By Hajira Khota

The 16 days of activism against gender-based violence and child rights — an annual international campaign – began on November 25th, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, and concluded on December 10th. It should serve as a reminder that Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBV) is a daily occurrence for thousands of women and girls, and that any silence on one’s part as a civil society is unacceptable complicity.

GBV deprives women and girls of their essential rights and possibilities, as everyone agrees. More aggressive efforts, including legal frameworks, are needed to combat deeply established gender-based discrimination, which is typically the product of patriarchal views and related societal norms.

Dr Fellang Yende spoke to Radio Islam International; she says that in order to eliminate and “End Violence against Women Now,”, let it be clear, the battle to end violence against women will not end unless, non-government organisations, companies, the private sector, human rights defenders and civil society organisations work together to eliminate the scourge from one’s homes, workplaces and communities.

“But apart from legislative changes and laws, we have to work together to protect women and children against GBV”.

Yende says that changing perceptions regarding violence against women, domestic abuse, and sexual violence through education, as well as challenging the negative attitudes of those at risk of offending before detrimental behaviours become established, is at the heart of one’s work, whether as individuals or as organisations.

“Gender equality is something I’m arguing for, as well as the fact that sexual distinctions should not be utilised to discriminate against women or to perpetrate violence against them, blocking their own empowerment and contribution to progress and development”.

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