Violation is witchcraft. It is a highly detrimental act that undermines the well-being and rights of individuals. Just as witchcraft is seen as a form of manipulation and harm towards others, violation too involves the infringement of someone's personal, social, or legal rights. Witchcraft, historically associated with the practice of magic and sorcery, involves the use of supernatural powers to bring harm or misfortune to others. Similarly, violation encompasses various forms of harmful actions, such as physical abuse, harassment, discrimination, or infringement of legal rights. Both witchcraft and violation rely on the manipulation and misuse of power to cause harm to innocent individuals.
Both witchcraft and violation rely on the manipulation and misuse of power to cause harm to innocent individuals. Moreover, violation, like witchcraft, can take on different shapes and forms. It can be manifested in the violation of human rights, where individuals are denied their basic rights and freedoms.
SRSG welcomes commitment to tackle impunity for witchcraft related human rights violations and to children's protection from violence
Geneva, 25 September 2017 - To strengthen children's protection from violence and prevent associated risks, the Office of the Special Representative co-organized an international workshop in Geneva with the Independent Expert on the enjoyment of human rights by persons with albinism, in collaboration with the Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, the Special Rapporteur on Violence against Women, the Witchcraft and Human Rights Information Network and Lancaster University.
States' representatives, alongside UN experts, academics and civil society organizations shared important experiences to raise awareness and enhance multi-stakeholder action to prevent and address witchcraft and related violence and harmful practices, building on and consolidating critical work done on this issue across regions.
"As this groundbreaking conference has highlighted, children continue to be used as scapegoats for family or community misfortune, and suffer violent punishment and abuse as a result of being accused or being perceived as witches. Acts of violence associated with witchcraft are largely under reported and remain concealed as a result of fear and social pressure; but in addition, they have devastating consequences on children's ability to thrive and enjoy a childhood free from fear. We need to reflect on lessons from the past and, guided by worldwide commitments to safeguard human rights, we must urgently put in place effective mechanisms to prevent and address this serious phenomenon", said Santos Pais.
Socially excluded children are at high risk of being accused of witchcraft and enduring unspeakable acts of violence. Children with disabilities, children with albinism, as well as those who are orphans, prematurely born or specially gifted or children who are simply deemed different face a double disadvantage in life and are often left furthest behind. Being branded a witch is a form of psychological violence in itself, but stigmatization and exclusion associated with witchcraft accusations are often associated with killings, mutilation and other forms of violence which are tantamount to torture.
The incidents of violence and killing of children who are branded as witches are particularly grave violations of children's rights. The Convention on the Rights of the Child makes it imperative for children to be protected from any form of discrimination or punishment on the basis of the children's or their parents, legal guardians and other family members’ status, beliefs, opinions or activities. Children must be protected from all forms of violence, including harmful practices and acts of torture or other cruel, inhumane and degrading treatment.
"I am delighted to have co-organised this historic meeting with strategic partners. Together and mobilizing leaders from all walks of life, we will continue to shed light and identify solutions, including advocacy, social mobilization, legislative and policy measures that can prevent these violent attacks, protect and ensure the recovery of victims, and fight impunity. Only this way will the world ensure that all children are truly protected from all forms of violence by the 2030 deadline set by the Sustainable Development Agenda,” she added.
Read the SRSGs report on harmful practices here
What is HPAWR?
It can also be seen in situations where people's boundaries are crossed, their consent is disregarded, and their physical or emotional well-being is compromised. In these instances, violating someone's rights can lead to severe consequences, just as the practice of witchcraft can result in negative outcomes for those affected by it. Furthermore, both violation and witchcraft are deeply rooted in harmful intentions and actions. Witchcraft is often associated with a desire for personal gain or the attainment of power at the expense of others. Similarly, violation is driven by a disregard for the well-being and rights of others, with perpetrators often seeking to exert control or dominance over their victims. These harmful intentions and actions have far-reaching implications, causing significant psychological, emotional, and sometimes physical damage to individuals who are subjected to them. In conclusion, violation can be seen as a form of witchcraft due to its manipulation of power, harm towards others, and intention to undermine the well-being and rights of individuals. Just as witchcraft is considered a destructive practice, violation too has severe consequences and should be condemned in all its forms. It is essential to promote and protect the rights and well-being of individuals, ensuring that no one falls victim to the harmful effects of violation..
Reviews for "The Wicked Art: Examining Violation in Witchcraft Rituals"
1. Sarah - 1 star - Found "Violation is witchcraft" to be an incredibly boring and slow-paced film. The story lacked any clear direction, and the characters were one-dimensional and uninteresting. The supposed 'twist' at the end felt forced and predictable. Overall, I was expecting more from this movie and was highly disappointed.
2. Mark - 2 stars - While the cinematography and visual effects in "Violation is witchcraft" were impressive, the plot itself was confusing and hard to follow. The film jumped back and forth between different timelines without any clear indication, making it difficult to connect with the characters and understand their motivations. Additionally, the pacing was quite slow, and it failed to keep my interest throughout.
3. Emily - 1 star - I did not enjoy "Violation is witchcraft" at all. The story seemed pretentious and overly artsy, without providing any meaningful depth or substance. The film relied heavily on shock value and graphic scenes, which I found unnecessary and exploitative. The characters had no development, and I was left feeling unsatisfied and confused by the end. Overall, I found the movie to be a disappointing experience.