Laws to End Violence Against Women (Thematic Output)

    The issue of Violence Against Women (VAW) is a very present matter worldwide, and millions of women are impacted by it, not the least of which are Filipino women. As indicated in the 2022 National Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS), almost one in five Filipino women has either been emotionally, physically, or sexually abused by her intimate partner. This sad truth indicates how much more stringent laws and better-supported community systems have to be before women can be free from violence and abuse. In various disguises, VAW manifests from verbal and psychological abuse to that which tortures the body, and up to cases of sexual assault. These do not only affect victims individually but also result in several enumerated effects spreading over families and entire communities. VAW, therefore, calls for collective legal and social attitude changes.

    

    One of the key laws that seeks to protect women and children from violence in the Philippines is Republic Act (RA) 9262, or the Anti-Violence against Women and Their Children Act of 2004. This act is intended to provide a complete protective cover for all women and children who are victims of any kind of abuse. It includes different kinds of violence against women and children, such as physical, psychological, sexual, and economic abuse under this law. The victims may thus choose from various legal remedies available under the act, such as protection orders that prohibit the abuser from getting close to the victim, among others. The law also entitles victims to different government assistance and support services. With RA 9262, the woman finds the tools necessary to empower herself, such as those to get out of abusive places and seek justice. This is not only about accountability for abusers but also prevention of further offenses.

    Another one is the Anti-Sexual Harassment Act of 1995 (Republic Act 7877). This law deals mainly with that subject in its relation to workplaces, educational institutions, and other institutions. Sexual harassment manifests itself in a number of different forms-from physical advances to direct comments or behaviors that are unwelcome. This legislation is of paramount importance as it provides sanctity to the safety of women and the others falling under this vulnerable category from harassment in spaces where they should feel comfortable and respected. This would have established clear policies at which responsibilities should be taken on both causing action and realization of the need for safety. It provides an avenue toward creating safer and more equitable spaces for women. It starts to eliminate the power dynamics that encourage this type of behavior to take place in schools, offices, and public spaces.

    The Safe Spaces Act (RA 11313), enacted in 2019, enhances the protection of any woman from acts of harassment in public places and virtual spaces. Indeed, the law establishes that the act of harassment is not confined to physical places, like streets and offices; instead, it may also happen in cyberspace. The Safe Spaces Act prohibits acts such as catcalling, stalking, and online harassment, thereby ensuring that women are secure from unwelcome attention or threats within and outside their lives. There is a need for such a law in the present digital age wherein women are often abused online. All types of harassment, both physical and cyber, are tackled by this Safe Spaces Act, thereby contributing to the plight of women for a more conducive and respectful society.

    Last but certainly not the least, The Expanded Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2022 (RA 11862) concerns a form of violence and exploitation-human trafficking. This is one of the world's principal issues, and it generally affects women and children as subjects of the worst forms of exploitation. This law effectively strengthens existing anti-trafficking laws by providing for heavier penalties imposed on traffickers and improved services to victims of trafficking. It punishes all forms of human trafficking, from sex trafficking to forced labor, thus safeguarding women and children from the scourge of modern slavery. This act is, hence, the Philippines' answer to aspiring for a nation that rays a light of protection onto women from all forms of exploitation and hence forth enhanced dignity and human rights protection.

    These laws do safeguard women, but only if well understood and fully in implementation. Laws can protect women from violence, but real societal change is needed for women's equal treatment, their respect, and support. Awareness campaigns, education, and discussions about gender equality play an important role in changing harmful attitudes, thus breaking the cycle. Schools, workplaces, and communities come together to create places where women feel valued and safe.

  

      Ending violence against women is not only a legal issue, rather it is a moral and social responsibility. Each and every one of us has an active role in standing up against abuse, supporting victims, and ensuring that the laws designed for women's security get ingenuity. In adoration and advocacy for gender equality through freedom from intimidation, it becomes possible to live in society free from fear for women and children. It becomes our collective responsibility to ensure that women can live in dignity, can live with respect, and can live safely.

References:

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