Violence against women, how can it be eliminated?

Violence against women, how can it be eliminated?

Miras Ahmed – Nasib

The village of Nasib witnessed a tragic incident in July 2007 when a girl was murdered by her brother. He subjected his sister to torture and then killed her, claiming to be preserving the family’s honor. This incident caused a significant uproar in the village, instilling fear and terror in the hearts of women.

Violence against women is a violation of human rights and manifests in various forms such as physical, emotional, sexual, and economic abuse. Regardless of its form, it has a negative impact on the health and dignity of women.

Women who experience any form of violence suffer psychological damage, leading to depression, anxiety, sleep disturbances, and, in some cases, resorting to drug abuse, increasing the risk of suicide.

Some abused women also endure physical injuries, including bruises, fractures, burns, heart problems, neurological disorders, fainting, nerve issues, and back pain. Additionally, some may experience sexual harm, losing their virginity during rape and being exposed to sexually transmitted infections, including HIV.

Economically, abused women may face obstacles such as being prevented from working, pursuing education, or completing their studies. Some men may even control their wives’ income without their consent.

While the previously mentioned damages are on an individual level, the effects of abuse can also be social. Within families, violence disrupts stability and cohesion, leading to financial problems, an inability to provide for children, and depriving them of basic necessities.

Despite the challenges, there are solutions to prevent or alleviate violence until its complete eradication. Early awareness and education about women’s rights and the need to combat violence are crucial. Efforts should be made to raise awareness about women’s issues, promote a culture of equality, and respect women’s rights in society. Legal measures play a significant role in combating violence against women, requiring governments to enact strict laws against domestic violence and effectively enforce them, providing necessary support to survivors.

Survivors should receive comprehensive support, including shelters, psychological and legal assistance, and effective mechanisms for reporting violence and holding perpetrators accountable.

Combatting violence against women necessitates empowering women in both business and society. Women should have access to education, vocational training, and entrepreneurship opportunities that enable them to become independent and improve their standing in society.

Promoting a culture of non-violence in society effectively contributes to combating this phenomenon, resolving issues through dialogue and collaboration to achieve a violence-free community in general and violence against women in particular.

Governments and international organizations should collaborate and share experiences because violence against women is a global issue that requires concerted efforts from the international community to eliminate it.