Almost one in three women globally faces physical or sexual violence in her lifetime. This can happen whether by an intimate partner or a non-partner. Violence against women and girls (VAWG) is one of the most entrenched and destructive human rights violations worldwide. Tragically, for over 51,100 women in 2023, this violence led to their death. The perpetrators were often family members or partners. This staggering figure reveals a shocking reality: every 10 minutes, a woman is killed due to gender-based violence.
THE RISING TIDE OF VIOLENCE
The incidence of VAWG has surged across various spaces. These include workplaces, social media, and conflict zones. Crises like climate change and war are exacerbating the issue. UN Women’s 2024 campaign, “Every 10 Minutes, a Woman is Killed. #NoExcuse,” aims to draw critical attention to this alarming escalation, calling for urgent action and accountability from leaders.
FEMICIDE: A DEADLY CONSEQUENCE OF SYSTEMIC FAILURES
VAWG often culminates in femicide, a grim marker of failed protective structures for women and girls. UN Women emphasizes that femicides reveal systemic inadequacies. They demonstrate that existing frameworks do not adequately safeguard vulnerable individuals from violence. This includes those who may be attacked in their own homes.
UNSAFE SPACES: FROM THE HOME TO PUBLIC PLATFORMS
In recent years, violent attacks on women have escalated in both public and digital spheres. Politicians, activists, journalists, and human rights defenders often face online and offline threats, some of which tragically result in murder. Such violence shows there is an urgent need for stronger protection and accountability systems for women. These systems are required in both their private and public lives.
CONFLICT ZONES AND GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE
War zones show unique dangers, with gender-based violence spiking in these volatile areas. The United Nations reported a 50% surge in such violence from 2022 to 2023. Ukrainian activist Lyudmila Huseynova’s story exemplifies the harrowing experience many women face in conflict. She endured years of torture in a Russian prison. Afterward, she became an outspoken advocate. She was determined to expose the brutality inflicted on women in war-torn regions.
ACTIVISM FROM SURVIVAL
Huseynova’s advocacy underscores the transformation from survivor to activist. Her efforts highlight the suffering endured by countless women and children in conflict areas. She presses global audiences to acknowledge and act against this brutality. By sharing survivors’ stories, she seeks to secure justice and healing for those affected by gender-based violence in conflict.
ACTIONS WE CAN TAKE TO END VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN
UN Women stresses that everyone has a part to play in ending VAWG. Even small acts can support survivors and challenge the cultural acceptance of violence. Individuals can:
- Support local organizations working against VAWG
- Advocate for stronger legal protections and accountability for perpetrators
- Offer support to women and girls in their communities
EMPOWERING WOMEN IN PUBLIC AND POLITICAL LIFE
Iren Cari, an Argentinian activist, underscores the need to support women in political spheres. Funding initiatives that promote women’s participation in public policymaking and elections is critical. This approach fosters inclusive, gender-sensitive governance. Such governance can address VAWG effectively.
GOVERNMENT ACCOUNTABILITY AND ACTION PLANS
Governments must enact clear laws that guarantee perpetrators face consequences. UN Women advocates for well-funded National Action Plans focused on accountability and prevention. They recognize that legal frameworks alone cannot solve the issue. Consistent enforcement is necessary.
FUNDING FOR WOMEN’S RIGHTS ORGANIZATIONS
Resources are essential for survivors’ recovery and empowerment. Increased funding for women’s rights organizations allows these groups to support survivors and advocate for meaningful policy change.
WHAT CONSTITUTES VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN?
VAWG remains underreported due to widespread impunity, stigma, and victim-blaming. It manifests in various forms:
- Intimate Partner Violence: Includes physical assault, psychological abuse, marital rape, and femicide.
- Sexual Violence and Harassment: Encompasses rape and forced sexual acts. It includes unwanted advances and child sexual abuse. It also covers forced marriage, street harassment, stalking, and cyber harassment.
- Human Trafficking: Encompasses slavery, sexual exploitation, and forced labor.
- Female Genital Mutilation and Child Marriage: Both represent grave abuses against young girls. They rob them of autonomy and expose them to lifelong trauma.
THE ROLE OF THE 16 DAYS OF ACTIVISM
The UN’s 16 Days of Activism, running from November 25 to December 10, is a call to action to end gender-based violence. Each year, this campaign highlights the impact of collective action and reinforces that every effort counts. Through events, campaigns, and global initiatives, individuals and organizations are reminded that activism, in any form, plays a role in ending VAWG.
