Call for Panelist Submissions: Showcase Local Government Strategies to Combat Gender-Based Violence

The Local Public Sector Alliance (LPSA) Thematic Working Group on Gender Equity and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE) invites you to participate in a transformative conversation on the role of subnational governments in addressing Gender-Based Violence (GBV). We seek submissions from government officials, policy practitioners, scholars, civil society organizations, and community advocates with experience in this critical area.

Why Local Governments Matter in the Fight Against GBV

While national governments play a key role in shaping policy, sub-national governments — like counties, municipalities, and local councils — are uniquely positioned to drive on-the-ground action. Their proximity to communities and responsibility for essential service delivery give them the power to prevent, respond to, and mitigate GBV. Yet, despite this potential, most GBV initiatives focus on national-level interventions, leaving local governments underutilized.

The upcoming webinar, “The Role of Sub-National Governments in Addressing Gender-Based Violence”, scheduled for February 26, 2025, aims to spotlight the untapped potential of local actors in addressing GBV. To make this event impactful, the GEWE Working Group is calling for submissions from experienced voices to join the discussion as panelists.


What We’re Looking For

Do you have insights, case studies, or success stories on how sub-national governments are tackling GBV? This is your chance to share them. Submissions should focus on the following key themes:

  • Local Government Actions: Highlight specific roles and actions that local or sub-national governments have taken to prevent and respond to GBV.
  • Funding & Implementation Models: Innovative approaches to financing and executing local GBV initiatives.
  • Impact & Lessons Learned: Success stories, challenges, and best practices that demonstrate the power of local government action.

Selected panelists will have the opportunity to present their work during the webinar and have their case studies featured in the LPSA Localizing Gender Equity and Women’s Empowerment White Paper.

How to Submit Your Proposal

Submit a 1–2 page abstract detailing your initiative, project, or case study. Your abstract should clearly address one or more of the key themes listed above. Email your abstract to Jacqueline Muthura, Gender Equity & Women’s Empowerment Working Group Coordinator, at women@decentralization.net. Submissions will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Why You Should Participate

By sharing your experiences, you’ll contribute to a global dialogue on effective, localized approaches to combat GBV. Your insights will not only shape the conversation at the webinar but also inform the development of new tools, strategies, and policies to drive gender equity at the local level.

Don’t miss this chance to elevate your work and inspire others. Submit your abstract, and join us in championing the role of local governments in promoting gender equity and community safety.

For more information, please contact women@decentralization.net.