Campaigning for an end to Violence Against Women is something I’m very passionate about. Today, 25th November is the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and is another opportunity for me to raise my voice against one of the most devastating human rights violations.
Violence against women and girls is one of the most widespread, persistent and devastating human rights violations in our world today. It is the most extreme form of discrimination. According to the United Nations, 19 per cent of women between 15 and 49 years of age said they had experienced physical and/or sexual violence by an intimate partner in the 12 months prior to the survey (2005 – 2016). In the most extreme cases, such violence can lead to death. In 2012, almost half of all women who were victims of intentional homicide worldwide were killed by an intimate partner or family member, compared to 6 per cent of male victims.
Research also shows that achieving gender equality helps in preventing conflict, and high rates of violence against women correlates with outbreaks of conflict.
Through my award winning movie, DRY, and other platforms, I have spoken up against all forms of violence against women and girls and this is another day to remind ourselves of that. I hope we all continue to do our part to protect the women and girls around us. Violence is NEVER the answer.
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