International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women Every year on November 25th, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women raises awareness of the pressing global... Read more
Her Safety, Our Responsibility – Stand Against Violence
International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women
Every year on November 25th, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women raises awareness of the pressing global issue of violence against women and girls. Launched by the United Nations, this day serves as a crucial reminder of the rights to safety, dignity, and equality that are denied to countless women worldwide, with the goal of inspiring action to end gender-based violence.
The Lazarus Union, committed to values of human dignity, peace, and social cohesion, recognizes the importance of this day as central to its mission of supporting the vulnerable and marginalized. For the Lazarus Union, supporting the elimination of violence against women aligns directly with both its organizational values and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially SDG 5: Gender Equality and SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions.
Understanding the Urgency: Global and Local Realities
Violence against women and girls is one of the most prevalent forms of human rights violations worldwide. This violence manifests in various forms, including physical, sexual, emotional, and economic abuse, often with lasting effects on survivors’ physical and mental health, families, and communities. Studies indicate that nearly one in three women worldwide experiences physical or sexual violence in their lifetime, a statistic that only captures reported incidents.
The COVID-19 pandemic has unfortunately exacerbated this issue, leading to a shadow pandemic of violence, where lockdowns and economic stress have increased vulnerabilities for many women, especially in confined home settings. The Lazarus Union recognizes these pressing realities and is committed to standing in solidarity with survivors and those affected by gender-based violence.
The Lazarus Union’s Role and Commitment
The Lazarus Union’s core mission is to foster peace, humanitarianism, and the dignity of all people. Part of this mission involves not only recognizing the suffering of those impacted by violence but actively contributing to efforts that promote their safety and well-being. Through its humanitarian and advocacy initiatives, the Lazarus Union aims to support programs that:
- Promote Education and Awareness: By educating members, partners, and the communities it serves about the rights of women and the impacts of gender-based violence, the Lazarus Union aims to break the stigma and silence surrounding this issue.
- Advocate for Policy and Legal Reforms: Working with national and international partners, the Lazarus Union supports policy initiatives that protect women from violence and ensure fair and just systems for reporting and addressing abuse.
- Support Survivors Directly: The Union is committed to offering solidarity and resources to survivors of violence, whether through counseling, safe spaces, or partnerships with organizations providing direct support.
The Importance for the Sustainable Development Goals
The Sustainable Development Goals serve as a universal framework for building a more equitable, peaceful, and prosperous world. Addressing violence against women is crucial to achieving several SDGs:
- SDG 5: Gender Equality
Ending violence against women is central to achieving gender equality. Ensuring that women and girls live free from violence is a basic requirement for equal rights, empowerment, and social participation. - SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being
Violence directly affects the health and well-being of women. Many survivors face long-term physical, mental, and emotional consequences that impede their ability to thrive. By supporting the elimination of gender-based violence, we promote better health outcomes. - SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
Gender-based violence reinforces inequality. By working to eliminate it, we take significant steps toward reducing inequality in all forms, enabling fairer social and economic opportunities for women globally. - SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions
A peaceful and just society is one that protects all its members. By advocating for policies that prevent violence and support survivors, the Lazarus Union contributes to the development of strong institutions that protect and uphold human rights.
Joining Hands for a Violence-Free Future
The International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women is a time for all individuals and organizations to come together, reflect on progress, and renew their commitments to a safer, fairer world. The Lazarus Union invites its members and supporters to join this cause by raising awareness, supporting women in their communities, and participating in efforts that work toward a violence-free future. Together, we can contribute to a world where every woman and girl lives with dignity, safety, and opportunity.
Sources and Further Reading
- United Nations Women, International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women: UN Women
- Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 5 & SDG 16): United Nations Sustainable Development
- World Health Organization, Violence Against Women Prevalence Estimates: WHO
