UN Resident Coordinator Vladanka Andreeva's video message on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women

Today, 25th of November, marks the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. And at the same time kicks off the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence.



Too many women and girls, continue to be subjected to violence around the world, and in Azerbaijan. The act of violence affects not only women and girls, but their families, and larger community too. That’s why we need everyone’s participation to eliminate this ‘mark of shame’ on our societies.



During the 16 Days of Activism campaign, the United Nations Country Team together with the Government, civil society, and development partners, are launching major initiatives to raise awareness , and engage men and boys in Azerbaijan to stand up to violence against women and girls.



Men and boys have a crucial role to play — as fathers, brothers, husbands and public advocates — in both speaking out against gender-based violence, and in defying the destructive stereotypes that serve to normalize gender inequality.



On this International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, we call on all men and boys in Azerbaijan, to redouble efforts to eradicate violence against women and girls, once and for all!