2025 Human Rights Day: Benin Stakeholders Launch Multi-Level Dialogue to Combat Gender-Based Violence

-By Ruben-Mario Brodrick 

 Brodrick ​BENIN CITY, NIGERIA — In a powerful demonstration of community commitment to human rights, the Justice, Development and Peace Centre (JDPC) Benin hosted a critical Multi-Level Dialogue on the Prevention and Response to Gender-Based Violence (GBV) on December 10, 2025, coinciding with the International Human Rights Day celebration.

​Held at the Bishop Kelly Pastoral Centre main hall, the event gathered a diverse group of participants, including men, women, youth, cultural figures, faith leaders, and critical stakeholders, all under the rallying theme: "Human rights our Every Day Essentials."

​A Necessary Focus on Dignity:
​The dialogue was officially opened by Rev. Fr. Benedict Onwugbenu, Executive Director of JDPC Benin, who delivered a stirring welcome address.

​"Today's gathering is especially significant as we join the global community to mark International Human Rights Day—a day that reminds us of the universal right of every human being to live free from violence, discrimination, fear, and oppression," Fr. Onwugbenu stated. He emphasized that the focus on Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) was both "timely and necessary," noting that SGBV continues to threaten the dignity, wellbeing, and fundamental human rights of women, girls, and young people.

​Fr. Onwugbenu further acknowledged the attendance of community leaders, parish executives, youth representatives, and cultural and faith custodians, calling their presence a reflection of a shared commitment to upholding justice, equality, and human dignity.

​Driving Change Through Partnership:

 The JDPC Benin Executive Director expressed sincere gratitude for the ongoing collaboration with the Women Aid Collective (WACOL).

 This partnership operates under the project, “Empowering Christian Women and Leaders of Culture for Gender Equality, Prevention of Gender-Based Violence, and Social Transformation in Nigeria.” The collaboration, he noted, significantly strengthens collective efforts, expands their reach, and amplifies impact at the grassroots level.
​A Comprehensive Agenda for Action
​The day was structured as an interactive platform designed to shift mindsets, challenge harmful norms, and create safe spaces within homes, churches, and institutions.

​The robust program included goodwill messages from key institutional leaders such as the Oredo LGA Chairman, the Commissioner of Police, the SARC Center, the Ministry of Social Development and Gender Issues, and the National Human Rights Commission.
​A poignant drama presentation titled "Behind Closed Doors" set the stage for a lead discussion focused on “Understanding GBV and Strengthening Community Response Mechanisms.”

​This was followed by a crucial Panel Discussion exploring “Multilevel Roles in GBV Prevention & Response,” featuring contributions from a cross-section of leaders, including: Faith Leaders and Women Leaders of Culture Palace Chiefs and Youth Representatives Law Enforcement Agencies and the National Human Rights Commission.

​The dialogue culminated in an Interactive Dialogue Session and a dedicated segment for developing Community-Based Solutions and Recommendations, ensuring the insights gained would guide the strengthening of communities and improve cross-agency collaboration.

​Fr. Onwugbenu concluded the opening session by encouraging all participants to be open, reflective, and committed to learning and sharing, ensuring that "no voice, especially the most vulnerable, is left unheard."

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