The Silence of Women’s Groups: Examining the Response to the October 7 Hamas Attacks

The Silence of Women’s Groups: Examining the Response to the October 7 Hamas Attacks

By Stephen Sussman, Ph.D, Carole Huberman, Ph.D.
Photo by Taylor Brandon on Unsplash 

In the realm of global human rights advocacy, women’s advocacy organizations play a crucial role in addressing gender-based violence and promoting gender equality. However, the October 7, 2023, Hamas terrorist attacks on Israeli women and girls has brought into question the response, or lack thereof, from women’s rights organizations worldwide. This essay explores theories as to why these organizations remained silent in the aftermath of the October 7 Hamas attacks, examining the allegations, consequences, and possible reasons behind this silence.

The October 7, 2023, marked a horrifying turning point in the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Hamas launched a surprise attack on this day, targeting Israeli civilians, particularly women and girls. The attacks involved a gruesome mix of murder, rape, and torture, leading to widespread condemnation from various quarters. One of the most concerning aspects of the October 7 attacks was the perceived silence of women’s advocacy organizations worldwide. While the attacks sent shockwaves through international media, reports began to surface that prominent women’s rights organizations were notably quiet in their response. This silence raised several important questions and accusations.

UN Women, a global entity advocating for gender equality, released a statement almost a week after the attacks, condemning the actions of Hamas. However, the delay in response led many to question why such a significant incident did not elicit a more immediate and robust reaction from a leading women’s rights organization. Some critics accused women’s rights groups, including Women Deliver, of failing to condemn the attacks altogether. This perceived negligence in addressing the reported atrocities drew criticism and led to concerns about the commitment of these organizations to women’s rights. In the face of Hamas’ blatant human rights violations, the silence from these organizations seemed even more conspicuous.

Women’s rights organizations are at the forefront of advocating for gender equality and addressing gender-based violence. When these groups remain silent in the face of such egregious violations, it undermines the very principles they stand for. A lack of condemnation from influential women’s groups can contribute to a culture of impunity. Perpetrators of gender-based violence may feel emboldened when they see a tepid response to their actions, knowing that there are limited consequences.

Understanding the reasons behind the silence of women’s groups is crucial to addressing this issue effectively. Several factors may contribute to this phenomenon. The Israeli-Palestinian conflict can be perceived as a politically charged issue. Women’s rights organizations may be hesitant to engage due to concerns about taking sides or being perceived as biased. 

Women’s organizations often operate within a broader geopolitical context influenced by the foreign policies of their host countries. In regions or countries where there is a strong diplomatic alignment with one side of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, women’s organizations may face pressure or incentives to align their positions on issues related to the conflict with the foreign policy stance of their host country. For example, if a women’s organization operates in a country that strongly supports Israel’s position in the conflict, it may be more inclined to adopt a stance that aligns with the host country’s pro-Israel foreign policy. This alignment could influence the organization’s advocacy efforts, resource allocation, and public statements regarding violence against women in the context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Conversely, women’s organizations in countries that strongly support the Palestinian cause may be more likely to advocate for Palestinian women’s rights and emphasize violence against women in Palestinian territories. Speaking out against such incidents can lead to backlash from various quarters. Organizations may fear repercussions that could impact their ability to carry out their missions.

One aspect worth exploring in the context of women’s rights organizations’ response to the October 7 Hamas attacks is the role of international law and human rights frameworks. These organizations often operate within a framework of international conventions and agreements that explicitly condemn gender-based violence. For instance, the United Nations Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) obliges states to take measures to prevent and address violence against women. The silence of women’s groups in the face of such blatant violations could be viewed as a missed opportunity to hold both non-state actors like Hamas and the grounds for gender-based violence, exacerbating the vulnerabilities of women and girls. As such, this intersection of gender and conflict is significant. Women and girls in conflict zones face heightened vulnerability to various forms of violence, including sexual assault, forced marriage, and human trafficking. The breakdown of law and order can create an environment where perpetrators act with impunity. Conflict can be marked by the systematic weaponization of gender, where sexual violence is used as a tool of war to terrorize and subjugate populations. This includes practices such as rape as a weapon of war.  Survivors of gender-based violence in conflict zones endure profound physical and psychological trauma. Stigma and social ostracization can further isolate them, preventing them from seeking help. Recognizing the intersection of gender and conflict is essential for long-term peacebuilding and sustainable recovery. Gender-inclusive approaches are vital for addressing root causes and ensuring lasting peace.

The intersection of gender and conflict exposes women and girls to heightened risks of gender-based violence. Women’s rights organizations have a pivotal role in addressing gender-based violence in conflict zones. These organizations can raise awareness about the specific challenges women and girls face in conflict zones. By advocating for their rights on a global stage, they can draw attention to the need for urgent action. Women’s rights organizations can provide essential support services to survivors, including medical care, counseling, and legal assistance. They bridge the gap in access to services that may be disrupted during conflicts. Empowering women in conflict-affected areas through education and skills development can help them regain autonomy and resilience.

Women’s organizations can advocate for policy changes and legal reforms to ensure that perpetrators of gender-based violence are held accountable. Women’s rights organizations often play key roles in peacebuilding efforts. Their involvement can ensure that gender perspectives are integrated into peace negotiations, leading to more inclusive and sustainable peace agreements.

The silence of women’s groups following the October 7 Hamas attacks targeting Israeli women and girls is a matter of grave concern. While some organizations eventually condemned the actions, the delayed, tepid, or absent response has raised significant questions about their commitment to women’s rights. The consequences of this silence are far-reaching, including the undermining of women’s rights, lack of accountability for perpetrators, and deterrence for victims. To address this issue effectively, it is essential for women’s groups to reflect on their responses, acknowledge the challenges they face, and work towards a more proactive stance in addressing gender-based violence, even in politically sensitive contexts. Women’s rights are universal, and their defense should be unwavering, regardless of the circumstances.