The Cameroonian Government’s Suspension of NGOs Harms Gender-Based Violence Survivors
The Cameroonian government recently made a controversial decision to suspend the activities of four non-governmental organizations (NGOs) for three months, without warning or legal basis. This move has had a detrimental impact on victims of gender-based violence, particularly those who rely on the services provided by these organizations.
One of the affected NGOs specifically offers support to gender-based violence survivors. The sudden suspension of its activities has disrupted survivors’ access to vital support services, leading to some individuals being left without assistance and even forced onto the streets when the organization’s offices and facilities were sealed by government officials.
Civil society organizations play a crucial role in addressing gender-based violence in Cameroon. These organizations provide essential services that the government either does not offer or delivers inadequately. Services such as temporary accommodation, mental health and psychosocial support, legal assistance, and income-generating activities are vital for supporting survivors and helping them navigate the complexities of accessing healthcare and the justice system.
The arbitrary suspension of NGOs that support the government’s efforts to combat gender-based violence reflects a lack of strategic planning and political will. Despite adopting national strategies to address violence against women, Cameroon has struggled to allocate sufficient resources to effectively reduce gender-based violence and meet the needs of survivors. For example, in 2014, there was only one shelter for survivors of gender-based violence in the country.
It is imperative that the Cameroonian government reinstates the activities of the suspended NGOs and explores alternative methods for conducting investigations that do not disrupt service provision or infringe upon the rights of survivors to receive support and access essential services. By doing so, the government can demonstrate its commitment to ending gender-based violence and ensuring that survivors receive the assistance they need to heal and recover.
Overall, the suspension of NGOs in Cameroon highlights the importance of civil society organizations in addressing gender-based violence and the need for government collaboration to effectively combat this pervasive issue. It is essential that all stakeholders work together to ensure that survivors are supported and that their rights are protected.
