Addressing violence against women at the Gender Equality Forum
Every woman deserves to be and feel safe in the European Union. Yet young women are at higher risk of gender-based violence, according to new research from Eurostat, the EU Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA) and EIGE.
One in four women aged 18-29 experience physical threats or sexual violence at the hands of someone other than their partner. And two in five suffer sexual harassment at work.
While the EU averages do not take cyberviolence into account, it also has a disproportionate impact on the lives of young women. Issues such as online stalking, harassment and revenge porn are rising.
The research presents an alarming picture of the reality for young women today. It’s a stark reminder of the urgent need for action.
As EIGE prepares for the 2024 Gender Equality Forum, our focus on gender-based violence and its impact on young women remains critical and is a core conversation point which we’ll unpack at great length during our Forum.
This year’s forum will be a crucial platform for sharing the latest findings amplifying youth voices and charting new strategies to combat gender-based violence across Europe.
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The forum, with its theme of Equality 24/7, will provide a comprehensive overview of the state of gender-based violence.
“This is a pivotal time,” says Maria-Andriani Kostopoulou, President of GREVIO, the Group of Experts on Action against Violence against Women and Domestic Violence.
“The Forum is our chance to come together and find new ways to empower young women, ensure their safety, and hold perpetrators to account. We must build on strong European frameworks such as the Istanbul Convention to create meaningful change. I look forward to hearing from fellow experts, policymakers, and youth advocates to share ideas that will end violence in all forms: at home, at work and in public spaces.”
Must-attend sessions on gender-based violence
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High-Level Panel on GBV (December 10, 11:10–12:10): Experts such as Maria-Andriani Kostopoulou, President of GREVIO, will discuss persistent and emerging gender-based violence challenges, offering insight into strategies for addressing violence in various forms.
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EIGE Panel on Ending Cyberviolence (December 10, 14:00–15:15): This session will delve into creating safe online spaces and protecting young women from digital harassment, featuring contributions from organizations like Equinet and the Feminist Romani Network.
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Chat & Chill: Why Gender Equality Is Still So Important in Times of Full-Scale War (December 10, 15:00–15:20): Explore the impact of war on gender equality, including how crises can exacerbate risks for young women, with insights based on the Gender Equality Index in Ukraine.
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Workshop on Primary Prevention by WAVE (December 11, 9:45–11:15): This partner session will discuss comprehensive approaches to preventing gender-based violence, emphasising youth participation and evidence-based solutions.
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Chat & Chill: Boys and Men as Allies (December 11, 11:05–11:25): Engage in a conversation about how young men can support gender equality and combat violence.
Young women deserve a world where their safety is not compromised. Addressing these challenges requires collaboration and well-funded, well-resourced comprehensive strategies as well as innovative policy solutions.
The data and stories shared at the forum aim to inspire attendees and spark action. By taking part, you will know what state actors and society at large need to do to tackle GBV and thus help champion robust victim support and prevention policies.
Register today for the 2024 Gender Equality Forum and help shape the future of gender equality
