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Violence against women and girls

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Violence against women and girls is one of the most widespread human rights violations. It harms victims, silences voices and weakens democracy. ODIHR works with states to prevent gender-based violence and promote safer, more inclusive societies.

Our work

Violence against women and girls is widespread and damaging. Women in politics, public life and even in the armed forces face unique risks, while conflict situations often expose women and girls to sexual and gender-based violence.

ODIHR helps states respond effectively through legal guidance, policy advice and training for justice and security actors. It supports efforts to prevent violence, strengthen accountability for perpetrators and protect survivors with gender-sensitive measures.

Specialized toolkits and practical guides cover areas such as addressing violence against women in politics, preventing sexual violence in the military and responding to sexual and gender-based violence in armed conflict.

Learning, training and education

Strengthening competence

The OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights offers courses and learning resources to support practitioners and other interested audiences in the OSCE participating States.