“Militarism as an ideology creates a culture of fear and supports the use of aggression, violence and military interventions to settle disputes and enforcing economic and political interests of a few elites. Militarism presents violent forms of masculinity, which often has grave consequences for the safety and security of the population especially women and children”. IsisWICCE- Uganda

Violence against Women means any act that results in harm and disproportionately affects women. It is any threat or act (physical, emotional, sexual, and economic) directed at a girl or woman that causes harm and is meant to control. It happens to many women all over the world irrespective of race, nationality, culture, religion, age, color or class. The root cause of violence is attributed to unequal power relations between men and women in almost all facets of life.

Violence against Women was recognised as a violation of fundamental human rights in 1993, officially through the declaration of the Elimination of Violence against Women by the United Nations General assembly.

MILITARISM CAUSES MORE HARM TO WOMEN

In conflict and post conflict situations, women by virtual of their gender become an easy target to abuse. In such situations, sexual violence (an act that limits a woman’s power over her body, her sexuality or her reproductive health) is at its peak.

Sexual violence includes;

· Forced Sex-Being physically forced into having sex, by a partner, acquaintance or stranger (Rape)
· Transactional sex- Being pressured into having sex in exchange for money or material assistance
· Sexual Assault- Unwanted attention of contact
· Coerced Sex- Being forced to have sex without protection or with the knowledge/fear of exposure to HIV

Sexual violence is a very common yet often hidden problem in our communities. Very few men and women identify their experiences as sexual violence. This all happens as a result of power imbalance between women and men. And one of the major consequences of violence against women is HIV infection.

Conclusion

Violence against women harms us all, Not only does it harm the women and girls, it also harms boys and men, our families, friends & neighbours. We must challenge militarism and end Violence against women.

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By Maureen Agena