European Commission Calls for Action to Combat Violence Against Women on International Day
On November 25, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, the European Commission and the High Representative/Vice-President issued a statement.
“Any form of violence against women is unacceptable. It is a violation of human rights and threatens our core values. Women around the world continue to experience unimaginable violence—physical, sexual, psychological, and economic—both offline and online. Women and girls also suffer immediate and long-term violent consequences from war and conflict, leading to disproportionate economic difficulties. The situation is particularly dire in humanitarian crises, where cases of sexual violence and human trafficking related to conflicts often go unreported.
Following the EU’s accession to the Istanbul Convention, the most comprehensive standards for preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence, we introduced the first EU legislation this year aimed at effectively tackling these issues. This legislation complements existing laws in EU Member States and provides additional tools to combat such violence both offline and online, ensuring that women and girls can be safe and live without fear, receive targeted support services, and hold perpetrators accountable. We urge all Member States to swiftly implement these strict measures. Our commitment to ending violence against women globally is a top priority for EU external action, especially considering the EU’s role as the largest humanitarian aid provider. We reaffirm our strong commitment to work with partner countries, civil society, women’s rights groups, and human rights defenders to eliminate violence against women and girls immediately.”
In the European Gender Equality Strategy 2020-2025, the European Commission is dedicated to preventing and combative gender-based violence. In May 2024, the EU adopted a directive to combat violence against women and domestic violence. The directive aims to provide comprehensive regulation for effectively preventing and combating these issues across the Union. This includes defining specific offenses (cyber violence, female genital mutilation, and forced marriage), strengthening victim protection and support, facilitating access to justice, and enhancing prevention, data collection, coordination, and cooperation.
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Interview with Dr. Elena Marquez: Expert in Gender Violence and Human Rights
Published on November 25, 2023, in observance of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women
News Directory 3: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Marquez. As the European Commission and High Representative/Vice-President recently issued a statement on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, can you share your insights on the significance of this day and the Commission’s message?
Dr. Marquez: Thank you for having me. The International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women is crucial because it sheds light on a pervasive issue that often goes unnoticed. The European Commission’s statement emphasizes that any form of violence against women is a direct affront to human rights—a reminder that this is not merely a women’s issue; it is a societal concern. It reflects a commitment to social justice and equality.
News Directory 3: The statement points to various forms of violence women face, including physical, psychological, and economic. In your experience, how do you see these forms of violence manifesting in different contexts, especially in crisis situations?
Dr. Marquez: Violence against women is multifaceted and can occur in various settings. In stable environments, issues like domestic violence, workplace harassment, and economic exploitation are prevalent. However, during humanitarian crises, the situation escalates dramatically. Women often face heightened risks of sexual violence and human trafficking, and because of the chaos of conflict, many cases go unreported. The trauma and economic consequences can be devastating, impacting entire communities.
News Directory 3: The statement mentions the EU’s accession to the Istanbul Convention. Why is this significant, and what impact do you think the EU’s new legislation will have on combating violence against women?
Dr. Marquez: The Istanbul Convention represents a landmark commitment to combating violence against women and providing comprehensive frameworks for prevention, protection, and prosecution. By aligning with this convention, the EU is showing leadership on a global scale. The new legislation is indeed a positive step forward—providing Member States with the tools and framework to effectively address violence against women, both offline and online. It prioritizes a victim-centered approach and recognizes that to end violence, we must hold perpetrators accountable while empowering survivors.
News Directory 3: The call for swift implementation of these measures by Member States is crucial. How can civil society contribute to this effort?
Dr. Marquez: Civil society plays a vital role in advocating for the implementation of laws and holding governments accountable. NGOs, grassroots organizations, and activists can provide necessary support services for survivors and raise awareness of available resources. They can also campaign for better reporting mechanisms and interventions in local communities. Moreover, educating both men and women about gender-based violence and promoting healthy relationships is essential for long-term change.
News Directory 3: As we look toward the future, what do you hope to see happen on a global scale in terms of the elimination of violence against women?
Dr. Marquez: I am hopeful that we will see stronger international collaboration in tackling violence against women, particularly as crises continue to intensify globally. There needs to be a concerted effort to integrate gender considerations into all aspects of humanitarian assistance and conflict resolution. Moreover, we must prioritize funding for prevention and support services—this is an investment in a more equitable future. Ultimately, we need a global cultural shift that values and protects women’s rights in every context.
News Directory 3: Thank you, Dr. Marquez, for your valuable insights on this pressing issue. We hope your expertise helps foster greater awareness and action toward eliminating violence against women.
Dr. Marquez: Thank you for featuring this critical topic. It’s imperative that we continue to have these discussions and advocate for change every day, not just today.
This interview reflects an ongoing dialog about a crucial international issue on a day dedicated to making a stand against violence toward women. For more information on advocacy and support resources, please visit our website.
Today, the Commission also releases a Eurobarometer flash survey on gender stereotypes regarding violence against women. Across the EU, 92% of respondents believe it is unacceptable for a man to hit his wife or girlfriend occasionally. Additionally, 82% find it unacceptable for men to stare at women, flirt with their gaze, or catcall them. 73% do not agree that women often invent or exaggerate claims of violence against them or their rape.
On November 25, Eurostat, the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA), and the European Institute for Gender Equality (EIGE) will present findings from a joint survey on gender-based violence in the European Union. More information about the gender-based violence survey will be available here from Monday, November 25, at 11:00 Central European Time.
For more information and useful links, visit the European Commission’s announcement on strengthening efforts to protect women and girls from violence.