On 8 March, International Women’s Day, Zonta Club of Punta del Este-Maldonado, Uruguay, in partnership with the local government of Maldonado, hosted a meeting to exchange ideas on the situation of violence against women in the country.

The event featured prominent speakers, including Dr. Beatriz Argimón, the first woman elected Vice President of Uruguay; journalist Mónica Bottero, former Director of the National Women’s Institute; Departmental Police Director Nancy Amaral; and Zonta member Dr. Elba Pereyra, all recognized experts in gender violence. Each speaker declared, “Zonta says no to violence against women,” and called for a societal shift to reject the cultural norms that continue to justify violence. They also emphasized the urgent need to demand the enforcement of laws that prevent violence, protect victims and punish perpetrators of gender-based violence.

The speakers outlined the devastating impact violence has on women and families and stressed that such violence is unacceptable. They further explained the country’s legal framework and the protective measures judges can implement to safeguard victims’ lives.

The event drew a large audience, and one male attendee remarked that he was deeply moved by the discussion, acknowledging that he had been unaware of many of the issues raised and would take time to reflect on what he had learned.

Local media outlets covered the event, helping to raise visibility for Zonta and its advocacy efforts within the community.