As part of the “16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence” campaign, Commissioner for the Protection of Equality, Brankica Janković, in cooperation with the United Nations in Serbia, organized a special performance of the monodrama “Abuse”, which is based on the novel of the same name by Nobel laureate Ivo Andrić. The story of Anica is a poignant story about emotional and verbal violence in marriage, which strongly depicts not only the position of women at that time but also the challenges that many women still face today. Andrić’s heroine emphasizes the importance of recognizing all forms of violence and encourages victims not to suffer in silence because they are not to blame and must not be left alone.
“`A person, especially a woman, in defending their rights and personality, must rely on other people as well as on their right as it is formulated in the laws, or at least in the understandings and habits of society,’ Andrić writes. Education and culture can contribute the most to eliminating stereotypes and prejudices about the expected roles of women and men in society and false values, contributing more than various strategies and action plans. Violence against women concerns all of us, and that is why we must resolutely defend the right to life and dignity of every woman and girl”, said the Commissioner for the Protection of Equality, Brankica Janković.
In her speech, Matilde Mordt, UN Resident Coordinator in Serbia, highlighted the key role of art in social change, by saying: “Art has the power to question social norms and encourage discussion. Through performances of content like ‘Abuse’, we not only raise awareness but inspire joint action to change cultural perceptions and break down the stereotypes at the root of violence. The United Nations remains committed to creating an environment of equality and empowering those affected, ensuring that every woman and girl can live with dignity and without fear”.
Domestic and gender-based violence disproportionately affects women and girls, with many of them not feeling safe enough to report their experiences. United Nations data show that every third woman worldwide experiences physical or sexual violence during her lifetime. Research by the Commissioner for Protection of Equality indicates that fear of abusers, shame, social censure, economic vulnerability, and mistrust of institutions are the main reasons why women hesitate to report domestic violence. What could encourage them to take that step is the support of family and friends, the support of institutions, and financial aid.
The monodrama “Abuse” is performed by drama artist Milica Janković and directed by drama artist Tihomir Stanić.
