'Violence against women undermines development, limits potential'

On the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women the President of Malta, Australia’s Ambassador for Women and Girls and members of the Diplomatic Corps yesterday made a joint statement on the Elimination of Violence against Women.

In their statement they reaffirmed their commitment to ensure that the lives of women and girls are free from violence and the threat of violence. They noted that violence is a manifestation of gender inequality and requires all of us to take a stand against it.

The joint statement emphasised that violence against women is unacceptable. The message was that violence against women is a violation of women’s human rights and undermines development, social cohesion and economic growth. They also added that gender-based violence limits women’s lives and potential.

The statement underlined that we need to encourage men and boys to stand up for women and girls and assume their responsibility in condemning all forms of violence against women. They encouraged all governments and communities to take action now to stop violence against women, to commit resources to the prevention of, and response to, violence against women by supporting survivors, educating our communities and ensuring that legal systems respond appropriately.

The statement was endorsed by the President of Malta, Australia’s Ambassador for Women and Girls, and members of the Diplomatic Corps.

The joint statement was facilitated by the President’s Foundation for the Wellbeing of Society and the Australian High Commission in Malta. The Statement was made at Verdala Palace in Rabat in the presence of the President of Malta and a number of Ambassadors.