Are we tolerating violence against women?

Two pieces of news this week invite disturbing reflection on the direction our society is taking. On the one hand, Caritas reported that in 2024 it assisted 4,081 women who were victims of gender-based violence, representing an 11% increase over the previous year. 

On the other hand, a recent report by Save the Children reveals that one-third of young people consider it legitimate to sell their own erotic images. The cause seems to lie in platforms such as OnlyFans and “sugar dating” sites, which are normalizing the commodification of the body, especially among young girls. 

Putting these two pieces of information together reveals a paradox: while we continue to witness victims of violence rooted in power, control, and objectification, we are also normalizing the voluntary commercialization of one's own body among younger generations. 

This raises uncomfortable questions about the effectiveness of sex education taught in schools over the past few decades. If sex education were sufficient, why do we continue to see risky behaviors and decisions that reinforce patterns of objectification?

The root of the problem seems to go beyond information: it is not just a matter of teaching about contraception or sexual rights, because the individualistic view of decision-making—the idea that “everything is permitted as long as it is a personal choice”—is not helping young people and adults to make choices that protect their dignity and safety.