UN Unite Campaign – Writivism 2023

  • Building Healthy Relationships as a Solid Foundation in the Fight to End VAWG
    At the heart of any achievement lies a foundation of support, whether in the form of a platform or an individual. Women and girls particularly require substantial support, especially at fundamental levels within families and societies and this is where building healthy relationships in the fight to end VAWG comes in. Without a solid support system, individuals who have experienced …
  • Educational Initiatives for Preventing VAWG: Teaching Consent from a Young Age
    Education is a multifaceted tool in preventing violence against women and girls. Its significance lies in the proactive approach of averting violence altogether, making knowledge the cornerstone of effective prevention. Consider attempting to fly a plane without any prior knowledge of flying. The inevitable result would be a disaster, as you lack the education necessary to navigate the aircraft safely. …
  • The Healing Power of Art and Creative Expressions for Survivors
    When I encountered the term: “artvocacy,” it struck a chord with me as I realized how deeply it aligns with the idea of advocating for survivors through the medium of art and creativity, providing them with the opportunity to harness its profound healing power. The saying “Art is life” has never rung truer and felt more relatable. Personally, writing has …
  • Building Resilience in Survivors of Violence through Online Support Communities
    Resilience is a fundamental human trait that can be developed by anyone. It’s not an exclusive characteristic but rather a skill attainable by all. Building resilience, especially after surviving violence, is entirely achievable and we live in a time of digitalization where various channels are essential elements in combating violence against women and its effects. The digital landscape has transformed …
  • Sexual Harassment in the Workplace: A Persistent Challenge
    There is no gainsay that women are frequently subjected to various forms of violence, a reality that extends to every facet of their lives. Whether at home, in marketplaces, on the streets, or within their workplaces, women often find themselves facing such unpleasant experiences. In fact, it is the issue of sexual harassment in the workplace that triggers reactions capable …
  • The Delicate Connection Between Mental Health and Surviving Violence
    No disrespect to the Gen-Zs, but a birdie once mentioned to me that mental health is sometimes perceived as an overemphasized buzzword amongst themselves. In fact, there’s someone I know who might be reading this and chuckling because of the clichéd excuses often used to justify bad behavior by attributing it to mental health issues. Unfortunately, this inclination to downplay …
  • Men as Allies in the Fight to end Violence Against Women
    Facing certain realities is inevitable when discussing specific issues, and one such matter is the role men play in combating violence against women. Men and boys can serve as catalysts for change in preventing VAWG, especially when sensitized through upbringing, education, or personal experiences. A considerable number of men all around the world have mothers, sisters, wives, aunties, and friends, …
  • The Importance of Legal Reforms in Combating Violence Against Women
    Legal systems are critical in the conversations about ending violence against women, and they should be at the forefront of conversations addressing this issue. Unfortunately, in less developed countries, legal systems often fail, reminiscent of the malfunctioning brakes of an overused car. This is deeply disheartening, especially considering that citizens, particularly women, heavily depend on legal reforms and policies for …
  • Call-to-actions in Addressing Violence Against Indigenous Women
    It is true when it’s said that no particular group can be definitively labeled as more vulnerable than another in the context of violence against women. The repercussions of violence are often widespread, impacting victims with similar levels of severity regardless of their group affiliation. However, the concept of immediate response privilege emerges, particularly concerning access to specific measures that …
  • Demystifying Stereotypical Myths about Violence Against Women
    People often find themselves asking very deep questions pertaining the issue of violence against women, recognizing that it extends beyond gender boundaries. Violence can affect anyone, and raising awareness is necessary for dispelling misconceptions and enhancing a more inclusive understanding of the problem. Many of these issues stem from underlying beliefs that blame women for the abuse they endure based …
  • Improved Economic Independence as a Tool to Combat Violence Against Women
    Violence against women is not only a domestic concern but also a significant economic issue. The close interconnection between violence and women’s economic independence is complex and does not follow a straightforward path. It is this complexity that emphasizes the indispensable nature of economic independence for every woman, as addressing challenges that lead women into uncomfortable and harmful situations is …
  • Grassroots Awareness Strategies to End Violence Against Women
    Tackling the issue of violence against women necessitates a comprehensive approach, wherein grassroots awareness emerges as a force for driving societal transformation. Significantly altering the status quo requires attacking the problem at its roots, specifically within local communities where information on violence against women may be scant or nonexistent. Reflecting on a past grassroots campaign where I engaged with women …
  • Cyberbullying: The Unseen Violence Against Women in the Digital Space
    Over time, cyberbullying has evolved, complicating the notion that sharing one’s experiences on social media is a remedy. Contrary to the cliché “a problem shared is half solved,” recounting personal experiences on social media can be just as harmful as not sharing them at all. While the internet was originally designed for various purposes, including facilitating communication and connection, digitalization …
  • Strengthening Women’s Resilience to Violence via Self-Defense Training
    When I was around 11 years old and experiencing bullying in junior secondary school, my father took the time to sit me down and impart practical valuable lessons on how to deal with bullies if push comes to shove. His approach was distinct – he discouraged adopting a victim mentality, always expecting me to return home with tales of victory …
  • The Role of Media in Shaping Perceptions of Violence Against Women
    The role of the media in shaping public perceptions of violence against women cannot be overstated. As a media advocate deeply engaged in shaping narratives related to women’s empowerment and development, I can attest to the enduring presence of deep-rooted stereotypes. These stereotypes, ingrained in societal expectations dictating women’s behavior and setting standards for their involvement in family and societal …
  • Understanding the Signs and Impact of Violence in the lives of Women and Girls.
    A few years back, I would have been quite nonchalant about engaging in the conversation we’re having now. Reflecting on those days, the truth is that violence is a harsh reality. Unfortunately, many women, who are often victims, are not fully aware of the term “violence.” They may also not recognize the signs or understand the flags that act as …