Violence against women and girls is one of the most prevalent human rights violations in the world. According to the World Health Organization, about 37 percent of women in the Arab States have been subjected to violence at some point of their lives. In the environments in which FAO and UNFPA operate, gender-based violence (GBV) is a pervasive and persistent reality. Humanitarian emergencies, food insecurity and poverty, tend to increase the prevalence of GBV, which, in turn, undermines individual and household well-being, food security and nutrition, by impacting women’s physical and mental health, as well as their ability to work and participate in community life. 

The event aims to raise awareness on the specific challenges faced by rural women and girls in the region, and to discuss the transformative and multi-sectoral approaches and interventions that are needed to eradicate GBV in rural communities.  

The webinar is organized as a contribution to the UN Campaign “16 Days of Activism against GBV”.  

Arabic, English and French interpretation are available