WHER Initiative conducted a unique workshop from the 2nd to the 4th of October 2020. The purpose of this workshop is to introduce the Beijing 1995 platform for action document to sexual minority women in Nigeria, create awareness on the 12 critical areas of the Beijing platform for action, examine the efforts made so far nationally, regionally and globally in achieving gender equality, and understand the significance of BPFA in the struggle for women equality.
The workshop used a mix of presentation of evidence, concepts, and recommendations as well as interactive and participatory learning exercises and exchange of experiences through group work to pass the message about the BPFA+25.
The events leading up to the Beijing Declaration as well as the document itself was discussed with the salient provisions being highlighted. The efforts made so far in achieving gender equality by governments globally, regionally and Nationally was also discussed by the participants and facilitators.
Participants were divided into groups where they discussed the 12 critical areas of concern and how the effects of discrimination, gender and intimate partner violence, lack of empowerment opportunities, unequal access to health care, lack of access to loan facilities to improve their business, etc. have negative effects on LBQ women and their abilities to reach their potentials.
The groups were able to come up with action points on the critical areas of concern which will serve as a guide in Advocacy efforts towards pushing for a Gender Equality movement that is inclusive of Sexual minority women.
The Beijing +25 Sensitization workshop was able to create an avenue for LBQ Women to understand the Beijing 1995 platform for action, have awareness on the 12 critical areas of the Beijing platform for action, understand the efforts made so far nationally, regionally and globally in achieving gender equality, understand the Significance of BPFA in the struggle for women equality.
The capacity of the LBQ women leaders was built to disseminate information about BPFA + 25 to women within their locality in order to create a demand for change.
A total of 21 participants were in attendance.