Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) is the most widespread form of abuse worldwide, affecting one third of all women in their lifetime. It takes many forms – physical, sexual, psychological and economic. These forms of violence are interrelated and affect women from before birth to old age. Some types of violence, such as human trafficking, cross national boundaries.

The cost of violence against women is extremely high. They include the direct cost of services to treat and support abused women and their children and to bring perpetrators to justice. The indirect costs include lost employment and productivity, and the costs in human pain and suffering.

VAWG limits progress towards the achievement of Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), violates women and girls’ human rights and can have a negative impact on long-term peace and stability.