Remarks by H.E. Mr. Abdulla Shahid, President of the 76th session of the United Nations General Assembly
New York, 24 November 2021
Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Today we spotlight the prevalence of Violence Against Women and Girls – an unacceptable violation of human rights that continues to haunt our societies.
Globally, one in three women and girls are subjected to violence. This number has only risen during the global pandemic, as women and girls faced the closure of schools, offices, and borders.
This issue is not only devastating for survivors of violence and their families, but also entails significant social and economic costs.
In some countries, violence against women is estimated to cost up to 3.7% of their GDP – more than double what most governments spend on education.
One characteristic of gender-based violence is that it knows no social or economic boundaries and affects women and girls of all socio-economic backgrounds.
This issue needs to be addressed in both developing and developed countries.
Let me be clear: Violence against Women and Girls has no place in our societies.
It goes against our values, morals, and principles. It is a direct violation of everything that the United Nations stands for.
Upon assuming this role, I promised a Presidency of Hope, one that delivers for the people, planet, and prosperity. This includes support for gender equality.
Placing hope for women and girls front and center is a commitment to deliver action.
I remain committed to this cause and will use every tool available to me throughout this presidency to manifest support for women and girls, and to call, resolutely, for eliminating violence.
I have had many conversations with women and girls during my travels, and during my time in office.
Their message is clear – they want freedom to realize their true potential without fear of violence or recrimination.
They want equality. They want justice.
Of course, it doesn’t take a conversation with anyone to realize that they want to be free of violence. This is common sense. It is quite simply not open for debate.
Ladies and gentlemen, our bar on gender equality is high – as it should be – and the fact that we tolerate violence against women and girls is morally wrong.
We cannot raise up women and girls while many amongst them suffer the indignity and pain of violence.
As we raise the bar, let us ensure others are not left behind.
For the victims, the survivors, and families let us put an end to this atrocity.
Decreasing violence against women and girls requires a community-based, multi-pronged approach, and sustained engagement with multiple stakeholders.
The most effective initiatives address underlying risk factors for violence, including social norms regarding gender roles and the acceptability of violence.
I call upon the international community to accelerate resources and funding to all programs and initiatives on ending violence against women and girls.
Let us deliver action for a prosperous and safer future for women and girls everywhere.
I thank you.
