This International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, the Department of Education (DepEd) joins the global community in emphasizing the urgent need to end all forms of gender-based violence against women (VAWC).
“Together, let’s create a safer and more just world for everyone,” DepEd said.
Violence against women refers to any act of gender-based violence that results in, or is likely to result in, physical, sexual, or psychological harm or suffering to women, including threats of such acts, coercion, or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in public or private life.
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Types of Violence Against Women:
1. Physical Violence. Acts that cause physical harm or injury, such as hitting, slapping, kicking, or burning.
2. Sexual Violence. Includes sexual assault, harassment, rape, or forced sexual acts.
3. Psychological Violence. Behaviors that cause emotional harm, such as threats, intimidation, humiliation, or controlling actions.
4. Economic Violence. Actions that limit a woman’s access to financial resources, employment, or education, thereby restricting her independence.
5. Domestic Violence. Abuse occurring within the family or intimate relationships, often in the home.
6. Cultural or Structural Violence. Practices like forced marriages, female genital mutilation, or honor killings perpetuated by societal norms.
Causes of Violence Against Women:
– Gender inequality and societal norms that perpetuate male dominance.
– Cultural beliefs and practices that devalue women.
– Lack of enforcement of laws protecting women.
– Economic dependence or lack of resources for women.
Effects of Violence Against Women:
– Physical injuries or long-term health issues.
– Mental health conditions such as depression, PTSD, or anxiety.
– Social stigma and isolation.
– Economic impacts like job loss or reduced earning capacity.
The United Nations Declaration on the Elimination of Violence against Women (1993) explicitly identifies violence against women as a human rights violation and a form of discrimination. Many countries have since adopted laws and policies to combat such violence.
Photo courtesy: Freepik
