The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has reaffirmed its dedication to eradicating the scourge of gender-based violence (GBV), protecting women and girls, and supporting survivors in their journey to recovery.

Natalia Kanem, UNFPA’s executive director, made this commitment in a statement on Friday in Abuja, commemorating the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women.

The 2024 campaign, themed “Every 10 Minutes, a woman is killed. #NoExcuse. UNiTE to End Violence against Women,” aims to draw attention to the alarming escalation of violence against women.

“As the lead UN agency addressing GBV in humanitarian settings, UNFPA provided services and protection to six million people in 2023.

“The organisation established 1,000 safe spaces, offering comprehensive services, including legal aid and psychosocial support.

“UNFPA continues to invest in long-term prevention strategies, addressing gender inequality and the root causes of violence,” Ms Kanem.

Ms Kanem emphasised that every GBV survivor deserved protection, quality care, and access to justice.

However, she noted that less than a quarter of the funding needs for essential prevention and protection services in emergencies have been met this year.

Ms Kanem stressed the need for strengthened laws and policies protecting women and girls in humanitarian settings and beyond.

The UNFPA chief also highlighted the importance of engaging men and boys in interrupting patterns of violence and changing harmful attitudes and gender norms.

She emphasised that displacement due to conflict and disaster leaves women and girls vulnerable to violence and abuse.

Ms Kanem called for a renewed commitment to creating a world where every woman and girl could enjoy dignity and equality, living free from all forms of violence and harm.

The UNiTE campaign, launched on November 25, will run until December 10, concluding on International Human Rights Day.

(NAN)