Statement by the Bahrain Women Union On the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women – November 25

Driven by a deep humanitarian and societal commitment to safeguarding women and preserving their dignity, and in conjunction with the observance of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women on November 25 each year, Bahrain Women Union reaffirms its unwavering stance against all forms of violence inflicted upon women—whether physical, psychological, economic, social, or digital.

The Union commends the Kingdom of Bahrain for its pioneering legislative and institutional strides in enhancing the protection of women, most notably the enactment of the Law on Protection from Domestic Violence. It also acknowledges the vital role played by both governmental and civil society institutions in providing support, empowerment, and assistance to women and girls. The Union, alongside other women’s associations, emphasizes the importance of continuing to develop national policies that improve the quality of life for women and families, and that reinforce social stability and security.

In parallel, the Union expresses deep concern over the escalating violence against women and girls in conflict and war zones, where they endure the gravest violations of their physical, psychological, and human security. In particular, the Union highlights the unprecedented levels of violence and severe violations faced by Palestinian women under occupation and systematic oppression. These women are subjected to killings, direct targeting, forced displacement, loss of shelter, arbitrary detention, sexual violence, and deprivation of basic necessities such as healthcare, food, water, and electricity. Palestinian women bear the brunt of displacement and family responsibilities under extremely harsh humanitarian conditions, making their protection an urgent moral and international imperative.

Bahrain Women Union also denounces all forms of violence against women in other conflict-affected countries, including Yemen, Syria, and Sudan, where women face death, displacement, hunger, and insecurity. This reality demands decisive international action to safeguard their fundamental rights.

The Union calls on the international community to intensify efforts to implement relevant international conventions, ensure accountability for perpetrators of violations, and provide humanitarian, psychological, and legal support to affected women—guaranteeing their safety, dignity, and right to life.

On this global day, Bahrain Women Union proudly stands in solidarity with women around the world, honoring the ongoing struggle against all forms of gender-based violence and renewing its commitment to building a safe, just, and equitable society for Bahraini women.

The Union stresses that combating violence in all its forms is a national, societal, and moral responsibility that cannot be delayed or neglected. Violence against women does not affect individuals alone—it shakes the very foundations of society and hinders the path toward development and social justice. Therefore, addressing this issue requires collective action from government institutions, the private sector, civil society, and individuals alike.

Despite the remarkable achievements of Bahraini women across various fields, challenges persist—particularly domestic violence, which remains one of the most pressing issues facing women and girls in our society. These challenges call for serious reflection, stricter legislation, effective protection mechanisms, and educational curricula that promote a culture of respect and equality.

The Union emphasizes the need to:

-       Develop national legislation that ensures comprehensive protection for women against all forms of violence.

-       Promote a culture of reporting and facilitate women’s access to support and protection services.

-       Raise public awareness of the dangers of violence and its long-term psychological and social impacts.

-       Empower women economically and socially to reduce vulnerability and dependence.

-       Support survivors of violence psychologically, legally, and socially, and provide safe environments for healing and empowerment.

-       Promote a societal culture that respects women and rejects discrimination.

-       Strengthen cooperation between civil society organizations and official institutions to develop joint initiatives for prevention and response.

-       Engage men and youth as essential partners in awareness and behavioral change.

-       Support youth and school-based initiatives that foster values of respect, equality, and empathy.

On this day,  Bahrain Women Union calls on all state institutions, civil society organizations, and media entities to continue working collaboratively to confront this issue and build a society founded on justice, equality, and human rights.

The Union reaffirms its unwavering commitment to protecting and empowering women, defending their rights, and launching programs and initiatives that ensure their safety, dignity, and well-being—believing that women’s dignity is the cornerstone of societal progress and sustainable development.

Wishing the women of Bahrain and the world peace, safety, and dignity—today and always.