UN Women National Committee Aotearoa New Zealand Media Release

10 October 2014:

Girls should be free from violence

UN Women National Committee Aotearoa New Zealand (UN Women NCANZ) joins with others in the call for the elimination of violence against girls on the International Day of the Girl Child, 11 October.

The International Day of the Girl Child was formed in 2011 by resolution at the UN and has grown each year with themes covering issues that impact on the empowerment of girls.

“Research tells us that almost one quarter of girls aged 15-19 worldwide report being victims of some sort of physical violence,” says Angela McLeod, President UN Women NCANZ.

“In New Zealand far too many women and girls suffer at the hands of a male member of the family. It is completely disempowering and has to stop.

“We need to empower girls and break the cycle of violence through the active support and engagement of our entire community from the government to families.

“Our girls need our support and our men need to learn that their predatory behaviour is not acceptable.

“The empowerment of women and girls is critical for economic growth and the social fabric of our nation.

“We look forward to action on ensuring girls are free from violence,” says Angela McLeod.

ENDS

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