In countries with predominant Muslim populations, targets for the Millennium Development Goals on improving maternal health are lagging.

All violations of women’s and girls’ rights may be described as harmful practices, but there are particular forms of violence against wom

International and regional law and policy has recognized the need for States to underpin their efforts to eliminate violence against wome

Violence against women is caused by gender inequality – including unequal power relations between women and men, rigid gender roles,

Violence against women is a fundamental barrier to eradicating poverty and building peace.

For many women and girls, their first sexual experience is forced.