Convention for eradication of Violence Against Women held

[TamilNet, Saturday, 29 October 2005, 01:56 GMT]
More than fifteen hundred men and women from Kilinochchi and surrounding areas convened in Karunai Nilayam in Kilinochchi town Thursday at 3.00 to discuss issues related to "Violence Against Women," and to make a declaration to eradicate violence in all forms against women. District offices of OXFAM helped organize the convention, sources said.

"At least one woman in every three has been beaten, coerced into sex, or otherwise abused in her lifetime. Most often the abuser is a member of her own family. Gender-based violence is recognized as a major public health concern and a violation of human rights," a speaker at the convention said.

"Common form of violence is domestic. Women of all ages are at risk for domestic and intimate partner violence. In additiion, psychological or emotional abuse, and sexual assault also take place in other places including places of work. Awareness in the community and eradication of all forms of violence is imperative for a healthy society and the long term prosperity of a community," speakers stressed.

Cultural events and musical performances, and talks to uplift women's dignity took place at the convention.

At the end of the event the participants lit candles and proclaimed to work towards abolishing all forms of violence in domestic situations, in the community and in places of work.