Training Local Authorities and CSOs to Challenge Harmful Social Norms

Protection

Local Authorities and Civil Society Organizations (CSO) were invited for a training about social norms change within communities. The training was organized by CISP as part of the WW2 program and drew participants from various sectors, including government officials, community leaders, and activists.

The objectives of the training were to educate the participants about harmful social norms relatet to gender based violence , and the root causes of thesenorms, and encouraging the participants to develop strategies for change.

Participants engaged in dynamic discussions, identifying specific social norms prevalent in communities, reflecting on how they influence issues such as gender inequality, discrimination, FGM practices, and forced and early marriage. The session emphasized the need for collective action to challenge these norms and any violence against women, girls, and children in the community and the schools.

  

“This is not just about recognizing problems; it’s about taking concrete steps toward change,” Mr. Hassan Burush, CISP training facilitator, said.

The last session focused on strategies for promoting positive social change. Participants learned about effective community engagement techniques, education campaigns, and policy advocacy.

 

“We benefited a lot from this training for the 5 days we have been here. It built on our perception of the WW2 Program. As Civil Society Organizations, we are committed to ending violence against women and girls. Together, we can empower the survivors by providing psychosocial support to help them heal and rebuild their lives, along with essential skills for their future." Qaali Abdi Unshur, from NofYL CSO

The training concluded with collaborative action planning, where participants developed tailored strategies to address harmful norms. “I feel empowered to take action in my community,” remarked Mr. Adan, a local CSO Activist.

“This training has provided me with the tools and confidence to make a difference. We are committed to fighting all forms of violence against women and children." Dr. Deka Abdullahi from BRA.

 

“We will continue to support these initiatives and ensure that the lessons learned today lead to meaningful change. As CISP, we are committed to working with communities and local authorities to fight against harmful social norms” says Mr. Abdisalam Churicha, CISP’s WW2 Program Manager.

As participants left the training, they were encouraged to maintain connections with one another and to share their progress in addressing social norm

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