UN International Day of Elimination of Violence Against Women and Girls

Nov 26, 2020 | UK - Universal Peace Federation
Online
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As the world retreats inside houses due to the lockdown measures introduced to curb the COVID-19 pandemic, reports from around the world showed an alarming increase in the already existing pandemic of violence against women. “Accompanying the crisis has been a spike in domestic violence reporting, at exactly the time that services, including rule of law, health and shelters, are being diverted to address the pandemic,” said the UN Secretary-General's report “Shared Responsibility, Global Solidarity: Responding to the socio-economic impacts of COVID-19". During the UK’s first lockdown in March we, at UPF, convened a ZOOM conference entitled 'Domestic Violence During Lockdown' to assemble experts to raise awareness and explain the resources available to victims. It was a hugely successful event with a panel of top-level speakers including Chris Green, Founder and President of White Ribbon UK.

Globally, even before the COVID-19 pandemic began, 1 in 3 women experienced physical or sexual violence mostly by an intimate partner and emerging data shows an increase in calls to domestic violence helplines in many countries since the outbreak of COVID-19. It is estimated cases have increased by more than 20% during the first lockdown.

Imagine a world where a female, no matter her age, can participate in politics, receive an education, have her own income, and dress and speak with no fear of discrimination. In particular, imagine a world with no violence against women and girls, where each female person feels safe, wanted and respected. Imagine a world of equality and acceptance.

The greatest achievements, accomplishments, studies, movements, amongst others all began with an idea. It was the dedication and free will of the individual and groups to spread their ideas changing our reality for the better. By working together, asking for help, and getting involved we can make EVAWG a reality. With this strong global momentum striving for EVAWG there has never been a more important time to keep motivated.

The Universal Peace Federation UK would like to invite you, on the 26th of November at 6PM, to our online commemoration of “UN International Day of Elimination of Violence Against Women and Girls” (EVAWG) under the 2020 global theme: "Orange the World: Fund, Respond, Prevent, Collect!"