International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women; was declared by the United Nations (UN) General Assembly resolution in 1999 in order to raise awareness in the society against violence against women.

Violence against women is defined by the UN Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women as “violence directed against women because they are women or that affects women disproportionately”. The Committee also emphasises that gender based violence is a form of discrimination that prevents women from exercising their rights and freedoms on an equal basis with men. Data from the UN Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women reveal that one out of every three women globally has been subjected to physical or sexual violence. Although violence against women is often associated with acts of physical violence; it also emerges as a human rights issue with its sexual, psychological, economic, socio cultural dimension that violates basic human rights such as the right to life of women, the prohibition of torture and ill-treatment, the right to freedom and security, and the right to physical and mental integrity.

Violence against women, recognised as a human rights violation, is a global problem that causes social, cultural and psychological traumas. Such that violence against women emerges as a “public health problem”. Within the scope of all these problematic area, it is important to carry out the studies not only on the basis of law for egalitarian society, but also that frame economy, social dynamics and family life. As a matter of fact, the strategy of combating violence against women requires that studies be carried out in the basis of multi-actor partnership.

Having a main mission which aims to protect and promote human rights, prevent discrimination and ensure equal treatment of people and effectively fight against torture and ill-treatment, the Human Right and Equality Institutions of Türkiye carries out activities to rise awareness of violence against women as a human rights violation.

On the occasion of November 25 International Day for the Elimination of Violence against women, we wish for a world where violence against women comes to an end and gender equality is ensured in the enjoyment of rights and freedoms.

It is announced to the public with respect.