Women Against R**e (WAR) a National non–governmental organization formed in response to the unprecedented reported number of r**e cases in Antigua and Barbuda in 2007 (32). Our organization’s mission statement is: Promoting inclusive health parity and victim justice through advocacy, education and direct services geared towards direct services to women and families affected by sexual violence. Thi
s mission is rooted in the values of: equality, justice, partnerships and trust. WAR advocates for a coordinated response to prevention and management of gender based violence, including sexual violence, and the realization of gender equality in Antigua and Barbuda. Gender based violence (GBV); including sexual violence, refers to the range of abuses committed against individuals on the basis of gender, it is rooted in the unequal distribution of power between men and women placing women in a subordinate status in society. Gender inequality and GBV necessarily impacts individuals’ full enjoyment of life, including access to health services, and is therefore is a pervasive human rights violation. Through individual service provision, and outreach/education using a health promotion framework we aim to increase the capacity of individuals and communities to take control over their lives and health. WAR also partners with organizations and stakeholders to push for the adoption of policy and legislation change that fosters the realization of gender equality. The direct services WAR provides includes: counseling (psychological and spiritual), Post Exposure Prophylaxis counseling, Sexual Assault Response Training for Outreach Workers, Client Advocacy and Referrals to sensitive agencies (including: HIV VCT, legal counsel, and other government and private health services). Our broad based and targeted outreach activities include: educational talks and facilitated workshops at community/ faith based organizations and schools, facilitation and support of sexual health peer outreach workers, hosting of public symposiums and meetings on gender inequality and GBV, and a health sexuality radio show.
