8 March 2018 — International Women's Day On the occasion of International Women's Day 2018, with the theme "Time is Now: Rural and Urban Activists Transforming Women's Lives", the Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Violence against Ch
8 March 2018 — International Women's Day
On the occasion of International Women's Day 2018, with the theme "Time is Now: Rural and Urban Activists Transforming Women's Lives", the Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Violence against Children, Marta Santos Pais, reaffirmed the urgent need to protect girls from all forms of gender-based violence.
"Girls are disproportionately affected by certain forms of violence — from sexual abuse and exploitation, to early and forced marriage, female genital mutilation, and online harassment. International Women's Day is a powerful reminder that protecting girls from violence is not only a matter of justice but also a prerequisite for sustainable development," said SRSG-VAC Marta Santos Pais.
The SRSG highlighted the importance of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, particularly SDG target 5.2 on eliminating all forms of violence against women and girls, and SDG target 16.2 on ending all forms of violence against children, as complementary and mutually reinforcing commitments.
The SRSG called upon States to strengthen legal frameworks, invest in prevention programmes, ensure access to justice and support services for survivors, and empower girls to claim their rights and participate in decisions that affect their lives.