Bosnia joins new international coalition to tackle violence against women and girls

The coalition focuses on driving practical action to prevent domestic abuse and sexual violence, which currently impact one in three women globally, while also addressing the rise of online abuse. Additionally, the alliance aims to strengthen global efforts to prevent sexual violence in conflict and humanitarian crises.

Bosnia's Foreign Minister Elmedin Konakovic attended the conference and thanked UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper for inviting BiH to be part of the core group. Konakovic emphasized that the fight against gender-based violence requires a balanced approach connecting institutional reforms, societal change, and adequate support to address root causes, consequences, and prevention measures systematically. While BiH is making progress, recent tragic cases of femicide and a rise in online violence underscore the urgent need to strengthen capacities, particularly in effectively investigating and prosecuting perpetrators.

UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper declared violence against women and girls a global emergency, noting that peace, security, and prosperity are unattainable until women live free from fear. She highlighted her recent visit to the Sudanese border, where she heard firsthand accounts of abhorrent sexual violence, reinforcing the urgency of international cooperation.

Through the newly formed coalition, member states will share expertise and develop national action plans to scale up protection measures and hold perpetrators accountable. The UK is scheduled to convene a major follow-up summit next year to review progress and set further global commitments.