Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on Violence Against Women and Girls, Its Causes and Consequences
Statement by the Delegation of the United States of America
United Nations Human Rights Council – 53rd Session
As Delivered by Ambassador Michèle Taylor
Thank you, Mr. President.
Madam Special Rapporteur, we share your deep concern regarding the alarming and persistent gender-based violence globally, including rape and other forms of sexual violence, perpetrated by a range of actors, such as: intimate partners; family members; persons in positions of power, authority, or trust; friends; acquaintances; and strangers.
Women and girls in all their diversity, and gender non-conforming persons who already face multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination, including persons with disabilities, LGBTQI+ persons, indigenous women and girls, are at even higher risk of experiencing sexual violence and face increased barriers to accessing safety, services, and justice. It is essential that your mandate work on behalf of all such individuals.
According to UN Women, fewer than 40 percent of the women who experience violence seek help. Those who do often turn to family and friends rather than formal institutions due to stigma and fear of re-traumatization. As a result, the negative effects of this trauma last a lifetime.
We must shine a light on the scourge of gender-based violence and take tangible steps to protect women and girls in all their diversity.
This touches all of us. The World Health Organization estimates more than one in three women worldwide has been subjected to intimate partner violence and/or non-partner sexual violence in their lifetime.
Madam Special Rapporteur, what can we collectively do to reduce the prevalence of sexual violence globally?
I thank you.
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