For information only - not an official document
UNIS/CP/1061
22 November 2018
VIENNA, 25 November (UN Information Service) - Violence against women remains a major obstacle to equality, the full realization of human rights and achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Far too many women around the world experience violence which too often escalates with lethal consequences.
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) is working with governments to advance evidence-based policies and criminal justice action, to end impunity and ensure protection and remedies for victims and survivors.
Last year, UNODC trained more than 3,500 police and prosecutors around the world to effectively investigate and prosecute violence against women and girls. But we need to do more.
Even where adequate laws and policies are in place, responses by authorities - police, the justice system, health and social services - need to be improved and better coordinated.
Concerted efforts are required to enable women and girls to live lives free from violence and to stop violence and gender-related killings before it is too late.
On this International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and the coming 16 days of activism, I reaffirm UNODC's commitment to this fight for justice for all.
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For further information, please contact:
Sonya
Yee
Speechwriter and Spokesperson, UNODC
Telephone: (+43 1) 26060-4990
Mobile: (+43-699) 1459-4990
Email: sonya.yee[at]un.org
