Building peace through equality: seven actions to end violence against women

When women are threatened, silenced, or excluded from leadership, both justice and stability are at risk. The speakers described widespread gender-based violence, shrinking civic space, and the determination of women who continue to lead and defend rights. The points below reflect shared actions from the discussion.

1. Ensure women’s equal participation in politics and decision-making

Peace and democracy depend on women taking part at every level. Violence, online abuse, and harassment push many women out of politics and leadership. Governments and political parties must enforce equal representation laws, ensure women’s safety, and support leadership training and protection. A culture that respects women’s participation strengthens democracy and public trust.

2. Protect activists and women human rights defenders

Women who stand up for rights often face smear campaigns, detention, or exile. States should stop using restrictive laws to silence them and must ensure their safety. Protection includes access to justice, legal help, and, when necessary, relocation. International partners should provide steady and flexible support for those working under threat.

3. Strengthen laws and institutions that protect women

Protection must include all forms of violence such as online abuse, stalking, and harassment in politics and decision-making. Laws should treat political violence as a threat to democracy and guarantee equal protection for all survivors. Municipalities and ministries need gender equality offices with the power to receive complaints, investigate, and work with police and courts.

4. Fund the work of protection and recovery

Budgets must reflect political promises. Shelters, hotlines, legal aid, and psychological support need steady funding to stay open and reach everyone who needs help. Local governments should keep crisis response teams in place as part of their regular services. Resources must also cover digital safety, legal defence, and childcare for women in leadership or activism.

5. Build accountability through facts and data

Progress needs evidence. Governments and local authorities should collect and publish information on all types of gender-based and political violence. Gender audits should show how many cases are reported, investigated, and resolved. Using the same standards across countries will make data more useful and improve coordination.

6. Work together across borders

Violence and repression do not stop at national borders. Governments, local authorities, and civil society should share experience, support each other, and apply international standards. Donors should help regional networks of women’s organizations and survivor groups to stay connected. Cooperation across borders builds stronger protection where national systems are weak.

7. Change harmful norms through education and leadership

Laws are not enough to end violence. Education, media, and community dialogue should promote equality and respect. Schools should teach nonviolence and inclusion from an early age. Men and boys should take part in prevention. When leaders speak clearly against violence and act with fairness, they set examples that help change attitudes in society.