#NiUnaMenos: Thousands march in Lima, Peru against gender violence

World Today

Thousands march in Lima, Peru against gender violence

On Saturday, thousands will march in Lima against gender violence. Protests have been held in Mexico, Bolivia, Colombia, Argentina and Brazil this year. Peru is the latest country in the region to hold #NiUnaMenos or ‘Not one less’ march. The organizers aim to raise awareness and pressure the government to tackle violence against women.

CCTV’s Dan Collyns reports.

Following a spate of attacks. Peru’s new Minister for Women Ana Maria Romero talked about why the march is so important.

“I believe the march this Saturday is a cry against impunity, it’s a cry for equal rights and the decent treatment of women. I believe this march will be a milestone, marking a before and after,” said Romero. “That’s why for us it’s fundamental to eradicate the macho and homophobic culture in our country because according to our constitution all Peruvians have equal rights and equal opportunities.”

Domestic violence activist and victim Cindy Arlette Contreras on machismo culture

Romero also stated Peru has third most sexual violence in the world. That is a record which simply causes indignation. Every month, 10 women are victims of femicide and 20 women have suffered attempted femicide.

“Our problem is not a lack of legislation, it is how we apply the law,” said Romero. “Those in charge of justice need more sensitivity and a better understanding of the rights of the women who look for justice.”

She also said victims of violence need better attention. Peru has 245 emergency women’s centers which provide psychological and legal assistance, as well as protection through women’s shelters.

But, will the #NiUnaMenos march make a difference to the way women are treated in Peru?

“This march is not the end, it’s not the goal,” Romero said. “It’s a start down the right road because we can count on many Peruvians who have united against a machista violence which should be eradicated from our behavior and our culture…. That belongs in a primitive time and has no place in the 21st century.”