News story

Declaration to end violence against women and girls

57th Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) has agreed to adopt a declaration urging an end to violence against women and girls.

This was published under the 2010 to 2015 Conservative and Liberal Democrat coalition government

The 57th Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) has agreed to adopt a declaration urging an end to violence against women and girls. The UK has played a leading role in securing a successful outcome at this year’s CSW. It was even more important to reach a positive outcome after last year’s meeting broke up without a declaration.

International Development Secretary Justine Greening welcomed the outcome:

“I’m delighted that the CSW has reached an agreement after last year’s shocking result. It sends a clear and unified message to the world that there is no place in any society for acts of violence against girls and women. Britain has never stood on the sidelines when it comes to women’s right and we must now use this momentum to help push for international action on preventing and eliminating these appalling crimes”

By adopting this document, governments have made clear that discrimination and violence against women and girls will not be tolerated. They have reaffirmed their commitment and responsibility to undertake firm action to end violence against women and girls and promote and protect women’s human rights and fundamental freedoms.

A spokesperson for UN Women said:

“Governments have made clear that discrimination and violence against women and girls has no place in the 21st century. There is no turning back.”

Published 16 March 2013