U N I T E D N A T I O N S
The Secretary-General
MESSAGE ON THE INTERNATIONAL DAY FOR THE
ELIMINATION OF VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN
25 November 2010
As we observe the 2010 International Day for the Elimination of Violence
against Women, let us acknowledge the widespread and growing efforts to
address this important issue. No longer are women's organizations alone.
From Latin America to the United States, from Asia to Africa, men and boys,
young and old, musicians, celebrities and sports personalities, the media,
public and private organizations, and ordinary citizens are doing more to
protect women and girls and promote their empowerment and rights.
The social mobilization platform 'Say NO-UNiTE' has recorded almost 1
million activities implemented by civil society and individuals worldwide.
In August this year at the fifth World Youth Conference in Mexico, young
activists from around the world were clear in their message: "It's time to
end violence against women and girls!" Member States, too, are engaged. As
of November 2010, my database on the extent, nature and consequences of
violence against women, which also logs policies and programmes for
combating the pandemic, has registered more than 100 reports from
governments.
This year's observance highlights the role the business community can play ¬
from developing projects to providing direct financial support to
organizations working to end violence and embracing the principles of
corporate social responsibility. The "Women's Empowerment Principles", an
initiative of the UN Global Compact and UNIFEM, recognize the costs to
business of violence against women and are now supported by more 120 leading
companies. A growing number of media outlets are bringing light to bear on
so-called 'honour-killings', trafficking of girls and sexual violence in
conflict, and are raising awareness about the benefits to society of
empowering women. Yet much more needs to be done. In homes, schools and
the office, in refugee camps and conflict situations, the corporate sector
can help us to prevent the many forms of violence that women and girls
continue to face.
My UNiTE to End Violence against Women campaign, and the Network of Men
Leaders I launched last year, have generated welcome momentum and
engagement. The word is spreading: violence against women and girls has no
place in any society, and impunity for perpetrators must no longer be
tolerated. On this International Day, I urge all ¬ Governments, civil
society, the corporate sector, individuals ¬ to take responsibility for
eradicating violence against women and girls.