Efforts to combat gender-based violence have recently gained momentum, particularly during the UN's annual campaign aimed at eradicicating this systemic issue globally. Starting on November 25, which marks the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Girls, the UN launched the 'UNiTE Campaign'. This 16-day initiative goes until December 10, aligning with International Human Rights Day. The current theme, "Every 10 Minutes, a Woman is Killed. #NoExcuse. UNiTE to End Violence against Women," aims to rally nations and communities to take decisive action against this pervasive violation of human rights.
According to recent reports from the UN, nearly one in three women has faced either physical or sexual violence at some point during their lives. This staggering statistic underlines the urgency of the campaign, as it reveals the extent of the global crisis. The figures from 2023 were particularly shocking, with 51,100 women losing their lives to gender-based violence. To put this devastating reality in perspective, someone dies from this violence every 10 minutes, underlining the urgent need for comprehensive policy action and societal change.
Gender-based violence doesn’t discriminate; it can occur across various environments—from homes to workplaces, and even online. For example, women experience heightened vulnerability to violence during intimate relationships or through stalking and harassment on digital platforms. The UN highlights several categories of such violence which include intimate partner violence, sexual violence and harassment, human trafficking, female genital mutilation, and child marriage.
Organizations worldwide are recognizing the need not only for awareness but also for effective prevention strategies. The recent rally led by the Tirupur District Collector Mr. T Chrishturaj serves as one such initiative aimed at raising awareness within local communities. This campaign is part of the Tamil Nadu State Rural Livelihood Movement and highlights various aspects related to combating gender-based violence, including the prevention of child marriage and domestic violence. Over 500 women’s self-help groups participated, showcasing community involvement.
According to data, the UN has particularly emphasized the importance of empowering women’s rights movements through sustained financial support. Without adequate funding, these grassroots initiatives often struggle to implement practical solutions or outreach programs, thereby leading to more victims falling through the cracks. By engaging communities, the aim is to address and dismantle the stigma and shame often associated with gender-based violence, ensuring survivors feel safe seeking assistance.
Separately, there have been reports of severe complications arising from gender-based violence during times of extreme conflict or instability. For example, Haiti is facing devastating impacts as armed gangs are attacking healthcare institutions meant to support victims. With certain organizations forced to close, victims find themselves without access to necessary medical and psychological care, aggravation the existing crisis.
The UN reports serve not only to highlight the tragedies of gender-based violence but also to prompt urgent action. They have called for the implementation of well-resourced strategies to hold perpetrators accountable, ensuring justice for victims. Through initiatives like the Global Goals, aimed at building more inclusive and resilient societies, the UN reiterates its commitment to achieving gender equality and addressing the rights of women and girls globally.
While there have been advancements and discussions around gender equality and women's rights, much remains to be done. These campaigns serve as reminders of the collective responsibility to challenge the cultures and systems perpetuating violence. Everyone—governments, NGOs, community organizations, and individuals—plays a role. Significantly, the global population is encouraged to take part by participating, supporting, and promoting awareness and actions to prevent gender-based violence.
Activism and awareness efforts like these aim to inspire meaningful change by mobilizing societies around the cause of women's rights. The message is clear: the collective demand for safety, dignity, and respect for women must be louder, more coordinated, and sustained. Unless communities unite against violence, the efforts may just be temporary placations on the systemic issue.
