Each culture has its own norms, values, and beliefs that can influence the perception
of gender and violence, such as gender norms, economic factors, cultural barriers,
intersectionality, and intervention strategies. All these differences often generate
violence, especially against the "weaker" gender, as it is called by patriarchal
societies, that is, women. When I read about the differences in abuse towards women,
I experienced various reactions and thoughts, among them I can mention empathy
and understanding. The phenomenon of abuse is not something foreign but is deeply
centered in cultural and social norms. It is also confusing and surprising to know how
abuse can vary according to culture or beliefs. It makes you want to act, to get
involved, to be another voice to help prevent these practices of violence.
I was familiar with some of these practices, such as forced marriage, common in some
Asian and Middle Eastern countries like India and Pakistan, as well as female genital
mutilation in some countries. Violence is also considered an acceptable means of
maintaining control over women and is common in some African and Asian societies.
It's always been a topic of conversation, and that's why I'm familiar with gender-based
violence in Mexico and Latin America; femicides are commonplace and often go
unreported. Violence perpetrated by fathers, brothers, and even husbands is not
reported or properly investigated out of fear, fear of further harm. Domestic violence,
both verbal and physical, is very prevalent. It's typical to see these scenarios in
everyday life in Latin American families and some Eastern countries. There is
inequality in education due to sexism, and girls are often raised with the idea that they
should only serve at home and not study or work. From a young age, they learn that
their role is solely to serve the home and men. These expectations limit women's
independence and security and have a negative impact on their social and cultural
lives. Also learned about honor practices frequently found in communities in the Middle
East, South Asia, and some Latin American groups, where the concept of family honor
can lead to violence. Women are treated as symbols of reputation and not as human
beings with individual rights. It is overwhelming and disturbing to know that the family
itself takes charge of these "honor practices" when the family is considered a symbol
of love and protection.
The world's potential to unite against abuse of women is a complex issue. There are
arguments for and against. Arguments for unity include global awareness, which
fosters a sense of urgency and collective responsibility; international collaboration,
with NGOs and governments sharing best practices; and policies, education, and
empowerment that protect women and give them a voice. As women gain access to
education and leadership roles, they can advocate for their rights and change cultural
norms.
However, there are counterarguments, such as cultural diversity, which encompasses
the social norms of each country or nation; in fact, what works in one context may not
work in another; resistance to change, a very dangerous counterargument since in
some communities there may be strong resistance to changing cultural practices,
even if they are harmful and structural inequalities and lack of resources, meaning
that economic and social inequalities can generate abuses. Also, in many parts of the
world, resources to address abuse are limited, and without adequate support,
initiatives may not have the desired impact. Although significant obstacles remain,
global collaboration and awareness are on the rise, offering hope for a better future,
one that is far safer for women. The key will be finding a balance between respecting
cultural diversity and promoting universal human rights. Education, empowerment,
and commitment are essential to advancing this cause, as is the commitment of all
sectors of society. Only through collective effort can we promote sustainable change
that guarantees the human rights and safety of all women worldwide.