25th November, 2018
The United States says eliminating violence against women and girls “requires all of us” to take action.
U.S. Secretary of State Michael Pompeo stated this in a message to the 2018 International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.
Pompeo said violence against women was a global issue that affected millions of people annually.
The U.S. top diplomat said: “Every woman and girl deserves a life free from violence.
“The Unites States is committed to advancing gender equality and preventing and responding to all forms of violence against women and girls, from domestic and sexual violence to forced marriage and so-called honour killings.
“Eliminating violence against women and girls requires all of us – governments, the private sector, civil society, and faith-based organisations – to take action”.
To help bring attention to this global challenge, the U.S. observes the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women on Nov. 25 and the accompanying 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.
Pompeo said the U.S. was proud to take action on the 2018 theme for the 16 Days of Activism: ‘Ending Gender-Based Violence in the World of Work’.
According to him, societies that empower women to participate fully in civic and economic life are more prosperous and peaceful.
Pompeo stressed that “ending violence within and beyond the workplace can ensure women unlock their potential as leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators.
“The United States is committed to bringing workforce development and skills training to women and girls, advancing women’s entrepreneurship and expanding access to capital, and eliminating gender discrimination in the workplace”.