The Head of UNHCR Croatia, Mr. Wilfried Buchhorn, on the occasion of International Womanćs day, stated that "in the 21st century violence against women is unacceptable and the society should demonstrate zero tolerance to the issue". He called on all men and women, officials, civil society and the media to take responsibility, to unite and act to end violence against women. "There is so much people can do!".

Equal Rights, Equal Opportunities: Progress for All

On the occasion of International Women's Day the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugee's office in Croatia wishes to join the global celebration and express its commitment to gender equality.

The UNHCR is committed to implement this year's anniversary theme: Equal Rights, Equal Opportunities: Progress for all. On the occasion, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, Mr. António Guterres, stated that "it is imperative that we ensure that women, men, boys and girls of concern are given equal opportunities and are able to realize their individual rights on an equal basis".

The population of UNHCR concern, refugees and displaced persons, are especially vulnerable and in need of particular attention. Nearly half of people uprooted by conflict are women and girls. Inequality between women and men, and discrimination on the basis of sex occurs during all stages of the displacement cycle. Moreover, difficulties accessing and enjoying rights are likely to be worsened during displacement leading to even greater gender inequality.

On the occasion of International Woman's Day, the UN Secretary-General, Mr. Ban Ki-moon stated that "we can only win freedom from fear and space for women and girls to flourish by strong policies and laws, effective advocacy and the examples of role models. Role models such as the growing numbers of women leaders around the world; the women from all sectors of society who refuse to be subjugated; and our own brave women peacekeepers who are showing that they can perform the same roles, to the same standards and under the same difficult conditions as their male counterparts".

Last week in Zagreb, UNHCR co-organised a public debate dealing mainly with domestic and violence against women.