In our latest episode of #ServicesWithoutHitches, we shed light on the critical and often overlooked role of Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs) in responding to Gender-Based Violence (GBV).
Our guest, Barrister Florence Marcus, provided an in-depth analysis of the intersection between gender, disability, and violence. She emphasized that women and girls with disabilities face a unique challenge known as Double Vulnerability—being at higher risk of abuse, exploitation, and exclusion from justice and support services due to both their gender and disabilities.
OPDs: More Than Just Advocates
OPDs are not merely advocacy groups; they serve as first responders, watchdogs, and bridge builders between survivors and the systems that often exclude persons with disabilities. These organizations play a pivotal role by:
- Providing communication support to help survivors articulate their needs.
- Building the capacity of service providers to ensure they are equipped to handle the specific needs of survivors with disabilities.
- Raising awareness about disability rights so that GBV survivors are treated with dignity, respect, and empathy.
Practical Support and Empowerment
Beyond advocacy, OPDs offer lifesaving referral services to accessible health facilities and other support systems. They empower women and girls with disabilities to access essential services, strengthen their voices and agency, and leverage legal frameworks such as the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018, and National Accessibility Standards to demand accountability and inclusive service delivery.
Barrister Marcus highlighted another significant barrier faced by these women: the fear of stigma and discrimination. Many times, perpetrators are caregivers or family members, which contributes to the underreporting of GBV cases involving women and girls with disabilities. This reality further underscores the essential intervention of OPDs in providing a safe space for these survivors.
A Call for Sustainable Support
Gender-Based Violence is a systemic issue that cannot be adequately addressed without robust support for OPDs. Sustainable funding, recognition, and meaningful inclusion of OPDs as legitimate GBV response actors—rather than just disability advocates—are critical for effective prevention, response, and case management.
Moving forward, OPDs must continue to collaborate with mainstream organizations and government agencies through peer support, training of community disability champions, and ongoing awareness creation on GBV against women and girls with disabilities.
Collective action remains key to reducing isolation, breaking stigma, and ensuring that no survivor is left behind. Together, we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all.
