The ninth session of the 2024 WEPs Deep-Dive Series on Private Sector Tackles Violence Against Women Heads On began with insightful remarks by Adriana Quinones, Head of Human Rights and Development at UN Women, and Vera Rios, Communications and Stakeholder Engagement Consultant at UN Women in Geneva. The speakers emphasized the critical role of companies to challenge harmful social norms, behaviours and stereotypes that perpetuate gender inequality and contribute to gender-based violence. They underscored an alarming statistic: in 2023, a woman was killed by her partner or family member every 10 minutes.
Lisa Felton, Director of Vodafone Foundation, outlined Vodafone’s global policies towards addressing domestic violence, including a dedicated paid safe leave policy, workplace safety and support measures. Felton also introduced Bright Sky, a mobile app developed by Vodafone to provide local resources, advice, and a secure space for victims to document incidents.
Alexandre Bourgaut, Chief Digital Officer of Pomellato, shared the company’s initiatives to promote gender equality and combat violence, such as hiring women at all levels, offering resources to support colleagues experiencing domestic violence and hosting an annual event on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women to raise awareness.
Nodar Andguladze, Player Welfare Director of the Georgian Rugby Union, highlighted the organization’s efforts to address gender-based violence through billboards, school workshops, and petitions at international tournaments. He stressed the significant influence that athletes have, particularly on young people, in spreading these messages.
Following these remarks, Anna Falth, Global Head of the Women’s Empowerment Principles, reflected on the central message from the panellists: everyone in the workplace—managers and employees alike—has a critical role in addressing violence against women. The discussion concluded with a focus on the role of boys and men in transforming a culture of gender-based violence. Participants emphasized that their involvement is essential and must be guided by the principle of gender equality. They also pointed to data showing that men’s increased participation in household responsibilities significantly reduces domestic violence, underscoring the importance of corporate paternal leave policies in driving this change.
Overall, the session highlighted the vital role of the private sector and individuals at all levels in combating violence against women.
Listen to the webinar recording here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QdeOt5RYNDg.