We fuss over insults to men. How about some fuss about the killing of women?

The issue of gender-based violence, particularly the killing of women, is a significant and pressing concern worldwide. According to data from the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 1 in 3 women experience physical or sexual violence in their lifetime, most frequently by an intimate partner. This equates to an estimated 736 million women alive today who have been affected by this form of violence.

The consequences of gender-based violence are far-reaching and devastating. It can lead to both short-term and long-term physical and mental health problems, including injuries, disability, depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In extreme cases, it can result in death.

In 2017, there were an estimated 87,000 female homicides worldwide, accounting for 49% of all homicides that year. The majority of these killings (60%) were committed by intimate partners or family members. In contrast, only 6% of male homicides were committed by intimate partners or family members.

The killing of women is not a new phenomenon, but it remains a persistent problem that requires urgent attention and action. In many parts of the world, cultural norms and attitudes that condone or excuse violence against women contribute to this issue. For example, in some countries, there is a belief that women are inferior or that they are property to be controlled by men. These beliefs can lead to a tolerance or even acceptance of violence against women.

Moreover, inadequate laws and weak enforcement of existing laws also contribute to the problem. According to a report by Amnesty International, in many countries, laws on domestic violence are inadequate or non-existent, and there is a lack of political will to enforce them effectively.

The killing of women is not just a problem for individual women and their families; it is a problem for society as a whole. It undermines the fundamental human rights of women and girls and hinders their ability to live healthy, productive lives. It also has economic consequences, as the loss of productivity due to illness, injury, or death can have a significant impact on families and communities.

There are steps that can be taken to address this issue. Governments can enact and enforce laws that protect women from gender-based violence, including domestic violence and sexual violence. They can also invest in programs that promote gender equality and challenge harmful attitudes towards women. Civil society organizations can raise awareness about this issue and provide support to survivors of violence. And individuals can speak out against violence against women and support organizations that work to prevent and respond to this issue.

In conclusion, the killing of women is a serious and persistent problem that requires urgent attention and action. It is not a hypothetical scenario but a reality that affects millions of women around the world. It is essential that we acknowledge this issue and work together to prevent it and support survivors. As the WHO states, "violence against women is not only a violation of their fundamental human rights, but also a major public health problem."