The outcry for justice reverberated through the streets of Italy in mid-November 2023, as thousands gathered to mourn the tragic loss of 22-year-old student, Giulia Cecchettin, a victim of femicide. This heinous act unleashed a wave of protest that extended far beyond the country’s borders, igniting an urgent call for solidarity and change.
Across the globe, the alarming surge in gender-based violence, particularly femicide, has cast a shadow on diverse communities, transcending cultural, economic, and political boundaries. The term “femicide” encapsulates the most extreme form of gender-based violence, with the UN documenting 89,000 intentional killings of women and girls worldwide in 2022. Shockingly, 55% of these murders were committed by intimate partners or individuals within the victims’ immediate circles.
Yet, these staggering figures only capture part of the grim reality, with nearly 40% of femicide victims unaccounted for due to inconsistent criminal justice recording and investigation practices across nations. This underscores the pressing need for sustained advocacy and policy initiatives to address the root causes of gender-based violence.
The patriarchal grip of traditional gender norms has normalized violence against women in many societies, perpetuating a culture that continues to oppress and endanger women globally. Such deeply ingrained stereotypes and prejudices fuel victim-blaming narratives, diverting the focus from genuine expressions of grief and indignation. Media portrayals and narratives must shift to amplify the voices of victims, devoid of sensationalism and insensitive depictions.
Moreover, the Covid-19 pandemic exacerbated the prevalence of violence against women, triggering financial uncertainty and confinement, which became catalysts for escalating gender-based violence. The pandemic disrupted vital support systems, strained healthcare resources, and curtailed victims’ mobility, leaving countless women trapped in abusive environments.
Addressing the economic dimension is equally crucial, as financial dependence often ties women to their abusers. Initiatives aimed at bolstering women’s financial independence, such as shelters and support centers, are imperative. However, the insufficient capacity of existing shelters presents a formidable obstacle in providing refuge to all those in need. Moreover, the intersection of racism and gender-based violence compounds the vulnerabilities faced by women of color, necessitating a multifaceted approach to protect marginalized communities.
In response to this crisis, feminist movements, NGOs, and international organizations have spearheaded efforts to champion legislative and policy changes. However, the effectiveness of these endeavors varies, as evidenced by the contrasting outcomes in Italy and South Africa. While Italy witnessed increased government spending on countering gender-based violence, South Africa passed the Gender-Based Violence and Femicide Bill 2023, signifying a pivotal step in strengthening the criminal justice system’s response to gender-based violence.
Yet, tangible progress remains elusive, exemplified by instances of mismanagement and a disconnect between legislative intent and practical implementation. Despite these challenges, the stories of Giulia, Nombulelo, and countless other victims must serve as a catalyst for collective action and systemic change, amplifying the voices of the silenced.
The path ahead demands unyielding resolve, where collective efforts transcend sympathy to reshape societal norms and confront the scourge of femicide with unwavering determination.
