United Nations Radio

United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has launched a Network of Men Leaders to work to end violence against women and girls.

"UNiTE to End Violence against Women" campaign

The network will consist of men, young and old, who have pledged to end violence against women and girls.

The Secretary-General told participants at an event to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women that these men will add their voices to the growing global chorus of action.

He called on men and boys everywhere to join the Network to eliminate violence against women and girls.

"Break the silence. When you witness violence against women and girls, do not sit back. Act and advocate. Unite to change the practices and attitudes that incite, perpetrate, and condone this violence. Violence against women and girls will not be eradicated until all of us - men and boys - refuse to tolerate it."

The Secretary-General recalled that a year ago he launched his "UNiTe to End Violence against Women" campaign.

More than five million people have signed the Say No to Violence Against Women initiative under the Unite campaign.

Diane Bailey, United Nations Radio
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