Female-directed aggression remains a significant challenge that requires a multifaceted and coordinated response. To address the critical issues of violence and harassment faced by women globally, a National Conference on Female-Directed Aggression and Strategic Responses was organized on August 13, 2024, by the CTTE Research Cell & IQAC in collaboration with St. Joseph College of Arts and Science for Women, Pagalpatty, Salem, the Indian Community Welfare Organisation (ICWO), NAANDI Foundation, and the CTTE Anti-Human Trafficking Club (AHTC).
The conference brought together a distinguished lineup of speakers and experts in the field to share their insights and research. The keynote address was delivered by, Dr. V. Bharathi Harishankar, Vice Chancellor, AvinashilingamInstitute for Home Science and Higher Education for Women, Deemed to be University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu. In her address she highlighted the multiple factors contributing to female directed aggression and emphasized the importance of being proactive in creating a more equitable and respectful society.
The invited speaker, Ms. Nistha Dubey, Senior Advisor, The Counter Trafficking Group (TCTG), India, spoke on “The Changing Landscape of Trafficking: Tackling Commercial Sexual Exploitation in New Centers” in which she elaborated on the evolving challenges in combating trafficking.
Mrs. M. Rajakumari, Programme Manager, Right to Education Initiative, provided insights into the complexities women face in securing their rights across different cultural contexts. Additionally, Mr. G. B. N. Rohit, Centre Head (Livelihood) at NAANDI Foundation, Chennai, spoke on “Prevention of Female Aggression through Education and Economic Empowerment,” highlighting strategies to empower women and create safer communities.
The conference also saw the participation of over 100 participants from various colleges, who presented papers on contemporary issues such as gender-based violence in marginalized communities, teen dating violence, and the role of media in empowering women etc. Of these, 47 papers were selected for publication, marking a significant contribution to the ongoing discourse on female-directed aggression and strategic responses.
This national conference at CTTE was a pivotal event that not only highlighted the pressing issue of female-directed aggression but also showcased a range of strategic responses to address it. The event highlighted the need for ongoing advocacy and proactive measures in addressing violence against women, reaffirming CTTE’s commitment to supporting such essential initiatives in this critical area.