The United Nations, European Commission, and World Bank Group have announced a joint commitment to prioritize gender equality and the eradication of violence against women and girls as part of their cooperation efforts. This initiative aligns with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
This announcement was made by United Nations Deputy Secretary-General Amina J. Mohammed, European Commissioner for International Partnerships Jutta Urpilainen, and World Bank Managing Director of Operations Anna Bjerde during a meeting at the 79th United Nations General Assembly.
The leaders emphasized that addressing gender-based violence is essential for achieving global gender equality. They plan to expand on the Spotlight Initiative model to enhance efficiency and impact.
Their strategy includes promoting global policy dialogue on gender-based violence through shared research, high-visibility events, and investments in countries with existing Spotlight Initiative programs. The World Bank will contribute its expertise in data analytics while also working to secure financing to support national governments.
United Nations Deputy Secretary-General Amina J. Mohammed stated: “Our shared commitment today to ending violence against women and girls through the UN Spotlight Initiative is a critical starting point. But the sustainability of this effort is dependent on a whole of system approach, that draws on the capacity and investments of national partners, civil society, and the wider donor community to take collective ownership toward delivering on this promise. You have the commitment of the entire UN system to see this through.”
European Commissioner for International Partnerships Jutta Urpilainen added: “Our strengthened partnership can turn ambition into action for gender equality and push forward our shared goals for people and planet. Together with the UN and World Bank, we are committed to building a sustainable, equitable future for all. This is what the EU’s Global Gateway strategy is about: unlocking new possibilities and driving positive change in partner countries.”
World Bank Managing Director of Operations Anna Bjerde commented: “The World Bank Group's new Gender Strategy zeroes in on eradicating gender-based violence, a global crisis and the gravest form of gender inequality. This powerful tripartite partnership allows us to amplify our efforts to eliminate all forms of violence and create a world where every woman and girl can thrive, free from fear and full of hope and potential.”
At the national level, United Nations Resident Coordinators, Heads of EU Delegations, and World Bank Country Directors will work with government counterparts, civil society organizations, and other donors to drive changes needed to end violence against women.
Contacts:
UN: Koye Adeboye (koye.adeboye@un.org), +1-646-781-4768
EU: Hanna Isbom (hanna.isbom@ec.europa.eu), +32-460-762550
World Bank: Patricia da Camara (pdacamara@worldbankgroup.org), +1-202-473-4019