Program News Item

For the second consecutive year, Freedom House has organized a coalition of Jordanian non-governmental organizations and national institutions to raise awareness and call for the prevention of violence against women and an end to family violence.  Under the patronage of Her Royal Highness Princess Basma Bint Talal, the Jordanian initiative linked the international campaign of "16 Days of Action against Gender Violence", which takes place every year from November 25 - December 10, with the Jordanian effort continuing through the end of February 2006.

The launch of the campaign took place on November 28, 2005.  Freedom House 16 Days grantees came together with governmental, non-governmental, and international organizations to recognize the various contributions made by each through an exhibition of campaign materials advocating for women?s rights and the prevention of family violence in Jordan.  Her Royal Highness Princess Basma Bint Talal took part in the launch, toured the exhibition, and met 16 Days grantees.

A panel discussion, moderated by family rights activist Samar Haj Hassan, took place that included government, non-government, and media representatives.  The topic covered was the current status of Jordanian efforts to prevent violence against women and focus was on the role of media, the availability of services for victims of violence, and a review of the legislative environment.