Home News 16 days of activism against GBV: “United against violence” – women lawyers...
Violence against women is a scourge that continues to devastate lives, and it is time for decisive action. The Guyana Association of Women Lawyers (GAWL) is calling on the nation to rise up and confront this crisis head-on during the 16 Days of Activism campaign. This global initiative, which begins on November 25, serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing battle against gender-based violence.
Accoridngo to GAWL, the reality is grim and women, often the most vulnerable members of society, continue to bear the brunt of violence—usually at the hands of those who should protect and support them: their partners, their relatives, their closest companions. 
A release from the agency went on to state that “while it is wrong to generalize all men as perpetrators, statistics paint a shocking picture: violence, particularly domestic violence, is overwhelmingly inflicted by men. This is not just a personal or family issue—it is a public health crisis”.
“In Guyana, this epidemic is all too real. The horrific killings of two women by their partners within the span of just two weeks are tragic reminders of the urgent need for action. The finality of the death of that woman portends the stark consequence of children being left without a mother and another family losing a family member tragically. 1996, though 28 years ago, feels like yesterday in some ways. With the new law there is greater emphasis on prevention, in educating and encouraging women and persons who are aware of violent situations, to encourage them to seek help. In other words, there must be provision of tangible support at the front – end”.
“Early interventions to prevent escalation of violence are especially critical to safeguard women, and also, children. We urge that more state resources be employed to help victims of violence to be pro-active. Here, the work of the Gender Affairs Bureau which relates to both females and males, is important. Victims need to be able to easily access information on what help is available, where to seek help, and receive advice on how to protect themselves and to move on. Education is crucial in breaking this cycle of violence. The Ministry of Education and schools across the nation must take immediate action to teach young people the damaging effects of violence and challenge harmful behaviors. The workplace, too, must foster environments of respect, where nonviolence is not optional, but expected”.
GAWL added that the fight against violence also demands accountability from those in power. Political, domestic, and workplace leaders must lead by example, setting a zero-tolerance standard for violence in all its forms. If leaders fail to act decisively, they must face consequences. This is non-negotiable. Guyana cannot afford to be complacent. Every leader, institution, and individual must be held to the highest standard of conduct.
As Guyana joins the rest of the world in observing the 16 Days of Activism movement, GAWL called once more for every citizen to stand up and demand change, highlighting that the violence against women must end, and it is only through collective action that we can create a safer, more just society for all.
