A pervasive violation of human rights that continues to influence communities all over the world is violence against women and girls. The International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women is marked on November 25th each year. The United Nations designated this day to raise awareness and shed light on the alarming prevalence of violence against women. This day is also known as Orange Day. UN Women recognizes orange as a symbol of a better future free from violence against women and girls. The concern of violence against women is ubiquitous and includes various forms of abuse including physical and sexual harassment, emotional assault, and other detrimental behaviors. It’s a hindrance to gender equality and a violation of women’s human rights. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an analysis of prevalence data from 2000-2018 across 161 countries and areas found that 1 in 3 (30%) of women have experienced physical and/or sexual violence by an intimate partner or non-partner sexual violence.
This concerning statistic emphasizes how vital it is to take action to address this issue. The incidence of violence against women has increased as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Due to many restrictions and lockdowns, many women have been forced to stay with their abusers, which has increased the number of domestic violence cases globally. Despite, progress in women’s rights, anti-social movements, and a backlash against women’s rights organizations have been a disturbing rise and attacks and threats against women human rights advocates and defenders are on the rise, which is impeding their vital work for pushing for a change. Furthermore, regressive laws and policies are weakening the legal safeguards for women’s rights in many nations, which makes it easier for perpetrators of violence to get away with it.
The historical roots of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women can be traced back to the 1960 assassination of the Mirabal Sisters, political activists in the Domain Republic. Due to the outrage aroused by their terrible deaths, November 25th was designated as a day to raise awareness of the violence against women. This day provides an opportunity to highlight numerous forms of violence inflicted upon women, including rape, domestic abuse, and other form that are often concealed from the public eye. The day seeks to inspire people to take action and work towards setting an end to this epidemic by raising the spotlight to the scope and real nature of this issue.
Women’s Rights and Feminist Movements as a Path to Empowerment It’s time for us all to join forces with advocates for women’s rights and support their campaigns to end violence against women and girls. Research indicates that a powerful and independent women’s movement is the primary force behind changes in legislation and advancements in the eradication of violence against women. In order to press for long-lasting change and fend off anti-rights and backlash, feminist mobilization is essential. Achieving a future free from violence requires funding and support for feminist movements and organizations dedicated to women’s rights.
The power of feminist mobilization, encouraging gender equality and empowerment and creating supportive systems are the main categories for women’s empowerment solutions. Women’s empowerment is a fundamental aspect of ending violence and prompting equality. A strong and independent women’s movement is crucial to halting violence and fending off the reaction against women’s rights. Studies have demonstrated that policy change is significantly influenced by Feminist Mobilization. We can endeavour to empower survivors, lessen and prevent violence against women defend women’s organizations and bolster feminist movements, empowering women by providing opportunities and resources to take charge of their lives and make decisions that impact them. This includes giving them access to education, financial independence and decision-making authority. Empowered women are better able to question patriarchal norms, stand up for their rights and end the cycle of violent offenders, Additionally, engaging men and boys in the fight against violence is essential to challenge harmful gender stereotypes and promote healthy relationships.
Annually, beginning on November 25th, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, there is a global campaign called 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence and ending on December 10th International Human Rights Day. It seeks to advocate for an end to violence against women and girls, mobilize actions and create awareness of this issue. Public, groups and governments unite during this time to emphasize how critical it is to address gender-based violence and advance women’s empowerment. Contributing to the 16 Days campaign is a potent method to guide and put an end to violence against women and child victims. During these 16 days, individuals can actively participate in the campaign and amplify their voice to the world on social media, sharing the testimonies of activists and survivors to shatter the taboo of violence and promote awareness. Support Women’s Organization. Promote education, that includes comprehensive sex education, healthy relationships, and gender equality. Engage men and boys in conversations about gender–based violence and encourage the fight for equality. Social media can be used as a tool to share information, resources and campaigns related to the elimination of violence against women. Educate yourself to expand your knowledge and awareness of gender-based violence and women’s empowerment, by reading books, articles and research. Act as an example for society by advocating for equality, treating people with dignity, and speaking out against injustice and violence.
We have the power to significantly influence the development of a world free from violence and where women and girls the given the opportunity to realize their full potential. Together, let’s progress toward a more promising and secure future for everybody. From Shadows to Light let’s celebrate International Orange Day and break the chains of violence.
Ref: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/violence-against-women
