Safer Cities for Girls, Egypt
Description and Success of Project:
Safer Cities for Girls in Cairo is helping girls and boys receive training to better understand their rights, recognize and avoid harassment where possible, and redefine acceptable, non-violent masculine behaviors. The project provides safe spaces and girls’ clubs where girls can learn, play and build social networks. Girls participate in safe walks around their city to assess their communities and pinpoint problem areas, later meeting with local officials and transportation workers to communicate their concerns. Some girls help raise awareness about harassment through community meetings and media communications. Other become “Girl Ambassadors” who speak nationally and internationally to key stakeholders in support of gender equality. In addition, boys and men are trained on ways to ensure girls are safe and are provided with space to talk about redefining masculine behaviors.
With gender-based violence on the rise globally, Safer Cities for Girls comes at a crucial time. The project influences policies and engages stakeholders at all levels to be more receptive to and inclusive of girls’ safety in cities. It is helping the next generation of girls and boys stay safe, continue in school, and become active, educated, empowered members of society.
Contact person: Kate Ezzes, Director of Youth and Economic Empowerment, Plan International USA
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