On this International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, the United Nations recalls that violence against women and girls constitutes a serious violation of human rights.
The theme of the 2019 international campaign is: “Orange the World: Generation Equality Stands Against Rape.” As in previous years, 25 November also marks the beginning of the 16 Days of Activism to End Violence against Women, which will conclude on 10 December 2019, the date of International Human Rights Day.
This year, the Haitian Government has decided to place the campaign under the High Patronage of the President of the Republic. During the launch, the United Nations System, through the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Haiti, Ms. Helen La Lime, reaffirmed the United Nations’ support to Haiti in eliminating all forms of violence against women, including rape. Together we say: “Kadejak Pa ladan l, Non ak Kadejak” – “No to Rape.”
The figures are alarming. The Mortality, Morbidity and Service Utilization Survey (EMMUS-VI 2016–2017) reveals that 12% of the female population, including 4% of girls aged 15 to 17, representing approximately 700,000 women and girls, reported having experienced sexual violence. In 59% of cases, these acts are committed by trusted persons or relatives such as husbands or partners. Despite efforts undertaken, these heinous acts persist due to the impunity enjoyed by perpetrators, the stigmatization of victims, and the complicit silence of society.
As indicated by Antonio Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations, in his message:
“Sexual violence against women and girls has its roots in centuries of male domination. Let us not forget that, fundamentally, the gender inequalities underlying rape culture are a power imbalance.”
These forms of sexual violence have intensified in the context of the political crisis and violent tensions affecting the country, highlighting the need for strong action by the State as well as active mobilization of society to curb this scourge.
Strong action is also necessary because studies clearly show that violence against women affects society as a whole by slowing Haiti’s socio-economic development. While welcoming the efforts of the Haitian State and women’s organizations in implementing the National Plan to Combat Violence against Women 2017–2027, the United Nations System calls for intensified efforts in line with the recommendations of the National Forum held on 3 and 4 April 2019: “Women, Peace and Political Participation,” chaired by the First Lady of the Republic, Ms. Martine Moïse. The forum recommended several key measures to strengthen the prevention and punishment of violence and to increase support for women and girls who are victims of these crimes.
In this perspective, the United Nations System, in close coordination with the Minister for the Status of Women and Women’s Rights, Ms. Evelyne Sain Vil, cooperates with state institutions, international technical and financial partners, women’s and youth organizations, the media, and other non-state actors to carry out advocacy, information and awareness-raising activities against violence targeting women and girls. The United Nations therefore calls for the active participation of all stakeholders to ensure the success of the 2019 national campaign of the 16 Days of Activism.
