Tragic death of Lizaveta exposes ongoing problems of victim-blaming and gender-based violence

Our team was deeply saddened to learn today of the tragic death of 25-year-old Lizaveta, a Belarusian woman who was brutally raped, beaten, and strangled in the center of Warsaw on Friday, February 25th. Our hearts and thoughts go out to Lizaveta’s loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.

The experts at Austausch’s feminist project FemMoz were equally appalled by the disturbing comments circulating on various social media platforms regarding Lizaveta’s assault. Many individuals shifted blame onto the woman herself, saying she was out alone at night, under the influence of alcohol, and walking instead of taking a taxi. This tragic incident highlights how unprotected women are even in democratic societies, where victim-blaming still happens, and people ignore the root of gender-based hate crime – the criminals.

A truly progressive society is one that continuously strives to provide more protection for all vulnerable groups. This event also underscores the crucial importance of feminist communities and their efforts.

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