Everyone Must Recognise Systemic Violence Against Queer Women

November 25 is the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, and emphasises the urgent need to address and prevent such violence. This year, women in the Middle East face heightened violence amid the Israel-Palestine conflict. This has further burdened vulnerable groups, including women, children, older adults, and the LGBT+ community.

The battle turns supposed safe spaces into dangerous environments exacerbating the challenges faced by those whose experiences of violence are often overlooked, such as transgender, intersex, lesbian, and bisexual individuals.

In the face of historical oppression, resilient women continue to resist. From transgender individuals challenging patriarchal norms to lesbian and bisexual women defying societal rejection, their resistance lives. Despite the patriarchal system’s efforts, power dynamics affecting women are evolving showing  growing solidarity. As we condemn violence against women on this day, the call is clear: recognise and combat the double oppression faced by sexual and gender minority women and advocate for an inclusive society with equitable opportunities for all, irrespective of their identities.