Why ending violence against women matters
Across the world, violence against women remains a pervasive violation of dignity, equality, and human rights. The issue transcends borders, cultures, and socioeconomic status, affecting roughly 840 million women—nearly one in three women globally. It is not only a personal tragedy for survivors and their families but a societal challenge that limits women’s freedom, health, and participation in public life.
A survivor’s voice: a powerful reminder of the human cost
Stories of survivors, like the young mother from Yemen who described being bound to a man who shifted from kindness to cruelty, put a human face on statistics. She recounted beatings she endured, sometimes with bare hands, illustrating how violence can escalate within intimate relationships. These testimonies emphasize that violence is not a private matter; it is a systemic problem rooted in gender inequality, power imbalances, and discriminatory norms.
Root causes: how culture, policy, and economics intersect
Violence against women is sustained by multiple interlocking factors: unequal legal protections, insufficient access to justice, economic dependency, and cultural norms that normalize abuse. When women lack legal recourse or economic independence, perpetrators face fewer consequences, and survivors may stay in dangerous situations to protect children or family averse to stigma. Addressing these root causes requires coordinated action across policy, education, health care, and community programs.
What works: evidence-based strategies to stop violence
Effective strategies include, but are not limited to: strengthening laws against domestic violence and sexual assault; ensuring access to confidential reporting, safety planning, and trauma-informed care; expanding economic empowerment programs for women; and engaging men and boys in dialogue about healthy relationships and consent. Public health approaches that track incidents, provide survivor support, and challenge harmful stereotypes have shown meaningful reductions in violence when scaled with community buy-in and sustained funding.
The role of education and media in shifting norms
Education is a powerful equalizer. From classrooms to media campaigns, teaching respectful relationships and gender equality from a young age helps dismantle harmful norms. Responsible media coverage and social media campaigns can reduce stigma and encourage survivors to seek help. When communities collectively reject violence, women feel safer, more valued, and more empowered to participate in work, politics, and culture.
Global momentum and local action
International treaties, national laws, and local programs all contribute to progress. Cities and countries advancing protective laws, accessible shelters, and inclusive services demonstrate what is possible when leadership prioritizes human rights. Collaboration with non-governmental organizations, health systems, and faith-based groups ensures that survivors receive comprehensive support—from medical care to legal advocacy to safe housing.
What you can do today
You can contribute to ending violence against women by supporting credible organizations, advocating for stronger policies, and challenging harmful stereotypes in your circles. If you or someone you know is in danger, contact local authorities or a trusted support service. Small, consistent actions—speaking out against abusive behavior, promoting equal opportunities, and educating others—collectively push societies toward dignity, equality, and human rights for all women.
