Annual Full-Day Discussion on the Human Rights of Women: Violence against Women and Girls with Disabilities

5-6 July 2021

MIKTA Joint Statement

To be delivered by representative from Australian Delegation

(2 minutes; approx. 220 words)

Australia is honoured to deliver this statement on behalf of MIKTA countries – Mexico, Indonesia, Republic of Korea, Turkey and my own country, Australia.

Ending violence against all women and girls, including those with disability, is a priority for MIKTA. Gender equality will not be fully realised until all women and girls are safe from violence and discrimination.

Violence against all women and girls is a violation of human rights that has a profound and devastating impact on individuals, communities and countries.

Women and girls with disability experience even higher rates of violence, particularly sexual violence. The intersection of gender and disability means their needs can be unique, and require targeted, accessible policy responses and support services.

The COVID-19 pandemic has seen a significant global increase in violence against women and girls, and has exacerbated pre-existing inequalities and systemic discrimination of women and girls with disability who are disproportionately vulnerable to its negative health, economic and social impacts.

It is vital that pandemic recovery is gender-responsive and embeds disability inclusion at all levels. We have an opportunity to ensure we improve health services for – and reduce violence against – women and girls, including those with disability, through tangible, practical and inclusive actions.

MIKTA states encourage targeted and inclusive approaches to prevent and respond to violence against women and girls with disability.

[219] words