Beirut, 1 December 2022 - As Lebanon grapples with an unprecedented socio-economic crisis, today it is more important than ever, to work towards a life free from violence for women and girls. The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) is joining the annual 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence campaign under the UN Secretary-General's 2022 call for UNiTE to End Violence against Women and Girls and is conducting activities in all its fields of operations.
When women and girls are safe and able to enjoy all their rights, communities are healthier, more peaceful and more successful. This is something that benefits men, women, boys and girls alike. The long-term pressures on the Palestine refugee community in Lebanon impact Palestinian women and girls in different and distinct ways. All parts of society should unite to support women to stay strong and contribute to their community and families living in dignity.
This year UNRWA in Lebanon joined efforts with local organizations, women's groups and child protection and women and girls' protection networks. We believe that change can happen when people come together. When women are protected, communities live together more safely, children are better able to cope and enjoy healthy development. Freedom from violence is a fundamental human right and it is everyone's responsibility to stand together and to unite for a safer society for everyone.
