GBV sums it up this way: “Gender-based violence (GBV) is a human rights violation that can affect a person’s physical, mental, and emotional health”.

It can include physical, sexual, psychological, emotional, or economic violence, as well as threats of violence, coercion, or arbitrary deprivation of liberty.

GBV can lead to self-harm, isolation, depression, and suicidal attempts. Some say that nothing can be an excuse for violence against women.

The stories and cases we read about in the media are heart-rending, to say the least.

So, what can the church do to prevent GBV and promote healthy relationships?

Firstly, religious leaders can use their pulpits to teach against GBV and promote values of mutual respect, empathy, and kindness.

That also means the visionary himself or herself lives an exemplary life free of GBV in their own home.

Providing counselling and support services to survivors of GBV is another way the church can play a pivotal role.

Furthermore, faith communities can organise awareness-raising campaigns and educational programs to challenge harmful behaviour and promote healthy relationships.

As Dr Michelle Davies, a GBV expert, notes, “Education and awareness-raising are critical in preventing GBV. By challenging harmful attitudes and behaviours, we can create a culture of respect and empathy.”

Thirdly, the church can partner with local organisations and community groups to provide further support services to survivors of GBV.

This can include providing shelter, counselling, and economic empowerment programmes.

According to authors, Gary Chapman and Jennifer Thomas, in their book, “The Five Languages of Apology”, “Healthy relationships are built on a foundation of respect, empathy, and communication. When we prioritise these values, we create a culture of love and respect that is incompatible with GBV.”

So, what causes GBV?

Research suggests that GBV is often the result of a complex interplay of factors, including societal attitudes, cultural norms, economic inequality, and power imbalances.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), “GBV is a major public health problem that affects individuals, families, and communities worldwide. It is a fundamental violation of human rights and a major obstacle to achieving gender equality and social justice.”

What can society at large do to prevent GBV? Firstly, we can all play a role in challenging harmful attitudes and behaviours that perpetuate GBV amongst couples, in marriages, and families at large.

We can do this by promoting values of respect, empathy, and kindness in our families, communities, and workplaces. We can also support organisations that provide services to survivors of GBV. This can include donating to local charities, volunteering our time, or spreading awareness about the issue.

Lastly, we can all be a form of support to survivors of GBV by listening to their stories, helping them tell their stories or just believing them, and supporting them in their journey towards healing and recovery.

The various programmes in commemoration of the 16 Days of Activism against GBV, just go to show the remarkable efforts of organisations, activists, and individuals who are working tirelessly to prevent GBV and promote healthy relationships. Let us also encourage continued concerted efforts against GBV and promote a culture of love, respect, and empathy that is incompatible with GBV.

It would be great for couples and communities to look out for one another, each doing their part to thwart GBV and promote healthy relationships. Break the silence, and say no to GBV. I encourage us all to love, respect, and empower, because GBV must end now.

If you do feel the need to reach out with a story of GBV that needs to come to light, or your own experience that needs attention – there are authorities and organisations where this can be done in a safe environment.

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