Today March 8, 2013 we are celebrating the history of women’s struggles for their rights and their full participation in society.
Important to emphasize the achievements through centuries of struggle, especially in terms of their rights, access and changes in education, participation in the labor market and in political participation.
However, we can not forget the limitations and obstacles that still exist and need to be resolved without delay.
Well understood United Nations, who this year proposed to commemorate Women’s Day with a campaign that is called:
A promise is a promise: Stop the violence against women.
About the same, the Secretary-General, Ban Ki-Moon says:
“There is one universal truth, applicable to all countries, cultures and communities: violence against women is never acceptable, never excusable, never tolerable”
The data on this unacceptable situation is overwhelming:
Around the world …
· Up to 50% of sexual assaults are committed against girls under 16 years.
· Globally, 603 million women live in countries where domestic violence is not considered a crime.
· Up to 70% of women around the world claim to have suffered physical or sexual experience violence at some point in their lives.
· More than 60 million girls are brides and get married before 18 years.
A purpose of this campaign, famous singers and musicians from around the world, from China to Costa Rica, from Mali to Malaysia, women and men have gathered to spread a message of unity and solidarity: we are “One Woman”, a One Woman, That.
If we have something to celebrate on March 8, it is not because they are women but the courage, intelligence, sensitivity and commitment of women to achieve social equality, respect and solidarity relations with males and definitely a more just and livable.
By Gloria Bonder
Regional Coordinator UNESCO Chair in Women, Science and Technology in Latin America