The UN observes International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women on 25 November. This observance raises awareness of the continuing toll of gender-based violence.
Violence against women and girls is one of the most prevalent human rights violations in the world. Globally, it is estimated that one in three women will experience physical or sexual abuse in her lifetime.
A global campaign – the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence – runs from today until 10 December, Human Rights Day. This campaign spotlights the actions being taken to end this global scourge.
"As we mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and launch the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, we must stand up together, speak out together and take action together — against rape and all forms of violence against women and girls," said UNFPA Executive Director Dr. Natalia Kanem in her statement for the day. "An estimated 15 million adolescent girls worldwide have been forced to have sex, but only around 1 in 100 will seek help."
