Federation of Young European Greens

Today, November 25th, marks the International Day Against Violence Against Women. It is a phenomenon that remains pervasive and widespread, throughout Europe and beyond. Whether in the family circle, at work, or in the community, women and girls continue to live in fear of abuse and violence, with an alarming proportion experiencing these in some form.

Terry Reintke, female spokesperson of FYEG reminds that: “Personal inviolability is a basic human right, yet violence against women and girls is one of the most widespread violations of human rights. Globally, six out of every ten women experience either physical or sexual violence during their lifetime, and the most common form of this is intimate partner violence. Shockingly, over 70 per cent of female murder victims are killed by their male partners!”

In spite of this, violence experienced by women is often ignored and rarely punished. Not all women can seek help or demand justice. Many are forced to stay with their partners due to psychological and economic pressure. Yet these vulnerable women appear invisible to governments who are neglecting their responsibility to combat violence against women.

Nic Schaefers, the male spokesperson declares that: “It is the responsibility of the state to see that adequate laws are in place and that the existing ones are implemented effectively. Those who have experienced violence must get both legal help and support services. Under no circumstances should the women keep their experiences secret in fear of stigmatisation!”

Until this right becomes a reality for all women around the world, there can be no silence, and no excuses. As long as violence against women persists, FYEG will not cease to demand that all nations keep up the struggle to eliminate it.

Today, let's make noise - take action, speak out, demand better, and do it loudly!

More information:

FYEG gender working group, merja@fyeg.org

Sources:

Amnesty International http://www.amnesty.org/en/campaigns/stop-violence-against-women

Unifem: http://www.unifem.org/gender_issues/violence_against_women/