Policy and prevention: addressing gender-based violence
Dec 8, 2024
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Explore the pressing issue of gender-based violence in Australia and hear insights from the CEO of UN Women Australia. Learn about the vital role of education in prevention and cultural change, drawing parallels with successful campaigns like anti-smoking. Delve into recent funding initiatives and policies aimed at helping victims and reshaping societal attitudes. Discover the collective responsibility in addressing violence against women and the importance of community engagement for fostering gender equality.
The 16 Days of Activism campaign highlights the urgent need for systemic cultural change to combat rising gender-based violence, particularly in Australia.
Educational programs in schools are crucial for promoting discussions on consent and respectful relationships, targeting young men to break harmful stereotypes.
Deep dives
The 16 Days of Activism Campaign
The 16 Days of Activism is an annual campaign initiated by UN Women that aims to raise awareness and encourage action against gender-based violence. This campaign starts on November 25, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, and concludes on December 10, coinciding with International Human Rights Day. The initiative has seen participation from various communities, including in Australia, where rallies and events have been organized to highlight the urgency of the issue. The campaign serves not only as a platform for advocacy but also as a call for systemic cultural change regarding violence against women.
Data and Gender-Based Violence Education
Recent statistics highlight a significant increase in gender-based violence in Australia, with a nearly 30% rise in women killed by intimate partners reported in 2023. Data shows that approximately 23% of women have experienced intimate partner violence, compared to about 7.3% of men. To address this, educational programs are being implemented in schools, promoting discussions around consent and respectful relationships. Organizations like The Man Cave and Teach Us Consent are leading initiatives to encourage boys and young men to engage in these critical conversations while breaking down harmful stereotypes.
Policy Developments and Personal Responsibility
Recent government initiatives have focused on enhancing support services for domestic violence victims, including a $4.7 billion funding package announced by federal, state, and territory governments. At the state level, new laws in New South Wales require electronic monitoring for alleged domestic violence offenders, aiming to improve accountability and protection for victims. As individuals, it is emphasized that everyone plays a role in combating gender-based violence, starting conversations and challenging societal norms that perpetuate it. By fostering a collective responsibility, communities can work towards creating an environment that is intolerant of any form of violence against women.
Tomorrow is the end of a UN Women campaign called the 16 Days of Activism which is calling for an end to gender-based violence. In today's deep dive we hear from the CEO of UN Women Australia, Simone Clarke, about how gender-based violence is progressing in Australia, the role of education in prevention, and what's being done by the state and federal governments.
This deep dive talks about gender-based violence, which can include sexual, family, and domestic violence. If you or someone you know may need support you can contact 1800 RESPECT. Call: 1800 737 732 Text: 0458 737 732 Video: 1800RESPECT.org.au
Hosts: Nandini Dhir and Lucy Tassell Producer: Orla Maher
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