Ending Violence Against Women

The 25th of November is marked as the International Day of the Elimination of Violence Against Women.

Across the world, it is estimated that one in three women will experience gender based violence. Domestic violence is an ongoing concern in the Gaza Strip, especially since the onset of the Pandemic. It has also been reported that incidences of domestic violence increase in the aftermath of airstrikes and bombardments, thus leaving women facing additional fear and trauma.

Restrictive patriarchal norms, a culture of silence and the impact of the ongoing siege and violence in Gaza have made the lives of women all the more difficult. Despite calls for change, Gaza’s legal response to abusers remains inadequate and there are few services and safeguards for women experiencing violence within their own homes.

Palestinian women must try to manage life, support families and their own well being whilst living under occupation and siege, as well as trying to overcome societal expectations and practices that harm them.

We have worked with amazing women who have overcome illness, injury, domestic violence and trauma to be heroes for their families and continue to hold up Palestinian society. All women deserve to be safe at home, at work and in their communities. For the women of Gaza, it is vital that everyone works together to ensure their human rights and allow them to use their voices to speak up and change things for the betterment of all of society.