16 Days of Activism 2024: Uniting to End Violence Against Women and Girls
Today, November 25th, marks the beginning of the 16 Days of Activism campaign, a global initiative to eliminate violence against women and girls. The United Nations General Assembly designated November 25th as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, highlighting the urgent need to address this pervasive human rights violation.
This campaign, popularly called the ORANGE DAYS, is a global initiative that starts on November 25 – the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women – and concludes on December 10 – Human Rights Day.
This is to raise awareness around the world that women are indignified, subjugated and subjected to rape, domestic violence and other forms of violence and discrimination; one of the aims of the day is to highlight that the scale and true nature of the issue is often hidden. For 2014, the official theme framed by the UN Secretary General’s campaign UNiTE to End Violence against Women, was Orange your Neighbourhood. For 2018, the official theme was “ Orange the World: #HearMeToo”, for 2019 it was “Orange the World: Generation EqualityStands Against Rape”, for 2020 it was “ Orange the World: Fund, Respond, Prevent, Collect!” for 2021 it was “ Orange the World: End Violence Against Women Now!”, for 2022 the theme was “ UNiTE! Activism to end violence against women and girls” for 2023 it was “UNiTE! Invest to Prevent Violence Against Women & Girls! #No Excuse” and for 2024 it is “ Towards 30 of the Beijing Declaration And Platform for Action: Unite to end Violence Against Women “
Despite the concerted efforts of many, gender-based violence continues to affect hundreds of millions around the world, including Nigeria. It erodes the fabric of societies, undermines the potential of women and girls, and impedes the progress of nations. But it’s a reality that we have it within us to change if we work together.
The Persistent Challenges in Eradicating Violence Against Women and Girls: A Critical Examination of the Existing Framework
Notwithstanding the notable advancements in preventing and responding to violence against women and girls, a critical analysis of the existing framework reveals that substantial challenges persist in fully addressing this pervasive issue. This argument will delineate the persisting challenges and underscore the imperative need for a more comprehensive and multifaceted approach to eradicate violence against women and girls.
The Inadequacy of Existing Legislation
While legislation such as the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act has been enacted to provide protection to victims of violence, the implementation and enforcement of these laws remain inadequate. The lack of effective implementation mechanisms, insufficient funding, and inadequate training for law enforcement officials and judicial personnel have hindered the effective prosecution of perpetrators and the provision of adequate support services to victims.
The Prevalence of Societal and Cultural Norms
Societal and cultural norms that perpetuate violence against women and girls remain deeply ingrained in many communities. The persistence of these norms is exacerbated by inadequate education and awareness programs, which fail to challenge and transform these norms. Furthermore, the lack of effective engagement with community leaders and traditional authorities has hindered efforts to address these underlying norms.
The Insufficiency of Support Services
The availability and accessibility of support services for victims of violence, including counseling, medical care, and legal assistance, remain insufficient. The lack of specialized services for specific groups, such as women with disabilities and those in rural areas, further exacerbates the problem. Moreover, the inadequate funding and resources allocated to support services have hindered the provision of effective and sustainable support to victims.
While some progress has been made in preventing and responding to violence against women and girls, significant challenges persist in fully addressing this issue. The inadequacy of existing legislation, the prevalence of societal and cultural norms, and the insufficiency of support services all contribute to the persistence of violence against women and girls. Therefore, it is imperative that a more comprehensive and multifaceted approach be adopted to eradicate violence against women and girls. This approach must include the strengthening of existing legislation, the transformation of societal and cultural norms, and the provision of adequate support services to victims.
The Alarming Reality
Globally, an estimated 736 million women – nearly one in three – have experienced physical and/or sexual violence by an intimate partner, non-partner sexual violence, or both at least once in their lives. (1) In the past year alone, 1 in 8 women and girls aged 15-49 has faced intimate partner violence.
The Role of ECOWAS
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has a critical role to play in promoting the empowerment of women and girls in the region. ECOWAS has implemented various instruments and policies, including the ECOWAS Gender Policy and the ECOWAS Protocol on the Rights of Women, to promote gender equality and women’s empowerment.
Gender-based violence is not confined to one culture, region, or country—it is a global crisis. It manifests in many forms: domestic violence, sexual assault, child marriage, trafficking, and harmful practices that disproportionately affect women and girls. The statistics are sobering and behind every number is a human story—stories of resilience, courage, and hope.
The Role of Nigeria
Nigeria has taken significant steps to eliminate violence against women, and it’s essential to acknowledge and build upon these efforts.
Legislative Framework
The country has enacted the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act, which guarantees protection of citizens’ rights from all forms of violence, particularly women and girls. This law aims to eliminate violence in private and public life and prohibit all forms of violence against persons.
Addressing Societal Norms
Nigeria recognizes that violence against women is often rooted in societal norms and expectations. To address this, the country is working to reinforce gender roles and challenge traditional stereotypes . This involves promoting education and awareness about gender-based violence and its impact on individuals and society.
Capacity Building and Advocacy
Nigeria is also focusing on capacity building and advocacy to eliminate violence against women. This includes strengthening the role of women in labor unions, advocating for the adoption of international conventions on eliminating violence against women, and promoting private sector involvement in women’s empowerment .
Statistics and Challenges
Despite these efforts, violence against women remains a pervasive issue in Nigeria. According to UNICEF, one in three women experience physical, sexual, or intimate-partner violence ⁴. It’s essential to continue addressing these challenges and working towards a society where women and girls can live free from violence.
Overall, Nigeria’s role in eliminating violence against women involves a multi-faceted approach that addresses legislative, societal, and economic factors. By continuing to build upon these efforts, Nigeria can create a safer, more equitable society for all.
The Role of Burkina Faso
Burkina Faso has taken significant steps to eliminate violence against women and girls, demonstrating its commitment to promoting gender equality and protecting human rights.
Legislative Framework
Burkina Faso has enacted several laws and policies aimed at preventing and responding to violence against women and girls. These include:
1. The Law on the Prevention and Repression of Violence Against Women and Girls (2015): This law criminalizes all forms of violence against women and girls, including domestic violence, rape, and female genital mutilation.
2. The National Policy on Gender and Development (2013): This policy aims to promote gender equality and empower women and girls in all aspects of life.
Institutional Mechanisms
Burkina Faso has established several institutional mechanisms to support the elimination of violence against women and girls. These include:
1. The Ministry of Women, National Solidarity, and Family: This ministry is responsible for promoting gender equality and coordinating efforts to eliminate violence against women and girls.
2. The National Committee for the Prevention and Repression of Violence Against Women and Girls: This committee brings together government officials, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders to coordinate efforts to prevent and respond to violence against women and girls.
International Cooperation
Burkina Faso has demonstrated its commitment to international cooperation on eliminating violence against women and girls. The country has ratified several international conventions, including:
1. The Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW)
2. The Protocol to the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights on the Rights of Women in Africa
Challenges and Recommendations
Despite these efforts, Burkina Faso still faces significant challenges in eliminating violence against women and girls. These include:
1. Limited access to justice: Many women and girls in Burkina Faso face significant barriers in accessing justice, including lack of awareness about their rights and limited access to legal services.
2. Societal and cultural norms: Harmful societal and cultural norms continue to perpetuate violence against women and girls in Burkina Faso.
To address these challenges, the following recommendations are made:
1. Strengthen access to justice: The government of Burkina Faso should strengthen access to justice for women and girls by increasing awareness about their rights and improving access to legal services.
2. Transform societal and cultural norms: The government and civil society organizations should work together to transform societal and cultural norms that perpetuate violence against women and girls.
Burkina Faso has made significant progress in eliminating violence against women and girls. However, challenges persist, and the government and civil society organizations must work together to strengthen access to justice and transform societal and cultural norms.
As we commence these 16 Days of Activism, let us remember that ending gender-based violence requires more than words; it demands action. It demands that each of us take a stand in our homes, workplaces, communities and nations to challenge harmful norms, support survivors, and advocate for policies that advance gender equality.
We must amplify the voices that have long been marginalized and lend support to those who dare to speak out against injustice. Let us collectively challenge stereotypes, dismantle systemic barriers, and forge pathways toward lasting change.
Remember, our efforts must go beyond these 16 days; we must commit to sustained action throughout the year.
We advocate and demand special welfare package and compensation for survivors and victims. We must go the extra mile to protect the human rights of everyone.
Ending violence against women is everyone’s business. We invite your collaboration, partnership and sponsorship. Be a part of this campaign, take action today to end violence against Women and girls. Impact lives from your little corner, let your little light shine.
Ten Ways to Make a Difference
1. Listen to and believe survivors: Create a safe space for women and girls to share their stories of violence.
2. Teach the next generation: Educate children about gender roles, consent, and bodily autonomy.
3. Call for responses and services: Demand essential services for survivors of violence, including shelters, helplines, and counseling.
4. Understand consent: Freely given, clear consent is mandatory every time.
5. Learn the signs of abuse: Recognize the signs of abuse and know how to help.
6. Start a conversation: Use social media to raise awareness about gender-based violence.
7. Stand against rape culture: Challenge attitudes and behaviors that perpetuate rape culture.
8. Fund women’s organizations: Support local organizations that empower women and girls.
9. Hold each other accountable: Call out sexist behavior and create a safer environment for everyone.
10. Know the data and demand more: Advocate for the collection of data on gender-based violence to inform prevention measures and support services.
Gender-based violence is not confined to one culture, region, or country—it is a global crisis. It manifests in many forms: domestic violence, sexual assault, child marriage, trafficking, and harmful practices that disproportionately affect women and girls. The statistics are sobering and behind every number is a human story—stories of resilience, courage, and hope.
Conclusion
The 16 Days of Activism campaign is a powerful reminder of the urgent need to eliminate all forms of gender-based violence. Our efforts must go beyond these 16 days; we must commit to sustained action throughout the year.
By working together, we can create a safer, more equitable world for all. Join us in calling for an end to violence against women and girls.
References
(1) United Nations. (2020). The World’s Women 2020: Trends and Statistics.
(2) United Nations. (2020). Violence Against Women and Girls: A Global Pandemic.
About AWLA
The African Women Lawyers Association (AWLA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the rights and empowerment of women and girls in Africa and in Africa diaspora nations. . AWLA provides free legal clinics, pro bono representation, and advocacy services to support survivors of gender-based violence.
Get Involved
Join AWLA in the fight against gender-based violence. Donate, volunteer, or spread the word about our work. Together, we can create a safer, more equitable world for all.
Contact AWLA:
Email: awlainternational@gmail.com
awlanigeria2015@gmail.com
Info@awlanigeria.org
Website: https://awla.international
www.awlanigeria.org
Social Media: @AWLAInternational
Thank you.
Mandy Demechi- Asagba Esq. FICMC
PRESIDENT
AFRICAN WOMEN LAWYERS ASSOCIATION (AWLA)
November 25, 2024
Source:
www.un.org
