Girls’ Power Initiative (GPI) Calabar organised a one day Community Dialogue with stakeholders on Values, Social Norms and Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights of Right Holders (RHs). This is part of activities for the WeLead Project in Cross River State.

The dialogue which had over 100 participants in attendance drew participants from traditional leaders, religious leaders (Christian and Islam), health service providers, youth led CSOs and movements, representatives of the four Right Holder groups – young women with disabilities, those living with HIV, those who identify as LGBTQI and displaced young women.

❖ To engage with critical stakeholders towards the realisation of SRHR of RHs

❖ To discuss possible actions/roles required by each of the identified stakeholders.

❖ To seek support for a fair, safe and non- discriminatory environment for right holders in organizations, institutions, agencies, communities etc.

Activity featured presentation on social norms and values and their impact on SRHR of right holders, presentation of outcomes from FGDs with Right holders and KII with service providers, experience sharing by RH regarding discriminatory practices, stigma, laws, policies, unfriendly attitude of service providers, religious leaders/doctrines, disability unfriendly infrastructure etc.

There were questions, answers, clarifications, suggestions on way forward as well as commitments to supporting a safer, more friendly environment and non judgmental attitude by service providers towards RHs.