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| Organizations around the world are holding events throughout the month to raise awareness about violence against women. |
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November 25 marks the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. Violence affects women in every country, at every income level. According to the World Health Organization, up to 70 percent of women in some countries will be victims of physical or sexual violence, primarily from an intimate partner or family member. Throughout this month, organizations around the world, including Ipas, have been holding events to raise awareness about the pervasiveness of violence.
Violence contributes, both directly and indirectly, to unwanted pregnancy and abortion-related deaths and injuries. It is estimated that as many as one in four women will experience violence during pregnancy, increasing the likelihood of miscarriage or birth complications. In addition, women who have been raped or who are in a violent relationship may want to terminate an unwanted pregnancy – and in countries where abortion is illegal or inaccessible, may do so unsafely.
In Nicaragua, Ipas Central America and their partners are holding a series of events to mark the 16 Days of Activism Against Violence, including educational, theatrical and film presentations. In South Africa, Ipas’s partner Masisukumeni will be launching a canvassing campaign on violence against women and children in the Nkomazi region. Partner Mosaic will be conducting educational activities in Khayelitsha, a densely packed settlement outside of Cape Town.
These events are among the many around the world reported by UNIFEM’s Say NO – UNiTE to End Violence Against Women. The global campaign will highlight and support efforts around the world to end violence against women.
For more information, contact media@ipas.org