Embassies issue joint declaration on preventing all forms of gender-based violence

Embassies and representatives of international institutions in Romania have signed a declaration reaffirming their "firm and unwavering" commitment to promoting gender equality, protecting the fundamental rights of women and girls and combating all forms of gender-based violence, including femicide and sexual violence.According to the document - signed by 18 diplomatic institutions based in Bucharest -, "violence against women and girls is a global crisis that transcends borders, cultures and societies."The signatories of the declaration acknowledge the importance of civil society-led initiatives, such as the march "Together for Women's Safety", set to take place in Bucharest and other cities on 19 October."This year's march will focus on preventing femicide. This initiative highlights the urgent need for systemic change and accountability. The voices of gender-based violence survivors must be heard, believed and supported with dignity and respect. States have a responsibility to ensure that survivors are not silenced or retraumatised, but instead are empowered to reclaim their rights and place in society. Ending violence against women requires collective actions: from governments, institutions, communities and individuals alike. Our solidarity is with every woman and girl who has experienced violence. Together, we must work towards a world where women and girls can live in safety, equality and freedom," according to a release sent on Friday.According to international data quoted by the embassies, one in three women worldwide experiences physical or sexual violence during her lifetime (World Health Organization, 2021)."Femicide, forced marriages, sexual harassment and other forms of gender-based violence remain serious human rights violations that undermine peace, security and development. Preventing such acts is not only a moral obligation, but also a legal and political responsibility of all states, as recognised by international instruments, including the Istanbul Convention and the Sustainable Development Goals. Solidarity with survivors of gender-based violence must translate into concrete actions. Women and girls everywhere have the right to live in safety, pursue their aspirations without fear and enjoy a life marked by dignity and equality. It is the responsibility of states to guarantee this protection through effective laws, equitable access to justice and strong support services," the diplomatic institutions mentioned.On 14 May 2024, the European Parliament and the Council of the European Union adopted new legislation on combating violence against women and domestic violence (Directive (EU) 2024/1385). The EU now has its first law effectively addressing violence against women and domestic abuse, with member states given three years from adoption to transpose it into national law."The directive incriminates at EU level certain forms of offline and online violence against women and requires member states to implement strong measures for prevention, enhanced protection and support for victims, improved access to justice, as well as coordination and cooperation between authorities. Protecting women and girls from violence is essential to uphold universal human rights and to build inclusive, resilient and strong democratic societies. From this perspective, we welcome all efforts to combat this phenomenon in Romania, including the specialised joint parliamentary committee, as well as the adoption of the joint declaration 'Romania without domestic violence' by the Romanian Parliament," the release mentioned.The signatories of the declaration are the Representation of the European Commission and the Embassies in Romania of Austria, Belgium, Canada, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and the United Kingdom.