As the world celebrates another International Women’s Day, the festivities and celebratory slogans seem increasingly hollow against the grim backdrop of rampant femicide. Behind the façade of progress lies a terrifying reality: violence against women and girls remains one of the most widespread and under-recognised crimes in the world.

All over the world, women and girls fall victim to the insidious grip of femicide, a gender-based killing rooted in deeply entrenched social norms and power imbalances. Despite countless campaigns and calls for action, the statistics paint a devastating picture of the ongoing crisis:

Global epidemic: a staggering 81,000 women and girls died in 2021 alone, with 56% of these deaths at the hands of an intimate partner or family member.

Domestic danger: The home, traditionally seen as a place of refuge, has become the most dangerous place for women. A woman is killed there every 11 minutes.

Dangers in the workplace: Shockingly, homicide is the second leading cause of death for women in some countries, highlighting the extent of gender-based violence.

Silenced voices: Although violence against women with disabilities is widespread, the murders of these women remain largely invisible as their marginalisation is perpetuated by inadequate data collection.

Global hotspots: From South Africa to Latin America, the femicide epidemic knows no borders, with alarming rates of violence disproportionately affecting women in these regions.

Closer to home, Turkiye is grappling with its own grim reality as men continue to kill a woman every three days. Despite efforts to tackle the problem, perpetrators often have a history of violence against women, emphasising the systemic failures to protect victims.

When we look beyond borders, the situation only gets worse. In South Africa, a woman is killed every four hours, while in India, 20 women are killed every day in dowry-related murders. In Latin America and the Caribbean, 12 women and girls are murdered every day, with a shocking 98% of cases going unprosecuted.

In the face of such staggering statistics, the question must be asked: Is it really a “Happy International Women’s Day”?” The very essence of the celebration is tainted by the blood of countless women and girls victimised by a society that fails to protect them.

It is time for action, not empty platitudes. Governments and organisations must answer the call to dismantle patriarchal systems, challenge harmful norms and take tangible action to bring justice to the victims of femicide. Only then can we truly honour the spirit of International Women’s Day and work towards a world where every woman and girl can live free from fear.

Foreword: Finding hope in the face of femicide

As we reflect on the sobering facts, it is easy to feel overwhelmed by the staggering statistics and harrowing reports of femicide that plague our world. Indeed, the prevalence of gender-based violence is a stark reminder of the immense challenges that women and girls around the world still face.

Yet amidst the darkness, there is also light – a glimmer of hope that illuminates the way forward. It is essential to recognise that despite the widespread nature of femicide, countless individuals and organisations are working tirelessly to combat this epidemic and raise the voices of survivors.

From grassroots activists advocating for policy change to community leaders providing support and resources to those in need, a growing movement is committed to challenging patriarchal systems and creating a world where every woman and girl can thrive.

Furthermore, the resilience and strength of survivors of gender-based violence is a testament to the indomitable spirit of women everywhere. Their courage to speak out and strive for justice inspires us all to stand in solidarity and work towards a future free from fear and oppression.

The road ahead may be long and full of obstacles, but we must hold on to hope – hope for a world where every woman and girl is valued and respected and can live her life without the threat of violence. Only through collective action and unwavering determination will we ultimately achieve this vision.

So, let us not despair but be inspired by the stories that remind us of the limitless potential of every single woman and are a testament to resilience and empowerment. Together, we can build a future where “Happy International Women’s Day” is not just a slogan but a reality for all.

In solidarity, 

Yeniyol News Editors