Turning Awareness into Action - International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women
Violence against women remains one of the most pressing human rights issues, a reality that the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, observed annually on 25 November, aims to bring to the forefront. Designated by the United Nations in 2000, this day launches a 16-day global campaign to end gender-based violence. With this year’s theme, #NoExcuse, we are reminded that no circumstance justifies abuse. We must work together to shift from merely raising awareness to demanding and implementing tangible, sustained change.
#NoExcuse: Unmasking the prevalence and reality of abuse
One of the most harrowing insights from a recent article from The Monthly is the alarming reality of domestic violence statistics in Australia. As highlighted, in 2024, a woman has been killed by men’s violence every four days, and 13 women are hospitalised each day due to family and domestic violence. These figures paint a devastating picture of the persistent crisis affecting women across the country.
The article also emphasises the critical need to shift focus toward perpetration. Understanding and addressing the behaviours of those who use violence are essential steps in creating long-term change. Current initiatives, such as behaviour-change programs, are a step in the right direction, but these systems are still being developed while facing immense challenges. To make meaningful progress, governments, communities, and organisations must commit to expanding services and intervention systems for those who perpetrate violence, as well as for survivors.
Equally troubling are recent findings from the UK, where the BBC's coverage underscores how abuse is often dismissed or ignored, with Queen Camilla warning against normalising sexual violence. In an ITV documentary, she emphasised that domestic abuse is not limited to physical violence; it can also involve coercive control - a silent but insidious form of abuse. For many women, the emotional, psychological, and financial manipulation exerted by abusers creates “invisible chains” that trap them in cycles of fear and helplessness. Queen Camilla’s advocacy underscores that abuse is not limited by circumstance or class, and that ending it requires understanding, visibility, and a refusal to overlook coercive behaviours.
These cases reveal just how pervasive violence against women is and how vital it is to address the structures that allow it to persist. Abuse is not always overt or easy to identify. Whether in the workplace, at home, or within social institutions, violence manifests in ways that are often overlooked or downplayed. It is crucial that we embrace an approach that recognises every form of abuse and dismantles the cultural and institutional barriers that allow it to flourish.
Bringing the conversation into the workplace
The workplace should be a safe environment, yet many victims of domestic abuse struggle with its impact on their professional lives. As Craig Newman argues in Personnel Today, the prevalence of domestic abuse means it is a reality for many employees. He challenges the long-standing notion that domestic abuse is a “private matter,” urging employers to view it as an issue of significant need that requires a proactive response. As Newman highlights, failing to address domestic abuse in the workplace is not just a moral oversight; it comes at a financial cost to businesses, contributing to lost productivity, absenteeism, and reduced staff retention.
Organisations can play a vital role in providing a lifeline for employees who may have nowhere else to turn, for some, work can be a safe haven for victims. Simple but impactful measures, such as creating confidential support channels, raising capability of employees for how to respond to disclosures, along with paid (over and above the statutory requirement) domestic and family violence leave, can provide much-needed support for those affected. Supporting employees in this way doesn’t only improve their wellbeing but also fosters a compassionate and supportive work culture.
A collective responsibility
These articles remind us of the urgency with which society must address violence against women. From government policies and legal protections to workplace initiatives and educational programmes, everyone has a role to play. The Monthly reveals the importance of strong legal frameworks that don’t just react to abuse but actively work to prevent it, especially in sectors where vulnerable workers are disproportionately affected. Meanwhile, the BBC reminds us of the importance of addressing the complexities of domestic violence and coercive control, while Personnel Today makes a compelling case for why the workplace must be a source of support for those enduring domestic abuse.
The message of #NoExcuse resonates across these stories. There is no excuse for ignoring violence, for overlooking coercion, or for letting a lack of policies or awareness perpetuate harm. Progress may feel slow, but by drawing attention to these issues, we can chip away at the societal structures that allow violence to continue.
Moving forward: action beyond awareness
As we recognise the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, let us move beyond awareness to action. Policies alone are not enough; they must be enforced, supported, and embedded in every aspect of our social, professional, and legal structures. Organisations and communities alike must commit to creating environments where abuse is neither tolerated nor ignored, and where victims feel empowered to seek help without fear or shame.
On this International Day, we are reminded that ending violence against women is not only possible but imperative. There is #NoExcuse for inaction. Each of us, in our workplaces, communities, and families, has the power to contribute to a world free from violence, where every woman lives without fear. Together, let’s ensure that this year’s campaign isn’t just a hashtag but a catalyst for change.
References:
https://www.peoplemanagement.co.uk/article/1892797/businesses-shouldnt-ignore-domestic-abuse-lives-staff
https://www.themonthly.com.au/issue/2024/november/kate-fitz-gibbon/long-walk-continues?utm_source=socialflow&utm_medium=twitter#mtr
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c9wr5ypwpxpo
