Protect the Earth, Protect Ourselves
On the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, agroecological smallholder women farmers from Cusco called on the authorities to drastically strengthen government measures to protect the earth, natural resources, and the lives of women.
«We take care of the Earth and ourselves, especially in these times of climate change. We have learned that self-care is very important for enabling us to live a life of well-being and in harmony with ourselves and our environment. That is our right,» explained Martina Santa Cruz Pilco, president of the Provincial Association of Agroecological Smallholder Women of Calca (APPAC).
The official called on authorities at the municipal, district, and provincial levels, as well as in the Cusco region, to focus their efforts on rural areas, «where there is widespread poverty and violence, and women are still not granted the same rights as men.».
A clear statement against violence and oppression
APPAC President Martina Santa Cruz Pilco speaks plainly about the extent and consequences of everyday violence:
«Through the training sessions, we have learned that violence in the form of physical abuse, verbal abuse, rape, and even economic extortion cannot be justified. And our authorities must enforce exactly what is stipulated in the laws.»
Strengthening Legal Awareness in the Climate Crisis
Elena Villanueva highlighted the work with more than 150 women small-scale agroecological farmers who are able to recognize the right to a life free from all forms of violence—even in the midst of the climate crisis—as their own right.
«Through its participation in the feminist agroecological schools in Calca, Quispicanchi, and Paruro, the CMP Flora Tristán, with the support of Mission 21, has helped to strengthen this awareness of rights. It is now up to the states—in this case, the local governments—to ensure compliance with the regulations and to provide the necessary resources for their implementation,» Villanueva concluded.
Martina Santa Cruz Pilco, President of APPAC
More from the 2026 campaign
When a «No» Really Counts
In Bolivia, sexual violence against minors is a widespread problem that is often considered taboo. Learn how long-term, inclusive support helps children and adolescents process their experiences, actively protect themselves, and regain confidence in their own voices.
Peru: Breaking Down Gender Roles, Shaping Change
A writing contest in the Cusco Department encourages young people to actively challenge deeply entrenched machismo and traditional gender roles. Learn how the local women's center «Flora Tristán» helps young people build nonviolent relationships and live in harmony with one another in their daily lives.
Together against violence« campaign»
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