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Dr Mohamed Elsanousi

Dr Mohamed Elsanousi, Executive Director of the Network for Religious and Traditional Peacemakers, #ThursdaysinBlack Ambassador

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The Network is a global organization which collaboratively supports the role of religious and traditional actors within conflict transformation work.

In his video reflection on why he has joined the global movement toward ending gender-based violence, Elsanousi states, While we are facing many crises today, from ongoing conflict, the closing space of civil society, the COVID-19 pandemic and the climate crisis, the intersecting link between all of these is the increasing insecurity for women and girls.”

The Network has been posting #ThursdaysinBlack statements from its members throughout the 16 Days against gender-based violence, as well as information and suggested links and actions to overcome sexual and gender-based violence. Jessica Roland, the Network’s Senior Specialist on Inclusive Peace, is also joining the movement as a Thursdays in Black ambassador

“In the new United Nations Women report launched just this month, summary data from 13 countries shows that almost one in two women reported that they, or a woman they know, has experienced a form of violence since the COID-19 pandemic,” notes Elsanousi,

With this alarming increase in such violence, he believes that faith actors and faith institutions have a critical role to play in being on the frontlines of addressing this issue.

Faith leaders are often one of the first points of contact for victims of gender-based violence because they are trusted members in their community,” he said.

“The Network is committed to addressing gender-based violence in its work. I want to invite you all—the Network members and supporters, and the wider faith community, to join the Thursdays in Black campaign to commit to overcoming violence and to build a world that is safe and respectful for all.”

Learn more about Thursdays in Black

WCC's Just Community of Women and Men

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Network for Religious and Traditional Peacemakers

Members of the Network for Religious and Traditional Peacemakers

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