Stories Category: Feminist movements

Voices of Change: the impact of ASOGEN in the fight against gender-based violence 

Written in conversation with Danessa Luna, Executive Director, Asociación Generando Equidad, Liderazgo y Oportunidades (ASOGEN)

In Guatemala, a country marked by violence, corruption, and inequality, the Asociación Generando Equidad, Liderazgo y Oportunidades (ASOGEN) stands as a steadfast ally in the fight against gender-based violence. In this series of articles, we explore emblematic cases of feminist mobilizations in the region, highlighting their achievements and challenges. In the previous article, we focused on our coalition member Ruta Pacífica in Colombia. In this new piece, we focus on ASOGEN, which works tirelessly to support victims and raise awareness about the need for structural changes. The movements organized by ASOGEN not only highlight the demands for justice and equity but also strengthen solidarity among Guatemalan women. The resilience and hope are palpable in every action led by ASOGEN, profoundly impacting the community and pushing towards a more just and secure future. 

The fight against gender-based violence in Guatemala 

Guatemala is a country facing numerous challenges, including high levels of violence, corruption, and inequality. The country ranks very low and scores poorly on many indicators in our 2022 SDG Gender Index. Gang violence, mass migration to Mexico and the United States, and the lack of access to job opportunities are part of this challenging context. Additionally, deeply ingrained cultural norms and a conservative environment further hinder the struggle for women’s rights. Traditional gender expectations and prevailing machismo create additional barriers for women seeking justice and equity. 

Despite these barriers, organizations like ASOGEN continue their fight against violence towards women in Guatemala. They operate in two main departments: Chimaltenango and Sacatepéquez (in the centre), providing legal and psychosocial support to victims of violence and working on advocacy at the national level. 

The path of hope and justice 

ASOGEN at the starting point of the march. Photo credits: ASOGEN

On March 8, ASOGEN organized a mobilization in Guatemala that began in front of the juvenile court and ended at the National Civil Police commissioner, where they presented a petition. 

One of the highlights of the mobilization was when the judge emphasized the importance of reporting and preventing violence against adolescents and girls, a message that resonated deeply among the participants and became a call to action for the entire community. 

One activist passionately shared: “For the life, security, and rights of women, we will continue walking and demanding that these rights be freely exercised by all, for them, for us, and for others we will keep walking.” 

Representatives of ASOGEN expressed their satisfaction with the event’s impact, highlighting how it strengthened solidarity among women and increased public awareness about gender violence and the need for structural changes in Guatemala. 

A new President, a new commitment 

The arrival of a new president, Bernardo Arévalo, has brought a ray of hope for women’s rights organizations in Guatemala. Supported by social movements, Arévalo has committed to listening to and addressing demands for justice and equity. This change in leadership is seen as an opportunity to advance key issues and work towards a more just future. 

An example of this commitment was demonstrated on March 8, when President Arévalo, accompanied by Vice President Karin Herrera, publicly apologized on behalf of the Guatemalan state for the death of Claudina Isabel Velásquez Paiz, a tragic case of violence and state negligence that occurred in August 2005. This act complied with a ruling from the Inter-American Court of Human Rights and represented a commitment to justice and reparation for victims of human rights violations. 

Looking to the future: the struggle continues 

Despite the advances, many problems remain unresolved. ASOGEN and its allies are determined to continue their struggle. They plan to hold future mobilizations and advocacy activities to maintain pressure on the government and ensure that promises translate into concrete actions. The next steps include monitoring the promises made by the authorities, continuing to train women in human rights, and strengthening support networks for victims of violence. 

March 8 was not only remembered but lived and fought for. The women of Guatemala, with their bravery and determination, demonstrated that solidarity and collective commitment can transform society. Through their voices and actions, they inspired entire communities to envision and work towards a future where gender equality is a tangible reality, a future where every March 8 is both a celebration of achievements and a reminder of ongoing struggles. 

To learn more about the actions on March 8th of another coalition member, Ruta Pacífica, in Colombia, don’t miss our article dedicated to their tireless work for peace and justice. 

 

Women on the move: feminist mobilisations for peace in Colombia 

Written in conversation with Shima Pardo, Programme Coordinator, La Ruta Pacífica de las Mujeres.

In Latin America, feminist movements continue to play a crucial role in the fight for peace and social justice. In this series of articles, we explore emblematic cases of feminist mobilisations in the region, highlighting their achievements and challenges. In this article, we focus on our coalition member, Ruta Pacífica in Colombia, an example of how organisation and solidarity can transform realities marked by violence and inequality. Next, we analyze the experience of the Asociación Generando Equidad, Liderazgo y Oportunidades (ASOGEN) in Guatemala, another story of struggle and hope. 

Ruta Pacífica: a path of resistance and transformation in Colombia 

On March 8th, International Women’s Day, Istmina, a municipality in the heart of Chocó, witnessed a powerful mobilisation of unity and resistance. Afro-descendant, indigenous, and mestizo women gathered for a mobilisation organized by Ruta Pacífica, a network of more than 300 women’s collectives dedicated to peace and justice in Colombia. 

This year’s mobilisation had a special significance due to the current context. Since the signing of the peace agreements in 2016 between the Colombian government and the FARC, violence was expected to decrease. However, in regions like Chocó, armed conflicts continue to affect communities. This department, rich in biodiversity and with a strategic location, has long been a battleground for illegal armed groups such as FARC dissidents, the Clan del Golfo, and the ELN. These groups impose their control through extortions, massacres, and forced displacements, with women and children being the most vulnerable victims. 

Moreover, this mobilisation is framed within the Action Plan for the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325, which emphasizes the importance of women’s participation in building peace and security. Resolution 1325, adopted in 2000, calls on member states to ensure women’s representation at all decision-making levels in peace and security processes. Ruta Pacífica seeks to amplify women’s voices and protect and promote their rights throughout the country. 

The strength of a network: organization and coordination of a ‘Comadreo’ 

Ruta Pacífica is a feminist movement composed of a vast network with representatives across the country, facilitating the organization and coordination of the mobilisation. This year, they decided to organize “A Permanent Comadreo for Peace.” More than just a simple mobilisation, the “comadreo” aimed to make women’s demands visible and draw attention to the ongoing violence they face in Chocó. 

All mobilisations convened by Ruta Pacífica require a minimum preparation period of one year, and the mobilisation to Istmina was no exception. Dialogues were established with local institutions in Istmina and the Chocó department, informing them that a group of 1,800 women would meet in this territory, requiring visibility and protection from the entire community and regional institutions. 

Given the long distances to travel to Chocó, women from the Putumayo department – in southern Colombia – began their journey on March 5. Women from the Cauca department joined on March 6th, and they continued toward Chocó. Women from Valle del Cauca (western Colombia) and Eje Cafetero (northeast Colombia) joined in, entering from the southeastern zone of the department. On March 7th, they arrived in Quibdó, the departmental capital, where a first political and symbolic stop was made, and all the women who would participate in the mobilisation from Quibdó gathered. 

Each regional coordinator of Ruta Pacífica was responsible for a group of women, preparing them to understand the purpose of the mobilisation: “to highlight the grave human rights situation in the department and the need for peace from the voice and sentiment of women.” 

Marching toward hope: challenges and resilience 

More than 1,200 women arrived in Istmina on the night of March 7th, preparing for the significant event on March 8th. Over 600 women from 15 municipalities in Chocó mobilised from 5 a.m. on March 8th. In total, more than 1,800 women advanced in the permanent comadreo. 

As they moved forward, their steps echoed with the demands for peace and justice. The path was not easy; each kilometre travelled was laden with bitter memories of violence and displacement. 

Safety was a constant concern, as Chocó remains a dangerous territory due to the presence of illegal armed groups. The women marched together, moving in large, organised groups to protect each other. 

Throughout the journey, the local community showed their support from windows and doors, offering words of encouragement and improvised refreshments. The participants, united in their diversity, sang songs of hope and solidarity, demonstrating that their struggle was not only against violence but also for dignity and recognition of their rights. 

Beyond the results: the power of advocacy 

Although the mobilisation did not seek immediate and tangible results, it served as a powerful advocacy tool. The women called for the guarantee of life, freedom, and integrity for all women and children. They demanded an end to the murders of young people and a deep respect for women’s rights as decision-makers. According to UN Women statistics, more than 2 million women and girls in Colombia are exposed to high risks of gender-based violence, disproportionately impacting Indigenous and Afro-descendant communities in the Pacific region. This underscores the urgency of their inclusion in peace processes. 

The March 8 event was a reminder of the power of solidarity and women’s resilience in their fight for a better future. Through these actions, Ruta Pacífica continues its mission to transform the reality of women in Colombia, demonstrating that hope and determination are stronger than any armed conflict. 

Nasaret Pulido C., a resident of the capital and an activist with Ruta Pacífica for six years, was one of the participants who traveled from Bogotá with nine other women, spending 24 hours on each journey. She commented that, although the long distance and extended time on the bus to Istmina were exhausting, it was well worth it because it was one of the most impactful experiences of her life. The mere fact of meeting so many women from different parts of the country, seeing their symbolic representations from their respective territories, and witnessing their resilience, joy, and determination despite the violence they endure was priceless. Being part of a unified voice to declare that women, when united, are strong, powerful, and unstoppable in demanding their right to live free, happy, and without any form of violence. She added that being in the Chocoan territory was the most beautiful experience, for the beauty of its people, the joy of the women and girls, their happy eyes despite any internal sadness. A thousand times over, Nasaret would participate in a Ruta Pacífica mobilisation to shout that “Peace is Unstoppable” for everyone. 

Ruta Pacífica’s mobilisation in Colombia demonstrates the strength and resilience of women in their struggle for peace and social justice. Through solidarity and organization, these women have created a powerful movement that continues to challenge violence and oppression. This story of hope and determination is only part of the collective effort. In another piece, we explore the work of ASOGEN, another coalition member, in their fight against gender-based violence in Guatemala. 

Leading with Data: Our insights from Women Deliver 2023

Written by Esme Abbott, Communications Lead, Equal Measures 2030

In a world where progress towards gender equality has been limited, with only 28 countries witnessing tangible advancements*, and where the freedom for women to discuss political issues has deteriorated in recent years,  gatherings like the Women Deliver 2023 conference provide a critical space for meaningful discussions, solidarity building, and fostering accountability.

Whilst Equal Measures 2030 has found that global progress towards gender equality across the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is limited and slow, the data also reveals opportunities to accelerate progress.

Beyond the need to reform and enforce laws tackling inequality, and invest in public services, the data underscores the need to invest in, create space for and listen to feminist movements and the Women Deliver 2023 Conference embodies this principle.

A Milestone Gathering

With a congregation of over 6,300 advocates from 170 countries, including world leaders, grassroots advocates, youth, the private sector and government officials working on a broad range of gender equality issues, the conference aims to empower, strengthen and build solidarity amongst feminist movements, catalyse collective action and hold leaders accountable.

This year, saw the conference held on the African continent for the first time, and co-created with a global advisory committee, as Women Deliver focused on dismantling the barriers that have limited similar global convenings, such as visa restrictions. The reimagining and opening up of spaces allowed us to take the opportunity to ensure that a diverse range of voices were not just present but were actively heard and involved in shaping the discourse for a gender equal future. Aarushi Khanna, our Asia Pacific Regional Lead, captured this sentiment quite aptly

“We were thrilled to have such a strong and diverse presence with coalition partners from Asia, Africa and Latin America not only join us at the conference but also co-design our engagement at Women Deliver. With intersecting feminist principles at its core, a convening space like Women Deliver went beyond just being a big moment to amplify our collective voice but also created a platform to learn ways in which coalition partners could build more solidarity, convergence, and partnerships to strengthen our advocacy.”

Resisting the Tide of Opposition

Despite Women Deliver 2023 serving as a crucial platform for gender equality advocates to be heard and supported, our SDG Gender Index highlighted that, “for every advance for women’s voice, visibility and empowerment, we can see a ‘pushback’” and this conference was no different. The platforming of anti-rights advocates in the Opening Ceremony of Women Deliver (organized by the host country) was emblematic of the wider, global struggle of a well-funded, well-connected anti-rights movement encroaching in spaces meant to advance equality.  

Whilst this situation could have been demoralizing, the instant and formidable backlash from attendees was a clear indication of the power feminist movements have when they come together.

As Delphine O, French Ambassador and Secretary General of the Generation Equality Forum, noted in our event at Women Deliver 2023, we cannot predict the future when it comes to our fight against the anti-rights, anti-choice movements, but considering our strength, in numbers, in diversity and in our passion, there is no reason to lose hope.

“It is a battle of rights, but it is also, our survival in this world, so yes I am confident, we will win this battle”

Committing to a Gender Equal Future

Whilst the anti-rights movement is increasingly well-resourced, feminist movements and women’s rights organisations are critically underfunded. It was wonderful to witness commitments move beyond words, with the Government of Canada committing more than $200 million in funding to support Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights services, tackle inequalities in unpaid care work and end child marriage – an urgent issue as over 80 million girls could be forced to marry between now and 2030.

In addition, we saw Senegal’s President Macky Sall pledge 150 scholarships for Afghan girls attend The School of Leadership, Afghanistan (SOLA), the first and only boarding school for Afghan girls, which had to relocate to Rwanda after the Taliban returned to power.

Beyond commitments though, we need accountability and this was a key theme throughout the conference. We were proud to hear our Deputy Executive Director, Julisa Tambunan, highlight the power of data and evidence in accountability mechanisms during the plenary for Co-designing Gender Equality: The Role of Accountability in the Gender Equality Agenda.

“Data will tell us where we are making progress, helping us to spot opportunities and learn what is needed for radical progress to be possible.”

Unleashing the Power of Gender Data and Evidence-Driven Action

The emphasis on gender data emerged as a theme, not just in the plenary discussions but in the discussions we had with more than a thousand advocates visiting our booth where we used tools like our country profiles, data visualisations and gender equality calculator, to explore how our data applies to the variety of contexts attendees were working in.

Our efforts in data capacity development empower advocates, feminists, and women’s rights movements, and have resulted in a powerful community of #feministfactivists. Our Senior Data Capacity Lead, Coretta Jonah, has high hopes for the impact we saw during Women Deliver.

“We aspire for the hundreds of young advocates who’ve embraced the #feministfactivist identity through the stickers they picked at our booth to seamlessly integrate data into their daily work, becoming catalysts who amplify gender data’s impact.”

Gender data has a critical role to play in identifying where progress is and isn’t being made, and what kind of future our current efforts will deliver. Historical trends will not deliver global gender equality across the sustainable development goals until 2108!

If we took anything away from Women Deliver 2023, it is that women’s rights organizations and feminist advocates refuse to wait until 2108 for their rights! They refuse to listen to commitments be made without effective evidence-driven accountability mechanisms. They refuse to give up the fight against anti-rights movements no matter how many rights have been reversed. They refuse to be silenced.

Women Deliver 2023 offered a critical space for discussion, solidarity, and accountability in a world where progress on gender equality has been fragile and limited, and we were honored to have the privilege to attend, to raise our voice for a gender equal future and to connect with so many fierce advocates.

The struggle for gender equality goes beyond Women Deliver 2023, join us in the use of feminist factivism for a gender equal future by checking out the resources below:

Explore our SDG Gender Index for a snapshot of global progress towards gender equality across the SDGs between 2015 and 2020.

Explore our country profiles or our interactive gender equality calculator to see where progress on gender equality is at in your country.

Follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook, or sign up to our newsletter to stay up to date on a range of gender equality issues, our data and upcoming events!

*Tangible advancements refer to the 28 out of 135 countries we saw make ‘some progress’ between 2015 and 2020 in our 2022 SDG Gender Index – this is progress where their Index score increased by more than one point. You can learn more about our Index scoring here.

The Colombian Election: What does it mean for gender equality?

A conversation with the National Coordinator of La Ruta Pacifica, Marina Gallego Zapata, on what the recent Colombian election means for peace and equality.

This is the first election of left-wing president and a black woman as vice president. Why are these such significant victories for Colombia?

This election result is very significant as it’s the first time the Left in Colombia have come to power in the 200 years of this republic, so it’s a very new situation that has created a lot of hope in the population, especially in territories most affected by the armed conflict. The fact that Francia Márquez was elected – a black woman who comes from and represents these regions and communities – demonstrates that in Colombia things are moving. People in these regions feel it’s possible for their agendas to be taken into account by this alternative government, whose agenda is to overcome gaps in inequality between the centre and the periphery, which is not peripheral at all but is super important – the Pacific Coast, the Atlantic Coast, the south of the country. The whole border region is still affected by the armed conflict, so the idea of a government that can implement the peace agreement with the FARC and agree a peace deal with other armed groups generates lots of hope in these regions and the country in general, to overcome the conflict and have the possibility of true peace. Of course, there will always be conflicts but for the country to be able to dedicate itself to working on issues of inequality, economic, social and cultural problems, and for security to play just a small part like in other countries, that’s very important for us as Colombians. 

Was gender equality a central issue in the election campaign? What changes do you hope this result will bring for Colombian women? 

The theme of gender equality became important mainly in the second round when it became clear that women could be decisive in the vote but I must say the issue still was not at the centre of the campaign, nor is it at the centre of this government’s agenda or of the other candidate. So, we still have work to do but the expectation is that in this alternative government we will advance. Maybe we won’t be able to achieve everything that the feminist movement wants but there will be advances. So, the expectation is, with the peace agreement too, the issue of women’s rights will have a big push in these 4 years. This is also in the recommendations of the Truth Commission that have just come out, and in the new president’s agenda and the new congress that was also just elected, and there is a number of congresspeople that can act as a critical mass so we can start to see these important changes. 

What do you think this victory will mean for the implementation of the Colombian Peace Accords and the achievement of the SDGs? 

Part of the commitment of the new President and congress is to achieve complete peace in Colombia, a vital impulse that had diminished with the last government. The agreement has elements about inequality in general, territorial equality and a focus on the most excluded and vulnerable populations. I think that the peace agreement is an adequate instrument that is already approved constitutionally, so it’s really about political will and prioritizing the agreement so the conditions of these regions and populations most affected start seeing changes, and the elements of the conflict that still persist are addressed. The SDGs will have importance too and we must advance in the achievement of these, especially in terms of land reform, education, justice and peace, and hunger which is a commitment of the new president – to eradicate hunger and become self-sufficient in agriculture. And of course, for gender equality which I think will have an important push as it is part of the broader agenda to overcome inequalities and there will be a Minister of Equality which we will advocate with to ensure women are at the centre of this equality. 

How do you hope this result will impact the work of La Ruta Pacifica and how do you hope to work together with the government over the coming years? 

La Ruta has been working for 25 years to become a visible actor in terms of peace. I have just been elected to the monitoring committee of the recommendations of the Truth Commission which is closely linked to the peace agreement and the reforms that the government is proposing so we think there will be a favourable environment to push for La Ruta’s agenda in general and the peace agreement and recommendations of the Commission which is an effort La Ruta has been closely engaged with.  Also, in the new Congress there are some women who support some feminist issues and some who have declared themselves feminist; I think that’s also an important opportunity. So, in this sense we think these 4 years will be like a reaping of the harvest for all the work La Ruta has done to become a visible and important actor in the country. 

Read more about the work of La Ruta and peace in Colombia:

La implementación del Acuerdo de Paz, un camino de oportunidad para Colombia y el mundo frente al avance de la Agenda 2030 y los ODS

Colombia: Using data to tell the story of gender inequality

What does the 2022 SDG Gender Index reveal for Colombia