Listen
Violence against women
08/03/2009
Scotland's Cabinet Secretary for Health and Wellbeing, Nicola Sturgeon, has today joined global calls marking 2009 International Women's Day by demanding an end to violence against women and children.
Ms Sturgeon said:
"International Women's Day is an important event observed by millions throughout the developed and developing world and this year's theme provides us with an opportunity to restate our commitment to ending violence against women.
"Sadly, violence is part of too many women's lives across the world. On this day and throughout the year the Scottish Government is determined to tackle the scourge of violence against women and children.
"We know the effects of violence and domestic abuse can be devastating, including on children and young people, and we are determined to tackle it wherever and whenever it occurs.
"This is why over the next three years we are committing over £44 million to tackle violence against women, £10 million of which is backing the pioneering National Domestic Abuse Delivery Plan for Children and Young People.
"For many years Scotland has been seen as leading the way in tackling violence against women and this government will continue its work to ensure that all women and children living in Scotland can do so without the threat of violence and fear."
International Women's Day is celebrated on March 8 ever year and is an occasion marked by women's groups around the world. The day, commemorated at the United Nations, sees women from around the globe who are often divided come together and unite to find strength.
National estimates indicate that over 100,000 children and young people in Scotland are affected by domestic abuse.