Bound, Silenced, Exploited: The Global Crisis of Violence Against Women
Violence against women is one of the most devastating and widespread human rights violations today. It transcends borders, cultures, and communities, affecting women of all ages and backgrounds. But behind these global numbers are the lives of women whose voices are silenced, whose choices are taken away, and whose agency is stolen.
As the world nears the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women on November 25, we are called to face this crisis with honesty, urgency, and unwavering determination. CWFL is proud to participate in this global effort by amplifying the voices of women leaders who confront these issues every day in their communities. Starting November 25, we will be sharing several stories of resilient women who have not allowed the pain of their past to silence their voice or distort their influence.
A Worldwide Epidemic
Nearly one in three women worldwide will experience physical or sexual violence in her lifetime. Millions more face emotional abuse, economic control, coercion, and harmful practices that violate their dignity and basic rights.
Human Trafficking
Human trafficking predominantly targets women and girls, who constitute the majority of detected victims worldwide. They are exploited through forced labor, forced marriages, or sexual slavery, often lured by false promises of employment or education—only to be controlled, threatened, and stripped of their freedom.
The economic impact of trafficking is enormous: forced labor and exploitation bring in an estimated $236 billion annually, making human trafficking one of the most lucrative criminal enterprises worldwide. These profits are directly fueled by the stolen wages, stolen futures, and stolen autonomy of vulnerable women.
Domestic Abuse
Domestic violence is still the most common form of violence against women. Behind closed doors, millions of women face physical assault, intimidation, isolation, and financial control. The home—where safety should be assured—often becomes a place of fear.
Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)
More than 230 million girls and women alive today have undergone FGM. This harmful practice, rooted in deeply ingrained gender norms, causes lifelong physical and emotional trauma. For many, it is performed in childhood, before they can understand or consent—an act that asserts control over women’s bodies from the very beginning.
The Real Impact: When Women Are Bound and Silenced
Violence against women harms more than just the body — it erodes voice, agency, and the sense of self.
No control: Abusive partners and traffickers restrict access to money, movement, or outside support.
No voice: Shame, fear, stigma, and systemic inequality silence many women.
No safety: Homes, workplaces, and communities—places meant to nurture and protect—often turn into sources of danger.
No justice: Impunity remains widespread in many countries, leaving survivors without legal protection or avenues for healing.
The ripple effects spread: children grow up afraid, families fall apart, and communities lose the talents and leadership of women who are kept from reaching their full potential.
Why Violence Persists: Understanding the Root Causes
Violence against women doesn't occur in isolation. It develops from—and is maintained by—a mix of systemic forces.
Gender Inequality: Patriarchal norms and power imbalances still shape women’s roles, autonomy, and worth in many societies.
Harmful Social and Cultural Norms: Practices like FGM and early marriage are often justified by tradition, purity, or family honor—despite the physical and emotional harm they cause.
Conflict and Crisis: Wars, displacement, and humanitarian crises foster trafficking, exploitation, and gender-based violence. When institutions break down, women become more vulnerable.
Poverty and Economic Stress: Economic hardship is a major predictor of vulnerability. When families lack resources, women and girls are more susceptible to coercion, trafficking, or forced marriage.
A Moment for Action: November 25
Every year on November 25, the world observes the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. This day begins the global 16 Days of Activism campaign, urging governments, communities, and individuals to come together to prevent violence, support survivors, and break down the systems that enable gender-based violence.
But for progress to be genuine, the commitment must extend beyond just 16 days. It needs to influence our policies, conversations, and shared priorities every day of the year.
A Path Forward
Ending violence against women is achievable—only if we tackle both its immediate signs and root causes. This involves:
Education that challenges harmful norms and promotes respect, consent, and equality.
Stronger laws and enforcement to combat trafficking, domestic abuse, and harmful practices.
Economic empowerment that enables women to control their livelihoods and choices.
Survivor-focused support systems—ranging from shelters and legal aid to mental health services.
Global cooperation to break down trafficking networks and enhance protections.
Violence against women is not unavoidable. It is created by humans—and so, it can be undone by humans.
When we face the uncomfortable truths, raise survivors’ voices, and dedicate resources to prevention and empowerment, we get closer to a world where women are no longer bound or silenced but free, safe, and in full control of their lives.
Over the next couple of weeks, we will be sharing the stories of women who have lived through devastating violence and emerged victorious. Their stories of strength, courage, and resilience light the path forward.
As we observe November 25, may this day renew our commitment. Let it serve as a reminder that every woman deserves a life free from violence—and that achieving this is not only possible but vital for the future of our communities and shared humanity.
As part of our commitment to ending gender-based violence, CWFL is raising awareness to #EndViolenceAgainstWomen through the The SCARF Project—a global campaign and fundraiser running November 25 to December 10. Through this initiative, CWFL will continue to provide programming and funding support for CWFL Fellows who are working to address violence. Your gift helps us expand this work and continue equipping women leaders who stand on the front lines of justice and healing.
Support the movement and make a donation at www.thescarfproject.org.