By Sadia Yaqub

“There is no tool for development more effective than the empowerment of women.”

– Kofi Annan

Throughout the history women have faced unimaginable violence and discrimination.

On 25 November, the International day for the Elimination of Violence against women, serves as a reminder of injustices women have endured and collective responsibility we share eliminating them. In the ancient societies, women were treated as inferior and disposable. In Arabia before Islam, baby girls were buried alive, and were subjected to physical and emotional abuse without any right or dignity. They were treated as property, sold and bought and violence against them was normalized. Islam brought a revolutionary change to this unjust reality. Women were given the right to inheritance, education, and dignity. The prophet Muhammad (PBUH) emphasized kindness towards women, declaring, “ The best among you are those who are best to their wives.” Despite these teachings, cultural norms, ignorance and power dynamics have allowed violence to persist in society.

History is filled with stories of women who faced unimaginable violence, even those in positions of power or influence. Joan of Arc , a military leader, was accused of heresy and burned alive in 1431 despite her contributions. Recently in 2024 a heartbreaking incident happened in India. Where the doctor who went to rest in seminar hall got raped and died. Such incidents are a grim reminder that violence against women transcends all boundaries of privilege and education. Globally, one in three women experiences physical or sexual violence in her lifetime, and the forms of abuse range from domestic violence to workplace harassment. Despite progress in awareness, many women continue to suffer in silence, facing threats at home, in schools, and at the workplace.

To control violence against women, a multifaceted approach is necessary. Education lies at the heart of change, as it challenges deep rooted stereotypes and fosters a culture of respect and equality. Schools, communities, and media platforms should actively spread awareness about women’s rights and the importance of gender equality. Governments must enforce strict laws to punish perpetrators and protect victims while ensuring that support systems, such as counseling and safe shelters, are readily available. It is vital to empower women by equipping them with knowledge about their rights and encouraging them to speak up against violence. Awareness campaigns can amplify these efforts, bringing societal issues to light and mobilizing communities to take action.

By celebrating this day, we honor the struggles of women who have fought for justice and renew our commitment to creating a world where women feel safe, valued and empowered .Violence against women is not inevitable; it is preventable. Through education, legal reforms, community support, and individual accountability, we can pave the way for a future free of violence. Together, we can create a world where women are not just survivors but thrive as equal and empowered members of society.