Remarks at 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence

Distinguished guests, partners, and fellow advocates:

The United Nations stands with the people of Laos in the fight against gender-based violence. As we mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and launch the 16 Days of Activism, we reflect on the progress attained and challenges still ahead.

Notable achievements include the preparation of the Beijing +30 National Review and the 10th CEDAW Periodic Report, which will inform key national policy frameworks such as the next National Action Plans for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and for the Gender Equality covering years 2026-2030. These documents will be referenced in the 10th National Socio-Economic Development Plan, demonstrating the Government’s commitment to addressing these issues at the highest-level national policy frameworks.

But the proof of a good policy will be its implementation. I have recently had the opportunity of visiting one of the Lao Women’s Union protection shelters in Bokeo, supported by UNFPA and Australia. I saw first-hand the importance of providing life-saving services to survivors of violence and trafficking, and the positive impact the frontline workers are making on their lives. The UN family is committed to working with all partners on these tangible and practical efforts.

While we celebrate the progress achieved, we must also recognize the substantial challenges before us. In Laos, about 1 in 3 women have experienced sexual, physical or emotional violence, and yet of these women, only 1 in 10 sought help from authorities such as the police, a medical center, or the LWU. These figures underscore the urgent need for stepped-up efforts to prevent violence, provide accessible support services, and ensure that survivors are met with compassion and action.

The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development calls for bold steps to end violence in all its forms. In line with SDG 5, in the last few years UN agencies have collaborated to promote gender equality and to empower women, emphasizing the need for broader partnerships among the government, civil society, and the private sector. Governments alone cannot accomplish this societal goal, and it comes down to all of us – individuals, families, communities and businesses – to do our part.

The Pact for the Future, recently adopted by world leaders including Lao PDR, reaffirms the importance of eradicating all forms of violence and discrimination against women and girls. The Pact calls for removing legal, social, and economic barriers, ensuring equal enjoyment of human rights, and fostering inclusive political, economic, and social systems. These actions will bring us so much closer to a world where women and girls can thrive and realize their full potential without the fear of violence.

To eradicate gender-based violence, we must adopt a holistic approach – combining prevention, protection, and survivor support – accompanied by wider efforts towards full equality in all areas of society. 

You can count on the United Nations for support on this crucial goal. Together, let us strive for a society rooted in justice, respect and equality, ensuring that no one is left behind in our collective pursuit of sustainable development.