The Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Unit of the Ministry of Social and Community Development, Housing, and Gender Affairs, in partnership with CUSO International, hosted the inaugural GBV Power of Partnership Business Forum on 28 November 2024, at the Spice Island Beach Resort.
The event brought together business leaders, media influencers, and community members to discuss how they can help stop violence against women and girls.
The forum, held during the 16 Days of Activism to End Gender-Based Violence, was centred on the theme “UNITE! Invest to prevent violence against women and girls.”
Addressing GBV
Petal Rush, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Social Development and Gender Affairs, emphasised the critical nature of addressing GBV. “Gender-based violence is more than a personal tragedy — it is a societal challenge that affects families, communities, and national development. Addressing GBV is not just a moral imperative — it is a necessity for our collective growth and well-being,” she said.
The Impact of GBV in Grenada
The forum highlighted the harm GBV causes, especially to women and girls. Rush emphasised that GBV limits personal freedom and slows down the development of Grenada as a whole.
The Power of Partnerships
The event emphasised the importance of working together to fight GBV. Leaders from different sectors discussed their roles:
- Businesses were encouraged to create safe workplaces, support community programmes, and put in place policies to prevent violence and help survivors
- Media and influencers were asked to use their platforms to raise awareness, challenge harmful attitudes, and inspire action
Rachel James, a GBV responder, shared her belief in the power of collaboration: “Together, your actions have the potential to drive meaningful and lasting change.”
A Call to Action
The forum ended with a call for everyone to:
- Work together on bold plans to stop GBV
- Lead the way for change in their communities and workplaces
Moving Forward
The ministry invites all citizens to join the fight against GBV. By working together and forming strong partnerships, we can create a future free from violence.
For more information on how you can help, contact the GBV Unit at 473-417-6167. Let’s unite, invest, and act to stop violence against women and girls. Together, we can make a difference.
Ministry of Social and Community Development, Housing, and Gender Affairs
