New podcast to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women

The 25^th of November marks the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, an initiative that calls for action to end all forms of discrimination and gender-based violence against women and girls.

Violence against women and girls occurs in many forms, including domestic violence, sexual assault and harassment, child, early and forced marriage, trafficking, and online through cyber violence and hate speech.

To discuss these issues, Commission staff were delighted to interview Marie Brown in the latest episode of our Shared Goals podcast series. Marie is the CEO of Foyle Women’s Aid and the Foyle Family Justice Centre, and has successfully led key developments and a wide range of projects supporting women, children and young people who are victims and survivors of domestic and sexual abuse across the Foyle area.

During the interview Ms Brown discusses the causes of violence against women, the impact of recent measures designed to tackle violence against women, and the support available for women and their families who have experienced abuse – including at the Foyle Family Justice Centre.

Recent research found that 98 per cent of women in Northern Ireland and 73 per cent of girls aged 12 to 17 years in NI reported having experienced at least one form of violence in their lifetime. Over the past year, the PSNI recorded 33,210 domestic abuse incidents, a trend that has been increasing since records began in 2004. Depending on the violation, it can deprive a woman of her right to life; the right not to be tortured or treated in an inhuman and degrading way; her right to respect for private and family life; right to bodily autonomy; and the right not to be discriminated against.

Alyson Kilpatrick, Chief Commissioner of the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission, said:

“We are thrilled to have Marie Brown contribute to our podcast series. This is a critical issue, on which Marie has been leading for decades. Violence against women and girls is one of the most widespread, pervasive and devastating human rights violations in the world today. We’re grateful to Marie for joining us and sharing her experience, insight and recommendations on this topic.”

Speaking about the issue, Marie Brown, said:

“I am really delighted to have been included in this series of podcasts, a brilliant way to have conversations around such important issues. It was a great opportunity for me to bring to light the harrowing experiences of women and girls suffering violence and abuse, more importantly what needs to be done so that we take serious action to eradicate domestic terrorism against women and girls in Northern Ireland.”

To listen to the podcast click here, or search for ‘Shared Goals’ wherever you listen to your podcasts.

This episode is hosted by Commission staff Emma Osborne and Lisa Wilson, and edited by Jason McKeown.

ENDS

For queries contact media@nihrc.org

Notes

PSNI stats found at: Domestic Abuse Statistics | PSNI

For more information about women’s rights and violence against women in Northern Ireland, you can read more at this link to our Annual Statement: Publication - Annual Statement 2022 | Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission (nihrc.org)

About Foyle Women’s Aid

Foyle Women’s Aid is a charity based in Derry/Londonderry, Northern Ireland. They work to eliminate domestic abuse and sexual violence, through raising awareness, preventive educational advice & support.

For more information see: www.foylewomensaid.org