The “8 March – We Want to Live” march, organised by feminists in Azerbaijan, is set to take place on March 8th, International Women’s Day. This march has been an annual event for the past five years and aims to highlight the issues faced by women in the country.
The organisers of the march have released a video published on Fem-Utopia feminist initiatives YouTube channel, answering some frequently asked questions about the event. The video statement highlights the reasons why this march is being organised.
One of the main reasons is the alarming rate of violence against women in Azerbaijan. In February of this year alone, news of the murder of 11 women was reported in the media, with many others subjected to various forms of violence by the patriarchy. The organisers of the march demand that the safety of women’s lives be ensured, that crimes against women be investigated and perpetrators held accountable, and that policies be implemented to improve the social welfare of citizens.
Another reason for the march is the worsening financial situation in the country. The feminists point out that financial well-being has sharply deteriorated since the end of 2022 and into 2023, with rising prices and social insecurity. This situation makes women more dependent and prevents them from escaping the violent environment. The organisers demand the implementation of programs for the financial support of women from vulnerable groups.
The march also aims to combat political retaliation against women. In February, a large number of women were targeted in political retaliation, putting their lives in danger. The organisers demand an immediate end to the use of political revenge against women.
Furthermore, the organisers advocate for the adoption of the Istanbul Convention, which aims to prevent and combat violence against women and domestic violence.
The video statement also highlights the importance of removing all barriers for women’s networking, unity, and struggle, and ensuring equal rights for everyone regardless of gender and sexual orientation.
The march will start from Nizami Street, in front of McDonald’s, and will end in front of the “Xurshidbanu Natavan” statue. The organisers have emphasised that the march will be considered over once the statement is read out.
