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Understanding Violence Against Women

Violence against women is one of the most pervasive human rights violations worldwide. It takes many forms, including physical, sexual, psychological, and economic abuse, and transcends all socioeconomic, racial, and cultural boundaries. According to the United Nations, 1 in 3 women will experience violence during their lifetime. This statistic represents millions of women across the globe and highlights the urgent need for systemic change and local action.

What Is Violence Against Women?

The United Nations Declaration on the Elimination of Violence Against Women (1993) defines violence against women as:

“Any act of gender-based violence that results in physical, sexual, or psychological harm or suffering to women, including threats of such acts, coercion, or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in public or private life.”

This violence encompasses, but is not limited to:

  • Physical violence: Hitting, choking, or inflicting physical harm.
  • Sexual violence: Harassment, assault, or rape.
  • Emotional abuse: Manipulation, threats, and humiliation designed to erode self-esteem and autonomy.
  • Economic abuse: Restricting access to financial resources to control or trap women.
  • Coercive control: A pattern of domination through isolation, intimidation, and control, now recognised as a criminal offence in the UK since 2015.

The Scale of the Problem

The scale of violence against women is staggering:

  • In 2022, over 45,000 women were killed by intimate partners or family members, equating to one woman every 11 minutes (UNODC, 2023).
  • Many survivors face significant barriers to reporting abuse, including fear of retaliation, societal stigma, and limited access to support services.
  • During global crises like the COVID-19 pandemic, reports of domestic violence surged, with many women trapped at home with their abusers.

Why the 16 Days of Action?

The 16 Days of Action Against Gender-Based Violence is a global campaign held annually from November 25 (International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women) to December 10 (Human Rights Day). Launched by activists in 1991, the campaign draws attention to various forms of violence faced by women, connecting these issues to broader human rights concerns.

The campaign aims to:

  • Raise awareness about the prevalence and impact of violence against women.
  • Advocate for stronger laws and protections.
  • Promote local and international actions to support survivors and prevent violence.

The Role of Anah Project

Based in West Yorkshire, Anah Project plays a vital role in supporting women affected by violence. With over 31 years of experience, the project provides culturally sensitive services, particularly for women from minority and marginalised communities who face additional barriers in accessing help.

Key Services Provided by  Anah Project:

  1. Emergency Accommodation: Safe spaces for women fleeing domestic abuse, Honour-based violence or forced marriages.
  2. Emotional Support: Counselling and advocacy to help survivors regain confidence and independence.
  3. Community Engagement: Raising awareness about gender-based violence through educational programmes and workshops.

Anah Project also acknowledges the intersectional nature of violence, addressing how cultural, social, and economic factors compound the risks for some women. By providing tailored support, the project empowers women to escape cycles of abuse and build better futures.

Progress and Challenges

Over the years, there have been significant milestones in the fight against violence:

  • 1993: The UN adopted the Declaration on the Elimination of Violence Against Women.
  • 2011: The Istanbul Convention introduced comprehensive measures to prevent and address violence.
  • 2021: The UK’s Domestic Abuse Act expanded legal protections, including criminalising economic abuse.

However, challenges remain. Many survivors still face systemic barriers, such as inadequate legal enforcement, a lack of funding for support services, and societal stigma.

What Can We Do?

Addressing violence against women requires a multi-faceted approach:

  1. Educate Yourself: Understanding the signs and causes of abuse is the first step toward prevention.
  2. Support Organisations Like Anah Project: Donations, volunteering, and advocacy help sustain essential services for survivors.
  3. Advocate for Policy Change: Stronger legal protections and increased funding for women’s services are critical.
  4. Challenge Harmful Norms: Speak out against gender stereotypes and behaviours that normalise violence.

A Call to Action

This 16 Days of Action, let’s reaffirm our commitment to creating a world where women are safe, respected, and empowered. The fight to end violence against women is far from over, but with continued advocacy, education, and community support, change is possible.

If you or someone you know needs help, contact Anah Project for confidential support and guidance. Together, we can break the cycle of violence and create a future free from harm.

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