From the Ranch: Commerating the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women

Wednesday, November 28, 2012

Commerating the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women

U.S. EMBASSY BAGHDAD

Office of the Spokesman

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 27, 2012

The U.S. Embassy in Baghdad Commemorates the

International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women

The U.S. Embassy in Baghdad hosted a roundtable discussion with a group of Iraqi government and civil society leaders on November 26 on the occasion of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. Around the world, violence against women and girls continues to be a serious problem, and women’s rights activists remain at risk from extremists who target female politicians, civil servants, and journalists. The United States provides funding for civil society projects aimed at combating gender-based violence and promoting women’s advancement in Iraq and is committed to working with our Iraqi partners to help eradicate violence against women in Iraq, the region, and the world.

The United Nations General Assembly adopted Resolution 54/134, in December 1999, proclaiming November 25, as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. When women and girls are accorded their rights and afforded equal opportunities in education, healthcare, employment, and political participation, they lift up their families, their communities, and their nations and act as agents of positive change. Women’s education increases national income and improved health. As Secretary of State Hillary Clinton recently noted, “Investing in the potential of the world’s women and girls is one of the surest ways to achieve global economic progress, political stability, and greater prosperity for women – and men – the world over.” When women thrive, all of society thrives.