Step up to stop abuse: Phuket rallies against domestic violence

In a powerful stand against abuse, thousands of people filled Saphan Hin Public Park at dawn on Sunday, November 24, participating in a walk-run campaign to raise awareness and call for an end to violence against women, children, and family members.

The impactful event, organised by the Phuket Juvenile and Family Court, marked the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and Children, observed globally on November 25.

The campaign united various agencies and organisations from across Phuket in a collective effort to strengthen initiatives against domestic violence. With a focus on education, public outreach, and cooperative action, the event aimed to empower the community and encourage a proactive approach to shielding vulnerable individuals from abuse.

Worawut Thawatsin, President of the Court of Appeal Region 8, kicked off the event, flagging off eager participants ready to run for the cause.

Worawut was joined by notable figures including Sittirak Duangsrithong, Chief Judge of the Phuket Juvenile and Family Court, Vice Governor Adul Chuthong, and representatives from government and legal organisations, who showed solidarity in the fight against domestic violence.

The event paid tribute to the origins of this international day, honouring the Mirabal sisters, Dominican activists murdered on November 25, 1961. The United Nations chose this date to spotlight global action against violence towards women, with the white ribbon symbol, a global emblem for the cause, visible throughout the event as a call to action against abuse.

Participants stressed the vital role of community involvement in addressing these pressing issues, and the event was lauded as a resounding success. The turnout underscored the region’s commitment to creating a safer, more equitable society, with the crowd leaving energised and united in their mission to end domestic violence for good, reported Phuket News.

In related news, Social Development and Human Security Minister Varawut Silpa-archa intensified efforts to curb domestic violence, highlighting the issue as a major concern in recent months. Domestic violence constituted almost 70% of all reported violence cases in April and May.