30 Years of the Belém do Pará Convention: The Ongoing Fight Against Violence Towards Women
The Belém do Pará Convention, signed by the member states of the Organization of American States (OAS) 30 years ago, stands as a milestone in the battle against violence towards women in Latin America. This pivotal agreement serves as a legal tool to defend women’s rights to a life free of violence, encompassing principles of equality, non-discrimination, dignity, and sexual integrity. The Convention established the Mechanism for Follow-Up on the Implementation of the Belém do Pará Convention (MESECVI), comprising a committee of expert delegates from each country to monitor compliance with the Convention.
In a recent interview with Monica Maureira, an expert from Chile on the MESECVI Expert Committee, the historical context surrounding the birth of the Convention was explored. Maureira emphasized the pioneering nature of the Belém do Pará Convention, which arose from the demands of women’s and feminist organizations in the late 80s and early 90s. The Convention elevated the issue of violence against women to a public concern, shifting it from the realm of domestic violence to a human rights violation that demanded state intervention.
Notable landmark cases, such as the Campo Algodonero versus Mexico ruling, where the Mexican state was held accountable for the disappearance and murder of several women, underscore the universal significance of these judgments. Maureira highlighted the role of such legal decisions in setting precedents for gender-based violence cases across OAS member states.
Despite these legal advancements, challenges persist in the effective prevention of violence against women. The education sector, media, and judiciary are identified as key arenas requiring transformation to address deep-rooted gender stereotypes and biases. The slow and often arduous path to justice for victims further underscores the need for systemic changes in legal institutions.
The rise of public feminicides and digital violence poses new challenges, necessitating a broader interpretation of the Belém do Pará Convention to encompass evolving forms of violence. The Convention’s adaptability to address digital and vicarious violence reflects its enduring relevance in the face of changing societal norms and technological advancements.
Looking ahead, Maureira emphasizes the importance of enhanced prevention strategies and a collective commitment to uphold women’s rights. The next 30 years present an opportunity to build upon the progress made and create a more equitable and safer environment for women. The Belém do Pará Convention stands as a beacon of hope in the ongoing battle against violence towards women, signaling a collective resolve to strive for a future free of gender-based violence.