UK Joins Fight to Shift Harmful Gender Norms in South Sudan

(Juba) – The British Embassy in Juba has reaffirmed its partnership with local advocacy groups working to change harmful societal norms and improve safety for women and girls in a show of continued commitment to addressing gender-based violence in South Sudan.

A recent visit by embassy representatives to Women for Justice & Equality, a grassroots organization dedicated to women’s rights, underscored the UK’s focus on tackling the root causes of conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV) through dialogue, education, and long-term community engagement.

The meeting offered an opportunity to explore how shifts in gender norms can play a vital role in reducing acceptance of violence and in building safer environments for vulnerable populations, especially women and girls.

The organization, Women for Justice & Equality, is a UK partner and a leading voice in advocating for women’s rights and community-led peacebuilding.

Their work includes public awareness campaigns, survivor support services, and promoting policies that uphold gender equality.

The British Embassy emphasized that its approach goes beyond responding to violence when it happens. Instead, it aims to prevent it by supporting local initiatives that challenge deep-rooted gender biases and engage both men and women in changing attitudes.

The conversation highlighted the need for sustainable strategies that are locally driven, inclusive, and focused on long-term social change.