Violence against women and girls happens in all countries and at all levels of society. It is a fundamental human rights responsibility of every state to protect against such violence. It is not a private matter, according to a press release issued by the U.S. Embassy in Bucharest.

The Istanbul Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence requires state parties to implement comprehensive and coordinated policies against such violence.

In the run up to the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women on 25 November, we join initiatives taken around the globe to create awareness of this worldwide problem. Victims/survivors’ rights should be at the center of all measures. The work of civil society should be encouraged and supported.

By supporting the public assembly “Together for women’s safety!”, we show our solidarity with every woman and girl who has suffered violence. The event will take place 23 October 2022 starting 15.00 in Bucharest on the following route: University Square (Fountain area) – Victory Square.

The event is organized by the Network for Prevention and Combating Violence against Women (VIF), which comprises 25 non-governmental organizations involved in promoting women’s rights, protecting victims/survivors of gender-based violence and combating gender discrimination.

VIF will focus its awareness-raising efforts on victims/survivors of gender-based violence. Shelters for victims/survivors and accessible social, psychological, and legal counseling services are among the most effective actions that states take to support victims/survivors.

Change begins with each of us!

This joint statement is signed by the following embassies and representatives of international institutions: Austria, Belgium, Canada, Czech Republic, Denmark, European Commission, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Lithuania, Netherlands, Norway, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United States, United Kingdom.