Today is International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), “Globally, 1 in 3 women experience physical and/or sexual violence in their lifetime.” To raise awareness, the Ministry of Public Service, Political and Constitutional Reform, and Religious Affairs launched the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence in Belmopan this morning. The event began at the Belmopan roundabout and will run from November 25 to December 10, focusing on supporting women and girls affected by violence.

Mayor of Belmopan, Pablo Cawich, stressed the need for collective action, saying, “It is essential that we all come together to address this critical issue.” He pointed out that the statistics and stories are reminders that many women continue to suffer in silence. “These 16 days are not just a symbolic moment; they are a call to action, a reminder that every effort, no matter how small, contributes to creating safer, more equitable spaces for all,” Mayor Cawich added.

The President of the National Women’s Commission, Thea Garcia Ramirez, also spoke at the event, stating, “We must prevent violence, support survivors, and challenge the societal norms that perpetuate gender inequality.” She explained that when women are “indoctrinated” into violent behaviours, they grow up thinking such actions are “okay.” She stressed on the need to change this culture in Belize, urging people not to “hide behind tradition or culture.”

A key moment of the ceremony was the raising of an orange flag, which symbolised hope and unity for a violence-free Belize. Attendees wore orange to support the campaign’s theme: #NOEXCUSE.

Over the next two weeks, various events, such as workshops and community discussions, will take place to continue the fight against gender-based violence.