theguardian.com
Ivory Coast Women March Against Femicide
Nearly 200 women and girls marched through Grand-Bassam, Ivory Coast, on December 2024, culminating 16 days of activism against femicide, highlighting the failures of the justice system and demanding stronger legal protections against gender-based violence, echoing a similar demonstration in 1949.
- How do the historical and current struggles against gender-based violence in Ivory Coast intersect?
- The Grand-Bassam march connects to a 1949 demonstration, highlighting the ongoing struggle for women's rights in Ivory Coast. The protest underscores the insufficient legal penalties for femicide (tried as murder or rape), the prevalent culture of silence hindering accurate data collection, and the need for increased government support for combating gender-based violence. Activists cite a lack of severe penalties and distrust in law enforcement as major obstacles.
- What is the immediate impact of the December march in Grand-Bassam on the fight against femicide in Ivory Coast?
- In Ivory Coast, nearly 200 women and girls marched in December to protest femicide, culminating 16 days of activism. The march, involving schoolgirls and women aged 14-75, highlighted the urgent need for justice and stronger legal protections against gender-based violence. Participants decried the inadequate response of law enforcement and the lack of recognition for "femicide" in Ivorian law.
- What are the key obstacles to effectively addressing femicide in Ivory Coast, and what steps are necessary to overcome them?
- The Ivory Coast's recognition as a leader in combating discrimination against women by the OECD contrasts sharply with the ongoing prevalence of femicide and the lack of legal recognition for the term. Looking ahead, advocating for femicide's inclusion in the penal code and securing greater financial and logistical resources for organizations fighting gender-based violence are crucial next steps. The young women marching represent a new generation determined to challenge existing injustices and achieve lasting change.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The framing is largely sympathetic to the women marching and their cause. The article highlights their struggles, emotions, and calls for justice. While this is understandable given the subject matter, it is important to note this focus, particularly in the selection of quotes and the emphasis given to the march's significance.
Bias by Omission
The article could benefit from including data on male victims of violence to provide a more comprehensive picture of violence in Ivory Coast. While the focus on femicide is important, omitting data on violence against men might create an incomplete understanding of the broader issue. Additionally, information on support systems available to victims beyond legal measures would enrich the narrative.
Gender Bias
The article focuses on the experiences and perspectives of women and girls, which is appropriate given the subject matter of femicide and gender-based violence. However, including men's perspectives on these issues, such as men who support gender equality or men who have been victims of violence, could provide a more balanced view.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights a women's march against gender-based violence, including femicide, in Ivory Coast. The march, involving women and girls of diverse ages, demonstrates collective action to address pervasive gender inequality and demand justice. The event underscores the ongoing struggle for women's rights and safety, advocating for stronger legal frameworks and enforcement to combat violence against women. The involvement of young schoolgirls signals the mobilization of future generations in this fight. The mention of government initiatives, while acknowledging shortcomings, shows progress towards SDG 5 targets. The article also points to the need for increased resources and government support to further combat gender-based violence.