ITF launches guide to fighting violence against women

Global union the ITF (International Transport Workers’ Federation) is launching a guide on how to combat violence against women as part of its support for the UN Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women on Monday, 25 November.

The 50 page ITF action guide on violence against women is designed to empower trade unions to take direct action against the worldwide problem, and can be downloaded now from www.itfglobal.org/infocentre/pubs.cfm/detail/41208.

The new action guide examines the enormity of the problem, including its manifestations in the form of trafficking, workplace violence, and female genital mutilation; records ITF-affiliated union campaigns to tackle it; offers campaign tools for fighting the violence; and includes a list of available further resources.

Diana Holland, chair of the ITF’s women’s committee, explained: “Millions of women worldwide today face physical and mental aggression and brutality – domestic violence and abuse, sexual assault, sexual harassment, violence at work, economic violence and human trafficking. This is a denial of their human rights and fundamental freedoms.”

“We are proud to introduce this guide for unions who want to play their part in ending the scourge of violence against women. We hope to inspire more action by highlighting some of their successes, and by sharing fresh ideas, information and resources to support campaigning.”

ITF president Paddy Crumlin added: “Most men treat women and girls with respect. But others use contempt and violence, and it is up to the majority of men to help create a culture in which this is wholly unacceptable.”

He continued: “This guide is a tool for unions in their ongoing fight against this global problem. It shows how we can all, men and women alike, take responsibility for confronting this disgusting behaviour. Unions are at the forefront of campaigning against this violence against women and for equal rights in the workplace. That’s part of building better, stronger unions and better, healthier societies.”