International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women (IDEVAW)

Every year, 25th November is celebrated as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women (IDEVAW). The theme this year is: ORANGE THE WORLD: FUND, RESPOND, PREVENT, COLLECT! Violence against women and girls is a violation of human rights. It is also a public health concern with significant impact on the health of women, children and families. As per the recent Violence and Against Women and Girls (VAWG) study conducted by the National Commission for Women and Children (NCWC), more than two in every five women (44.6%) in Bhutan have experienced one or more forms of partner violence in their lifetime, be it physical, sexual, psychological or economic.

The situation has been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Strict lockdown measures adopted, and compelling confined retreat inside homes have proven that the home is not safe for many women and girls. Reports showed an alarming increase in the already existing pandemic of violence against women. Since the outbreak of COVID-19, emerging data and reports from those on the front lines, have shown that all types of violence against women and girls, particularly domestic violence, has intensified.

Government authorities, women’s rights activists and civil society partners across the world are reporting significantly increased calls for help to domestic violence helplines and heightened demand for emergency shelters. Bhutan is no different. This is the Shadow Pandemic growing amidst the COVID-19 crisis, and we need a collective effort to stop it. As COVID-19 cases continue to strain, health and essential services such as shelters and helplines, have exceeded their capacity. More needs to be done to prioritize addressing violence against women in COVID-19 response and recovery efforts. Therefore, on this IDVAW, we must all commit to address the shadow pandemic and make our home, community and nation a safe place for every woman and girl.

Therefore, on this IDEVAW, we must all commit to bring the 'shadow pandemic' out of the shadows, acknowledge it as a priority concern and together work towards eliminating it in order to make our home, community and nation a safe place for every woman and girl. Everyone has a role to play!