Empowering Change: UP-CIFAL PH, Partners Lead the Charge Against Gender-Based Violence with “Leading Safe Spaces” Forum and Fair

30 November 2022 – The University of the Philippines – Centre International de Formation des Autorités et Leaders, or the International Center for Authorities and Leaders Philippines (UP-CIFAL Philippines), invites you to Leading Safe Spaces: The Role of Good Governance in Ending Violence Against Women on 6 December 2022 (Wednesday) at 1:00 p.m.

The Philippines, ranking 2nd in East Asia and the Pacific and 16th globally in gender equality according to the 2023 Global Gender Gap Report (World Economic Forum, 2022), has consistently demonstrated a commitment to addressing gender inequality and violence against women through various laws. Despite these achievements, the country faces persistent challenges in translating legal frameworks into tangible improvements for women on the ground.

To explore and address these issues, the Philippines observes the 18-Day Campaign to End Violence Against Women from November 25 to December 12 each year, as mandated by Proclamation 1172 s. 2006. This extended campaign aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 5, which aims to achieve gender equality, specifically targeting the elimination of all forms of violence against women and girls (SDG 5.2).

The Leading Safe Spaces forum will bring together passionate gender experts and advocates to discuss how leaders and authorities can formulate effective and inclusive policies to combat gender-based violence. In conjunction with the forum, a fair will showcase organizations and programs actively involved in addressing Violence Against Women (VAW) in the country and supporting survivors. This fair provides a platform for these entities to share their missions and programs, engaging participants in their activities.

This event is in partnership with Bayi, Inc., FEU Department of International Studies, Lunas Collective, Sagip Babae Foundation, Sanggunian: Commission on Anti-Sexual Misconduct and Violence, UP Asian Center, and UP Center for Women’s and Gender Studies; and our official media partners, Manila Bulletin, The Adamson Chronicle, Tanglaw, The Catalyst, and The Manila Collegian.

The forum and fair is free and open to the public. Interested individuals may register at https://bit.ly/LeadingSafeSpacesForum.