Every ten minutes, a woman loses her life at the hands of an intimate partner or family member, underscoring the urgent need to address violence against women and girls worldwide.
This stark reality was highlighted by the United Nations as it marked the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, observed annually on November 25.
In a campaign led by UN Women, the organization called on individuals, communities, and governments to join efforts in ending gender-based violence.
"Violence against women and girls must end. We all have a role to play in preventing it," read a statement shared by the UN's official platform.
The day also marks the start of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, an international campaign running until December 10, Human Rights Day.
This year's theme centers on the collective responsibility to create safe environments where women and girls can exercise their full human rights without fear of violence or persecution.
UN Women emphasized the devastating impact of violence on women's health, well-being, and socio-economic participation, highlighting that gender-based violence remains a barrier to achieving gender equality and sustainable development.
The campaign urges governments to strengthen legislation, improve access to support services for survivors, and allocate sufficient resources to prevention efforts.
Communities and individuals are also encouraged to challenge harmful norms and practices that perpetuate violence.
"All girls and women must be permitted to exercise their full human rights in a safe environment without fear of violence or persecution," the UN statement concluded, directing the public to resources on how to get involved via the UN Women website.
As global movements amplify calls for accountability and action, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women serves as a reminder of the collective effort needed to create a world where all women and girls live free from violence.
