Women’s rights are human rights

Violence against women and girls does not happen by chance or by accident. It occurs because of systemic and institutionalized patriarchy. And the rhetoric and actions of President Duterte and those who emulate him reflect this deep-seated problem in our culture.

His sexist and antiwomen statements that often relegate women to mere punch lines undermine women’s issues. The social cost of his macho posturing is real and not merely imagined.

Online and offline, violence against women and girls is increasing, in the form of rape threats, sexual harassment and the like.

The blatant disregard for women’s rights and the continuing perpetuation and normalization of violence against women and girls — especially sexual violence — are ultimately human rights violations.

As we celebrated International Human Rights Day on Monday, the fundamental truth that women’s rights ARE human rights needs to be affirmed more than ever during the Duterte administration.

Mr. Duterte has not only been remiss in protecting women’s rights, but has also continuously and aggressively violated his obligation to uphold these rights.

As long as women are sidelined and marginalized, as long as women’s issues are cast aside and prioritized the least, as long as violence against women and girls persist, we will never tire of exposing, opposing and resisting Mr. Duterte’s authoritarian and antiwomen regime.

WOMEN’S LEGAL AND HUMAN RIGHTS BUREAU,
Quezon City