Turkiye Reaffirms Zero-Tolerance Approach in Combating Violence Against Women at UN

On the occasion of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, Turkiye’s UN envoy, Ahmet Yildiz, addressed a high-level event at the United Nations (UN), emphasizing the alarming global challenge of violence against women and girls. Yildiz reiterated Turkiye’s commitment to eradicating such violence, highlighting the country’s steadfast “zero-tolerance approach” toward this issue.

A Global Challenge

In his remarks, Yildiz underscored the severe and persistent nature of violence against women, a crisis that continues to affect millions worldwide. He pointed out that this violence not only inflicts physical harm but also undermines social equality, human dignity, and sustainable development. The envoy stressed that such violence remains a fundamental barrier to achieving gender equality and advancing the rights of women.

Türkiye’s Commitment and Legal Reforms

Yildiz highlighted Türkiye’s proactive measures to combat violence against women. The Turkish government has implemented significant legal reforms and established strategic frameworks to protect women. These efforts include providing comprehensive services aimed at supporting survivors of violence and ensuring their safety. The country’s approach integrates legal, social, and psychological services to offer holistic assistance to women affected by violence.

Challenges in Conflict Zones

Drawing attention to the devastating impact of armed conflict on women and girls, Yildiz made a poignant statement regarding the heightened vulnerabilities these individuals face in conflict zones. “In conflict zones, women often bear the heaviest burdens, experiencing heightened vulnerabilities to violence, displacement, and economic deprivation,” he noted. Yildiz pointed to regions such as Gaza, Ukraine, Sudan, Afghanistan, and Myanmar, where the rights of women and girls are increasingly under threat due to ongoing conflicts and instability.

Urgent Call to the International Community

Yildiz urged the international community to prioritize the protection of women’s rights, particularly in conflict-affected areas. He emphasized that safeguarding the rights of women and girls should be a central concern for global leaders, and there is a need for a unified international effort to address this issue. He reaffirmed Türkiye’s commitment to not only eliminating violence against women but also empowering women and ensuring their participation in all spheres of life.

In his concluding remarks, Ahmet Yildiz reaffirmed Türkiye’s unwavering dedication to creating a world where violence against women is no longer tolerated. He called on nations and international organizations to collaborate in fostering an environment where women can live free from violence and contribute meaningfully to society. As the global community continues to confront the widespread issue of gender-based violence, Turkiye remains at the forefront of efforts to protect and empower women and girls.

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