Observed annually on 25 November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women highlights the pervasive issue of gender-based violence globally. This day, initiated by the United Nations in 1999, calls for activism and awareness to eliminate violence against women and girls - a human rights violation with devastating personal, societal, and economic impacts.
Violence Against Women in Trinidad and Tobago
In Trinidad and Tobago, violence against women remains a critical concern:
In 2020, 48 women and 2 girls were murdered, many as a result of intimate partner violence.
From January to November 2020, there were over 11,000 reports of domestic violence, representing a significant increase, though underreporting remains a significant issue
By 2021, there was a marked increase in sexual violence against women, with a particularly alarming 62% rise in cases involving female victims under the age of 15.
For the period January to September 2023, 75% of domestic violence reports to the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service were made by women. These cases predominantly involved emotional, physical, and verbal abuse, representing 66% of reported incidents.
Surveys reveal that 1 in 3 women in Trinidad and Tobago experience physical, sexual, or emotional violence from a partner during their lifetime.
A critical factor contributing to this violence is entrenched gender inequality and cultural norms that devalue women. Men account for 87% of perpetrators in reported domestic violence cases, underscoring the need for male allyship in tackling this issue.
The Caribbean Context
The Caribbean shares similar challenges:
Homicide rates for women linked to intimate partners in the Caribbean are among the highest globally.
Surveys in the region show that 46% of women experience intimate partner violence in some countries, with economic abuse being prevalent.
Contributing factors include patriarchal societal norms, lack of economic independence for women, and insufficient legal protections.
Initiatives and Actions
Efforts to combat gender-based violence include:
The Spotlight Initiative: A collaboration between the European Union and United Nations targeting gender-based violence in the Caribbean, focusing on survivor support and engaging men to challenge harmful stereotypes.
Legislative Reforms: Trinidad and Tobago has implemented laws against domestic violence, including protection orders, but gaps remain in enforcement.
Community-Based Programmes: Initiatives like the Caribbean Male Action Network's (CariMAN) pledge engage men in promoting non-violence and gender equality.
Call to Action
Ending violence against women requires a multi-faceted approach:
Education: Encourage respectful relationships and challenge toxic masculinity from a young age.
Support Services: Provide safe shelters, counselling, and economic empowerment programmes for survivors.
Community Engagement: Mobilise individuals to become active bystanders and advocate for gender equality.
The International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women is a reminder that everyone has a role in creating a safer, more equitable society. By fostering respect, ensuring accountability, and challenging societal norms, we can work towards a future free of gender-based violence.
For more information and resources, visit the UN Women Caribbean or the Spotlight Initiative in Trinidad and Tobago. For more detailed statistics and information, the Ministry of Social Development and Family Services' reports offer valuable insights.
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