Madam Speaker, November 25 is the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and the start of 16 days of activism against gender violence.
We must act. Studies have shown that the economic costs of violence against women range in the billions of dollars. It can also have generational impacts. Almost 40% of women assaulted by spouses said that their children witnessed the violence against them.
Internationally, violence against women is a barrier to women's equality.
Our country's success in combatting violence against women has stalled. Progress could be further undermined if the government does not get serious about women's equality.
I urge all members in the House to work to ensure all women can live their lives free of violence and free from the threat of violence.