Group Calls for End to Gender-Based Violence in Creative Industries

As part of the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, the Forum of Women in Film and TV (FWIFT) has reiterated its call to end violence against women and girls across all sectors, particularly within the creative industry.
This annual campaign runs from November 25, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, to December 10, World Human Rights Day.
FWIFT, the Nigerian chapter of Women in Film and TV International, is leveraging its platform to address pressing issues affecting women in film and television while championing their careers.
A focal point of this year’s campaign is the persistent issue of sexual harassment in the industry, commonly referred to as the “casting couch” phenomenon
In a statement released on Sunday, FWIFT highlighted how the practice of demanding sexual favors in exchange for opportunities has remained a largely unspoken but pervasive problem.
The theme for the global campaign, UNITE! Activism to end violence against women and girls, aligns with FWIFT’s mission to spotlight this silent menace as part of broader efforts to combat gender-based violence.
To further this cause, FWIFT announced a Round Table discussion in Lagos on Thursday, December 12, bringing together industry leaders and policymakers to unite against gender-based violence.
FWIFT Founder and President, Ms. Ajoke Silva (MFR), stressed the need for an inclusive and respectful creative sector. “Gender-based violence is not just a personal issue. It is an epidemic that affects women at all levels of society. Storytelling through films and TV is a powerful tool to shift mindsets and change the narrative,” she said.
The event will also feature a preview of the award-winning short film, New Morning, directed by Deji Arosho. The film, which won the British Film Institute Special Recognition Award for Best Short Film at the ZAAFA Global Awards in 2014, delves into the realities of domestic violence and its devastating effects.
Arosho, an acclaimed filmmaker known for his contributions to social change communication, collaborated with the Heinrich Boell Foundation on the project, which also included a music album featuring prominent artists like Waje, Omawumi, MI, and El Dee

2 thoughts on “Group Calls for End to Gender-Based Violence in Creative Industries

Leave a Reply

Discover more from Africa Health Report

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Continue reading