According to the United Nations, a woman is killed every 10 minutes. November 25th was the
International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, kicking off the UN’s UNiTE
campaign—16 days of activism to highlight the escalation of violence against women. Let’s
examine the events that exacerbate this gender-based violence.
Domestic Violence
According to the World Health Organization, as many as 38% of all murders of women globally
are committed by intimate partners. 42% of women who experience intimate partner violence
report an injury because of intimate partner violence.
War and Conflict
Perpetrators see an opportunity amidst the chaos of wars and conflicts: it’s easier to commit
violence against women and girls on a large scale and get away with it. In fact, sexual violence
is often used as a tactic in war to inflict severe harm and intimidate women and girls.
Climate Change and Displacement
As natural disasters grow increasingly dangerous, entire communities are being uprooted and
displaced. Forcibly displaced women face higher risks of intimate partner violence, as well as an
increased threat of human trafficking. These risks are higher for women and girls who are
disabled or living in poverty.
Child Marriage and Human Trafficking
Some people believe that child marriage provides an opportunity for girls to be protected from
sexual violence but in reality, child marriage can lead to intimate partner violence and spousal
rape. It can cause mental health disorders, such as post-traumatic stress disorder, and comes
with an increased risk of death due to childbirth, should the girl become pregnant.
What can we do?
Local Networking
Support local organizations, especially in places that don’t have access to international aid, that
provide secure channels to report violence. Fund and volunteer with local organizations that
provide shelter, financial assistance, counseling, and other important services to women and
girls fleeing violence. It is also vital to ensure that women and girls have uninterrupted access to
sexual, reproductive, and maternal healthcare services.
Lobbying
Continue to lobby for policies that:
● Give protections to women and girls fleeing abusive situations
● Protect the right to asylum
● End child marriages
● End human trafficking
● Protect victims of human trafficking and gender-based violence, and provide them with
the care they need to heal
● Protect access to contraceptives and safe abortions
● Protect the environment