7 December 2009
The United Nations commemorated its International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women on 25 November 2009 by pledging $10.5 million in grants for efforts to fight violence against women around the world. Violence against women is widely recognized as the most pervasive human rights problem in the world. (Radio Free Europe)
Recognizing that 70% of women have been victims of physical or sexual violence at some point in their lifetime, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon encouraged governments and international organizations to step up their efforts to end violence against women.
The Secretary-General also emphasized the importance of including men in efforts to curb violence against women. The UN recently launched a Network of Men Leaders consisting of Archbishop Desmond Tutu of South Africa, Spanish Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero, UN Messenger of Peace Paul Coelho, and other prominent men working to fight domestic violence.
Compiled from: Breffni O'Rourke, "UN Says Violence Against Women 'Most Pervasive' Rights Violation", Radio Free Europe (25 November 2009); "UN Pledges Millions to Fight Violence Against Women", Feminist Majority (25 November 2009).