As the world marks International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, on November 25 every year, the situation has not changed much in 2021.
Violence against women and girls is indeed one of the most widespread, persistent, and devastating human rights violations in our world today. It remains largely unreported due to the impunity, negligence, silence, fear, stigma and shame that surrounds it in most parts of the world.
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In general terms, however, it manifests itself in physical, sexual and psychological forms, encompassing intimate partner violence and sexual violence and harassment.
For any society to make progress it must protect its women against any violence. They deserve to be carried along in every decision making process in the society.
We must remember that these women are our mothers, daughters and sisters who should not be threatened or harmed. They are entitled to a dignified life.
According to UN reports, roughly one in every three women has been assaulted at some point in her life.
Gender-based violence is not unavoidable, no matter how widespread it is. It is possible and necessary to avoid it. Stopping this violence begins with trusting survivors and implementing comprehensive and inclusive measures that address the core causes, change damaging social norms, and empower women and girls, giving them a sense of belonging. We can surely eradicate violence against women across the globe if we provide needed services across the policing, judicial, health, and social sectors, as well as sufficient funding for women’s rights issues.
There is a need for an awareness campaign to change the negative trends in society.
However, the government must punish those who commit these heinous crimes against women to serve as a deterrent to others. May today’s world be free of violence against women.
Tajuddeen Ahmad Tijjani writes from Galadima Mahmoud Street, Kasuwar-Kaji Azare, Bauchi State.
