The European Union Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria (EU-SDGN), in collaboration with the Justice, Development, and Peace Movement (JDPM), recently organised a Community Outreach Town Hall Meeting in Oyo State, focused on civic education and addressing gender-based violence. This outreach is part of EU-SDGN’s continued efforts to promote democratic awareness and tackle social issues that undermine development at the grassroots level.
The town hall meeting brought together community members, local leaders, and civil society groups to engage in discussions around civic rights, responsibilities, and the importance of active citizen participation in governance. A significant portion of the dialogue also addressed the pressing issue of gender-based violence, with facilitators emphasising the need for community-wide efforts to prevent and respond to violence against women and girls. Participants were educated on the legal frameworks protecting women’s rights and were encouraged to advocate for gender equality within their communities.
JDPM played a key role in mobilising the community and facilitating the discussion, ensuring that the issues of civic education and gender-based violence were addressed in a culturally sensitive and effective manner. Their collaboration with EU-SDGN reflects a shared commitment to fostering informed and empowered communities capable of driving positive change.
This town hall meeting is part of a series of initiatives under the EU-SDGN program, aimed at creating inclusive spaces for dialogue and strengthening community institutions. By addressing both civic engagement and gender-based violence, EU-SDGN and JDPM continue to contribute to the development of safer, more democratic communities in Oyo State.
