Statements
Margaret Chan, WHO Director-General
The consequences of violence on families and communities are profound, and can result in lifelong ill health for those affected. Yet we know what works to prevent violence in our homes, schools and workplaces and on our streets and playgrounds. We should take inspiration from governments which have demonstrated success in reducing violence by taking the steps needed. They have shown us that indeed violence is preventable.
Helen Clark, Administrator of the United Nations Development Programme
High levels of family and community violence cripple both people’s ability to sustain their individual livelihoods, as well as a nation’s options for political, social, and economic development. This report takes stock of the measures countries are taking to prevent and respond to interpersonal violence, but the report also reveals gaps in global violence prevention which must be filled, such as the quality and reach of prevention programmes, the access to services for victims, particularly for women and girls who are disproportionately affected by violence, and the enforcement of existing laws.
Yury Fedotov, Executive Director of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime
Laws protecting citizens against violent crime send a clear message to society about what is acceptable. With this Global status report on violence prevention 2014, we have a useful tool for identifying the gaps in legislation and enforcement in countries, which can help to indicate what further action is needed to ensure reductions in violent crime.