Gynecological and Obstetric Violence (GOV), long overlooked, was the focus of an awareness day at Lycée Jean Mermoz in Senegal, organized as part of 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. The event revealed a young generation that is awake and determined to combat these practices, which undermine women's dignity and fundamental rights.
This meeting was the first in a series of upcoming events aimed at raising awareness among students at several high schools in Senegal. The goal is to create a network of engaged and informed young people who are ready to take action against gynecological and obstetric violence.
From words to action: an inspiring mobilization
During this awareness day, several students spoke about the reality of gynecological and obstetric violence, emphasizing that these practices also affect young girls:" When I was younger, I had trouble accepting physical contact. One day, I went to see a gynecologist. She touched me roughly, and when I screamed, she grabbed me. She knew I was autistic. "These testimonies served as a reminder that VGO is not limited to adult women, but also affects girls, who are sometimes exposed to intrusive and inappropriate medical practices. Far from simply speaking out, the students demonstrated a desire to become actively involved in the fight against VGO. "We cannot remain silent. This is our future, our bodies, our dignity," said one participant. Some of them have already taken action: one student published a blog post denouncing these practices and calling for a change in attitudes, while another wrote a poem about resilience and the fight for women's rights. These initiatives demonstrate a genuine commitment to combating these practices.
