Many women have taken to social media to voice their opposition to violence against women. Some shared their personal stories as victims, while others spoke out on behalf of others.
To raise awareness and amplify the voices of those who are often unheard, the annual 16 Days of Activism against gender-based violence is being held globally in the lead up to Human Rights Day on December 10, with this year’s theme being: “Towards Beijing +30: UNiTE to End Violence Against Women and Girls.”
An event titled “There is #NoExcuse for Violence Against Women & Girls” was held on December 8 at Alliance Française in Dhanmondi, as part of a larger effort to protest violence against women.
Farzana Wahid Shayan, a renowned musician known for hee conscientious lyrics, addressed the gathering. Sayaan
She emphasised the urgency of speaking out against violence, stating, “There is no option other than to speak up and raise our voices. Wherever women are victims of violence, we must make our voices heard. We will endure pain, and we will cry, but our first responsibility is to ourselves. We must protest the injustices done to us. It doesn’t always have to be through words; we can also express ourselves through writing. We can create a beautiful life if we choose to.”
Dr. Navira Aftabi, a medical professional, also shared her perspective at the event.
She explained how she was inspired by the “Speak out, Voice Raised” initiative to bring up an important issue at her workplace.
“I spoke up at my institution about the need for a daycare center for working women. This would ensure the safety of our children while allowing us to work effectively. However, despite raising our voices, we women do not receive the support we need for such initiatives,” she lamented.
The event brought attention to the ongoing struggle women face and highlighted the need for continued activism and support to combat violence and improve working conditions for women.
Thijs Woudstra, Deputy Ambassador of the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Bangladesh, said every ten minutes, somewhere in the world, a woman loses her life due to gender-based violence, a tragic reality that is also evident in Bangladesh, where violence against women continues to rise.
In Bangladesh, around 54% of married or previously married women have experienced physical or sexual violence from their spouses at least once in their lifetime. While some survivors find the strength to speak out, many others remain silent, enduring the abuse in isolation.
This campaign calls for unity in the fight for women’s rights and safety, urging women to advocate for themselves and demand an end to violence.
The evening began with a speech by François Grosjean, Director of Alliance Francaise Dhaka, who emphasised the urgent need to tackle the root causes of gender-based violence in Bangladesh.
“We all have to come forward from everyone's position. Along with such big events, we need to raise our voices against all kinds of violence in the streets, at work, at home every day, only then will real change come..” said Grosjean.