The Right to Bodily Integrity | Toufah Jallow

Ximena Cceccaño  | 10 de marzo de 2023  | Vistas: 45

The College Freedom Forum is an initiative of the Human Rights Foundation (HRF), an organization that promotes the defense of human rights around the world. In the sixth edition of the event held at the Francisco Marroquin University, activists from different countries present their experiences in the pursuit of freedom and the fight against human rights violations.

In “The Right to Bodily Integrity”, renowned author and human rights advocate Toufah Jallow addresses a crucial yet often overlooked issue: the right of every individual to the integrity of their body. Through her personal and professional experiences, Jallow weaves a powerful narrative that underscores the significance of this right in the fight against gender-based violence, sexual abuse, and the systemic oppression faced by many women and vulnerable communities worldwide.

The talk begins with Jallow’s account of the sexual assault suffered by a young student in Gambia. This event marked her life and sparked her determination to become an active voice in the defense of women’s rights. Drawing on her experiences, Jallow delves into the concept of bodily integrity, analyzing its legal, social and ethical implications. She illustrates how societies often normalize violence and coercion, stripping women and marginalized groups of their autonomy and dignity.

When I was in Nazri school, the government at the time cracked down on students who came out to protest against the rape and violence not wanting the International Community to understand what was going on this small West African country”. — Toufah Jallow

Throughout the talk, Jallow employs a mix of case studies, testimonials, and striking statistics to highlight the prevalence of gender-based violence and the impunity that often surrounds such crimes. She emphasizes how fear and shame can silence victims, while a lack of education and resources perpetuates the cycle of abuse. The speaker also examines the impact of culture and tradition on perceptions of the female body, as well as the challenges faced by human rights defenders in hostile contexts.

When I was 18 I decided to participate in a scholarship pageant; the government at the time promised to study anywhere in the worId. I saw this as an opportunity to escape home to break the cycle to make sure I am not one of the number of young African Muslim gambians who were married at the age of 14 or 15”. — Toufah Jallow

A central theme of “The Right to Bodily Integrity” is the urgent call for public policies to align with respect for human rights. Jallow advocates for a more holistic approach that includes education, healthcare, and support services for victims. She proposes that governmental and non-governmental organizations collaborate to create an environment where women can live free from fear and exercise their right to bodily integrity.

The talk also underscores the importance of solidarity and empowerment in the quest for justice. Jallow stresses that women must unite and support one another, building networks of resistance that challenge patriarchal norms. This perspective of empowerment is essential for fostering lasting and effective change.

I have decided to use my voice cuz I realize the world's interest in me is not because of who I am or the poor family background that I come from but because my perpetrator is a powerful dictator”. — Toufah Jallow

Finally, Jallow invites readers with clear and moving prose to reflect on their own beliefs and attitudes towards the body and autonomy. Through her story and the stories of many others, she emphasizes the need to transform a culture of silence into a culture of dialogue and action.

We invite you to watch the lectures and interviews from the College Freedom Forum.