HELP strongly believes in building partnerships, network and collaboration with systemic stakeholders including likeminded CSOs and CBOs in exploring its expedition in addressing all forms of violence against victims of Commercial Sexual Exploitation (Sex Workers).

Today, HELP, in collaboration with VIMUKTHI—a collective of sex workers convened a state level consultation at Hotel SNR, Vijayawada on significance of networking and collaboration in addressing issues and challenges of sex workers making gender-based violence as its core focus. Leaders of VIMUKTHI victims collective have demonstrated their concerns in and around accessing their rights and entitlements. Smt. R. Suez, Retd. Director, AP State Women Commission and Smt. Suhasini, Ex. Project Director, Dept. of Women Development and Child Welfare acted as panel speakers who assured to support in drawing state’s attention in addressing issues and challenges sex workers facing so far.

This event is part of the WO=MEN 16 days campaign, focusing on strengthening the rights of sex workers and survivors of human trafficking.

Gender-based violence occurs everywhere and affects all levels of society, making the likelihood of encountering such situations alarmingly high. But how should you respond if you witness gender-based violence?

UN Women has introduced the “Stop – Support – Report campaign” to guide people on how to react appropriately when witnessing violence against women. HELP and VIMUKTHI  jointly taking forward this 16 days campaign based on the call of Action by UN Women to address all forms of “Violence against women including Survivors of Trafficking and Sex workers  in the state of Andhra Pradesh”.

Stop: If you observe a woman being harassed or attacked, assess the situation carefully. If it is safe to do so, intervene by offering help to the person being targeted. However, your safety is equally important—do not put yourself at risk.

Support: Approach the individual experiencing harassment and ask how you can assist them in feeling safe. Stay with them until they feel secure.

Report: Offer to support the person if they wish to report the incident, but respect their decision if they choose not to. Avoid pressuring them into taking action they are uncomfortable with.

Would you have known how to respond in such a situation? Share this post to spread awareness and ensure more people *know how to act when witnessing gender-based violence*.

The term “woman” includes all who identify as such.