Letter of the Day | Protecting women and children is everyone’s responsibility

THE EDITOR, Madam:

I want to share my concerns about the increase in violence against women and children. This issue speaks to deeper problems of fear, abuse, and trauma. Recently, I listened to a discussion where a media figure asked a group of women the question: “Do you feel safe?” This question captures the everyday fears many people face, stemming from their experiences of vulnerability and distress.

It is upsetting that women and children often have to stay alert and cautious because some men see them as weak and defenceless. This attitude creates an environment where violence and exploitation can occur. We cannot accept this reality; it’s time for all of us to speak out against these harmful beliefs. This rise in violence not only affects the image of men but also reflects poorly on the entire nation, suggesting we foster a culture that allows the mistreatment of our most vulnerable individuals.

While the effects of this violence might not always be obvious, they create long-lasting feelings of hatred and bitterness that could lead to more serious problems in the future. So, what can we do to stop this worrying trend?

We need to start educational programmes that break down harmful stereotypes and negative ideas about gender roles. It’s important to change the way society views violence and to stop blaming victims. Instead, we should focus on building respectful relationships, promoting healthy ideas of masculinity, and teaching gender equality from a young age.

The government must take strong action by creating laws that tackle all forms of violence against women and children. These laws should cover issues, from domestic violence to harmful cultural practices that encourage violence. A public register for offenders could be a key step toward accountability, ensuring that those who commit such acts are held responsible.

We need to improve the support systems for victims of violence, making sure they have access to services that address both their immediate needs and the long-term effects of their trauma. Setting up effective victim support units in partnership with local leaders can help victims heal and regain control of their lives.

Even with systems in place to prevent violence, many incidents go unreported because of fear, stigma, or a lack of trust in authorities. It’s crucial for our community to encourage reporting of violence and to take a stand against such behaviour wherever we see it. Our goal must be to create a peaceful environment where women and children can move about freely without fear of harm or harassment.

RICARDO SMITH