A Call for Peace: Ending Violence Against Women and Building a Secure Future

This September, as we observe the International Day of Peace, we are reminded not only of global conflicts and wars but also of the more insidious forms of violence that plague women in their homes, workplaces, and communities. 

This cannot continue.

We must raise our voices, create initiatives, and commit to educating young people on how to build a culture of peace that respects the dignity of women and girls.

The persistent violence against women and girls is a grim reminder that peace and security are still far from reality for many. The tragic stories of women whose lives have been cut short by male violence echo across borders, demanding attention, action, and change.

Earlier this month in Kenya, a female athlete was brutally murdered by her male partner, who set her on fire—an act that sent shockwaves through the global community. 

In France, a wife was raped over 70 times by 50 different men after her husband drugged her, organized the assaults, and filmed them for his own sick pleasure. 

Meanwhile, in the UK, three women from the same family were murdered by a man who killed them with a crossbow, showing no remorse. 

Lest we forget, in India, a trainee doctor was raped and murdered while working her shift, completely unaware that her life would end in such brutal violence.

These are not isolated incidents. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that 1 in 3 women globally have been subjected to physical or sexual violence in their lifetime, often at the hands of intimate partners or strangers. While these tragic cases dominate headlines due to their shocking nature, the underlying issue is one of normalization. 

Violence against women is so prevalent that society has become desensitized. Every day, women endure various forms of male violence, whether it’s domestic abuse, street harassment, or the subtle forms of sexism that go unreported.

But this violence isn’t a case of “a few bad apples.” It is a systemic issue rooted in gender inequality, toxic masculinity, and patriarchal structures that teach men to dominate and women to submit.

The escalation of misogyny begins with small, often imperceptible moments—sexist jokes, casual groping on public transport, or the dismissal of women’s opinions. Over time, these acts accumulate, culminating into horrific acts of violence that claim the lives of countless women each year.

For women, this violence leads to a pervasive sense of insecurity. It teaches us to be afraid, to look over our shoulders when walking alone at night, and to second-guess our choices in relationships. 

It also silences our voices in boardrooms dominated by men. This fear is constant, whether it’s the fear of physical harm or the fear of not being taken seriously. 

This culture of fear is a direct barrier to achieving peace, both on an individual and societal level.

Insecurity, driven by male violence, limits the potential of women and girls. It restricts our freedom to live without fear, to pursue our dreams, and to contribute fully to society. 

Women are forced to navigate a world where their safety is constantly at risk, and this insecurity stifles progress, innovation, and peace. Without addressing this systemic violence, there can be no true peace for women.

But what would a culture of peace look like? 

How can we envision a world where women are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve?

A culture of peace would mean creating societies where women are not only free from violence but also empowered to lead, make decisions, and participate fully in all aspects of life. It would mean dismantling the structures that perpetuate gender inequality and replacing them with systems that prioritize justice, equality, and accountability.

In this vision of peace, women would no longer live in fear. Instead, they would walk confidently through the streets, knowing they are safe. They would work in environments free from harassment and discrimination, where their contributions are valued, and their voices are heard. Women would be free to make choices about their bodies, relationships, and careers without coercion or violence. We would be leaders in peacebuilding, conflict resolution, and decision-making processes, bringing unique perspectives to the table.

Achieving this culture of peace requires a collective effort. Governments must enact and enforce laws that protect women from violence and hold perpetrators accountable. 

Educational systems must teach young boys and men to respect women and reject harmful notions of masculinity. Communities must support survivors of violence and work together to create safe spaces for all. And most importantly, men must become allies in this fight, challenging their peers and standing up against misogyny in all its forms.

The road to peace is not an easy one, but it is necessary. As we observe the International Day of Peace, let us remember that peace is not just the absence of war but the presence of justice, equality, and security for all.

True peace cannot exist in a world where half the population lives in fear of violence. It is time for us to move beyond headlines and soundbites and commit to building initiatives where girls and women are safe, respected, and free to thrive.

This month, we celebrate and applaud the vital roles women play in creating a more peaceful world. Women are at the forefront of peacebuilding, and we honor their courage, strength, and vision for a better future.

To all the strong women on World Pulse and beyond, your contributions are invaluable. Together, we matter in the pursuit of peace, and together, we will create a world where respect, equality, and safety for all are the norm.