UN's FAO Steps Up Efforts to End Violence Against Women and Girls in Latin America and the Caribbean

WORLD

UN's FAO Steps Up Efforts to End Violence Against Women and Girls in Latin America and the Caribbean

21 NOV 2024

The FAO strengthens its commitment to ending violence against women and girls in Latin America and the Caribbean by implementing protective measures and promoting gender equality in agrifood systems.

Photo Credits: FAO

To mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) hosted an internal event to reflect on ways to prevent and respond to gender-based violence (GBV). The event, called "Overcoming Violence Against Women and Girls to Strengthen Agrifood Systems in Latin America and the Caribbean," brought together over 120 FAO staff members, civil society representatives, and technical teams.

The discussions focused on the challenges faced by rural, Indigenous, and Afro-descendant women in accessing justice, support, and economic opportunities. Participants also explored strategies to prevent violence at the community level and how inter-institutional collaboration can help overcome barriers caused by discriminatory norms.

FAO strictly enforces a zero-tolerance policy against GBV, including sexual exploitation and abuse (SEA). Through its Protection from Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (PSEA) protocols, the organization ensures safe and inclusive environments in its projects and teams.

Photo Credits : FAO/Max Valencia

As the International Year of Women Farmers in 2026 approaches, FAO is doubling down on its efforts to tackle the structural challenges that prevent women from fully participating in agrifood systems. The organization emphasizes integrating gender equality into its daily work while taking concrete actions to prevent violence and discrimination.

FAO recognizes that gender equality is a fundamental human right and a pathway to achieving food and nutrition security while building more efficient, sustainable, resilient, and equitable agrifood systems.