People Before Profit in Derry have called for the implementation of comprehensive Relationship and Sex Education (RSE) in schools as a crucial measure to tackle violence against women and girls.
The call comes as part of the United Nations “16 days Against Gender Based Violence” initiative.
Former PBP Councillor and campaigner on the issue, Maeve O’Neill says that recent tragic events in Derry have once again illustrated the need for RSE in schools:
“The evidence is clear: countries with robust RSE programs see significant reductions in gender-based violence and improvements in the overall well-being of young people.
“Studies from the Youth Endowment Fund indicate that high-quality RSE can reduce certain types of violence by nearly 20%.
“The Netherlands, which has long-standing comprehensive RSE programs, reports lower rates of teenage pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections, alongside higher levels of gender equality and respect in relationships.
“In Sweden, comprehensive RSE has been linked to lower rates of sexual violence and harassment among young people.
“Schools in the North of Ireland can make a huge difference to the safety of women and girls by teaching RSE to all pupils.
“The DUP and others have an appalling, regressive attitude towards RSE.
“Their opposition to comprehensive sex education is not only outdated but also dangerous.
“A backwoods approach to the implementation of thorough and evidence-based RSE, fails to protect young people and perpetuates a culture where violence against women and girls is normalised.
“Many young men are given toxic role models who promote the most grotesque misogyny.
“The civil trial of Conor McGregor again showed the horrors that women who speak out face.
“The extraordinary bravery of Nikita Hand in the face of such power and aggression is inspirational.
“RSE is the way to teach young men about consent. To educate them on how respectful relationships are built and to remove the influence of the likes of Andrew Tate or Conor McGregor.
“People Before Profit will continue to campaign for the implementation of comprehensive RSE in all schools.
“This education must be inclusive, evidence-based, and aimed at fostering respect, equality, and safety for all individuals.
“It is time to move beyond outdated ideologies and ensure that our young people are equipped with the knowledge and skills they need to build healthy, respectful relationships.”
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