The new application aims to combat violence against women and girls

The Ministry of Women Affairs, in partnership with the UN Population Fund (UNFPA) and funded by the Wesley Zaidan Japan organization, officially launched the “GBV Safe Practice” on November 25.

The launch of the new app, a groundbreaking initiative in the fight against gender-based violence (GBV) across Cambodia, coincides with the launch of the “16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence” campaign.

In the joint statement made by the Ministry, UNFPA and the Japanese organization, the application was a

Significant progress in the Kingdom’s efforts to ensure that victims of violence have easy access to information, support and care.

The app raises awareness of GBV and sexual harassment by providing easy access to essential information, while educating users about their rights and available support services.

It also connects users to a network of essential services, including helplines, legal aid and psychosocial counselling, according to the statement. It also offers direct calls to emergency services, with future versions to include live location sharing.

“The GGBV Safe App is a testament to our commitment to leveraging technology to combat gender-based violence,” said Ing Kantha Phavi, Minister of Women’s Affairs.

“This app provides women and girls with information and resources to seek help when they need it most. This is a crucial step towards creating a safer and more equitable society for everyone,” she added.

The free app is currently available on Android devices via the Google Play Store and will soon be available on the Apple App Store. Registration requires minimal information for user privacy.

UNFPA representative Sandra Bernklau emphasized the importance of partnerships in addressing GBV.

“The development of the GBVV Secure App was not possible without partnerships. “By joining forces, we and our other partners have created a tool that can make a real difference in the lives of women and girls in Cambodia.”

Wesley Zaidan representative Hikari Kokai Chang emphasized the organization’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote the safety and well-being of women and girls.

“We are proud to partner with the ministry and UNFPA on this vital project. “The GBV Safe App is an innovative solution that leverages the power of technology to solve a critical problem,” he explained.

According to the statement, the implementation is in line with the country’s commitments to the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) and the National Plan of Action to Prevent Violence Against Women (NAPVAW).

The Ministry, UNFPA and Wesley Zaidan encouraged all stakeholders, including government ministries, non-governmental organisations, the private sector and the media, to promote the GBV Safe App and support its widespread adoption.