20 March 2007

NCWNZ Supports Action On Sexual Violence

The National Council of Women of New Zealand (NCWNZ) supports today's announcement by the Labour-led Government that a Taskforce for Action on Sexual Violence will be established.

"NGOs working in the field have dedicated their time and effort towards this end, and it is pleasing that the Government is prepared to make this commitment," said Christine Low, National President NCWNZ. "Women around the country have been greatly affected by the outcomes of recent sex trials and the disheartening statistics surrounding sexual violence, which were reflected in recent demonstrations. Women have been frustrated with a system that has been failing them, and, if left unchanged, could have also failed future generations. Today's announcement gives hope to survivors of sexual violence, their families and friends."

The National Council of Women of New Zealand applauds the Minister of Women's Affairs driving role in this initiative.

Women have provided the impetus to get recent research and taskforce strategies in place and this has been acknowledged with the Government linking other government agencies into finding solutions.
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NCWNZ believes that sexual violence should not be seen as only a woman's issue. Sexual violence is an issue that impacts on men and women and therefore requires the community's full attention.

"Every woman in this country would know of women (and men) who have been victims of sexual violence. Everyone needs to consider their role in eliminating this heinous form of violence", concluded Christine Low.

ENDS

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