Launching the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence, OSCE leaders called on participating States to step up their efforts to eliminate violence against women and girls, end impunity and support survivors.
Despite progress made in raising awareness and strengthening responses to gender-based violence, it is estimated that one in three women have experienced gender-based violence.
In addition, the lack of accessible support services for survivors and the prevailing stigma surrounding gender-based violence, and the impunity that most perpetrators enjoy prevent survivors from receiving the support they need. OSCE leaders stressed that more needs to be done to ensure that women and girls are guaranteed their most fundamental right to safety.
"All participating States need to recognize the importance of continuing to implement their commitments to prevent violence against women, in particular during conflict. The continued use of violence, including sexual violence has a long-term impact on victims and communities. We condemn all forms of gender-based violence and continue to call for accountability and relevant support for victims," said OSCE Chairman-in-Office, Minister of Foreign Affairs of North Macedonia, Bujar Osmani.
"Despite all efforts, and all around the world, violence against women remains a serious problem. This violence is not just a violation of women's rights. It is a violation of their most basic human right: the right to feel safe. Whether we're talking physical or psychological safety, online or offline," said Secretary General Helga Maria Schmid.
She urged participating States to not only increase their efforts and take additional measures to implement strong commitments to prevent and combat violence against women, but also to protect and support women in conflict settings and other crisis situations.
"We must recognize all forms of violence against women in order to develop comprehensive protection systems. And we must not only act now but persistently and for as long as it takes," she stressed.
Violence against women in politics is a growing part of the problem, said the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR). "Women's participation in political life is crucial to ensure all members of our society are represented," said ODIHR Director Matteo Mecacci. "But violence against women is stopping them from deciding to run for office and then remaining active in politics, making it a serious threat to our democracies. We must work together to end this violation of women's rights and ensure they are able to make a meaningful contribution to our societies."
This year, the OSCE marks 16 Days under the theme "Prevent. Protect. Act for Survivors. Act to End Gender-Based Violence" with a special focus on the need to take immediate action, enhance protection and support survivors.
