Young Women Intensify Advocacy for Anti-GBV Legislation in South Sudan
Young women leaders and civil society actors in South Sudan have ramped up efforts to push for the enactment of the long-delayed Anti-Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Bill. The advocacy efforts culminated in a high-level follow-up meeting with the Ministry of Gender, Child, and Social Welfare.
The meeting, conducted under the banner of the “Justice for Her” campaign, convened representatives from the Global Voices Organization (GVO), Women’s Rights Organizations (WROs), and youth advocacy groups. The purpose was to assess the current status of the legislation and strategize on accelerating its passage.
During the engagement, Josephine Chandiru, Executive Director of GVO, expressed concern over the prolonged delay in passing the bill. She emphasized the importance of swift legislative action to protect women and girls from violence.
“We are here to understand where the Anti-GBV Bill currently stands and to advocate for its enactment. Many young women are asking critical questions about its progress, and it is time for decisive action,” Chandiru stated.
She highlighted that the bill remains a priority for advancing legal protections and reducing vulnerabilities among women and girls, warning that delays leave many at ongoing risk of violence without adequate safeguards.
In response, Hon. Nuna Rhoda Rudolph, Minister of Gender, Child, and Social Welfare, welcomed the delegation and acknowledged the significance of their advocacy efforts.
“Your presence here reflects our shared national commitment to justice, dignity, and the protection of women’s and girls’ rights in South Sudan,” she said.
The Minister underscored that gender-based violence is a complex issue that demands urgent legal, moral, and developmental attention. She affirmed that the Anti-GBV Bill is a national priority, aimed at strengthening frameworks for prevention, protection, accountability, and access to justice for survivors.
Participants agreed on the necessity of ongoing engagement with the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, where the bill is currently under review. The Minister instructed the delegation to follow up directly with the ministry to seek clarity and facilitate the legislative process.
“This legal reform requires patience, consultation, and consensus; however, it must progress with purpose and tangible results,” she emphasized.
The meeting also highlighted the critical role of media and civil society in amplifying advocacy efforts. Supported by Equality Now, the “Justice for Her” campaign has seen young women and organizations such as DOVE and YWCA Juba actively participate in policy dialogues, ensuring that the voices of survivors are reflected in national legislation.
Stakeholders described this follow-up as a vital step in advancing the legislative process, fostering collaboration between government institutions and civil society, and ensuring accountability.
With renewed commitments from all parties, attention now shifts to concrete actions and timelines aimed at finalizing and enacting the Anti-GBV Bill. Advocates reaffirm their dedication to sustained engagement until the legislation becomes law, emphasizing that its passage is essential for creating a safer, more equitable South Sudan for women and girls.
