ABOUT THE BILL
The International Violence Against Women Act (HR 4594/S 2982) was introduced on February 4. This groundbreaking legislation would, for the first time, make stopping violence against women and girls a priority in American diplomacy and foreign aid.
I-VAWA would help end violence through: prevention programs that help women and girls get an education or improve their economic opportunities; programs that support men and boys in being partners in ending violence; health and support programs for survivors; and legal and judicial training programs that work to hold perpetrators accountable. The legislation supports investments in community-based organizations, as well as working with foreign governments to create change in their own countries. It also provides funding and training to better address violence against women in humanitarian situations, such as the work in Haiti and Darfur.
One out of every three women worldwide will be physically, sexually or otherwise abused during her lifetime with rates reaching 70 percent in some countries. This type of violence and abuse ranges from rape to domestic violence and acid burnings to dowry deaths and so-called honor killings. Violence against women and girls is an extreme human rights violation, a public health epidemic and a barrier to solving global challenges such as extreme poverty, HIV/AIDS and conflict. It devastates the lives of millions of women and girls --- in peacetime and in conflict --- and knows no national or cultural barriers.
Outline of the I-VAWA Bill
The I-VAWA "You Have the Power" Flyer
We Can't Afford Not to Pass IVAWA
Rape as a Weapon of War
Trafficking in Women and Girls
Stop Violence Against Girls Going to School
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