Gender Based Violence: A Violation of Human Rights

Port Louis, December 8, 2011:

In 1991, the Center for Women's Global Leadership (CWGL) of Rutgers University, New Jersey (U.S.), along with 23 participants of the first Women's Global Institute on Women, Violence and Human Rights, called for a global campaign of "16 Days of Activism Against Gender Violence" (16 Days Campaign). Participants chose the dates, November 25, International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, and International Human Rights Day on December 10, to bookend the campaign to emphasize that violence against women and girls is a violation of human rights. In the context of these 16 days of activism, the U.S. Embassy organized an event today at the Municipality of Port Louis. Minister of Gender Equality Mireille Martin, Lord Mayor Mamade Khodabaccus and the U.S. Embassy’s Chargé d’Affaires (CDA) Troy Fitrell attended the event.

In his remarks, CDA Fitrell said: “we must increase accountability and commitment by community and government leaders on this issue, as well as highlight and promote effective programs that are already successfully at work. Prevention, protection and prosecution are essential and we must add a fourth "P" as well: combating gender-based violence must be a priority. Although investing resources in the prevention and prosecution of acts of aggression against women may cost money upfront, it pays enormous dividends in the long run. The U.S. adopted Violence against Women Act which strengthens efforts to stop these crimes, supports protection and prevention efforts and has been estimated to save more than $16 billion since enactment in 1994 in costs that stem from violence against women and girls.”

Panel discussions and the presentation of video clips on GBV followed. Panelists included Ibrahim Sheik-Yousouf, President of Men against Violence (MAV), Rada Gungaloo, Barrister and President of SOS Femmes and Jayshree Bunjun, Head of Family Welfare and Protection Unit, Ministry of Gender Equality, Child Development and Family Welfare. The panelists and participants had a lively exchange regarding GBV in Mauritius, addressing issues related to legislature, prevention and awareness against domestic violence and the involvement of government, police, NGOs and other stakeholders to fight this scourge.