Prime Minister participated in the event “Legally Bold: Rewriting Laws to End Violence Against Women.”

ORANJESTAD – During the Commission on the Status of Women conference at the United Nations, outgoing Prime Minister Evelyn Wever-Croes, along with Sint Maarten’s Plenipotentiary Minister Gracita Arrindell, took part in the event “Legally Bold: Rewriting Laws to End Violence Against Women”, organized by the Czech Republic.

This event focused on legal issues related to violence against women. The topic brought forward by the Aruban Prime Minister was “hate speech” and “cybercrime” against women, a growing issue in Aruba.

During her speech, the Prime Minister outlined the actions Aruba has taken on this matter, including legislation designed to protect women and girls and ensure justice for victims. She highlighted the Domestic Violence Law, which provides a clear legal framework for addressing domestic abuse, offering protection, and ensuring legal possibilities without delay for victims. Additionally, she discussed the National Gender Policy, which addresses critical areas such as gender-based violence, economic empowerment, and social protection.

Despite Aruba’s significant achievements, the work is far from done. To continue fighting gender-based violence, we must continuously amend legislation to address emerging threats such as cyber harassment and online abuse. The digital era has introduced new forms of violence that require innovative legal solutions and a strong commitment to developing legislation specifically targeting these issues. However, prevention is just as important. Investing in education and awareness campaigns and fostering collaboration with civil society organizations, businesses, and international partners is crucial.

The Prime Minister called on all nations to join forces in strengthening laws that protect women, hold perpetrators accountable, and create a world where women can live free from violence. Together, we can build a future where gender-based violence is not permitted and where justice and equality prevail.