Ammon News - The United Nations sexual and reproductive health agency (UNFPA) and the Arab States Regional Office (ASRO) Monday launched the #ThisisNotNormal campaign to counter risks of the normalisation of gender-based violence in humanitarian settings.

The campaign was launched in tandem with the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict in response to increasing reports by women and girls against whom violence has become widespread.

Featuring the voices of artists and influencers, across the region, such as Ghada Saba, Joanna Arida, Maya Ammar and Ala Hamdan, the campaign seeks to address the increase of gender-based violence, make the voices of women and girl survivors heard and reaffirm the global commitment to ending gender-based violence, including sexual violence in conflict.

"Protracted crises throughout the region have taken a massive toll on every single person but in particular women and girls who face increased risks of life-threatening violence, including sexual violence and lack access to essential services," said UNFPA Arab States Regional Director, Dr Luay Shabaneh.

"In some communities, women and girls tell us that violence against them is becoming normalised, threatening their health, lives and dignity," Shabaneh added.

The campaign is part of UNFPA’s continued efforts to engage communities, partners, governments and stakeholders to implement programmes and initiatives to prevent and respond to gender-based violence.

Globally, UNFPA continues to prioritise the availability of and access to services, including sexual and reproductive health and specialised medical and psychosocial support services for women and girls in need.

The term "normalisation" refers to a growing sense of collective acceptance of violence against women and girls as a social phenomenon. Contributing factors include existing gender inequalities and the extended erosion of protection mechanisms, as well as the absence of legal accountability.

"The international community must demonstrate a united front in its rejection of the normalisation of violence against women and girls and ensure that their rights, including the right to live free from violence, are prioritised in humanitarian response," Shabaneh added.