Violence against women in Guyana continues unchecked

Nov 30, 2023 Letters

Dear Editor,

Another year, another commemoration of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. Another 16 Days of Activism. Yet, our women and girls, not only in Guyana, but the world over continue to be victims of one form of violence or another.

The abhorrent murder of three women in these last weeks in Guyana and the fourth battling for her life has not gone unnoticed. We know we have a huge task ahead which the government and NGOs have acknowledged and are committed to continue this uphill battle. It is time to think outside the box; think possibly of taking action both at the top and at the lowest (community) level simultaneously. It may be wise to start building safe and trustworthy bridges among key stakeholders to be able to tackle the violence head on. Start small and empower communities to be innovative and creative in keeping their mothers, wives, sisters and daughters safe. As the saying goes…be thy neighbour’s keeper.

At another level, the on-going indiscriminate slaughtering of the civilian population, of which the majority are women and children, in the Israel-Palestine conflict has made a mockery of the United Nations efforts to eliminate violence against women and girls. The impotency of the UN is evident, and the hypocrisy of some UN member states knows no boundaries. However, the ordinary people of the world are awakening and hopefully their voices will be heard. No effort should be spared to ensure that good sense and humanity prevail among decision-makers.

Our own dilemma at home may seem miniscule to the suffering of millions, but every life matters. Let us renew our commitment and strengthen our resolve to make our world, whether at the community level, the national level, the regional level or globally, a safe space for those who bring forth life – women and girls. Let our activism be every day and not just 16 days.

Sincerely,

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Activism, Elimination of Violence against Women, Guyana, International Day, MU

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