By Rachel Kaykiamien,
The Women NGOs Secretariat of Liberia (WONGOSOL) strongly condemns the disturbing incident that occurred in Red Light today, where a young woman was publicly stripped, beaten, and humiliated by a group of men and youths because of the clothes she wore.
What happened to this young woman was cruel, unacceptable, and a serious violation of her dignity and rights. No woman should ever be treated in such a degrading manner.
Violence against women can never be justified under the guise of culture, discipline, or morality.
The actions captured in the video are deeply shameful. Instead of protecting the young woman, those involved chose to disgrace and traumatize her publicly.
If their intention was truly to help, they would have ensured her safety and dignity rather than assaulting and humiliating her before a crowd.
The Constitution of Liberia guarantees the dignity and equal rights of every person under the law. Liberia is also a signatory to international agreements, including CEDAW, the Maputo Protocol, and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, all of which protect women from violence, abuse, and degrading treatment.
WONGOSOL is calling on the Liberia National Police to urgently investigate this matter, identify all those involved, and ensure they are held accountable for their actions.
Acts of mob violence and public abuse against women must not be tolerated in our society.
“We also urge the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection to provide immediate psychosocial and protection support to the survivor, who has undoubtedly suffered emotional and psychological trauma from this incident,” the statement noted.
At the same time, WONGOSOL is calling on all Liberians, especially men and young people, to reject violence and treat women with respect and dignity at all times.
“The abuse of one woman is an attack on the dignity of all women. This incident is heartbreaking and unacceptable. Liberia cannot move forward while women continue to face humiliation and violence in public spaces,” the release stated.
WONGOSOL remains committed to advocating for the safety, dignity, and rights of women and girls across Liberia.
