RC's Statement Speech - Launch of the EU/UN Spotlight Initiative

It's an honour to be here today for the launch of the EU/UN Spotlight Initiative 2.0. This isn't just a program; it's a transformative partnership with one clear, powerful goal: to end violence against women and girls in Sierra Leone. It represents our collective resolve to ensure that every woman and girl can live free from fear, violence, and discrimination. 

First, my deepest gratitude goes to the Government of Sierra Leone for their unwavering leadership in advancing gender equality and human rights. We recognize the significant strides already made—the Sexual Offenses Act, the prohibition of child marriage Act, the establishment of One-Stop Centres, and the vital work of the Rainbo Initiative are all commendable steps forward. They show Sierra Leone's clear resolve. 

To the Chief Minister, who will be delivering the keynote address, we extend our sincere commendation for your leadership in your capacity as Lead Chair of the Spotlight Project Steering Committee. Your efforts have been instrumental in making today’s launch possible, as well as in guiding us through the many steps that have brought us to this milestone—and will continue to carry us forward. 

Violence against women and girls remains one of the most pervasive human rights violations of our time. Globally, nearly 1 in 3 women will experience physical or sexual violence in their lifetime. This isn't a mere statistic; it's a global crisis demanding a global response.  

Here in Sierra Leone, the numbers are deeply concerning. According to the last Demographic and Health Survey (DHS), an estimated 61% of girls and women aged 15-49 had experienced physical violence by physical or sexual violence in their lifetime. This prevalence cripples our nation's progress. When girls and women are trapped in unsafe and abusive environments, they cannot reach their full potential. This includes intimate partner violence, sexual assault, and harmful traditional practices like female genital mutilation and child marriage. This urgent issue demands our immediate and unwavering attention. 

Gender-based violence remains a pervasive issue, deeply rooted in societal norms and exacerbated by economic and social inequalities. But we also know that change is possible. The Spotlight Initiative is not just a program; it is a movement that seeks to transform the lives of women and girls by addressing the root causes of violence and creating supportive systems for survivors. 

The Initiative, a flagship partnership between the European Union and the United Nations represents the largest global investment in ending violence against women and girls. Today, as we launch the Spotlight Initiative in Sierra Leone, we reaffirm our collective commitment to this cause. 

This initiative is not operating in isolation; it's fully aligned with Sierra Leone's Medium-Term National Development Plan as well as the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework. It directly supports the government's vision of a just, inclusive, and resilient society where every woman and girl lives free from fear and violence. By strengthening institutions, reforming laws, and empowering communities, The Spotlight Initiative  will directly contribute to Sustainable Development Goal 5—gender equality—and the broader 2030 Agenda. 

What does this mean in real terms? What will success look like? It means lives will be irrevocably changed. 

Imagine Mariama, a survivor of domestic violence who felt isolated and without recourse. Through this Initiative, we will ensure that survivors like Mariama have access to quality, survivor-centered services. She will receive the holistic care she needs to heal, reclaim her dignity, and rebuild her life. Her courage will be met with comprehensive support, leading to lasting recovery. 

And then there is Abu, a young man who once believed that violence against women was a private family matter. Through targeted engagement programs, we will empower young people, especially boys and men, to become allies in the fight for gender justice. For example, Abu will learn about respectful relationships, consent, and equality, becoming a champion for change within his own community, influencing his peers and future generations. His perspective will shift, contributing to a generation free from violence. 

Our commitment is to achieve these tangible results: 

• Survivors of violence will have access to quality, survivor-centered services.
• Communities will be equipped to challenge harmful norms and protect their most vulnerable.
• Laws and policies will not only be passed but fully implemented and enforced.
• Young people—especially boys and men—will be engaged as allies in the fight for gender justice. 

At the policy level, we hope that the Government of Sierra Leone to institutionalize gender-responsive budgeting, strengthen data systems, and ensure that national frameworks are inclusive and rights-based. 

At the community level, we will see an expansion of safe spaces, a scaling up of prevention programs, and more support to grassroots organizations, especially those led by women and girls. 

None of this would be possible without true partnership. The European Union's commitment and generous support have been instrumental. Our UN agencies—UNDP, UN Women, UNICEF, and UNFPA—bring complementary strengths and a shared vision. The Rainbo Initiative, with its deep roots in communities, ensures our work is grounded in local realities. 

But the most important partners are the people of Sierra Leone—the women who speak out, the men who stand up, the youth who demand change, and the leaders who listen. This initiative isn't about doing things for communities; it's about doing things with them. 

Let us be clear: ending violence against women and girls is not a "women's issue." It is a human rights issue, a development issue, and a peace and security issue. 

Today, we launch more than a programme; we launch a promise. 

A promise to every survivor like Mariama who deserves justice and dignity. A promise to future generations that equality is not just an aspiration, but a living reality. 

Together, we can create a future where every woman and girl can thrive, free from violence and discrimination. 

Thank you.