ACDO intensified its efforts to combat gender-based violence (GBV) by integrating prevention and response mechanisms into its programming. Recognizing the devastating impact of GBV on individuals and communities, ACDO focused on creating safe spaces for survivors, providing essential services, and raising awareness to reduce stigma. ACDO established GBV support centers in high-risk areas, offering counseling, medical assistance, and legal referrals to over 2,000 survivors. Additionally, comprehensive training sessions were conducted for staff, partners, and community leaders to recognize and respond to GBV cases effectively. Through community outreach campaigns, ACDO reached more than 15,000 individuals with messages promoting gender equality and the importance of addressing GBV, fostering a culture of accountability and support.

The project is designed to safeguard the rights and well-being of vulnerable children and their families returning through the Islam Qala border. Many of these children face heightened risks such as neglect, exploitation, abuse, and separation from family during displacement and return. To respond to these urgent needs, a Child Protection Help Desk will be established at the Zero Point of Islam Qala to provide immediate assistance, referral services, and in-kind support to returnee children and families.

The overall objective is to ensure that children are protected, supported, and connected to lifesaving services while their dignity and rights are respected.

Key activities under this intervention include:

·         Establishment of a Child Protection Help Desk

o    Set up a fully functional help desk at the Zero Point of Islam Qala to provide on-the-spot assistance and guidance to returnees.

o    Deploy trained Child Protection staff to identify and respond to urgent cases among returning children.

·         Case Identification, Management, and Referrals

o    Identify children at risk, including unaccompanied and separated children, survivors of abuse or neglect, and children with urgent protection needs.

o    Provide case management services and make referrals to specialized services such as psychosocial support, health care, education, and legal aid.

·         Provision of In-Kind Support

o    Distribute emergency supplies such as dignity kits, clothes, shoes, and other child-friendly items to vulnerable children and families.

o    Provide age-appropriate recreational kits to create safe and friendly spaces for children during the return process.

·         Psychosocial Support and Awareness Sessions

o    Deliver basic psychosocial first aid and emotional support to distressed children and caregivers.

o    Conduct awareness sessions for families on child rights, positive parenting, and protection from violence, abuse, and exploitation.

·         Coordination and Community Engagement

o    Collaborate with border authorities, humanitarian agencies, and child protection networks to ensure effective service delivery.

o    Engage community representatives to strengthen referral pathways and promote child safety during reintegration.