– Minister Manickchand urges Guyanese to recognise the many hidden forms of abuse in society
– Encourages women to identify early signs of abuse and reclaim their dignity and self-worth
As the world observed International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, Minister of Local Government and Regional Development Priya Manickchand, in a heartfelt message, urged Guyanese to pay closer attention to the many forms of abuse women continue to face in society.
The minister’s message marked the beginning of the Global 16 Days of Activism Campaign, a period dedicated to raising awareness and inspiring action against gender-based violence.
Addressing the public, Minister Manickchand reminded the nation that domestic violence is not limited to the physical acts that most people immediately recognise; it can also manifest in subtle, hidden, and deeply harmful ways.
She also stated that she aims to provide important information each day during the Global 16 Days of Activism Campaign to help women, girls, and boys better recognise the warning signs of abuse.
Adding that domestic violence happens within intimate or family relationships, and not necessarily with strangers, Minister Manickchand explained that it often starts with behaviours that many people overlook, see as normal or make an excuse for.
The Minister said, “Domestic violence is domestic in nature, so you have to have some kind of domestic relationship that is romantic or familial.”
Minister Manickchand further stressed that while physical injuries are undeniably painful, emotional harm can be equally damaging to women.
She also explained that verbal abuse is often used by perpetrators seeking to erode a woman’s confidence and sense of self.
In addition, the minister added that name-calling, insults about body image, and other degrading remarks also constitute violence, forms of abuse that far too many women continue to endure in silence.
According to her, some such phrases are, “You’re ugly. You’re fat. You’re worth nothing without me. It’s verbal abuse. “You’re stupid” is not normal, and no woman should have to endure that.
Moreover, the minister outlined various patterns of control – financial, sexual, emotional, and social – that can trap women in cycles of abuse.
She explained that withholding money, preventing a partner from working, or requiring permission for even small personal purchases are all indicators of financial abuse.
This type of control, she noted, often leaves women feeling dependent and powerless.
Meanwhile, Minister Manickchand emphasised that isolation is another serious warning sign.
She explained that when an abuser isolates a woman from her family, friends, or support networks, it becomes easier for the abuse to remain hidden and more difficult for her to seek help.
Minister Manickchand added that this form of manipulation can initially appear loving or protective, which makes it even more dangerous for the woman.
She also highlighted stalking as another widespread yet often overlooked form of abuse, explaining how the constant fear of being followed, monitored, or confronted can severely undermine a woman’s sense of safety.
According to the minister, this fear can disrupt even the most basic aspects of daily life, from going to work to enjoying a simple walk.
Additionally, in one of the most significant points of her address, Minister Manickchand turned her attention to the issue of sexual abuse within relationships.
She reiterated that women in committed relationships retain the right to consent, emphasising that this applies equally within marriage and long-term partnerships.
She also affirmed that consent is required at all times.
In addition, the minister stated that far too many women do not recognise that being forced or pressured into sex by a partner is a form of violence.
Finally, Minister Manickchand appealed to women everywhere to pay close attention to how they feel within their relationships.
She encouraged them to trust their instincts and recognise when something is meant to diminish their worth.
“Anything that makes you feel lower than yourself, anything that makes you feel worse than you are, anything that lowers your self-esteem is probably something meant to do that, and it is most likely abusive.”
Filled with compassion and unwavering determination, Minister Manickchand urged boys and men to truly understand which behaviours cause harm and to choose respect over violence.
She also encouraged girls and women to recognise the early signs of abuse, long before it grows into something that threatens their lives.
The Minister also spoke with deep empathy for those women who are currently trapped in abusive relationships, extending heartfelt wishes for peace, courage, and the inner strength they need to walk away and rebuild their lives.
As the 16 Days of Activism continue, Minister Manickchand expressed hope that each day’s conversations will open more hearts, spark honest reflection, and empower more women to reclaim their freedom, dignity, and sense of self.
