The Duty of States to Address Violence Against Women

Violence against women is a worldwide human rights scandal.

From birth to death, in times of peace as well as war, women face discrimination and violence at the hands of the state, the community and the family.

This report gives an analysis of states' legal duty to take action to address violence against women.

States have this duty, regardless of the identity of the victim or the perpetrator - parent, husband, partner, colleague, stranger, police officer, combatant or soldier - and whatever the context - war or peace, the home, the street or the workplace.

An understanding of states' obligations can assist the work of all those striving to eradicate violence against women.

References to international law can be helpful for women survivors pressing for improved services; lawyers working in criminal prosecutions or civil proceedings; and advocates of women's rights pressing to achieve change in laws and policies.

Women have the right to live free from violence - states have an obligation under international law to make this right a reality.