Statement: We will push forward for a society where all the women and girls live in safety

We are profoundly saddened and shaken to learn the news about a young woman, dragged out of her home and repeatedly gang raped. We are witnessing yet another tragic case of violence against women. A woman who has gone through trauma of sexual violence and physical abuse. Unfortunately, this is not an isolated case. In 2023, there were 535 registered cases of sexual violence, out of which – 282 rapes.

Behind these numbers are women’s and girls’ lives who will be marked by long-term psychological and physical trauma. All of us, Government, CSOs, international community, bear collective responsibility for the gender-based violence to be prevented, survivors to be protected and rehabilitated, and perpetrators to be brought to justice.

This terrifying case, along many other cases of violence against women, prove the importance of sexual education and shows us once again that we, as a society, need to learn that consent, respect and dignity are non-negotiable. All of us need to have zero tolerance towards violence. Every woman and girl deserve a life free from fear and harm.

While prevention remains paramount, when horrific cases like this happen, girls and women need justice and protection. We call on justice to be made and perpetrators to be punished. Since 2023, a Regional Integrated Service for Victims of Sexual Violence is functioning in Ungheni and we call all women to seek assistance. We will continue, alongside our partners, our tireless efforts in the fight against gender-based violence at all levels normative, operational and coordination. We will amplify our advocacy efforts. We will push forward for a society where all the women and girls live in safety.