Dunya: Ensuring safety of women more important than presents

Former Foreign Minister Dunya Maumoon has stated that in celebrating International Women’s Day, ensuring the safety and protection of women is more important than giving presents such as chocolates and flowers.

She remarked this in an interview given to Sun on the occasion of International Women’s Day.

Dunya had stressed that the number of women falling victim to rape, sexual violence and harassment is increasing day by day. Noting there to be laws pertaining to such crimes, she questioned whether victims of rape actually receive justice.

“In giving us presents, (I) am saying please give the rights we are entitled to. The respective we deserve. To protect us. The most important thing for us women is our safety,” she had said.

“(We) always hear stories of violence against women. Even though there is a law, us women and young girls do not live because we feel very safe,” she added.

Dunya noted that there was still much to be done to overcome the difficulties faced by women. She highlighted matters such as increasing the financial independence of women and the work that needs to be done to achieve this.  

Pointing out the voice of women in the political arena was little, Dhunya said that women’s role in decision-making on national levels was significantly low as well.

Dunya, who also serve as Maldives National Party’s (MNP) Women’s Wing leader, said that there was no way to seek justice for women from the moment they become a victim of violence at present.

“No justice when something happens. Our society does not have the care required either. For example, there is no shelter for girls. There is no proper and affordable child care service for women who are employed. These are important things too,” she had said.

In concluding her interview, Dunya called on the government to guarantee the rights of women and ensure their safety and security within society and at home.