“I stayed silent because I thought no one would believe me. Now I speak, so no one else has to feel that way.” These powerful words from Amina Yasuf, a survivor of domestic violence in Kenya, echoes the experiences of millions of women worldwide. Her story, like countless others, reminds us of the harsh reality that violence against women, a global pandemic.
Every year, on 25 November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women unites the world in a collective call to action. This day serves as a moment to reflect on progress made, while recognising the urgent need to eradicate violence against women and girls.
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Under the 2024 theme, “#NoExcuse. UNiTE to End Violence Against Women,” this year’s campaign reinforces a universal demand for accountability, justice, and systemic change. From bustling cities to remote villages, the message resonates, urging individuals, communities, and nations to confront the scourge of violence against women.
The Grim Reality
The statistics surrounding violence against women are both staggering and sobering. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), one in three women globally experiences physical or sexual violence in their lifetime, often at the hands of an intimate partner. This figure represents the daily suffering of millions of women who endure abuse in silence, often unable to escape their circumstances.
Further reports from UN Women indicate that 35% of women worldwide have experienced physical or sexual violence. While such violence affects women in every nation and culture, it is particularly prevalent in low-income countries, where up to one in two women reports experiencing some form of gender-based violence.
These figures underscore the critical importance of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, which serves as a global reminder of the work that remains to be done.
#NoExcuse: A Global Call to Action
The UNiTE by 2030 initiative, in collaboration with the Spotlight Initiative, advocates for urgent and collective efforts to end gender-based violence. The #NoExcuse campaign demands action from individuals, communities, and governments alike, addressing all forms of violence — physical, emotional, sexual, and economic.
This year’s theme, “#NoExcuse. UNiTE to End Violence Against Women,” is a rallying cry for change. It encourages conversations that spotlight the gravity of the issue, urging decision-makers — from policymakers to law enforcement — to implement tangible solutions.
“The global pandemic of violence against women must be recognised for what it is — a violation of human rights and an obstacle to gender equality,” said UN Women Executive Director Sima Bahous. “Every time we ignore this violence, we silence the voices of millions of women who deserve to live free from fear.”
A Crisis of Accountability and Justice
One of the greatest challenges in combating violence against women is the lack of accountability for perpetrators. Many women are disbelieved or unsupported when they speak out, and less than 40% of women who experience violence seek help. This reluctance is often driven by fear of stigma, reprisals, or insufficient support from law enforcement.
Advocacy plays a crucial role in addressing this issue. By amplifying survivors’ voices and demanding stronger policies, societies can hold perpetrators accountable and establish justice systems that better serve women and girls. Achieving this requires:
• Legal reforms to close loopholes that allow perpetrators to evade justice.
• Enhanced law enforcement training to sensitively handle gender-based violence cases.
• Accessible victim services, including healthcare, housing, and counselling.
Education and Awareness: Breaking the Cycle
Education is a powerful tool in dismantling the cultural norms that perpetuate violence against women. Raising awareness about the severity of the issue and the resources available to victims can change societal attitudes and foster support for survivors.
In countries like India, where domestic violence is often treated as a private matter, educational campaigns have reduced stigma and encouraged women to seek help. Community programmes and public service announcements can also educate men and boys about equality, respect, and the dire consequences of gender-based violence.
Supporting Survivors: A Lifeline to Recovery
Survivor-centred support systems are crucial for healing and empowerment. Safe houses, helplines, and mental health services are vital resources for women escaping abusive situations. Beyond immediate safety, survivors must have access to long-term solutions, such as:
• Economic opportunities to rebuild independence.
• Legal aid to pursue justice.
• Education to develop new skills and reclaim autonomy.
The Spotlight Initiative emphasises the importance of comprehensive survivor care, stressing that women must be active participants in shaping the policies and programmes that affect their lives.
Empowering survivors not only addresses their immediate needs but also inspires others to speak out. Research shows that women with economic and social support are more likely to report abuse and pursue justice, creating ripple effects that can transform entire communities.
Moving Forward
The International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women is not just a date on the calendar; it is a call to action that must resonate year-round. Every individual, every community, and every nation has a role to play in ending violence against women.
From supporting survivors to advocating for stronger laws, the global community must unite under the banner of #NoExcuse to eliminate the scourge of gender-based violence. Violence against women is not inevitable, and it is never acceptable.
Together, we can create a world where women live free from violence, fear, and abuse. The time to act is now. As we stand in solidarity, let us ensure that every woman, everywhere, can live with dignity, respect, and security.
