AWLF convened a webinar on November 24, 2023 to address violence against women and girls in politics. Titled "Breaking Barriers, Building Alliances: Collaboration to Prevent Sexual Violence Against Women in Politics," the webinar gave a platform to voices dedicated to shedding light on the pervasive challenges women face and proposing actionable solutions. This initiative also marked the 16 days of activism against gender-based violence.

 

Prof Ngeyi Kanyongolo's Insights:

 

The webinar commenced with Prof Ngeyi Kanyongolo's illuminating discourse on the glaring absence of dedicated legislation to prevent violence against women and girls in politics. Prof Kanyongolo underscored the urgent need for comprehensive legal frameworks, emphasizing how the lack of specific laws not only leaves victims without proper protection but also influences the troubling perception that violence in political spheres is justifiable.

 

Turning to the digital realm, she addressed the fast-growing menace of Technology-Facilitated Violence Against Women in Politics (VAWP). She proposed interventions to combat online VAWP, addressing the rapidity of online attacks, the anonymity of perpetrators, and the limited response from social media companies. She called for collective action against politically motivated trolls and bots spreading misinformation and misogynistic narratives.

 

Additionally, she delved into the prevailing impunity surrounding incidents of violence against women in politics. She advocated for strengthened state and institutional mechanisms to ensure effective follow-up on claims, providing pathways for women to seek justice beyond traditional means.

 

In an era of global interconnectedness, she emphasized the importance of national and regional collaboration to address violence against women in politics. She stressed the need for synergy between actors, especially in situations where traditional judicial procedures may not be viable.

 

Lomcebo Dlamini's Perspectives:

 

Lomcebo Dlamini brought forth invaluable insights into the collaboration between civil society and state actors. She highlighted strategies to track states' compliance with measures aimed at preventing violence against women and girls in politics, emphasizing the pivotal role of collaboration.

 

Dlamini delved into the importance of strengthening election observation reports to explicitly identify instances of violence against women and girls in politics. She advocated for reports that issue effective and targeted recommendations to national stakeholders, overcoming barriers and fostering increased participation of women in political processes.

 

Dlamini explored the significance of collecting and disseminating data on violence against women in politics. She emphasized how this process contributes to challenging and overcoming the normalization of violence, particularly in cases where information on VAWP is discredited or dismissed.

 

Doreen Kabwe's Insights:

 

Doreen Kabwe shared strategies and initiatives that political parties can implement to provide effective skills development for both women and men party members. Her insights highlighted the importance of preventing and addressing violence against women in the party context through skill enhancement programs.

 

She provided a detailed examination of how violence against women in politics negatively impacts the functioning of political institutions. This includes political parties, parliaments, and local councils, and she underscored how VAWP undermines democratic integrity and principles of fair and equitable representation.

 

In response to arguments minimizing the significance of addressing violence against women in politics, she countered the notion that women in politics should accept inherent violence. She urged a collective effort to challenge and confront violence, emphasizing the need for a political landscape free from gender-based violence.

 

Conclusion:

 

The webinar provided a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the challenges surrounding violence against women in politics. These distinguished speakers and participants collectively underscored the importance of collaboration and urgent action to create a political landscape that is safe, inclusive, and free from gender-based violence.

 

As we reflect on the lessons and insights shared during this webinar, let us commit to being active participants in breaking down barriers and building alliances. By doing so, we contribute to a future where women in politics can thrive without fear, and our political institutions reflect the principles of fairness, equity, and democratic integrity. Together, let's champion change and create a world where every voice is heard and respected.