Spotlight Initiative to End Violence against Women and Girls

Brief Description

The Government of Liberia through the Spotlight Initiative (launched by the European Union and the UN in 2017) is aimed at ending violence against women and girls. Under the European Union/United Nations Spotlight Initiative, UN Women will continue to work with the Government of Liberia and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in the conduct of an inventory of traditional practitioners in the 5 spotlight counties (Grand Gedeh, Nimba, Lofa, Grand Cape Mount and Montserrado) with the aim of providing alternative economic livelihood support that should eliminate the practice of female genital mutilation (FGM) since the practice is said to be linked to economic gains. In order to maintain the positive aspect of the culture, the project will establish 4 multi-purpose centers in 4 out of the 5 spotlight counties (Grand Cape Mount, Lofa, Nimba, and Montserrado). Additionally, the program will develop an alternative rite of passage program for young women and girls, excluding the aspect of FGM.