By: Tiana Cole | HGP Nightly News |
The Ministry of Human Services and Social Security is urging a strengthened, unified national response to gender-based violence (GBV), emphasizing that progress will only be possible when every stakeholder fulfills their responsibility.
Speaking at the Ministry’s “Stance Against Silence” walk on Sunday, Minister Dr. Vindhya Persaud called on all sectors — including the police, social workers, magistrates, judges, health workers, and community leaders — to “step up” and eliminate weak links in the national GBV support chain.
“There must be no weak link in that chain of support and response,” Persaud told the gathering. “Wherever you are, tell your colleague — step up.”
The minister underscored that while systems and services have been expanded nationwide, meaningful change requires a shift in cultural attitudes, personal responsibility, and how society values human life and well-being. She noted that many victims remain silent out of fear or shame, reinforcing the need for stronger community support.
Persaud also highlighted a rise in men coming forward to report domestic violence, describing it as an essential development in broadening national awareness and support pathways for all survivors.
As part of its outreach efforts, the Ministry has launched the Community Advocate Network — a program designed to train and equip ordinary citizens to provide frontline support within their own communities.
“This network ensures that every person can be trained to offer support wherever they are,” Persaud said, noting that community-driven action is essential to complement government-led services.
She stressed, however, that the most difficult challenge remains the cultural and generational norms that enable violence against women, men, and children. “In every home, there needs to be a paradigm shift,” she said. “Families have to start taking responsibility.”
The ministry continues to call on all Guyanese to become active participants in preventing violence, supporting survivors, and strengthening the national commitment to end GBV.
