Empowering Girls to Speak Up: Malta Girl Guides Launch ‘Stop the Violence’ Initiative
Backed by the Commission on Gender-Based Violence and Domestic Violence and the Parliamentary Secretary for Reforms and Equality through the Together We Empower programme, the Malta Girl Guides is leading a project titled Stop the Violence Training – Empower Girls to Speak Up. This initiative is designed to tackle one of the most pressing issues facing girls and young women worldwide: gender-based violence.
Why We’re Taking Action?
Six in ten girls and young women globally will face violence at some point in their lives. Despite these alarming figures, conversations about this issue remain limited, data is incomplete and investment in preventative measures is far too low. These statistics are not distant realities, they affect our members, our families, our friends. As Malta’s largest voluntary organisation for girls and young women, the Malta Girl Guides recognises both its reach and its responsibility to lead change. This initiative is our opportunity to empower girls to speak out, take action and become part of the solution.
Our Belief
We believe that girls are not only at risk; they are also powerful agents of change. When equipped with the right tools and support, girls can become leaders within their communities and beyond. Our focus on non-formal education (an approach rooted in participation, dialogue and experience) gives girls the skills and confidence they need to understand their rights, challenge harmful stereotypes and encourage boys and young men to be allies in the fight against violence.
What’s Happening Next?
To ensure our message reaches every corner of our movement, the Stop the Violence Badge Curriculum will be launched through a dedicated Leader Training Programme. Unit Adult Volunteers will participate in a practical, hands-on training series where they will:
– Learn how to plan and deliver the full badge curriculum;
– Experience the same workshops and activities their members will take part in; and
– Gain vital knowledge on how to handle disclosures, report concerns, and create a safe, caring space for every girl.
Join the Movement
Whether you’re already an Adult Volunteer, thinking about volunteering or representing a community organisation ready to partner with us, your involvement can make a difference. By engaging in meaningful conversations, delivering impactful workshops and empowering girls one step at a time, you can help stop the violence.
Together, we empower. Together, we end violence.
This article has been funded by the Commission on Gender-Based Violence and Domestic Violence and the Parliamentary Secretary for Reforms and Equality through the Together We Empower programme.