| In addition to the myriad chores women do in the household, including raising and teaching their children, many also work in the informal economy, earning a living selling market goods or as domestic workers. As a result, when a woman cannot work because of injury, the cost is often hidden. That is why investing in the prevention and prosecution of acts of aggression against women may cost money upfront, but it pays off in the long run. "Prevention, protection and prosecution are essential and we must add a fourth 'P' as well, combating gender-based violence must be a priority," said Ambassador Verveer. "We must end the impunity that too often leaves the most egregious perpetrators unaccountable for their crimes. Violence against women and girls is a crime, not something private or cultural. We must redress the low status of women and girls around the world that renders them undervalued and vulnerable," she said, "We must support the inclusion of men and boys in addressing and preventing violence and changing gender attitudes, increasing accountability and commitment by community and government leaders on this issue, as well as highlight and promote effective programs that are already successfully at work. No country can progress by leaving half its people behind. The consequences are simply too great for us to not act." |
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