United Nations Statement on violence against women

The United Nations Family in Eswatini is appalled by the acts of gruesome violence against women which have resulted in the loss of lives and horrendous injuries in the recent past. On 28 October alone, five women were shot, with four dying on the spot, and one reported to be still fighting for her life in intensive care. 

The UN Family in Eswatini conveys its deepest condolences to His Majesty’s Government and the families that have been affected by these unacceptable acts perpetrated by men.  

The UN condemns violence of all forms and continues to stand with the women and girls who suffer it, often at the hands of those they consider as loved ones. 

Violence against women and girls is one of the most prevalent human rights violations worldwide. It knows no social, economic or national boundaries and undermines the health, dignity, security of its survivors, yet remains shrouded in a culture of indifference.

Every year, 25 November commemorates the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and marks the start of the “16 Days of Activism” ending on International Human Rights Day on 10 December. This year’s campaign coincides with the 75th Anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the document which enshrines inalienable rights that every human being is entitled to at birth regardless of race, gender, identity or any other identifier. That includes women.

As we plan this year’s campaign, I urge that it does not become just another routine observance on our calendar. Rather, I call on all stakeholders to take time to reflect on our commitments to end the scourge of violence against women and girls. I urge all men to join the fight to end the scourge. I urge that we give meaning to this year’s campaign by pledging to be the change that we want, by reminding each other that women are human beings, not objects, and have rights that we all must speak out for and protect. Let us act now. Let us change the tide.

Statement Released on behalf of the United Nations by

H.E. George Wachira

UN Resident Coordinator