2020 will undoubtedly go down in history as one of the most challenging years of our generation. We need to take stock of the lessons learned and use the urgency that this year has presented to bring reforms to upend the systems that hold girls and women back and stay on-track to realize the Sustainable Development Goals.
Gender-based violence is persistent in all countries and regions of the world. The impact of such violence – including femicide, domestic violence, and psychological abuse – on girls’ and women’s physical, mental, sexual and reproductive health is profound. Our Bending the Curve research shows that globally there has been virtually no progress on ensuring women feel safe – the trendline is almost flat. If current rates continue, it will take more than six generations for all girls and women to feel safe walking at night.
Join our 16 days of activism campaign which kicked off on 25 November until 10 December, World Human Rights Day, as we call for action against one of the world’s most persistent violations of human rights – violence against women.
As we wind down the year, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all our funders, our committed partners who work tirelessly to drive change for women and girls in their countries and regions, and our ardent supporters who help to amplify our message even further. May 2021 bring more promise for girls and women as we continue on this journey of advancing gender equality.
Stay safe.
