An MP is hosting an online event to address ending violence against women and girls.
The event, organised by Debbie Abrahams, MP for Oldham East and Saddleworth, will take place on Friday, November 22 at 3pm, as part of the UN's International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Girls.
It will focus on discussing steps needed to end violence against women and girls, both locally and internationally.
National data shows that "between two and three women are murdered every week by their partners or ex-partners".
Globally, almost "one in three women and girls experience physical or sexual violence in their lifetime".
Furthermore, "only half of women who are married or in a union worldwide freely make decisions about sexual relations, contraceptive use, and health care".
Nearly "75 per cent of all human trafficking victims globally are women and girls", highlighting the vulnerabilities and threats they face.
In Oldham alone, Greater Manchester Police data reveals that there were more than 6,000 reported cases of domestic abuse last year, accounting for a "substantial percentage" of overall crime in the area.
Women and girls are disproportionately affected, making up around 85 per cent of victims and the statistics prove a need for effective intervention and support services.
Ms Abrahams is encouraging everyone to attend the online event and join parliamentarians, international activists, experts, local campaigners, and constituents from Oldham and Saddleworth to discuss ways to address violence against women.
This virtual event aims to provide a platform for community engagement, education, and collaboration to drive "meaningful change".
Ms Abrahams said: "Tackling violence against women and girls is a priority for me.
"We all deserve to live free from fear and harm.
"This commitment goes beyond our local communities and speaks to the core of international peace and security.
"When women are safe, empowered, and able to thrive without the threat of violence, entire societies become more stable and resilient.
"Promoting gender equality and ending violence against women are not only moral imperatives but essential steps towards building lasting global peace.
"Through international collaboration, we can support efforts to protect women’s rights and foster a more peaceful, equitable world where every individual can reach their full potential.
"This is an event for anyone – women and men – who want to stop this violence.
"I do hope constituents from across Oldham East and Saddleworth will attend this online event and hear about what they can do to make a difference, so please do get in touch."
To register for the virtual event, people are asked to email abrahamsd@parliament.uk with their full name and email address.
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