Observing Elimination of Violence against Women and Girls Day in Bhutan

Today I had one of the best weekdays in this month.  Around 8am, I joined the nationwide walk to observe Elimination of Violence Against Women Day in Bhutan as well as around the globe. According to UN’s theme, “Orange the World: End Violence Against Women and Girls,” I too dressed up in orange color and joined orange campaign. I felt good to meet my high school friends during the approximately 3 hours walk.

To say few words about women and girls in Bhutan on this day, I would say that our women and girls are very fortunate to be born as women and girls in Bhutan. It is because though we do have existence of gender discrimination and violence in our country, it is not as severe as those gender violence and discrimination that exist in the countries outside of our country. However, by saying that we should not stop working on rules and regulations, awareness programs, education system and laws which promote gender equality and narrows the gap between male and female. This day is not just for women and girls. It should be observed by all the people because women and girls’ problem is society’s problem. It is a day for us to thank those people who contributed towards ensuring gender equality and equity. It is a day for us to show our support for our women and girls. 

  If mothers have faced any kind of violence, be it physical, sexual or economic, she should share it with her sons. So that he treat his sisters, girlfriends and wife differently. Women and girls should not hide the violence and discrimination they face, be it in their working environment or at home.  Government should ensure an environment in which women get equal access to education, job, health and any kind of opportunities that help women to be independent and successful. Men should treat women with respect and care and never undermine women based on their gender. Teacher should teach their students about the importance of equal representation of men and women in terms of building our nation and making it happier, healthier and greener.