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SIXTEEN days of Activism against gender-based violence is the time when we all unite to raise awareness on gender-based violence, challenge discriminatory attitudes and practices.
We also call for improved laws and services that end violence against women. The 16 days run from 25 November to 10 December where we end with the commemoration of the Human Rights Day.
Women face violence from their intimate partners, from strangers in the public sphere and even at the workplace where they face sexual harassment.
Although there are laws that have been put in place to protect women, research has shown that one in every three women will face some form of gender-based violence in their lifetime.
Section 52 of the Constitution guarantees the right to personal security and includes the right to freedom from all forms of violence from the public and private sources.
Section 51 guarantees the right to human dignity in both the private and public spheres and to have that right respected and protected by everyone.
Other laws that play a pivotal role include the Domestic Violence Act that protect parties that are at home and also the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform ) Act that protects women who face sexual violence.
ZWLA urges the judiciary to give severe sentences that will deter would be violators against women. We urge people to refrain from being violent and resolve disputes amicably.
People should respect the dignity and personal security of women. If violence happens to you seek help immediately. The police should investigate and arrest all perpetrators of violence against women so that they face the full wrath of the law.
At the workplace there should be policies that protect women against sexual harassment and create an environment that enables survivors to speak out and report such conduct.
As we commemorate the 16 Days of Activism against gender-based violence we remember the untimely passing away of one of our own, a woman lawyer who died as a result of violence against her. She was a great colleague and her future looked bright.
Let us all build a peaceful environment at home and at the workplace.
– For more information contact Zimbabwe Women Lawyers on 17 Fife Avenue Harare Tel: 0242 708491/ 134 J. Tongogara /14th Avenue Bulawayo TEL: 0292 887185-7
Bongani Ndlovu