We must end violence against women -- minister |26 November 2009

“Once again this year, we join the international community in raising awareness and committing ourselves to end violence against women.

“This year’s international theme – Commit, Act, Demand: We can end violence against women – is a call for greater commitment and action so that together we can bring an end to this scourge that continues to affect millions around the world.

“Here in Seychelles, the government and its partners are committed. We have made some progress in addressing the challenges of violence against women. We have undertaken studies so we can better understand the complexities that victims of violence, mostly women, face.

“On the basis of our findings we have formulated and are currently implementing a national strategy against domestic violence. These may be small steps, but they also serve as stepping stones towards greater action.

“Our government is committed to ensuring that the human rights of each man, woman and child are respected and observed. We have set up the necessary frameworks in Seychelles to ensure the protection and equal treatment of all our citizens. I wish to reiterate that we cannot just ‘legislate’ away the problem of family or domestic violence.

“Therefore, once again, I take the opportunity to call on all Seychellois to join our efforts to end violence against women. This violation of the dignity of our fellow human beings must come to an end.

“We are living in challenging times and we all need to pull together to ensure the continued development of our families and country. Besides introducing laws and strategies, we also need a change of mindset, otherwise all our efforts will be in vain.

“That is why it is important for everyone to know and value their rights as human beings. Each child, each man and each woman must learn to respect the rights of their fellow human beings.

“So let us, during this year’s 16 Days of Activism, join together in the spirit of Koste Seselwa to show our concern and commitment to make our families and country free from the scourge of violence.”