Why we need to keep women and girls safe

Learning more about the importance of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women

A third of women and girls experience physical or sexual violence and half of all women killed worldwide lose their lives at the hands of their partners or family, reports the United Nations as we mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women.

“Sexual violence against women and girls is rooted in centuries of male domination,” says António Guterres, UN Secretary-General. “Let us not forget that the gender inequalities that fuel rape culture are essentially a question of power imbalances.”

At Children Believe, we understand how violence against women can include intimate partner violence, sexual violence or harassment, human trafficking, female genital mutilation and child marriage. We work to give girls access to education, inside and outside of the classroom, so they can learn their rights and get the resources they need to help achieve their dreams.

You can help. Visit our gift catalogue to send a girl to school today.

About Children Believe

Children Believe works globally to empower children to dream fearlessly, stand up for what they believe in — and be heard. For 60+ years, we’ve brought together brave young dreamers, caring supporters and partners, and unabashed idealists. Together, we’re driven by a common belief: creating access to education — inside and outside of classrooms — is the most powerful tool children can use to change their world.

 

About Inspiring Stories

June 2026

Inside Zam: Where Violence Follows Children Into t...

Children in Zam, Burkina Faso are rebuilding their education after conflict and displacement. See how community-led support is restoring safety, learning, and hope.

June 2026

Souraya: From a Victim of Exploitation to a Hopefu...

Souraya, a young girl from conflict‑affected Burkina Faso, escapes exploitation and rebuilds her life through psychosocial support, skills training, and entrepreneurship with the help of Children Believe and partners. Her inspiring journey shows the power of protection, resilience, and hope.

June 2026

Inside Mancico: Where Children Wake Before Dawn to...

Inside Mancico, Nicaragua’s Dry Corridor, children wake before dawn to collect water. Discover how extreme drought, climate pressures, and limited resources impact education—and how new rainwater harvesting systems are bringing hope to families.