Unfortunately, domestic abuse against women is an on-going issue irrespective of country of origin, religious belief and age. On Monday 18th November, Universal Peace Federation held an event titled: Elimination of Violence Against women, which is a United Nations day at 43 Lancaster Gate.
The purpose of the event allowed speakers to tell their stories and experiences of Domestic abuse in a safe environment. The following event began with Mitty Tohma, President of Women’s Federation of World Peace UK showed a video explaining the work Women's Federation of World peace have carried out. This was followed by Margaret Ali, Director of UPF introducing the event explaining why events such as Elimination of Violence are needed in order to raise awareness on Domestic abuse.
Every story told during the event where more heart-breaking than the other. Some victims suffered miscarriages, one victim was diagnosed with HIV 33 years ago and since has been taking the necessary medication to moderate the infection and unfortunately another victim suffered 5 heart-attacks. Other victims escaped the abuse by seeking refuge in another country.
Organisations such as White Ribbon have paved the way to assist victims of domestic abuse. Chris Green, CEO of White Ribbon campaign, has a network of accredited organisations who partner to Eliminate Violence against Women. The Irish Football team today will wear a white ribbon to promote awareness of domestic abuse. Gill Barnham, a self- development and a balance and flow specialist coach, proposing a practical conference to find pathways to improve available responses to victims of violence against women. During a #UPF #WFWP conference to mark the UN Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.
One comment made from a guest who attended the event “Most empowering evening spent today at Universal Peace Federation UN Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women 2019. Employers hold a great responsibility in being able to effectively respond to domestic abuse in the workplace. According to statistics, 50% of women experience sexual harassment at work in the UK. 70% of those affected by domestic abuse are targeted in their workplace. Gender-based violence is deeply rooted in gender inequality. It is a violence directed against a person because of their gender. Both women and men experience gender-based violence but the majority of victims are women and girls. Imagine a world where neither women nor girls are abused, harassed or controlled. A world where equality and acceptance exists. It's a pleasure meeting lovely Margaret Ali, very respectable Mr Robin Marsh and most inspiring Adrija Biswas Halling ,Gloria Acuna (very generous ) and Aki Yo. Looking forward to work along with a Global Network of Peacebuilders.”