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Verbal attacks like \u201cGo make stew instead of explaining!\u201d or \u201cStop talking and come to bed!\u201d are experiences almost every female politician in North Macedonia has endured. This type of hate reveals a serious societal issue: violence against women in politics, which directly undermines democracy.<\/p>\n
Violence against women in politics is a severe threat to democracy, gender equality, and social progress. Silencing and intimidating women discourages their active participation in political life, leading to decision-making that fails to reflect society’s diversity and real needs. This deepens the gender inequality gap and reinforces the perception that women are less welcome and valued in leadership roles.<\/p>\n
Moreover, tolerating such violence sets a dangerous precedent, normalizing abusive behavior in other sectors and fostering a culture of violence and misogyny that undermines social cohesion and the values of fairness and inclusiveness.<\/p>\n
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Violence against women in politics is violence against democracy! There is no excuse \u2014 we join the 16 Days of Activism to combat violence against women.<\/p>\n
This highlights the urgent need for increased public awareness, institutional support, and strong political will to eradicate this phenomenon. To combat violence against women in politics, the Macedonian Women\u2019s Lobby has developed a Code of Conduct with the support of the Swiss Government\u2019s Electoral Reforms Support Program, implemented by the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES).<\/p>\n
So far, 13 political parties have signed this document, committing to countering violence, supporting women, sanctioning perpetrators, and promoting women\u2019s roles in politics.<\/p>\n
Violence prevents 51% of the country\u2019s human capital from participating in political life. Women in politics and electoral processes are discouraged from contributing and making their voices heard.<\/p>\n
These figures highlight how marginalized women are in political life, partly due to the violence they face. “Violence against women, both in and outside politics, unfortunately, remains prevalent in the Republic of Macedonia. Whether through social media or verbal abuse, most women do not report it, but they should. No one should endure violence in a developed 21st-century society,” says Ljupcho Prendzov from VMRO-DPMNE.<\/p>\n
Female politicians emphasize the need to strengthen online violence laws, establish independent monitoring bodies for electoral processes, and launch campaigns to raise public awareness.<\/p>\n
\u201cMy message to women in politics is not to fear verbal abuse. They have vision and confidence. When I faced violence as a parliamentary candidate, I didn\u2019t remain silent. Together, we are stronger,\u201d says Dijana Toska from the Democratic Union for Integration (DUI).<\/p>\n
Ajsel Sejfula from the Movement of Turks encourages all women to report any form of violence. \u201cLet\u2019s create a world where every woman can live freely and with dignity. Your voice and life matter,\u201d she adds.<\/p>\n
Jovanka Trenchevska from SDSM urges women to be vocal, courageous, and to report every act of violence. \u201cWomen\u2019s solidarity is key. As women in Parliament, we must initiate campaigns to prevent violence against women,\u201d she adds.<\/p>\n
According to Sadik Sulejmani from the Alliance for Albanians, women are the pillars of our society. They must be supported and encouraged to continue contributing to a more advanced European Macedonia.<\/p>\n
\u201cViolence against women in politics is a systemic issue that disrupts the democratic process and stifles women\u2019s voices. This is not just a fight for women but for a better, more equal, and developed Macedonia. Through solidarity, encouragement, and institutional support, we can build a society where every woman is protected and can fulfill her role without fear,\u201d Sulejmani concludes.<\/p>\n
Violence against women in politics is a grave threat to democracy and societal development. For the fight to succeed, it is crucial to foster solidarity among women from all political parties, strengthen legislation, and raise public awareness.<\/p>\n
As Hillary Clinton once said: \u201cWomen are the world’s most underused resource.\u201d<\/em> It is time to unite and harness this strength for a better future. There is no excuse for violence against women in politics and elections!<\/p>\n
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