International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women

Written by: Aanuoluwa Sanya

UNITE! Invest to prevent violence against women and girls

Introduction

November 25th is a day set aside annually to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. It serves as an important reminder of the urgent need to address and eradicate the prevalent violence against women around the world. This day offers an opportunity to spread awareness, push for reform, and support gender equality.

25th November also marks the beginning of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, an annual campaign that ends on 10th December, International Human Rights Day. The theme for this year’s campaign is “UNITE! Invest to prevent violence against women and girls #NoExcuse” and this speaks to the need for funding prevention strategies to proactively stop gender-based violence.

According to UN Women, the theme further aligns with the 2024 priority theme of the Commission on the Status of Women, which is “Accelerating Gender Equality and Empowerment of Women and Girls” by addressing poverty, strengthening institutions, incorporating a gender perspective into financing.

Statistics on Violence Against Women

Violence against women is a worldwide epidemic that knows no boundaries of race, religion, or socio-economic status. It can manifest in various forms, including sexual, physical, emotional, and economic abuse.

Shockingly, statistics show that 1 in 3 women experience some form of violence during their lifetime. These numbers reflect the urgent need for concerted efforts to bring about lasting change. In 2021, around 45,000 women and girls worldwide were killed by their intimate partners or other family members. This means that, on average, more than five women or girls are killed every hour by someone in their own family. Statistics also show that globally, only 40% of women who experience violence seek any form of help or report it.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 35% of women worldwide have experienced either physical and/or sexual violence. Also, The United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN Women) reports that up to 70% of women experience some form of violence in their lifetime.

Violence against women also has grave consequences on their mental health, leading to increased rates of depression, anxiety, and even suicide. Undoubtedly, these statistics are heart wrenching, and it is sad that they are grossly underreported. This is why marking this day is crucial.

One of the key goals of this day is to raise awareness about violence against women. It is the responsibility of governments, organizations, and individuals to inform themselves and others on the different types of violence that women face. By sharing information, statistics, and stories, we can challenge societal norms and break the silence surrounding this issue.

The Way Forward

Empowering women is a crucial strategy in combating violence against women. Statistics from Forbes reveal that a staggering 85% of women who leave an abusive relationship end up returning, and the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence highlights that financial concerns play a significant role in this decision.

By equipping women with the necessary tools and knowledge to succeed, we enable them to break free from the financial constraints that often keep them trapped in abusive relationships. Providing women with access to resources, education, and opportunities helps them gain financial independence, which in turn empowers them to stand on their own and make choices that prioritize their safety and well-being.

Empowerment not only offers women the means to improve their financial circumstances but also instills confidence, self-worth, and resilience. By addressing the financial aspect of abuse, we contribute to breaking the cycle of violence and creating opportunities for women to build safer and more fulfilling lives.

That’s where programs like Women Techsters Initiative come in.

Our Role as an Organization

The Women Techsters Initiative, an initiative by Tech4Dev, aims to bridge the gender gap in the tech industry by providing training and mentorship opportunities to aspiring women across 22 African countries.

Through the Women Techsters Initiative, women are empowered with essential digital skills. By acquiring these skills, women gain the confidence and knowledge needed to excel in the rapidly evolving tech landscape.

The initiative not only equips women with the technical skills necessary for employment in the digital economy but also fosters a sense of empowerment and inclusion. By providing women with access to education and opportunities in technology, the Women Techsters Initiative enables them to break free from traditional gender roles and societal expectations as women who benefit from the program often become catalysts for change in their communities. They inspire and mentor other women, creating a ripple effect of empowerment and gender equality.

The Women Techsters Initiative is not just addressing the gender gap in tech and equipping women with technical skills; it also significantly improves the standard of living of its beneficiaries. By providing training and mentorship opportunities, the initiative opens doors to employment and economic independence, leading to an improved quality of life.

Through the program, women gain access to better job prospects and higher-paying positions in the tech industry. This allows them to secure a stable income and financial stability, ultimately improving their overall standard of living. The increased earning potential provides opportunities for personal growth, creates a pathway for greater financial security, personal growth, and community development.

Conclusively, we know that the elimination of violence against women calls for collective action to challenge the existing norms and work towards gender equality. By providing support, education, and equal opportunities, together, we can create a world where every woman can live without fear, with dignity, and with the freedom to reach her full potential.

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