Violence against women in all its forms is a human rights violation. It's not something that any culture, religion or tradition propagates.

Michelle Bachelet’s quote addresses the issue of violence against women, asserting that it is a human rights violation rather than something that should be condoned or justified by culture, religion, or tradition. By stating, "It's not something that any culture, religion or tradition propagates," Bachelet emphasizes that the abuse of women in any form—be it physical, emotional, or psychological—should never be excused, no matter the societal or cultural context. This challenges the idea that certain practices or beliefs can be used to justify the mistreatment of women, making it clear that violence is a universal violation of basic human dignity.

The quote advocates for the universal nature of human rights, where equality and respect for women should transcend cultural and religious boundaries. Bachelet’s strong stance highlights that violence is not a tradition that should be accepted as part of any society, no matter the historical or cultural context. This statement calls for a shift in how we perceive gender-based violence, urging that such practices be viewed as abuses that need to be eradicated globally, rather than normalized or excused.

Bachelet, a former President of Chile and a human rights advocate, has been a leading voice in addressing gender inequality and advocating for the rights of women. Her statement is rooted in her lifelong commitment to advocating for women's rights and the global struggle against gender-based violence. As a former United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Bachelet has witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of violence on women worldwide, making her call for universal human rights particularly poignant.

The origin of this quote stems from Bachelet’s broader work in promoting human rights and social justice. Throughout her political and activist career, she has focused on tackling gender inequality, especially in the context of violence against women. Her words underscore the moral imperative to reject the normalization of abuse in any form and to fight for a world where women’s rights and dignity are universally respected.