Introduction

This publication in relation to legislation on “harmful practices” against women supplements the DAW/DESA Handbook for legislation on violence against women, and it should be read in conjunction with the Handbook. The purpose of the Handbook and Supplement is to provide detailed guidance for all stakeholders to support the adoption and effective implementation of legislation which prevents violence against women, punishes perpetrators and ensures the rights of victims/survivors. The adoption and enforcement of national laws to address and punish all forms of violence against women and girls, in line with international human rights standards, is one of the five key outcomes which the Secretary-General’s campaign “UNITE to End Violence against Women” aims to achieve in all countries by 2015.

Related Subject(s): Drugs Crime and Terrorism