UNIFEM: “Say No to Violence Against Women” Campaign
Statement by Secretary Condoleezza Rice
Washington, DC
November 19, 2008
Date: 11/18/2008 Description: Secretary Rice signs the "Say No to Violence Against Women" Pledge in the Secretary
One year ago, the United Nations Development Fund for Women (UNIFEM) began its global campaign to advocate among publics
and governments for an end to violence against women. In the course of the year, we have taken important steps to
address this issue.
During its June 2008 Security Council Presidency, the United States focused on actions that would follow from UN
Security Council Resolution 1325, on “Women, Peace, and Security.” On June 19, the United States chaired an open
Security Council thematic discussion on the topic of violence in situations of armed conflict. The debate culminated in
adoption of UN Security Council Resolution 1820, which condemns the use of sexual violence in conflict and post-conflict
situations.
Violence against women remains a fact of life in countries worldwide. Like poverty, HIV/AIDS, poor maternal health, and
lack of access to education, violence against women is an ill that affects the person, her community, and her nation.
As the campaign to “Say No to Violence against Women” enters its second year, we should dedicate ourselves to creating
awareness among individuals and communities of the great damage violence against women inflicts, and commit ourselves to
end this atrocity.
ENDS