Join 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, a global campaign to end violence against women and girls.
We are facing the worst global hunger crisis the world has ever seen. Women and girls are going hungry, but that is not all.
When food is scarce, women and girls are at higher risk of experiencing gender-based violence and other forms of exploitation and abuse.
In places where feeding one’s family is considered a woman’s duty and a profound part of her worth, being unable to provide food may further magnify women’s and girls’ risks of experiencing violence. During prolonged drought, child marriage is used by families to cope with scarcity of food and income. Additionally, women often walk further to collect water in times of drought — more time away from home increases the risk of violence against them.
What’s more, men generally eat first due to cultural norms, so when there is not enough food to go around, it is the women who miss out.
The unequal experiences of women and men in relation to food security stem from deep-rooted gender inequalities — inequalities that are also the root cause of gender-based violence.
By speaking out and inviting every voice, we can create real, lasting change for the world we want to see — a world free of violence and gender inequality. Start by sharing our message on social media.
When less food is available, women and girls suffer more. It’s that simple. I’m proud to raise my voice w/ @CARE during #16Days and demand U.S. leaders #BreakTheCycle of gender-based violence & food insecurity. Join me.
Gender-based violence is rooted in gender inequality — and without addressing inequality, women will continue to be both hungry and at risk of violence.
Read More. According a recent government study, 1 in 3 married women in Rwanda reported experiencing physical violence from their partners, and 46% of married women have experienced spousal physical, sexual, or emotional violence.
Read More