In recognition of the 16 Days, we applaud the efforts of UN country teams across the globe as they aid in the fight against all forms of gender-based violence. This collection of stories showcases some of the team’s work to protect the health, safety and security of women and girls worldwide.
For the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence, the UN’s call to “Orange the World” comes with the rallying cry to “Fund, Respond, Prevent and Collect” – bridge the funding gaps, ensure essential services for survivors of violence, focus on prevention and collect the data that we need to adapt and improve life-saving services for women and girls. This year we are handing over the mic to them.
Together with governments and partners, UN country teams worldwide are working to help protect the safety and security of communities, particularly those facing humanitarian crisis. Teams are stepping up their effort to obtain more essential lifesaving supplies and shelter for those most at-risk. We highlight some of the coordinated efforts.
Currently, half the world’s population does not have access to safely managed sanitation. This has profound negative impact on health, education and economic outcomes for countries and communities. The Sanitation and Hygiene Fund was established to raise US$2 billion over the coming five years to support countries in bringing sanitation, hygiene, and menstrual health to all.
In the sub-region, the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS) remains mobilized to support the effective implementation of the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 (2000) on women, peace and security.
The global population is expected to reach nearly 10 billion people by 2050, which will significantly increase the demand for food. The steady increase in hunger since 2014, after a decade of progress, indicates that there is a need to accelerate and scale-up action to strengthen the resilience and adaptability of food systems and livelihoods.
The UN deputy chief has underscored the importance of the full and comprehensive implementation of Colombia's historic 2016 peace agreement, to enable sustainable and resilient communities in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.