Philipsburg- Leader of Government Commissioner Sarah Wescot-Williams, says that International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women marked on 25 November each year, is an opportunity to focus on a problem that affects people throughout the world including St. Maarten.
Violent crimes against women and girls - like domestic violence, sexual assault and people trafficking - are committed every day and it affects everyone in the communities in which these acts are perpetuated. Research has revealed that at least one out of every three women is likely to be beaten, coerced into sex or otherwise abused during her lifetime.
This year 2008 marks the 60th anniversary of the universal declaration of human rights.
"Research has also shown that the effects from domestic violence are long lasting, often spilling over from one generation to the next.
"The tragedy is that it sometimes becomes a normal part of life for people caught in its grip - a tragedy that is repeated over and over again.
"Our St. Maarten community must continue to take a strong stance against this type of behavior and work tirelessly and collectively toward its elimination.
"We can't turn a blind eye or close it out, because it foes not touch us directly. You can close doors and windows to what happens next door, but the scourge on our community remains.
"The nature of the violence being committed against our women and children in particular is disturbing. Only think of the attack on a young mother and her baby several weeks ago, resulting in their untimely deaths.
"Women play an important role in nurturing and caring for children, men, the elderly and family members. When women become victims of violence, entire communities are affected, as everyone suffers.
"As a nation, as a community, we cannot allow or tolerate the vicious cycle of violence to continue. We must all join in the fight to eliminate this scourge. Violence against women and children is a violation of human rights and undermines efforts of gender equality.
"This year the men of our nation are called upon in particular to let their voices be heard as they too speak out against violence. Our young men need to hear clearly from their elders that this type of behavior is not acceptable and that the consequences of such for our society are grave.
"Women need to set the example for young girls. Being abused is not cool and it is not a demonstration of love or caring.
"As a nation, I call upon us all to re-commit ourselves to take a concerted stand for the elimination of violence in all its forms against women and children. Let us combat the attitudes and behavior, and excuses that condone violence against women. Let both genders work together, united to put an end to violence against women," Leader of Government Commissioner Sarah Wescot-Williams said.
