Brief summary of presentation of information made

The meeting was held by Taipei Associations for Gender Equality. Taiwan has started studies on sexual violence and prevention with Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women(CEDAW). They have reported about this topic to the UN three times since 2009.

     Four speakers presented at this meeting and the first panel introduced the education system in Taiwan (Yueh-Chin Chiang). Education is the best way to prevent sexual abuse. Boys and girls both are taught ‘To Respect others and Protect Yourself’. Many people think school is a safe place but in reality, there is no safe place. Sometimes classmates or same age students take pictures of other students with hidden cameras at the restroom. Perpetrators are invisible but victims experience mental stress for a long time and want to keep silent instead of reporting the abuse. Students learn about discrimination and violence at school.

      Another person in the panel was talking about violence against elders in Taipei. A total 55 per cent of elders in Taipei are cared for by their family and 70 per cent of the caregivers are women. A total of 15 per cent receive long term care and 30 per cent are cared for by foreign workers. The seniors are exposed to violence due to various issues. However, because of the Asian culture, they do not want to call for help and cause a residential problem.

      The third speaker came from Zambia. She shared that more serious sexual violence occurs in Zambia. Many women and girls become victims of sexual violence by their family members. Some of women who experienced sexual abuse get married to the offender. Sexual violence is linked to the spreading of AIDS. NGOs are working for legislation and advocacy on protection and prevention of sexual violence in Zambia.

       A Colombian speaker of the panel introduced a co-operative female group named ‘Nashira’. Some women who are in charge of taking care of their family formed the group and started farming together. Now, 88 families are living together and share their lives happily.

What was of particular significance to share with The Salvation Army globally?

      In many territories where The Salvation Army is present, sexual violence is one of the most urgent issues. Teaching and using education programmes will be effective for the prevention and protection of sexual violence in corps, centres and communities. Churches are often seen as a safe haven for victims to come to and therefore The Salvation Army needs to ensure and any situations they become aware of are reported and handled with care.

Web links for more information

www.wawakening.org/

www.awhf.org.co (572-883-7855)

Tags: SDG16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions, SDG5: Gender Equality