EU calls for increased efforts to end all forms of sexual and gender-based violence

Ahead of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, on 25 November, the European Commission and EU High Representative, Kaja Kallas, said in a statement that the EU was taking concrete steps in this area – from prevention and protection to enforcement and accountability.

“Gender-based violence is unacceptable. On this International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, the European Union renews its determination to end all forms of violence against women and girls and to ensure that every person can live free from fear and harm,” the statement says.

The EU’s efforts do not stop at Europe’s borders, the statement says. The EU works globally to end sexual and gender-based violence, partnering with governments, UN agencies, civil society, women’s rights organisations, peacebuilders and human rights defenders. 

“Through actions like the Spotlight Initiative and the EU–UN Women ACT Programme, we are investing in real change. We will continue to implement the Women, Peace and Security Agenda fully to build a world where women can live safely and girls can grow up without fear in every community, and in every digital space,” Commission said. “Ending violence against women and girls is everyone’s responsibility.” 

As in previous years, the headquarters of the European Commission and the European External Action Service (EEAS) will join the UN Women’s 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), a global campaign to raise awareness, support survivors, and call for an end to violence against women and girls. 

On the evening of 24 November, the European Commission’s Berlaymont building was lit in orange — the UN’s global symbol of commitment to eliminate violence against women.

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Press release