Violence Against Women: A Global Emergency

Women around the world are under attack, with 1-in-3 subjected to physical and/or sexual intimate partner violence or nonpartner sexual violence in their lifetime. The murder of 33-year-old Sarah Everard in London has sparked outrage and dialogue about violence against women, highlighting the need for change. Everard's case, where she was abducted and murdered by a serving Metropolitan Police officer, has brought attention to the systemic issues of violence against women.

Key Takeaways:

• The global epidemic of violence against women, with 1-in-3 women experiencing physical and/or sexual intimate partner violence or nonpartner sexual violence in their lifetime (UN Women).
• Indigenous women in North America are 12 times more likely to experience violence than non-Indigenous women.
• Almost every woman knows someone who has experienced rape, violence, or near-death experiences.
• Fear of violence and law enforcement is prevalent among women, with many expressing distrust of police officers.
• Women are taking back their power by speaking out, rallying, and educating their sons about respecting women's rights.
• Governments need to prioritize human rights violations and deal with perpetrators harshly to ensure women's safety.
• Women should be able to walk home without fear, and this will require collective efforts to end violence against women.

Statistics:

• 1-in-3 women around the world experience physical and/or sexual intimate partner violence or nonpartner sexual violence in their lifetime (UN Women).
• Indigenous women in North America are 12 times more likely to experience violence than non-Indigenous women.
• Less than 40 percent of women who experience violence seek help of any sort (UN Women).

Sources:

• UN Women
• Human Rights Watch report (2013)
• Brandi Morin's personal experience (no date specified)
• United Nations