The Agok administrative unit in the disputed area of Abyei between Sudan and South Sudan has celebrated the UN International Human Rights day on Tuesday, 10 December, in Mudiria square, under the theme” Together to Fight Violence Against Women”.

The celebration took place under the auspices of United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).

The event was attended by Agok civil society organisations, comprising women associations, preliminary committees of the Women’s Union, and youth organisations, as well as by a large number of citizens.

In an interview with Radio Tamazuj on Wednesday, the Director of Gender at the Education Department in the Agok area, Nyankiir Chol Tiok, stated that the speakers decried all forms of violence against women, including forced marriage.

According to Tiok, “negative cultural attitudes and practices” are to blame for the violence carried out against women on all levels.

“These cultures made South Sudan women inferior to men, and poor, in terms of performance in schools, which undoubtedly curtails her effective participation in public life.” 

File photo