Women’s Rights Are Fundamental to Human Dignity

Women’s rights are fundamental to human dignity. When they are not met, it affects everyone. When they are met, the world is a better place – economically, socially and environmentally. This is why a society’s treatment of its women is one of the best indicators of the overall health of that society. Yet discrimination against women is widespread – gender-based violence, economic disparities, reproductive health inequities and harmful traditions such as child marriage are just some of the many barriers that still exist.

Women and girls should have the same opportunities as men to live free from injustice. When they have these opportunities, they are more likely to contribute to the growth and prosperity of their communities. In fact, societies that give women and girls equal status with men reap many benefits – including a stronger economy, lower rates of poverty, higher levels of education and improved public health. But despite the progress made in the past half century, the world is far from meeting the goals set out in the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action 20 years ago.

In 178 countries, women are not afforded the same legal rights as men. They are disproportionately affected by poverty, lack of educational opportunity, violence and the burden of unpaid work. Women also face legal barriers to economic participation and employment, such as maternity leave and the right to take up jobs in hazardous industries.

Legal protections have a direct impact on key indicators such as the incidence of violence against women, unmet needs for family planning and access to financial services. And women’s representation in decision-making bodies such as parliaments and government has a strong influence on policies and legislation that benefit all citizens.

When asked about what a society with equal rights for women would look like, most people around the world agree that it is important to provide equality in pay and opportunities for advancement at work; to ensure the same rights in schools and hospitals; and to protect the right of women to have children. In addition, the vast majority of people support a ban on discrimination against women based on their marital status and an end to gender-based violence against women.

At medica mondiale, we are committed to working to dismantle the patriarchal norms and structures that systematically disadvantage and violate the rights of women. These structures are in the workplace, in laws that restrict women’s access to property and other assets, in schools that rely on stereotyped teaching methods, and in the ways that families and communities organize themselves and allocate resources. By tackling the root causes of these barriers, we can create a world where everyone has the same opportunities for a healthy and prosperous life. We must all stand up for women’s rights.

Tackling Gender Inequality

Achieving gender equality is a crucial global development objective. In our view, tackling it requires action at many levels: governments and companies design stimulus programs and restart strategies in the face of COVID-19; individuals can support talented women in their workplaces and speak up to counter unconscious bias; and families should aim for daughters and sons to have a wide range of career options.

Gender inequality isn’t limited to the world of work – it also affects our health and the way we raise children. For example, women are at higher risk of unintended pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections including HIV; they’re more likely to die of preventable diseases like malaria and pneumonia, or be at risk from harmful practices such as female genital mutilation and child, early and forced marriage. They’re at greater risk of malnutrition, respiratory infections and lower vision, too.

While some progress has been made in reducing gender gaps, especially in high-income countries, substantial gaps remain. These gaps are caused by a combination of structural and individual factors, such as differences in educational attainment, occupational choice, and time spent in paid employment versus caring for family members. They also reflect the fact that women’s labour market participation is often constrained by household responsibilities, such as raising children and caring for older family members.

In addition, a large share of women are excluded from decision-making around household income – and this is particularly the case in low-income households. This is because women tend to reinvest most of their income back into the family and community. This reinvestment is not only important for the well-being of women and girls but also helps economies thrive.

This chart shows that if all adults received equal salaries, the average household income would rise by nearly $3,000 a year. In many countries, however, women’s earnings per hour are significantly lower than men’s, and they spend a greater proportion of their time in part-time jobs that often offer less security and flexibility. This results in lower wages, which are compounded by the fact that women disproportionately seek jobs that can fit with their caregiving responsibilities.

The OECD’s Gender Data Portal provides selected indicators shedding light on how far we are from achieving gender equality in education, employment, entrepreneurship and the economy, and where action is needed most. The data include both country and global aggregates.

The GII is an attempt to quantify the gap between the world’s male and female performers, on three dimensions that are central to human development – reproductive health, empowerment and labour market participation. It measures the amount of potential human development lost because of gender-based disadvantage across countries, using as much of a country’s available data as possible. It is the first time that a global indicator of this kind has been developed.

How to Prevent Sexual Violence

Sexual violence is any act that violates a person’s right to their own body, privacy and dignity. It can be physical, psychological or emotional and can include unwanted sexual comments or actions, sexual assault, rape, and sexual harassment.

Everyone has different reactions to sexual violence and abuse, but for most people, it is a very traumatic experience. It can affect a person’s health, relationships and wellbeing. Survivors can have feelings like shame, embarrassment, guilt and self-blame. They can have flashbacks, nightmares and memories of the assault that interfere with their daily life. They can feel depressed and isolated from family and friends, and have difficulty trusting others. They can have changes in their eating and sleeping habits. They can also suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

Sexual abuse and violence often happens in families or other close relationships. Children who are abused or witness sexual violence may be afraid of their parents, have trouble making friends and can behave in sexually inappropriate ways. Parents can help prevent their child from being a victim of sexual violence by educating them about appropriate touching and using age-appropriate explanations of sexual behaviour. They can also make sure their children are not in contact with known offenders and report any suspected incidents to police.

At the community level, communities can reduce sexual violence by providing education about the risks of sex offenders, and supporting victims through support services and legal advocacy. They can also work to change the social norms that allow sexual violence and promote the values of respect, equality and non-violence. They can also challenge images of sexual violence against women in advertising, pornography and professional wrestling.

Individuals can reduce their risk of sexual violence by practicing safe sex, abstaining from the use of alcohol or drugs for sex, and not allowing anyone else to touch their private areas. They can also teach their children about the realities of sexual violence and sexually transmitted infections. Schools and universities can help by reporting sex-related crime rates, making it easier for students to access support services and raising awareness about the risks of campus sexual assault and sex crimes.

At the societal level, governments can address sexual violence by developing and implementing policies to protect and support victims, and reducing the causes of sexual violence. They can also provide education about sexually transmitted infections and offer prevention programs for young people, such as sexual health classes, sex offenders treatment programs and community awareness campaigns. Tertiary prevention focuses on the long-term responses to sexual violence through policies, programs and services for survivors, such as counselling services, self-defense classes and sex offender treatment programs. They can also fund and implement public safety initiatives, such as improving lighting, signage and security at places where sexual violence is most likely to occur. This can increase the safety of communities and reduce the costs associated with police, emergency services and the cost of lost productivity. Finally, they can support local organisations that deliver these services.

The Fascination of Togel Hong Kong: Unveiling HK’s Knowledge and Benefits

Hong Kong’s Togel phenomenon has captivated lovers all around the world with its intriguing mix of exhilaration and anticipation. As 1 of the most well-liked kinds of lottery, Togel Hong Kong, or togel hk, offers gamers the opportunity to take element in thrilling attracts and perhaps unlock daily life-altering fortunes. With its enticing combination of numbers and luck, the allure of Togel Hong Kong continues to fascinate each locals and global players alike, searching for the thrill of the draw and the hope of monetary good results.

At the heart of this fascination lies the information and results supplied by Togel Hong Kong. togel hk Gamers eagerly await the keluaran hk, the official end result of the attract, which establishes the winning numbers and prizes. The availability of information hk, which includes past final results and statistical analysis, gives lovers a deeper perception into their odds and strategies, enhancing the total encounter and potentially escalating the probabilities of a productive end result.

Pengeluaran hk, the procedure of saying the results, is cautiously managed to make sure transparency and fairness. The stage of anticipation and enjoyment surrounding every attract delivers jointly a assorted local community of players, united by their shared hopes and desires. Whether they enjoy for personalized achieve or merely for the thrill of the recreation, Togel Hong Kong has grow to be an integral component of the city’s cultural material, engraining itself in the hearts of its participants.

In the adhering to sections, we will delve further into the world of Togel Hong Kong, discovering its history, policies, and the impact it has had on the lives of both winners and members. By knowing the nuances of this captivating game and familiarizing ourselves with the information and outcomes it generates, we can better appreciate the splendor and fascination that is Togel Hong Kong.

History of Togel Hong Kong

Togel Hong Kong, also identified as Togel HK, is a popular type of lottery that has acquired enormous reputation in Hong Kong more than the many years. The origins of Togel Hong Kong can be traced back again to the early nineteen eighties, when it very first emerged as a way for the government to elevate resources for public providers and infrastructure development.

The game quickly obtained traction among the neighborhood population, who ended up fascinated by the thrill of the lottery and the possible for a important payout. Togel HK turned not only a resource of entertainment but also a way for individuals to dream big and hope for a greater potential.

At first, Togel Hong Kong had a simple format, with gamers deciding on a established of figures from a predetermined assortment. The successful figures were then drawn, and these who matched the quantities would obtain cash prizes. As the sport grew in acceptance, the Hong Kong government introduced various modifications and enhancements to keep the sport refreshing and fascinating.

More than the many years, Togel Hong Kong has advanced and tailored to the shifting occasions. The introduction of technological innovation and the web paved the way for on the internet Togel platforms, allowing people to participate in the lottery from the ease and comfort of their houses. This convenience has additional fueled the acceptance of Togel HK, attracting a wider audience and escalating the prize pools.

The history of Togel Hong Kong is a testomony to its enduring attraction and the fascination it holds for each locals and guests. With its prosperous heritage and evolving character, Togel HK proceeds to captivate the creativeness of lottery lovers, offering them with a chance to turn their desires into truth.

Knowing Togel HK Final results

In Togel Hong Kong, the outcomes perform a vital position in identifying the winners and comprehension the game greater. The Togel HK outcomes are based mostly on a special technique that brings together both luck and strategic thinking. By inspecting the knowledge and analyzing the patterns, gamers can acquire worthwhile insights into the game and boost their possibilities of profitable.

1 of the main elements of Togel HK final results is the keluaran HK, which refers to the outcome of the attract. It is crucial to keep keep track of of the keluaran HK as it helps players assess their performance and make required changes to their techniques. By researching the frequency at which specific quantities show up in the keluaran HK, players can identify designs and traits that can be utilized to their benefit.

One more important factor of Togel HK final results is the knowledge HK, which gives a comprehensive overview of the past attracts. Examining the information HK can support gamers recognize hot and cold figures, which are quantities that often or seldom seem in the attracts. This data is essential for players who depend on statistical investigation to make informed selections and enhance their successful probabilities in Togel Hong Kong.

And finally, pengeluaran HK refers to the process of releasing the Togel HK outcomes to the general public. The well timed and precise pengeluaran HK is important for gamers to validate their tickets and declare their prizes. It assures transparency and maintains the integrity of the sport. Players can entry the pengeluaran HK by means of a variety of platforms, allowing them to remain up-to-date with the newest outcomes and program their potential gameplay appropriately.

Knowing the Togel HK results is paramount for people who want to improve their successful potential in this captivating sport. By intently inspecting the keluaran HK, info HK, and pengeluaran HK, players can make informed conclusions and strategize effectively. So, dive into the mesmerizing planet of Togel Hong Kong and unravel the tricks concealed in its knowledge and results!

Analyzing Data and Predictions for HK Togel

In purchase to gain a further understanding of Togel Hong Kong, it is essential to analyze the offered knowledge and look at the predictions made based mostly on that info. By doing so, we can check out the designs and tendencies that might exist inside of the outcomes of HK Togel.

Examining the info from Togel Hong Kong can provide valuable insights into the styles of quantity mixtures that have been usually drawn. By examining this info, we can determine any recurring figures or sequences that might serve as indicators for foreseeable future attracts. This permits players to make educated conclusions when selecting their quantities, escalating their possibilities of successful.

In addition, predictions based on historic knowledge can also engage in a important role in the world of Togel HK. By way of the research of earlier results and styles, specialists and lovers produce various prediction approaches. These predictions intention to forecast the figures that are a lot more very likely to look in approaching attracts, supporting players make educated guesses and strategize their gameplay appropriately.

By combining knowledge analysis with predictions, players can strategy Togel HK with a more systematic and educated strategy. Although there are by no means any guarantees in the planet of Togel, examining knowledge and generating predictions permit players to boost their understanding of the match and probably boost their odds of accomplishment.

The Ultimate Guide to Unlocking a Professional Slot Experience in Thailand

Welcome to the Supreme Manual to Unlocking a Professional Slot Experience in Thailand! If you might be a admirer of thrilling slot games and take place to be in the land of smiles, you might be in for a handle. Thailand is a vivid nation known for its wealthy culture, stunning landscapes, and now, its burgeoning slot server scene. No matter whether you happen to be a seasoned participant or just acquiring started out, this guidebook will assist you navigate the exhilarating entire world of slot gaming in Thailand like a professional.

You will find anything truly fascinating about the electrifying atmosphere of a slot server in Thailand. It’s no wonder that a lot more and much more folks are searching for out the ultimate slot encounter in this tropical paradise. From the bustling town streets of Bangkok to the pristine beach locations of Phuket, you will discover a plethora of possibilities to satisfy your slot cravings. In this guide, we will delve into the ins and outs of discovering the best slot servers, generating a pro account, and uncovering the leading slot experiences that Thailand has to offer you.

So, put together to immerse your self in a globe of spinning reels, interesting reward attributes, and big wins. Whether or not you might be aiming for jackpots or simply searching for some amusement, this guide will equip you with the knowledge and methods to make the most of your time at the slot servers in Thailand. Get completely ready to unlock the strategies to an amazing slot journey, as we take you on a thrilling experience by means of the fascinating globe of slot gaming in the lovely land of Thailand.

Deciding on the Very best Slot Server in Thailand

When it arrives to experiencing an optimal slot experience in Thailand, selecting the proper slot server is essential. With many alternatives accessible, it can be overpowering to make a determination. Nevertheless, by thinking about a couple of key factors, you can make sure that you protected the very best slot server for your requirements.

Firstly, it is essential to appraise the trustworthiness and status of the slot server. Seem for servers that have a powerful observe record of delivering regular and uninterrupted gameplay. Reviews and feedback from other players can give worthwhile insights into the overall performance and security of a slot server.

In addition to trustworthiness, contemplate the range of slot online games offered by the server. Opt for servers that offer a diverse selection of slots, guaranteeing you have obtain to your favourite video games as effectively as new and thrilling options. A broad variety of game titles ensures that you never operate out of choices and can continuously explore diverse themes and attributes.

In addition, get the time to evaluate the consumer interface and total consumer experience provided by the slot server. Seem for servers that provide smooth and intuitive navigation, producing it effortless for you to navigate through different video games, obtain your account, and deal with your winnings. A person-friendly interface enhances your total slot encounter and contributes to a seamless and enjoyable gameplay. akun pro thailand

By considering factors these kinds of as trustworthiness, sport variety, and user encounter, you can make an educated determination when deciding on a slot server in Thailand. Carrying out so will ensure that you unlock a pro slot experience and improve your pleasure of these thrilling games.

Creating a Professional Account for Slot Games in Thailand

If you are hunting to unlock a skilled slot gaming experience in Thailand, producing a pro account is the very first action in direction of obtaining that. With a professional account, you can entry exclusive features and benefits that boost your gaming experience. Here’s a information on how to create a professional account for slot online games in Thailand.

1. Study Respected Slot Servers in Thailand: Commence by investigating reputable slot servers in Thailand that provide professional account solutions. Look for servers that prioritize stability, fairness, and a vast assortment of slot online games. Reading critiques and searching for tips can support you make an informed decision.

2. Register an Account: When you have chosen a reliable slot server, pay a visit to their website and navigate to the registration webpage. Fill in the required data properly, including your identify, e mail address, and make contact with particulars. Make confident to develop a robust password to protect your account.

3. Confirm Your Account: After completing the registration procedure, you may be necessary to validate your account. This normally requires confirming your e mail handle or offering added identification documents. Stick to the recommendations offered by the slot server to productively confirm your account.

By following these measures, you’ll be nicely on your way to unlocking a professional slot gaming expertise in Thailand. Keep in mind to gamble responsibly and established limits for your self to ensure an pleasant and safe gaming journey.

Discovering the Leading Slot Game titles in Thailand

Slot video games in Thailand supply an exciting and immersive gaming expertise. With a vast range of choices to choose from, gamers can find out the final thrill and amusement. No matter whether you are a seasoned participant or just starting your slot journey, there is some thing for absolutely everyone in the vivid Thai slot scene.

From classic fruit-themed slots to adventurous story-based mostly games, the options are countless. With point out-of-the-art visuals, fascinating seem effects, and progressive attributes, these slot games will maintain you engaged for hrs on stop. The lively graphics and immersive themes transportation players to different worlds, creating every spin an unforgettable experience.

Thailand’s slot games also boast interesting bonus functions, which includes free spins, multipliers, and interactive mini-game titles. These bonuses not only enhance the gameplay but also supply the likelihood to win big. With each and every spin, you will truly feel the adrenaline rush as you hope for the ideal combination of symbols that unlock great benefits.

Furthermore, the availability of professional accounts in Thailand allows gamers to obtain exclusive advantages and privileges. These pro accounts supply a personalized gaming encounter, delivering gamers with unique promotions, increased betting restrictions, and quicker withdrawals. By upgrading to an akun professional Thailand, players can elevate their slot knowledge to a entire new level.

In summary, checking out the prime slot online games in Thailand is a journey loaded with pleasure and unlimited opportunities. With a diverse range of games, fascinating themes, and generous bonuses, gamers are confident to discover their excellent in shape. So, get ready to unlock a pro slot experience in Thailand and embark on an unforgettable gaming journey.

The Root Causes of Victim Blaming

Victim blaming happens when someone suggests that something negative (like crime, victimization or death) was the fault of a person who suffered it. It often happens when a survivor reveals their experience and people begin to ask them questions about how they might have brought it on themselves. This can lead to feelings of shame and guilt, and can discourage a victim from seeking help or support in the future, due to fear of being blamed again.

A good way to think of victim blaming is to imagine yourself in the shoes of a victim who is being blamed for their misfortune. How would you feel if someone told you that a crime or other trauma was your fault? Would you like it if they said you got mugged because you were wearing provocative clothing, or that you had somehow invited the crime to happen by going out late at night or getting too intoxicated? Whether you are the victim of victim blaming or the person doing the victim blaming, it’s important to understand the root causes of this bias in order to prevent it from happening.

The reason victim blaming exists is because some people believe that the world should be fair, so if bad things happen to certain groups of people, it must be their fault. This is a psychological phenomenon known as the fundamental attribution error.

Some people use victim blaming as a coping mechanism when they are feeling sad or angry. They believe that putting the blame on others makes them feel better about themselves, and can also protect them from being held accountable for their actions.

Others use victim blaming as a form of social control. They may think that it is appropriate to blame victims of crimes because they are “bad” or “deserve it.” This belief system can be rooted in racism, sexism and other forms of discrimination.

Finally, some people use victim blaming to justify their own predatory behavior. They may think that sexual assault or domestic abuse is justified if the victim was not acting appropriately, or they might blame the victims of acid attacks on their promiscuity. Regardless of the reasons behind their behavior, predators who engage in victim blaming can cause real harm to their victims and contribute to a culture of violence.

The next time you hear someone blaming a victim of a crime or attack, think about how you might feel and then challenge them on it. Remind yourself that victim blaming is never acceptable, and that the victims of crime are not responsible for their attackers’ decisions or actions. Instead, focus on being a supportive friend and advocate for survivors.

Women and Gender Throughout History

Women have made significant strides throughout history, but gender is still a complicated issue. While many have fought to gain full and equal rights, women around the world continue to face obstacles like discrimination and violence. Women can also struggle with gender identity issues, including feeling unsure about how to define themselves and their lives.

Women’s identities can be shaped by a variety of factors, from the external expectations of society to internal feelings and experiences. This means that the definition of a woman can vary widely from person to person, and even from moment to moment. For some women, being a woman may include traditional feminine characteristics like being a homemaker or caring for children. For others, it might mean challenging gender stereotypes or identifying as lesbian.

Gender is often imposed on people from birth, and this can be a powerful influence on their lives. For example, parents of expecting babies often speculate on the sex of their unborn child. This can lead to binaries that can follow individuals throughout their life, and can affect how they feel about hobbies, traits, and relationships.

Some of these binaries, such as men being viewed as more powerful, are based on outdated and harmful ideas. In modern societies, women are often treated as second class citizens and given less opportunities to pursue their goals. This can have a detrimental impact on their health and well being. Women can be more susceptible to mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, and are more likely to experience sexual harassment or assault than men.

Throughout history, many different definitions of women have emerged. Some are positive and heroic (virago, zamazim, Amazon) while others are pejorative (strumpet, wench, malkin). New senses of the word have appeared over time as culture and language change, and some have died out altogether (unchaghe, mot, kittock).

While it can be helpful to look at the various ways that women have been defined throughout history, it is equally important to understand that the word has no fixed meaning. Attempting to pin down a single definition of “woman” is counterproductive and narcissistic, especially when some women are struggling with gender dysphoria. Perhaps the best answer to this question is that a woman is an adult human female, but this is not a satisfying explanation for anyone who feels uncomfortable or excluded by the term. Instead, we should strive to address the underlying issue with compassion and rigorous research. Hopefully, Matt Walsh’s documentary will be one step in this direction.

Women’s Rights – Why Gender Inequalities Persist

Women rights are those entitlements that all women are born with and deserve to live by – to be free from violence, to enjoy the same economic opportunities as men, to be able to make their own decisions about whether they want children, what sort of work they do, who they marry, etc. Women rights are at the heart of a free society, and there can be no true equality until they exist for all people.

Efforts to advance women’s rights have led to several milestones in the history of humankind, but it is important to remember that the fight is not yet over. Women still lack equal access to education and jobs, are at greater risk of physical violence at home or at work, and have fewer legal protections in place than men.

Globally, more than half of all women say that their government has not done enough to help them achieve their rights. But while many countries have made progress, there are also a number that have moved backwards in recent years.

Some of these are countries that were once regarded as leaders in the fight for women’s rights. These include Russia and Hungary, which have recently reduced protections for women, and China, which has been criticized for its treatment of women in the workplace and in the family. However, the majority of countries still do not meet international standards, and many continue to discriminate against women in multiple ways.

One major reason why gender inequality persists is because of patriarchal social norms and laws that remain in force in many societies. These systems typically support a hierarchy where men have authority over women and boys, and are largely based on the idea that men are more competent than women in most areas of life. This type of discrimination is known as traditional sexism, and it is still common in many parts of the world.

Another factor is the role that religion and culture play in limiting women’s rights. For example, in some countries, religious authorities may allow only male family members to inherit property or take leadership roles. This limits female participation in the economy and political life. It also leads to gender inequalities such as the unequal sharing of domestic chores and the lack of equal pay for equal work.

A third important issue is the failure to criminalize acts that cause serious harm to women and girls. This includes physical and sexual assault, harmful practices such as female genital mutilation and forced abortion, and the misuse of religion for these purposes. In some cases, governments have made it difficult to enforce laws by relying on local customs and traditions that discriminate against women.

Fortunately, there are organizations that fight for the rights of all women and girls around the world. These groups include feminist and women’s rights movements, as well as civil liberties and human rights organizations. Their efforts are vital to ensuring that every person is free and has equal access to the full range of rights recognized by the United Nations.

Gender Inequality – How Economic Inequality Affects Women

The gap between men and women is a global issue that affects many aspects of people’s lives. In the past few decades, most countries have seen progress in closing the gender gap, but it is not yet completely eliminated. One important factor contributing to the gender gap is economic inequality. A big reason is that women tend to earn less than men and have lower access to productive resources, such as land and credit, that can lead to gaps in income. This can be exacerbated by a variety of other factors such as discrimination, lower productivity, and fewer investment in research and development that can benefit both women and men.

Inequality between men and women also exists in terms of employment and promotions, which can have a domino effect on other dimensions of equality such as ownership. In most societies, men are given priority for acquiring and maintaining property rights, which can reduce women’s voices and opportunities in the community and their ability to participate in commercial and economic activities. This can also limit women’s ability to access financial services that are crucial for their livelihood.

Even in high-income countries, women have a hard time getting access to finance and are often disproportionately represented in low-paying jobs. This is largely because the economy’s structure, strategies and culture are influenced by sexist practices in organizations, which can have lasting effects. Moreover, sexist practices can have a direct impact on recruitment, selection and attrition processes in an organization. In an environment where gender inequality is prevalent, individuals are likely to become more sexist and be more inclined to engage in sexist behavior. Similarly, in an environment where there is little or no gender inequality individuals will become more neutral and not be as inclined to engage in sexist behavior.

Another aspect of economic inequality is the gap in access to healthcare. This gap is also impacted by gender inequalities, particularly for autoimmune diseases that can affect women more than men and other chronic conditions. In addition, there is a lack of funding for medical research that is focused on the unique needs of women, which can lead to gaps in care and treatment.

Gender inequality is a complex problem that requires an equally complex solution. We must understand and address the root causes of this inequality, which are related to both differences in biology and the ways society functions. In order to eliminate the gap, it is critical that we consider not only the role of differences in gender and health, but also differences in age, socio-economic status, education, ethnicity, culture, sexual orientation and disability. To do this, we must use an integrated approach that includes both a holistic understanding of the problem and the application of concrete interventions. This is the only way to achieve true equality for both women and men. For more information, visit www.theworldeconomicforum.org.

What is Sexual Violence?

Sexual violence is an act of aggression and intimidation, designed to control and humiliate. It is an act of power against a person, group or community and it can take many different forms including assault, rape, stalking, grooming, sex trafficking, and other types of abuse. It can occur in public, in the home and at work. It can be physical, psychological or emotional and can leave lasting impacts on victims. It happens to people of all ages, races, cultures, religions and sexualities but it is more likely to happen to women, girls, children and people with disabilities.

People who have been sexually abused are more likely to have health problems including depression, eating disorders and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). They are also more likely to self-harm or be involved in criminal behaviour. They are at greater risk of being passed around a network of abusers, known as sexual exploitation.

Sexual assault and rape can have serious, long-lasting effects on the victim, their family and friends. It can lead to low self-esteem, anxiety, depression and feelings of shame and guilt. It can have a significant impact on their education, career and relationships and they can struggle to form trusting relationships with others. It can have a major impact on their financial situation as they may need to take time off from work and face high medical bills.

Survivors can feel isolated, alone and ashamed, especially when their attackers are known. They can be afraid to report the crime or talk about it with their families, friends and colleagues. It can be difficult to find support and help, especially in rural communities where there are few health centres and the survivors might be worried about the effect of publicity or being seen as weak.

People can do lots to reduce sexual violence and exploitation. Make sure all windows and doors can be locked securely, particularly at night. Ask for proof of identity from anyone who might come to the house e.g. salesperson or repair man. Don’t open your door to strangers and make it clear you don’t give consent to being kissed or touched without explanation.

It is important to educate young people about sexual health, safety and responsibilities. They can learn the difference between healthy and unhealthy sex, develop respectful relationships, be active listeners and identify possible signs of sexual violence. It is also essential that they understand the importance of seeking help if they are concerned about themselves or their friends.

Preventing sexual violence requires tackling attitudes and behaviours that embolden inappropriate interpersonal interactions. Successful prevention programs challenge those beliefs, encourage effective communication skills and a strong sense of empathy, accountability and respect for each other. They should also focus on teaching and reinforcing respectful and non-violent conflict resolution techniques.

Sexual assault and exploitation affects us all and we must do our part to prevent it. Support organisations working to end sexual violence by donating money or volunteering your time. Teach everyone you know that consent is vital and no one deserves to be hurt.