Violence Against Women and Girls: A National Emergency That Demands Our Immediate Action
At Stay Safe Global, we want to express our profound disappointment and alarm at the recent surge in violence against women, which has been highlighted by the National Police Chiefs’ Council in England and Wales, with ‘two million women…estimated to be victims of violence perpetrated by men each year’ (https://www.theguardian.com/society/article/2024/jul/23/violence-against-women-national-emergency-england-wales-police). This kind of prominence of violence in our society is nothing short of abhorrent and unacceptable.
Broadly defined, it's an international emergency that shakes the very foundations of our society and threatens the safety, security, and peace of mind of women and girls. Hence, we stand in solidarity with every woman and girl affected, constantly advocating for their rights and protection. As we move forward, there is cautious optimism that the new Labour Government in the UK will adopt a fresh approach to tackling violence against women. We firmly believe that a change in leadership can bring about innovative solutions and a reinvigorated commitment to this critical issue. However, it remains to be seen whether this optimism will translate into tangible actions and effective policies that truly prioritise the safety and wellbeing of women and girls.
Stay Safe Global has adopted a holistic approach over the last two decades in combating such heinous acts. Our work runs on a threefold axis - prevention, protection, and prosecution. Prevention involves educating communities about the impacts and signs of violence. Protection is about providing safe havens and support to those affected. Prosecution, on the other hand, highlights our advocacy for stronger laws and punishments to deter such crimes.
As part of our ongoing commitment to addressing the violence against women, Stay Safe Global actively engages in lobbying for societal change. We believe that meaningful reform can only be achieved through collaborative efforts involving policymakers, community leaders, and the public. Our advocacy aims to raise awareness of the urgent need for comprehensive policies that prioritise the safety and dignity of women and girls. By encouraging dialogue and supporting initiatives that promote gender equality, we strive to create an environment where violence is not tolerated. Furthermore, we work to ensure that women's voices are at the forefront of legislative discussions, calling for the implementation of effective measures that hold perpetrators accountable and support survivors in their healing journeys. However, we acknowledge that much more needs to be done. The Institute for Economics and Peace reports that the global cost of violence against women was an astounding $1.5 trillion in the year 2020 - a figure that has undoubtedly risen since. Every one of us, including Stay Safe Global, must do more.
We are proud to be part of the solution and are committed to doing more. Let's remember that this fight is not just about numbers, statistics, or policy; it's about human lives. It's about our mothers, sisters, daughters, and friends. In the face of this adversity, we mustn't shirk our responsibilities but rather increase our efforts. We must give voice to the voiceless and ensure every woman and girl live in a world where they feel safe and respected. Together, we can make a difference.
To effect real change, we must mobilise our communities and engage in dialogues that challenge the status quo. Education plays a pivotal role in this effort; by fostering open conversations about consent, respect, and equality, we can cultivate a generation that stands united against violence. Furthermore, we urge individuals and organisations alike to participate in campaigns that raise awareness and support survivors, reinforcing the message that they are not alone. Incel culture, short for "involuntary celibate," highlights a troubling undercurrent of misogyny that is deeply ingrained in various aspects of our everyday lives. This subculture often fosters harmful stereotypes and attitudes towards women, portraying them as objects to be won or as individuals who somehow owe men affection or validation. Such perceptions can lead to dangerous behaviours and violence, as some individuals believe that women’s rejection warrants punishment. The normalisation of these views creates a toxic environment where misogyny is tolerated, if not endorsed. It is vital that we challenge and stamp out these damaging beliefs, ensuring that seeing women as lesser or deserving of punishment is never accepted or justified. We must strive for a society where respect and equality are at the forefront, fostering a culture that empowers all individuals, regardless of gender. To achieve this, we must advocate for transformative change in societal attitudes and provide education that dismantles the harmful narratives perpetuated by incel culture and other misogynistic ideologies.
In addition to advocacy, collaboration with local authorities, NGOs, and community leaders is essential. Together, we can develop comprehensive strategies that address the root causes of violence and recognise the signs early on. Comprehensive training programs for law enforcement and judicial representatives will ensure that victims feel safe when coming forward and that offenders face appropriate consequences. As we continue our advocacy, it’s crucial that we also work together to spread awareness of newer forms of violence against women and girls in the digital age, such as geo-location stalking. This insidious practice involves the unauthorised tracking of an individual's movements through technology, whether via mobile devices or other digital means. The psychological impact of such invasive surveillance can be profound, leaving victims feeling constantly monitored, anxious, and unsafe in their daily lives. It not only violates personal privacy but also poses significant threats to autonomy and well-being. By addressing these emerging forms of violence, we can better equip ourselves to support victims and work toward implementing preventative measures and legal frameworks that protect women and girls in our increasingly digital world.
As we reflect on the alarming statistics and personal stories of those affected by violence, we must convert our outrage into action. It is imperative that each member of society plays an active role in this fight. We encourage everyone to educate themselves and those around them about the signs of violence and the importance of supporting survivors. Engage in local initiatives, volunteer with organisations focused on this cause, and advocate for policies that protect the rights of women and girls.
Ultimately, this movement demands collective action and unwavering commitment. As we envision a future free from violence, let us all contribute to building safer environments. By standing together and taking meaningful, informed actions, we can transform our vision into reality—empowering every woman and girl to live without fear. Let us remain vigilant and dedicated, for only through unity can we dismantle the structures that allow violence to flourish. Moreover, we urge businesses to do their part by implementing workplace policies that foster safety and respect, ensuring that employees feel secure and valued. Not only is this the right thing to do, but it’s also a legal necessity in the UK with the introduction of the Worker Protection Act coming in October 2024. This legislation aims to strengthen protections for employees against violence and harassment in the workplace, underscoring the obligation of employers to ensure a safe environment for all staff. By proactively implementing policies that align with this Act, businesses not only comply with legal standards but also foster a culture of respect and dignity. It is essential for organisations to recognise that prioritising employee safety is integral to their operational success and societal responsibility. Thus, embracing these changes not only prioritises human rights but also enhances employee morale and productivity, contributing to a healthier workplace overall.
Stay safe, and stand up for what's right.
