02/12/2009

Discussion on domestic violence in the Bolivar Hall

Under the title "Extreme forms of violence against women: Femicide in Mexico and Central America" the Central American Women's Network, held a workshop with great success under the same name.

During the seminars, the attendees had the opportunity to watch a series of videos about the problems and adversities experienced by women in Central America.

The panellists emphasized the positive influence of women in the healthy development of a country, as stated by Professor Julia Monarrez: "Governments need to pay greater attention to single and homeless mothers. In Central America there are a lot of destitute women who can barely feed their children, not even mentioning a decent education for their kids. This greatly increases the risk of these children to end up in the streets as criminals”.

Professor Monárrez (Ciudad Juarez, Mexico), revealed high rates of violence in Ciudad de Juárez including domestic violence against women who are murdered in their own homes.

Professor Mirta Kennedy from Honduras said: "In Honduras, in particular the index of raped women has increased sharply in recent months, especially after the coup. Prior to the cup, the index was 40 women died by cause of domestic violence a year, however, over the past four months after the coup, the numbers have risen to 335 deaths, rape and abuses towards women. "

According to Mrs. Kennedy, this is due to abuses by state security bodies which repress women's groups who protest against the de facto government. “The problems facing these countries are similar to the ones in the rest of the world where this group's struggle to assert the rights of women, which would result in a society more prosperous and stable”.

Finally Miss Katherine Ronderos noted the lack of commitment by governments in this fight.

"Neither the budget of organizations such as UNIFEN, nor the resource dedication of governments is enough to deal with this struggle” said Ronderos and added: "In many cases this is due to the diversion of funds which may have been destined towards women’s organizations but it have never reached the hands of them"

This event was attended by approximately 40 people, mostly ladies.