Executive Director of UNFPA, United Nations Population Fund, Ms. Thoraya Ahmed Obaid delivered a message in connection with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, other wise called the White Ribbon Day, which is observed all over the world each year on November 25.
She indicated in her message that every day, women and girls are subject to domestic violence, exploitation, sexual violence, trafficking, honor crimes, harmful traditional practices, such as bride burning and early marriages, and other forms of violence against their bodies, minds and human dignity.
As many as one in three women has been beaten, coerced into sex, or abused in some other way. She urged that in the 16 days leading up to Human Rights Day and every day, "let us come together to demand an end to the most pervasive yet least reported human rights abuse in the world. "
Ms. Thoraya also called on all to take a stand and say loud and clear ‘No to violence against women'. She indicated that this demand is supported by a new network of men leaders led by United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon as part of the United Nations Unite Campaign to end violence against girls and women. "I welcome their leadership and commitment to actively engage men and boys in the cause to end impunity, promote justice and human rights, and end widespread violence against girls and women," she said.
"Whether they are policy makers, community or religious leaders, fathers or husbands, uncles, brothers or young boys, they can all do their part to eliminate all forms of violence against women," she stated.
Ms. Thoraya also welcomed the recent Security Council resolutions 1888 and 1889 that strengthen accountability to women and girls in conflict and post-conflict situations. She indicated that by condemning sexual violence, calling for a stronger role for women in peace-building, and mandating peacekeeping missions to protect women and girls, the resolutions signal a political commitment to address sexual violence as a peace and security issue.
Ms. Thoraya called on all segments of society to unite for the dignity and well-being of women and girls as this is the time to build a society based on respect for fundamental human rights and the equal rights of men and women.
