Usdaw marks International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women

Joanne Thomas – Usdaw general secretary says: “The right to live a life free from violence is a basic human right that is being denied to millions of women and girls every day. At home, in schools and at work, women are subject to verbal abuse, sexual harassment and physical assault. This year the UN is recognising the growth of online abuse, which is undoubtedly worse for women.

“One in three women around the world have experienced physical or sexual violence in their lifetime. So, we very much welcome the UN’s annual day for the elimination of violence against women, which starts 16 days of activism through to International Human Rights Day, and highlights the all-year-round work many organisations, including trade unions, are doing to tackle violence against women.

“Violence has a devastating impact on women’s lives, on our physical and mental health, on the lives of our families and children. Much of this abuse is hidden, taking place behind closed doors or online. When women do speak out, far too often we are not believed, crimes go unpunished and perpetrators of violence walk free. Our hope is that campaign days like today will be the start of a wider cultural shift, one that calls out abuse, effectively deals with abusers, protects women and girls, and supports organisations that help survivors of violence to rebuild their lives.

“While many retail workers have seen a rise in customer abuse, for women this often takes the form of sexist remarks and behaviours and so-called jokes about their appearance and bodies. Usdaw’s survey of members’ experiences found seven in ten women have experienced some form of sexual harassment at work. Young women are particularly at risk, with 90% reporting sexual harassment in the last twelve months. Most did not tell their employer.

“We now have a government that is taking these issues seriously and taking action. The Employment Rights Bill will protect staff from harassment by customers, and we call on Conservatives, Lib Dems and Reform to end their opposition to this important new legislation. Labour also has a landmark mission to halve violence against women and girls in a decade and with Jess Phillips now the Minister in charge, we are confident this will be delivered.

“Trade unions can help women who struggle to make their voices heard. We can collectively challenge the structural and institutional power imbalances that permit and perpetuate violence against women. Together we can work to eliminate violence against women.”