In 2024, the International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease (The Union) expanded its training program to promote gender equality, foster social inclusion, and address gender-based violence (GBV) in Myanmar. Recognizing UNOPS ARHC’s commitment to ending GBV and promoting Protection from Sexual Exploitation, Abuse, and Harassment (PSEAH), The Union developed these new sessions to give community volunteers essential skills to address gender equality and combat gender-based violence (GBV) while strengthening TB and Drug-resistant TB (DR-TB) efforts in their project communities. This year, more than 400 community volunteers across the country completed the GESI and GBV training.
The purpose of the training was to promote gender equality, foster social inclusion, and address gender-based violence in The Union’s projects. Traditionally, The Union’s two-day training programs focused on equipping community volunteers with TB and DR-TB prevention and treatment knowledge. However, with increased awareness of the essential need to address GBV and create safer communities, The Union expanded the training to include a half day on PSEAH, Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI), and GBV response and support. This decision came as part of The Union’s commitment to align with UNOPS ARHC’s mission to address GBV, recognizing that community health must include the protection and empowerment of vulnerable populations.
This journey began in 2023, when The Union team received their first GESI and GBV training, conducted by UNOPS ARHC. UNOPS ARHC recognizes the critical role of gender equality in shaping communities and accessing essential services, empowering its Sub-recipients by fostering a deep understanding of gender concepts, enabling the integration of GESI into projects to benefit all community members and beneficiaries equitably.
"When we first received GESI and GBV training ourselves, it opened our eyes to the broader needs of the communities we work in. Now, as trainers, we are passing on this knowledge to community volunteers who will help protect survivors and ensure they get the support they deserve. This is a crucial step toward creating a safer, more inclusive environment for everyone," said Dr. Wai Yan Kyaw, Program Manager (DR-TB) who is also one of the trainers.
For community volunteers, the training began with foundational knowledge on key topics such as gender, Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI), Protection from Sexual Exploitation, Abuse, and Harassment (PSEAH), and Gender-based Violence (GBV). It then progressed to practical skills, including identifying appropriate referral pathways and providing victim support.
Daw Pa Pa Moe, a community volunteer who participated in one of the trainings, expressed how the training transformed her view of her role in the community. “This was my first time learning about these topics. I learned how to respond to cases of gender-based violence and help people feel safe and supported. Before, I wouldn’t have known what to do, but now I know how to listen, provide support, and guide survivors to the right resources,” she said.
"Integrating GBV, PSEAH, and GESI into our training programs was essential. Our volunteers now understand that health work is about more than treating disease—it's about creating a safe and supportive environment for the community. This training is a critical part of our mission to support both physical and social well-being," said Dr. Wai Yan Kyaw.
The Union’s inclusion of GESI and GBV topics in their training represents a pivotal shift toward community-centered, inclusive public health. This initiative has turned community volunteers into advocates for a safer, more inclusive environment for all, directly supporting UNOPS ARHC’s mission to end gender-based violence and promote equity.
As the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence campaign begins, The Union’s work shows the impact of community training and teamwork. This effort demonstrates that strong partnerships, a commitment to equality, and targeted support can create safer communities and help those affected by violence.
