Breaking the Silence: Our Community’s Dialogue on Gender-Based Violence 

This month, our women’s group gathered for a powerful session focused on Gender-Based Violence (GBV). The meeting provided a safe, supportive environment for members to discuss the challenges facing women in our community and the importance of standing together against all forms of abuse. 

Key Discussion Highlights:

• Empowerment Through Shared Stories:
  We held an open dialogue on the importance of "raising your voice" to break cycles of silence. Members shared perspectives on fostering a community where every woman feels heard and protected.
• Art as a Tool for Change:
  We explored how creative expression—like the music and activism of our guest speaker—can be used for healing and to challenge outdated social norms.
• Strengthening Our Network:
  A primary focus was identifying how our group can continue to serve as a vital resource and support system for one another.

Local Support Resources

If you or someone you know is experiencing violence or needs support, the following resources in Cambodia are available to help: 

Immediate Assistance & Helplines

• Ministry of Women’s Affairs (MoWA) Helplines: Call 093 777 900 or 085 777 900 for counseling and referral services.
• Child Helpline Cambodia: Call 1280 (free 24-hour service) for counseling and referrals for children, youth, and women.
• Emergency Services: Dial 117 for Police or 119 for Medical Emergencies. 

Digital Support

• GBV Safe App: A mobile application launched by MoWA and UNFPA providing information on rights, safety tools, and direct links to emergency services.

Guest Speaker Bio: 

Sang Sok Serey (known professionally as SEREY) is a prominent Cambodian rapper, songwriter, and activist dedicated to women’s rights and social change. Rising from the Tiny Toones arts program in Phnom Penh, she has become a leading female voice in the Cambodian hip-hop scene. Serey uses her art to blend traditional Cambodian culture with modern rap to address sensitive issues like gender equality and climate change. She serves as a mentor for UNICEF Cambodia’s "Generation Future" and is a Regional Representative for the Mekong Cultural Hub (MCH), where she works to amplify the voices of women and young people across the region.