Every day, girls across Ethiopia experience violence. They are at high risk of being hit and insulted by their parents, teachers, siblings, peers, and romantic partners. Many undergo Female Genital Mutilation. A significant minority are pushed into marriage with adult men while they are themselves still children. Still others are sexually harassed and assaulted as they go to school and work, or support their families by fetching water and fuel, and socialise with their friends.
Parents have the potential to play a central role in ending violence against girls. By refraining from using violence against their children—and actively teaching their sons and daughters about rights and respect—they can reduce the violence to which girls are exposed and empower their daughters to recognise violence, report it and get the help they need to end it.
Parenting education courses can prepare parents for this central role and support them to end the cycle of violence against girls.