LEONARDVILLE – Violence against women and children can be reduced by promoting feminism, Chief Inspector Lina Binga of the Leonardville Police Station said on Wednesday.
“Violence against women is pervasive but not inevitable if we avoid remaining silent. Initiating conversations about gender-based violence and engaging in debates at schools and within the community is essential. Regardless of how, where, or why it occurs, it has serious consequences for women and girls, hindering their full and equal participation in society,” Binga stated during the launch of the ‘16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence’ campaign.
Binga further emphasised that toxic masculinity is a significant issue contributing to gender-based violence and said evidence indicates that women in relationships with men who endorse male dominance and gender inequality are more likely to experience intimate partner violence.
She further highlighted the need for more support for local organisations, groups, or movements advocating for women’s and girls’ rights.
“Supporting survivors and promoting actions and policies designed to reduce and prevent violence is crucial. Shelters, hotlines, counselling, and all forms of support for gender-based violence survivors need to be available even during crises and emergencies,” she said.
Governor Pijoo Nganate, delivering the keynote address on behalf of the Minister of Gender Equality, Poverty Eradication, and Social Welfare Doreen Sioka, urged activists and organisations to organise workshops or dialogues addressing gender-based violence.
“I am calling upon churches, politicians, and traditional authorities in our region to discuss how we can curb this disease in our communities. Pastors should not only focus on heaven, and traditional leaders should not fight over recognition while our women are being killed,” he said.
The ‘16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence’ is an annual international campaign that starts on 25 November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, and runs until 10 December, Human Rights Day.
The campaign is used as an organising strategy by individuals and organisations around the world to call for the prevention and elimination of violence against women and girls. – Nampa