UN Chief: Violence Against Women is Horrific Violation of Human Rights

UN Chief António Guterres has declared violence against women as a "horrific violation of human rights, a public health crisis, and a major obstacle to sustainable development."

In his message on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, Guterres highlighted the persistent, widespread, and worsening nature of this issue, ranging from sexual harassment and abuse to femicide, emphasizing that the root cause lies in structural injustice ingrained by millennia of patriarchy in his message for the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women marked on 25 November annually.

"We still live in a male-dominated culture that leaves women vulnerable by denying them equality in dignity and rights," stated Guterres, underscoring the far-reaching consequences of such a culture on societies, economies, and global justice. He affirmed  that creating a different world is not only necessary but also possible.

Guterres revealed this year's theme of the UNiTE campaign as "Invest to Prevent Violence against Women & Girls," calling on individuals, communities, and nations to take decisive action. The campaign calls for legislation and comprehensive policies that strengthen the protection of women's rights across the board.