Canada – CJI statement on International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women 2023
On the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, November 25, Canadian Jesuits International (CJI) reaffirms its commitment to support efforts to tackle what the UN calls “one of the most prevalent and pervasive human rights violations in the world.”
An estimated 736 million women worldwide have been subjected to physical and/or sexual violence at least once in their life, according to the UN. “In 2021, around 45,000 women and girls worldwide were killed by their intimate partners or other family members,” it notes.
CJI supports projects that empower women and girls through education and community organizing efforts that make them aware of their rights. This year, CJI is focusing on the importance of girls’ education. Studies have shown that access to safe and quality education not only improves health and economic outcomes but also reduces gender-based violence. For instance, keeping girls in school helps to prevent child marriage. This is why CJI partners like Moran Memorial School in Nepal offers more scholarships to girl students.
In emergency and post-emergency situations, CJI’s Jesuit partners ensure that there are safe spaces for children and women – it has long been established that gender-based violence increases during times of war and conflict.
Source: canadianjesuitsinternational.ca
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